Arequipa, which is located in the province and department of the same name, is known worldwide as the “White City”, because of the volcanic material, which they are made, most of its main buildings located in the area known as the Historic District of Arequipa. Is the second largest city of the country.
The White City of Arequipa, presents among its wide diversity of tourist attractions, resources such as: different structures of ancient date, among which highlights the Monastery of Santa Catalina; This structure is located in the Historic Quarter of the city and is one of the colonial relics that this city presents. The monastery, is currently, in addition to a religious space, the shelter of important pieces of art of the same nature as the building, endowed with great mastery and beauty.
In the Historical Center of the city of Arequipa there are, in addition to religious buildings, a series of neighborhoods, such as San Lazaro, Barrio del Solar, Selva Alegre, Centenario, Recoleta, among others. Within these neighborhoods are the more than 14 religious buildings that comprise this metropolis, among which is the beautiful Arequipa Cathedral, with its peculiar lateral façade and considerable surface.
Also they are part of the architectural wealth of the city, a series of historical monuments, like diversity of theaters, jails, almost 250 colonial mansions, among other structures, that in addition to the characteristic use of the sillar, in its construction, are endowed of great presence and resistance.
The surroundings of the urban core of Arequipa also offer visitors interesting points of visit, the city of Arequipa is surrounded by three imposing volcanoes, which are the Chachani, the Misti and the Pichu Pichu, which is presented to visitors, interested in the adventure tourism, as great routes to practice trekking, rock climbing, among other sports that will put the adrenaline of the participant to the maximum.
The surroundings of the city also present landscapes such as valleys, which are attractive alternatives for those who like hiking, cycling, observing flora and fauna, among other tasks that allow a little escape from the usual rhythm of the big cities.
Whoever wants to know this beautiful city, especially during its main celebrations, and thus be in contact with the festive spirit of its people, can do so on special dates such as the anniversary of Arequipa, which is celebrated every August 15TH, and which commemorates his Spanish foundation. This celebration allows the tourist to know, not only the festive spirit of the people of Arequipa, but also the fairs that are established in the city at the time and that allow knowing the culinary variety of Arequipa.
People who have the opportunity to be with one of the many food fairs that are assembled in the city, cannot fail to try, the exquisite wines and Chupes (Soups) that are presented as the specialty of the city, and among which are the Chupe de Camarones (Shrimp special soup), the arequipa oxtail stew, the caldo blanco (white soup), among many others; nor can it stop taste the traditional rocoto relleno (red hot chilli stuffed) the ocopa arequipeña, the Pastel de Papa (potato cake), among other dishes
THE COLCA CANYON
Chivay is a beautiful rural town located in the province of Caylloma in the Region of Arequipa. The altitude of this town is over the 3,600 masl, so only those with very good physical condition, can follow the incredible trails that their rural roads have to offer, as well as withstand the low temperatures that they register in it, especially at night.
The beautiful town of Chivay is divided into three recognizable sectors, the first of which is known as Ccapa, Quechua word that identifies the Power; In this neighborhood there are not only the urban spaces of the city, but also one of its main attractions: The Thermal Water Complex of La Calera; that site that is under the administration of the district government, has five swimming pools that are nourished by the waters that come from the Cotallumi volcano, from where they arise with a temperature superior to 80ºC; those waters are tempered for the use of the visitor (38ºC on average), who frequents them with the intention of alleviating diseases such as rheumatism, skin problems or muscular diseases.
Another sector Chivay is divided is known as Urinsaya, that is, it is characterized by the great festive spirit of its people, especially the one that is shown during the Chivay Festival celebrated on December 8TH, when its people go out with their typical costumes, to dance through the streets, accompanied by bands of musicians. The third part of this city is Hanansaya, where agricultural activity is centered.
Among other attractions that are recognized in Chivay are: Patapampa, which is part of the Colca Canyon and which is considered the highest point of the Canyon with its 4,800 masl. Patapampa is presented as a natural viewpoint, from whose summit it is possible to observe the beautiful snow-capped peaks and volcanoes that surround the territory. On the way to Patapampa it is possible to see small formations of stones piled up in the shape of a pyramid, those are known as apachetas, and they are a tribute that travelers make to the hills, with the intention that those protect them during their trips, so that, respectfully, should not be destroyed by visitors, since they are part of an ancient ritual, still practiced by the inhabitants of Chivay.
In the area of Patapampa, cycling routes are also carried out, although, as in the excursions to the place, it must be foreseen that the site will reach sub-zero temperatures that make it difficult to practice different activities in the territory if you do not take the necessary equipment and clothing.
The Cruz del Cóndor is the deepest point in the Colca, or at least the closest to it. The Cruz del Condor is considered a natural viewpoint; that point receives its name because in that terrain, it is usually observed to fly over, to the magnificent Andean condors.
The right margin of the canyon, is the other trekking route, more popular, which is followed by this tourist attraction of Peru. Following this second path, allows the visitor to access archaeological and thermo-medicinal tourist resources, to a greater extent. Among the main archaeological resources, which can be seen through this trail, is the so-called “Amphitheater”, which is a set of pre-Hispanic terraces facing the prolonged Colca River. In this area, we can also appreciate the thermo-medicinal waters of the Yanque district that are divided, between those for public use, and others that form parts of tourist complexes, especially hoteliers.
Visit the Colca Canyon, is a unique experience, especially for those tourists, who have an interest in adventure sports, as the geographical variety of the territory, allows the practice of different sports disciplines. Among those, the canoeing in the Colca River, whose rapids are in a difficulty between levels II and III. Rafting is another practicable sport in the Colca River, especially in the season from March to December.
