If you’re planning your trip to Peru and included Arequipa as one of your destinations, here we’ll see together how to make the most of 2 or 3 days to discover the essentials of this place without rushing, combining history, landscapes, and great food.
How many days do you need to visit Arequipa?
With 2 full days, we can already have a very good experience in Arequipa. In that time, we can explore the historic center, visit key places like the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, check out some viewpoints, and fully enjoy the local cuisine. It’s an active pace, but manageable if we plan our time well.
If you have 3 days, the trip changes quite a bit. We don’t just see the city, but we can also include a trip to the Cañón del Colca or do more relaxed activities, such as exploring traditional neighborhoods, museums, or simply taking the time to enjoy without rushing. This extra day makes the trip feel more complete, especially if you like combining culture with nature.
Itinerary in Arequipa in 2 days
If you have two days in Arequipa, this plan helps you see the essentials without complications: one day to explore the historic center and another to visit the Cañón del Colca on a quick trip.
Day 1: Historic center and culture
We start at Plaza de Armas de Arequipa, from where we move around the center on foot. We visit the Catedral de Arequipa, walk through the arcades, and then enter the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús. We continue to the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, where we take our time exploring it. In the afternoon, we end the day with a walk to Puente Bolívar or head up to Mirador de Yanahuara, from where you can see the Volcán Misti, one of the most iconic landscapes of Arequipa.
Day 2: Excursion to the Cañón del Colca (quick option)
We leave very early from Arequipa heading to Chivay. Along the way, we cross the Reserva Nacional de Salinas y Aguada Blanca, where it’s common to see vicuñas and high-altitude landscapes. We continue toward the valley, passing through traditional villages such as Yanque, Antahuilque, and Wayrapunku, until reaching Cruz del Cóndor, the main viewpoint to observe the canyon and see the flight of one of the largest birds in South America: the condors. A brief stop at Cruz del Cura can also be included.
This is one of the most direct ways to visit the Cañón del Colca without staying overnight.
Itinerary in Arequipa in 3 days
If you have three days in Arequipa, we can put together a more balanced plan: we explore the historic center at a relaxed pace, add cultural experiences, and leave one day to unwind and enjoy the surroundings without rushing.
Day 1: Historic center
We start at Plaza de Armas de Arequipa, from where we explore the center on foot. We visit the Catedral de Arequipa, walk through the iconic sillar arcades, and then enter the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús. Afterwards, we continue to the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, visiting its cloisters, patios, and gardens to understand part of its religious history. In the afternoon, we end the day at Mirador de Yanahuara or Puente Bolívar.
Day 2: Culture and surroundings
We leave early from Arequipa towards the Colca Valley. We make a first stop at Mirador de Quiscos Uyupampa and then cross the Reserva Nacional de Salinas y Aguada Blanca, where we see vicuñas and high-altitude landscapes. We continue through Patahuasi and the Bofedales de Toccra (a perfect spot for birdwatching), until reaching the highest point of the route, the Mirador de los Volcanes Patapampa. From here, we begin the descent to Chivay.
In the afternoon, we relax at the Aguas Termales de Chacapi or in Yanque. To end the day, we attend a folkloric show in Chivay, where we will also spend the night.
Day 3: Nature and relaxation
We leave early from Chivay towards the Cañón del Colca. We pass through points such as the Antahuilque viewpoint and Wayrapunku, until reaching Cruz del Cóndor, where we can observe the flight of one of the most majestic and representative birds of Peru: the condors.
On the way back, we make stops in the traditional village of Maca and the Iglesia de Santa Ana. We can also make a few more stops along the return route to the city of Arequipa. We end the trip with free time in the city: ideal for trying something you missed, buying some handicrafts, or simply resting before departure.
Must-see places in Arequipa
These are the places you absolutely have to include during your time in Arequipa. They are key spots that you can easily explore and that help you understand the city from its history to its most iconic views.
Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas de Arequipa is the starting point. This is where we begin the tour, getting oriented and connecting with the rhythm of the city. You can enter the Catedral de Arequipa, walk through the arcades, and use this space as a reference point to move to other nearby attractions.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina
The Monasterio de Santa Catalina is a must-visit. It’s not just a building, but a full journey through internal streets, patios, and spaces that show what life was like in another era. It’s best to explore it without rushing to fully enjoy the experience.
Viewpoints
The viewpoints give you a different perspective of the city. Mirador de Yanahuara is the most accessible and works well with a short walk. If you want a wider view, you can go to Mirador de Carmen Alto, where you’ll get a better look at the valley and the volcanoes. Both are worth it, and you can choose depending on how much time you have.
Is it worth visiting the Cañón del Colca?
Yes, it’s worth it, especially if you’re interested in nature and wide-open landscapes. The Cañón del Colca is one of the deepest canyons in the world and the main attraction outside the city. Now, to be clear: if you do it in 1 day, it will be an intense experience with several hours of travel. If you have more time, the ideal is to do it in 2 days to enjoy the tour better. If your time is limited, the short version is still a great option to visit it.
Best time to travel to Arequipa
You can visit Arequipa all year round, but the months between April and November are usually the most recommended because there is less rain and the days are clearer. Between December and March is the rainy season: it doesn’t mean you can’t travel, but you’ll need to be more flexible with your itinerary, as cloudy skies or changes in some plans may occur, especially if you’re going to the Colca.
Tips for visiting Arequipa
- First, take your first day easy due to the altitude, although it’s not as demanding as Cusco.
- Move around the center on foot to adapt better.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket: the weather changes between day and night.
- If you go to the Cañón del Colca, be prepared to wake up early and bring warm clothing.
- Leave free time in your itinerary, because Arequipa is best enjoyed without rushing.
Is it better to visit Arequipa on your own or with a tour?
It depends on your travel style. The center of Arequipa can be explored perfectly on your own, walking and organizing your time. On the other hand, for the Cañón del Colca, it is usually more practical to take a tour, since it already includes transportation, stops, and a guide, which allows you to forget about all the logistics and organization and simply focus on enjoying the experience.
A good combination is to explore the city on your own and book a tour only for longer excursions.
If you’re already planning your itinerary with this guide, you can’t miss out on one of the most breathtaking experiences in southern Peru: the Colca Canyon Tour.
👉 Book your 2-day Colca Canyon Tour now and discover why it’s one of Peru’s most breathtaking destinations. Your trip to Arequipa won’t be complete without it!
Frequently asked questions about Arequipa in 2 or 3 days
Is 2 days enough?
Yes, 2 days in Arequipa are enough to see the main highlights: historic center, Monasterio de Santa Catalina, and viewpoints. You can even do a quick visit to the Cañón del Colca. With 3 days, you can enjoy it at a more relaxed pace.
How much does Colca cost?
To visit the Cañón del Colca, you’ll find prices starting from $125 USD per person, depending largely on the activities and number of days of your visit. Additionally, you should consider some extra expenses such as meals or entrance to hot springs, which are not always included.
