Arequipa means colonial architecture, grand houses and temples, volcanic stone and towering volcanoes. Arequipa, the “White City”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, founded on 15 August 1540 in the valley of the Chili River — a sunny and welcoming place where the Cusco hosts once asked the “Son of the Sun” to let them stay and rest.
Ari quepay (“yes, stay”) is said to have been the reply of Inca Mayta Cápac, not knowing that this simple phrase in Quechua would give its name to one of the most beautiful cities in Peru and South America. Doubt it?… Join us on the free tour through its Historic Centre and you’ll understand why so many visitors never want to leave.
We’ll be waiting for you every day to set off together towards the colonial house of Tristán del Pozo — one of the most striking in the old town. That will be the first stop on your 2-hour walking tour through the colonial and republican heart of the city of Misti, the volcano that watches over and protects Arequipa (2,359 m a.s.l.).
On the free tour you’ll also visit the Mario Vargas Llosa Regional Library, home to the works of Peru’s only Nobel Prize winner; the Fundo El Fierro, now a lively arts and crafts centre; as well as San Francisco Square and the Plaza de Armas, where you’ll admire the Basilica Cathedral, a neoclassical gem built in sillar (volcanic stone).
At the end of the walk, when you look out over the Plaza de Armas, its arcades, the Cathedral and the Misti from the Waya viewpoint, it’s quite likely your guide will repeat the now legendary Ari quepay. And indeed, this last stop is perfect for a toast and a bite to eat. Don’t be surprised if you suddenly feel like staying. Do it. You’ll have a wonderful time.
OPERATION ISSUE OF THIS TOUR:
Make your free tour reservation now, even last-minute reservations are accepted! — we are operating all free tours in Arequipa in English and Spanish. Check the timetable below.
HIGHLIGHTS
Meeting point
We’ll be waiting for you every day at Calle San Francisco 204. Head to office 205 on the second floor, where you’ll easily recognise your guide by the red vest with the words Chacu Travel.
You’ll find all the details of this free tour under the Details tab.
Casa Tristán del Pozo (interior visit)
With its finely decorated sillar façade, its Baroque Mestizo style and tall walls crowned with gargoyles shaped like puma heads, this colonial mansion, dating back to 1736, is one of the gems of Arequipa’s Historic Centre.
Its original owner was General Domingo Carlos Tristán del Pozo. In 1974, the so-called “House of Art” was acquired by BBVA Continental, which has since taken care of the building’s preservation.
Declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 1958, its colonial-style rooms now showcase the works of renowned Arequipa artists such as Carlos Baca Flor and Jorge Vinatea Reinoso. Entry to the mansion is free of charge.
La Canasta Bakery
In a colonial house built from volcanic ashlar in the 18th century, more than 30 varieties of bread are baked, blending tradition with modernity. Their recipes combine artisanal techniques with innovative methods.
La Canasta is the city’s very first boutique bakery, bringing together the best of past and present. Here, the typical pan de tres puntas, crispy baguettes, and delicious pastries all have a unique touch thanks to the use of natural organic ingredients.
But that’s not all. La Canasta’s charm also lies in its architecture and history. Within the walls of this colonial home, Don Eduardo López de Romaña y Alvizuri was born – a distinguished arequipeño who served as President of Peru between 1899 and 1903.
Mario Vargas Llosa Regional Library (interior visit)
Generous and deeply connected to his homeland, Nobel Prize in Literature 2010, Mario Vargas Llosa (1936–2025), donated the books and magazines from his valuable personal library to the people of Arequipa, the “White City”.
His gesture inspired other local writers, such as Teodoro Núñez Ureta, Víctor Javier de Belaunde, Álvaro Rojas Samanez, Eloy Linares Málaga, Víctor Raúl Sacca Abusabal, and Oswaldo Reynoso, who also gave away their books.
This became the foundation of the library you’ll visit on the free tour. Today, this bastion of literature and thought is housed in an old colonial mansion, which until 2011 was the headquarters of the Regional Government of Arequipa.
The collection includes first editions of The Leaders, The Time of the Hero, The Green House, and The Cubs, works written and published by Vargas Llosa between 1957 and 1967. These are now recognised as part of Peru’s National Cultural Heritage.
