The name Arequipa comes from the quechua word “ari-que-pay”, that refers to a legend about the inca Mayta Cápac; in the legend his subjects, impressed by the beauty of the place, asked him to stay and the inca answered: “yes, stay” (ari-que-pay).In the inca period the incas left the Arequipa territory in search of new places to conquer. The official foundation of the city took place in 1540, by the Spanish who arrived there to take advantage of the mines of the area in the colonial period.The city prospered quickly due to its advisable location in the mining transit path, becoming the most important commercial city, and standing out for its loyalty to the Spanish crown.During the republic, Arequipa was the place where concentrated most of the uprisings and social and political conflicts, what (later on time) would deserve its title of “Hero city of the free people of Arequipa”. Nowadays the city of Arequipa is one of the metropolis of higher economic, cultural and touristic importance inside the country.
Arequipa, known as the "White City," is Peru’s second-largest city, famous for its colonial architecture made from white volcanic stone. Surrounded by volcanoes like El Misti, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a gateway to the Colca Canyon. Arequipa offers a mix of history, culture, and traditional Peruvian cuisine.
Weather in Arequipa
Arequipa has a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) throughout the year. The dry season, from May to September, is ideal for visiting.
Hotels in Arequipa
Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
- Location: Ugarte 403, Arequipa.
- Price: From S/ 300 per night.
- Description: A luxury hotel in a colonial mansion with modern comforts and a picturesque courtyard.
Hotel Casona Solar
- Location: Consuelo 116, Arequipa.
- Price: From S/ 150 per night.
- Description: A charming boutique hotel with spacious rooms and a quiet garden.
Restaurants and Bars in Arequipa
Zig Zag Restaurant
Location: Zela 210.
Average Price: Between S/ 50 and S/ 120.
Description: Known for its sizzling meat plates served on volcanic stone and fusion dishes.
La Nueva Palomino
Location: Leoncio Prado 122.
Average Price: Between S/ 30 and S/ 70.
Description: A traditional picantería offering local specialties like rocoto relleno and adobo.
Gastronomy of Arequipa
Rocoto Relleno: Spicy stuffed pepper with meat, cheese, and spices.
Adobo Arequipeño: Pork stew marinated in chicha and spices, served hot.
Queso Helado: Traditional homemade ice cream with cinnamon and coconut.
Tourist Attractions in Arequipa
Santa Catalina Monastery: A colonial convent with colorful alleys and courtyards.
Plaza de Armas: A lively square surrounded by colonial buildings and the Cathedral.
Colca Canyon: One of the world’s deepest canyons, home to the majestic Andean condor.
Important Dates in Arequipa
August 15: Arequipa’s Anniversary, with parades, concerts, and cultural events.
Holy Week: Religious processions and traditional celebrations.
Festival of the Virgen de Chapi (May 1): A significant pilgrimage and festival.
Things to Buy in Arequipa
- Alpaca Wool Products: High-quality scarves, sweaters, and ponchos.
- Sillar Crafts: Decorative items made from volcanic stone.
- Arequipa Cheese: Fresh and locally produced cheese.
How to Get from Juliaca to Arequipa by Bus
The distance from Juliaca to Arequipa is approximately 270 km (168 miles), and the bus journey takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on the operator and traffic conditions.
Bus Operators for the Route
- Turismo Zolorzano
- Destinos
- Transzela
Departure and Arrival Terminals
In Juliaca: Buses depart from Terminal Terrestre de Juliaca.
In Arequipa: Buses arrive at Terminal Terrestre de Arequipa, close to the city center.