Hostels in AREQUIPA, PERU

Amazing Arequipa: Never Ending Beautiful Nature

Arequipa is the capital city of the Arequipa Region, located in south Peru. It is the country’s second largest city. It is known for its shining white buildings made out of white volcanic rock, known as sillar. This is why it is called ‘The White City’ or ‘La Ciudad Blanca’. It grows corn, wheat and grapes extensively. The city is surrounded by three volcanoes—the active El Misti and the extinct Chachani and Pichu Pichu.

History
According to archaeologists, people first settled in Arequipa’s fertile valleys in 5000-6000 BCE. In the 15th century, the Aymara Indians occupied this area, which was later conquered by the Incas who supplied grains to the Inca Empire. The famous Spanish conqueror, Garci Manuel de Carvajal, founded this city in 1540, situated on the left banks of the River Chili.

In 1541, the Spanish King titled Arequipa a “city” and presented it with a coat of arms. As time passed, Arequipa’s Mestizo population (Latin people of mixed European and American-Indian blood in South America) grew. Until 1870, Arequipa remained isolated, but in this year, a railroad was started, which opened trade from Mollendo to the Pacific Ocean.

In the early 19th century, Peru tried to break away from Spain. At this time, Arequipa was seen as a protector of nationalism. It was a place for troops to meet and reunite during the War of the Pacific against Chile. San Martín helped liberate Peru for its proud and rebellious people. No wonder, it was called the “Land of Leaders.”

Popular Places and Monuments
Arequipa houses several beautiful and ancient monuments dating back to American ancient architecture. Visit the cloisters and churches of La Compañia, the San Francisco complex, the convent of Santa Catalina and the Tristan del Pozo, besides the Santo Domingo and La Merced. This city is also known for its gracious mansions such as Chaves de la Rosa.
 
One of the most beautiful sights here is the Plaza de Armas & Cathedral. Adventurous tourists also like climbing the El Misti Volcano and taking a tour of the Colca Canyon, among the deepest canyons worldwide.
 
Getting Around
The urban area of the city can be explored on foot. But for other parts of this city, it’s best to take a bus tour, minibuses or a taxi or rent a car. Being a new place for you, it would be best if you asked a guide to show you around.

Places of Entertainment
Arequipan cuisine is different because of the seasoning used. Its stuffed peppers (rocoto relleno), chowder (chupes) and adobo (spicy pork) typify the mestizo flavours. It’s worth experimenting with the entrees, main courses and desserts here. For the unadventurous, there’s Chinese and grilled food. Some good restaurants you might like to try are Bonanza, Sol de Mayo, Tradicion Arequipeña and Avenida Dolores.

Shopping is a favourite pastime and is best done at the markets in the city centre. Outdoorsy people can go mountain climbing, hiking, downhill biking or whitewater rafting. Or walk down and enjoy the Andes mountains and the pristine beaches.

Accommodation Options:
Arequipa has a large number of hotels of varying budgets, guesthouses, youth hostels, bed and breakfasts and budget hotels.

Currency
Arequipa’s currency is called the nuevo sol (PEN). For more news on this, refer to the daily newspapers.

Group accommodation in Arequipa | Cheap Hostels & Budget Hotels