Fundo El Fierro (optional)
From library halls to the “cells” of a penitentiary… or rather, to the classrooms of a girls’ school. No, not anymore. That was long ago, in another time. Today, the colonial estate of El Fierro has become a lively handicraft centre.
Back in 1804, Father José Antonio del Fierro promoted the construction of this neoclassical-style estate. Declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation, it once housed the Las Educandas school and later served as the city’s public penitentiary.
At El Fierro — located in San Francisco Square — you’ll find the very best of Arequipa’s craftsmanship. Textiles, embroidery, ashlar stonework, leather goods and a wide variety of jewellery all bring to life an estate steeped in history and tradition.
Mundo Alpaca
San Lázaro Neighbourhood (optional)
The roots of colonial Arequipa can be felt in this vibrant historic neighbourhood. Quiet and welcoming, it will dazzle you with its ashlar stone houses, cobbled streets and windows adorned with colourful flowerpots.
Considered the first neighbourhood with Spanish influence in southern Peru, San Lázaro is a place of heritage, culture and tradition. Its streets, its square and its 16th-century church transport you back to the origins of the “White City”, founded on 15 August 1540.
Let yourself be charmed by this lovely corner of the city, best enjoyed at a slow pace. And if, due to time constraints, your guide happens to skip this stop on the free tour, make sure to come back on your own. Don’t hesitate — you’ll love it.
San Francisco Square
This is one of the most charming and representative architectural complexes in Arequipa’s Historic Centre. Its main highlight is the Church of San Francisco, a blend of baroque and neoclassical styles, whose construction began in 1552.
The square you see today — remodelled in 2005 by the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation — was once a cemetery until 1875. At that time, plans were made to build a market here, but the idea never materialised.
San Francisco is a calm and easily accessible spot. Thanks to its strategic location, it’s well worth visiting more than once. And while you’re nearby, take the chance to explore the handicraft centre at Fundo El Fierro.
Main Square (Plaza de Armas)
On 15 August 1540, Garcí Manuel de Carbajal founded the Villa de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora del Valle Hermoso de Arequipa right here, in the very spot you’re visiting today — the original name of the city you’re exploring on our free tour.
Since its foundation, the square has been the beating heart of the city. As you walk around, take a moment to admire the 18th-century bronze fountain, the neoclassical Basilica Cathedral, and the majestic volcanoes rising on the horizon.
Don’t forget the arcades that surround the square. Before you continue your urban adventure, ask your guide about the character perched at the top of the fountain — the answer may surprise you. For now, we’ll give you a hint: everyone calls him Tuturutu.
Bolognesi Bridge
Almost as old as the city itself, construction began in 1577 to connect the banks of the Chili River. The work, entrusted to architect Juan de Aldana, boosted the growth and integration of the colonial town.
Known originally as the Royal or Old Bridge, it was inaugurated in 1608 and has remained one of Arequipa’s main thoroughfares ever since. Today, it bears the name of Francisco Bolognesi, one of Peru’s national heroes from the War of the Pacific.
Wrapped in history and legend, locals once said that a mermaid haunted the area, frightening drivers and passers-by, causing accidents with her appearances. Beyond the tales, the bridge is a perfect spot to admire the flow of the Chili River.
Panoramic View
Your final glimpse of Arequipa’s Historic Centre will be from the Waya viewpoint. It’s not a mountain or a natural lookout, but rather the upper floor of one of the buildings flanking the Plaza de Armas of the “White City”.
Designed with travellers like you in mind, Waya is the perfect spot to enjoy a beer, order some nibbles, and chat with fellow visitors while you take in the old town and snap photos of Misti, the volcano that watches over and protects the city.
It’s an extraordinary way to end your urban journey, during which you’ve discovered the main highlights of a city that, thanks to its rich colonial and republican architectural heritage, has been declared a World Cultural Heritage Site.
Ending point
The free tour ends just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas — though many travellers choose to stay at the Waya viewpoint. And you? What would you do?
