Free Walking Tour (Downtown Arequipa)

Around 2½ hr. Tour is more about presenting the background of Arequipa, how and why it developed into the city it is today, different aspects being presented from different locations (rather than a tour of the major sights). Just turn-up (no booking necessary). Very worthwhile.

free

Address: Calle Santa Catalina 204
Hours: Tours leave daily 10:00 & 15:00
Price: Free but “guides work on a tips only basis”

Directions Suggest a nearby place

Listing from Wikivoyage: Arequipa, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

Close by

Drink
Chaqchao Cafe and Chocolate Factory
This place offers a nice atmosphere and the cafes and chocolates taste wonderful. There is a chocolate factory and store in the first floor where you can watch chocolates being made and also a cafe in the 2nd floor. All ingredients are grown organically and sourced locally.
Tue-Sun 11:00-21:00S/10 for a big cappuccino
Eat
Chicha Por Gaston Acurio
Excellent cuisine inspired by traditional Peruvian dishes. More expensive than other restaurants in the area, but well worth the price. Great table service by very attentive waiters.
Mon-Sat 12:00-23:00, Sun 12:00-20:00S/30-50 for mains
Eat
Hatunpa
Restaurant with a unique concept: slices of 3 or 7 different Andean potatoes covered with vegetables and meat slices of your choice. Very small place with only a few tables, so it might be a good idea to be there early.
Mon-Sat 12:30-21:30S/15-25
See
Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa
la Basílica Catedral de Arequipa
The first cathedral was built in 1544. This reconstruction dates from 1848, with a substantial repair after the 2001 earthquake caused the towers to collapse through the roof. The tour takes you into the Basilica, and to see the cathedral's collection of liturgical items in precious metals & gemstones, and sacremental garments. You are also taken up to the roof to see the bell tower and for views of the Plaza de Armas and the city.
Basilica, museum and towers: Mon–Sat 10:00-17:00, closed SunS/10 for admission and S/5 "tip" for required guided tour