Timeline
16:08
Grab a drink or light bite at Zig Zag. This Peruvian restaurant sits right in front of Plaza San Francisco, making it a perfect early start before the crowds settle in for the evening. The menu runs until 23:00, so you have plenty of time.
16:48
Chaqchao Cafe and Chocolate Factory
Walk over to Chaqchao Cafe and Chocolate Factory. Spend ten minutes watching chocolates being made on the first floor, then head up to the second-floor cafe. The atmosphere is wonderful, and a big cappuccino or local chocolate drink pairs perfectly with the approaching golden hour.
17:08
Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa
Position yourself at the Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa. The sun is setting toward the WSW, casting long shadows and golden light across the white sillar stone. If you have the time and energy, take the guided tour up to the bell tower roof for the best vantage point of the plaza and the cathedral’s facade as it glows.
17:38
Walk to Libertad de Expresión park. It is a short walk from the cathedral, offering a quiet spot to sit and watch the last light fade from the city. The park is positioned to the WSW relative to the anchor, aligning with the sunset direction.
Local tip
The cathedral museum and towers close at 17:00 on weekdays, so if you want to go up to the roof, you must enter before golden light begins. If you skip the roof, the plaza outside offers excellent views for free.
Check before you go
- Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa: Mon–Sat 10:00-17:00, closed Sun. The roof tour requires a guided visit.
- Chaqchao Cafe and Chocolate Factory: Tu-Su 11:00-21:00. Closed Mondays.
- Zig Zag: Mo-Su 12:00-23:00.
Worth knowing
- Chaqchao Cafe and Chocolate Factory is open at 16:48 only on Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa, Su
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Arequipa (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).