TIMETABLE
We offer flexible tour times to fit your schedule:
- Morning slot: 10:00 hrs (10:00 AM) – Daily
- Midday slot: 12:30 hrs (12:30 PM) – Daily
- Afternoon slot: 15:00 hrs (3:00 PM) – Daily
- Sunset slot: 17:15 hrs (5:15 PM) – Monday to Saturday
| Schedules | Language | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 | Every day | English | 2 h |
| 12:30 | |||
| 15:00 | |||
| 17:15 | Monday to Saturday | ||
| 10:00 | Every day | Spanish | 2 h |
| 12:30 | |||
| 15:00 | |||
| 17:15 | Monday to Saturday | ||
| We don’t operate on January 1. The tour duration is approx. | |||
WHERE?
Meeting Point: Find us at calle San Francisco 204, office 205, second floor. Look for the red vests – chacu travel.
PRICE
Booking the tour is completely free! 🎁
At the end of the tour, feel free to tip your guide based on the quality of the experience.
💡 Travel tip: Remember to bring cash on the day of the tour (we accept Peruvian soles, US dollars, or euros). We currently do not accept card payments or bank transfers.
DETAILS
Tour Type: It’s a free, non-private group tour.
Accessibility: This tour is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Included: Professional tour guide.
What do I bring?
- Sweaters.
- Raincoats.
- Rain ponchos.
- Hats.
- Anti-slip shoes.
- Cash (Peruvian soles, American dollars or Euros) for the tip.
WhatsApp:
FAQs
Why choose our Free Walking Tour in Arequipa?
With over ten years of experience, professional local guides, and more than 100,000 travelers served, we’re backed by genuine reviews on TripAdvisor and our own customer review platform.
We’re a 100% Peruvian-owned free walking tour company—not a marketplace or booking platform.
What’s the difference between a Free Tour and a Paid Tour in Arequipa?
On a traditional paid tour, you pay a fixed price upfront.
With our Free Walking Tour, you reserve your spot for free and decide how much to tip your guide at the end based on your experience. This means our guides are motivated to provide an exceptional tour every time, so you can expect consistently high-quality service.
Does the Free Tour include a visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery or the San Lázaro neighborhood?
The Santa Catalina Monastery is visited from the outside. During the Free Tour, we walk around its exterior façade while explaining its history and architecture, and our guide will share recommendations if you wish to go inside on your own.
As for the San Lázaro neighborhood, it is a stop we do visit and explore on foot, though the exact route may vary slightly depending on group dynamics.
Does the Free Walking Tour in Arequipa include food tasting or local Queso Helado?
It does not include food tastings or culinary stops. Our Free Tour is a walking tour 100% focused on the history, architecture, and culture of the historic center.
However, during the walk we pass by traditional spots where you can purchase the famous Arequipa-style Queso Helado (frozen cheese dessert) or other local treats on your own. Your guide will point out the most authentic places along the way.
What languages is the tour offered in?
We offer tours in English and Spanish, with completely separate groups for each language, so you’ll enjoy the best possible experience with a guide dedicated exclusively to your language.
Note: Only in very rare cases, such as when attendance is unusually low, may we combine both languages into one bilingual tour.
How do I book this Free Tour?
Booking is easy.
Simply complete our online booking form by selecting your preferred tour date and entering your contact details. You’ll then receive a confirmation email.
No credit card is required to book.
Is it necessary to book the Free Tour through platforms like Civitatis or GuruWalk?
No, it’s not necessary. In fact, we are direct local tour operators, which means we are not third-party platforms like Civitatis or GuruWalk.
Booking directly on our official website gives you great advantages:
- 0% booking fees: Your spot is 100% free and guaranteed directly with us.
- Direct customer support: You bypass middleman platforms and get instant help via WhatsApp for any changes or questions.
- Personalized service: You deal directly with the local team that actually organizes and guides your tour in Arequipa.
By booking directly on our website, you secure your spot quickly and transparently while directly supporting a local business.
Do I need to book in advance, or can I just show up?
We recommend booking in advance through our website to guarantee your spot, as we keep our groups small to provide a more personalized experience.
However, if you make a last-minute decision and weren’t able to book online, you’re welcome to come directly to the meeting point and join the tour, subject to availability.
If you’re planning to join at the last minute, we recommend sending us a WhatsApp message first.
Is this a good tour for my first day in Arequipa?
Yes, absolutely. Taking the Free Tour on your first day is a great way to ease into Arequipa’s altitude (2,335 m / 7,661 ft) while exploring the Historic Center with a local guide and getting the best recommendations for things to do during the rest of your stay.
Do you feel altitude sickness (soroche) during the Free Tour in Arequipa?
Arequipa is located at 7,660 ft (2,335 m) above sea level, so the elevation is much lower and easier than in Cusco or Puno, rarely causing severe altitude sickness. Additionally, our Free Tour is conducted at a gentle pace along flat streets in the Historic Center, making it a great acclimatization activity for your first day. We recommend staying hydrated and walking at your own pace.
Is the tour suitable for families with children, seniors, or wheelchairs?
Yes, it is a perfect tour for families. Children, families, and seniors in good walking condition can participate without any issues (strollers are also welcome). Please note that the commentary is geared toward an adult audience.
However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as the infrastructure of Arequipa’s historic center streets (high curbs and cobblestones) makes access difficult and would slow down the group’s pace.
💡 Traveling in a wheelchair?
To guarantee a comfortable and 100% accessible tour for your family, we recommend booking a private tour, where we adapt the route to your liking.
What time does the tour start, and how long does it last?
⏰ Schedules:
We offer daily departures at the following times:
- Morning Tour: 10:00 hrs (10:00 AM) — Everyday.
- Midday Tour: 12:30 hrs (12:30 PM) — Everyday.
- Afternoon Tour: 15:00 hrs (3:00 PM) — Everyday.
- Late Afternoon Tour: 17:15 hrs (5:15 PM) — Monday to Saturday.
⏳ Duration:
The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
Do you offer an afternoon Free Tour in Arequipa?
Yes! We offer afternoon Free Walking Tours in Arequipa.
It’s the perfect way to explore the historic center and soak in the evening vibe.
Available departure times:
- 15:00 (3:00 PM) – Daily
- 17:15 (5:15 PM) – Monday to Saturday
Is it safe to take a Free Walking Tour in Arequipa’s Historic Center?
Yes.
Arequipa’s Historic Center is one of the city’s main tourist areas and is continuously monitored by security cameras, Tourist Police, and local security officers.
Our tours follow well-traveled tourist routes and are always led by experienced local guides.
As in any major city—whether it’s Madrid, Berlin, or elsewhere—we simply recommend keeping an eye on your personal belongings so you can enjoy a worry-free experience.
What happens if I arrive late at the Meeting Point?
We allow a 10-minute grace period at the meeting point. For example, if your tour is scheduled to start at 10:00 in the morning, the group will normally depart at around 10:10.
If you still miss the tour, don’t worry! You can usually join the next available departure (especially if you’re traveling with two or more people), make a new booking for a later time, or simply send us a WhatsApp message and we’ll do our best to help.
How much should I tip on a Free Walking Tour in Arequipa?
As a general guideline, most travelers tip between S/30 and S/50 per person (approximately US$10–15), depending on how much you enjoyed the experience.
We currently accept cash only in Peruvian soles, U.S. dollars, and euros.
For the meantime, we do not accept credit or debit cards, nor do we accept other currencies.
Because we’re a locally owned tour company—not a marketplace—your tips go directly to our guides and local team. Your contribution directly supports Peruvian families.
If you’d like to learn more about local tipping customs for traditional tours, hiking trips, restaurants, and other services, check out our guide on how much to tip in Peru.
Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to operate—a requirement that’s met 99% of the time.
Since this is a shared tour (not a private one), our groups typically consist of 7 to 10 travelers, divided by language (English and Spanish) to provide a more personal and engaging experience.
The maximum group size is 20 participants, although groups that large are very rare.
Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes.
Your booking is completely flexible. If your travel plans change, you can reschedule or cancel your reservation simply by replying to your confirmation email or sending us a quick WhatsApp message.
There are no cancellation fees or no-show charges.
Will the tour be canceled if there are protests in Arequipa?
It depends on the scale of the protests or demonstrations.
In most cases, they do not affect our tours. As a local company, we’re aware of any situation that could impact our routes well in advance.
If large-scale protests are expected to affect safety or disrupt the normal operation of the tour, we’ll cancel the departure and notify you as early as possible.
The safety of our guests and guides is always our top priority.
Who isn’t allowed to join this Free Tour?
Who is not allowed on this Free Tour?
- Peruanos: Este Free Tour opera bajo una modalidad exclusiva para turistas extranjeros. Si eres peruano o viajas con locales, te invitamos a reservar nuestro Tour privado a pie por Arequipa, diseñado especialmente para ti.
- People under the influence of alcohol or substances: Anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or displaying disruptive behavior that affects the group experience, will not be permitted to join.
REVIEWS
Please, scroll down to see reviews.
Social Media
⭐TripAdvisor: 53 testimonials | ⭐Google Maps: 1200 reviews | ⭐Facebook: 800 followers | ⭐Instagram: 6000 followers | ⭐YouTube: Watch videos | ⭐ Travellers: + de 50,255 tourists
Prue Kesby
Great overview of Arequipa
John provided a clear and insightful overview of Arequipa and its history. Highly recommended.
Joost Nieuwenhuijzen
Highly interesting tour
John was our great guide. A very nice und funny person with a lot of knowledge about Arequipa and its history.
Ananda Chaves Fonseca
Tour excelente
Hicimos el tour en español por el centro histórico de Arequipa y fue excelente. El guía nos explicó sobre la historia y la arquitectura, además de aconsejarnos sobre las comidas locales. Recomendamos muchísimo!
Hola Ananda,
Muchas gracias por tu comentario y por acompañarnos en nuestro Free Walking Tour por Arequipa.
Nos alegra saber que disfrutaste del recorrido por el centro histórico y que encontraste interesantes nuestras...
Hola Ananda,
Muchas gracias por tu comentario y por acompañarnos en nuestro Free Walking Tour por Arequipa.
Nos alegra saber que disfrutaste del recorrido por el centro histórico y que encontraste interesantes nuestras explicaciones sobre la historia, la arquitectura y la gastronomía local.
Fue un placer compartir contigo la belleza y la cultura de Arequipa. Comentarios como el tuyo nos motivan a seguir ofreciendo experiencias auténticas y de calidad a viajeros de todo el mundo.
Esperamos verte nuevamente en alguno de nuestros tours por Perú.
¡Te deseamos un excelente viaje!
Saludos cordiales,
El equipo de Free Walking Tours Peru
Maria Ley
English accent issue
The tour was enjoyable overall and the guide was friendly. Sometimes it was a little difficult for me to understand parts of the explanation because of the accent and speaking style, but I understand this can vary from guide to guide. Still, I appreciated the experience and the effort put into the tour.
Hi Maria,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that the English accent and speaking style made parts of the tour difficult to follow for you. We understand how important clear communication is...
Hi Maria,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that the English accent and speaking style made parts of the tour difficult to follow for you. We understand how important clear communication is during a walking tour experience.
Our guides come from different backgrounds and each one has their own way of presenting the tour, but we always aim to make the information accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Your comments help us identify areas where we can improve, especially regarding pacing and clarity during explanations.
We truly appreciate your honest review and hope that, despite this inconvenience, you still enjoyed discovering Arequipa with us. We would love the opportunity to welcome you again in the future.
Best regards,
FWTP Team
Daniel Zapata
Arequipa Walking Tour
My wife and myself did a walking tour with FWTP in Arequipa and it was an extraordinary experience ever, fully recommended.
Thanks Johan!
¡Muchas gracias por compartir tu experiencia! 😊
Nos alegra muchísimo saber que disfrutaron el recorrido a pie por Arequipa y que fue una experiencia extraordinaria para ustedes. Johan estará muy contento de leer tu mensaje y...
¡Muchas gracias por compartir tu experiencia! 😊
Nos alegra muchísimo saber que disfrutaron el recorrido a pie por Arequipa y que fue una experiencia extraordinaria para ustedes. Johan estará muy contento de leer tu mensaje y saber que contribuyó a que su visita fuera tan especial.
Gracias también por recomendarnos. Será un placer recibirlos nuevamente en otro de nuestros tours cuando vuelvan a Perú. 🇵🇪
Un cordial saludo,
Free Walking Tours Peru