Arequipa from Above. Panoramic and Revealing Views of Its Urban Geography, Volcanoes, and Countryside. Different Perspectives of a City You’ll Never Forget, with Its History, Architecture, Natural Surroundings, and Even the Spicy Flavour of Its Cuisine.
To truly experience the “White City,” you need more than just walking through the streets of its Historic Centre, exploring the flavours of its famous picanterías (traditional eateries), or venturing into the sillar quarries, the volcanic stone that underpins traditional architecture.
In Arequipa, you need to do more. Visit the viewpoints of Yanahuara, Carmen Alto, and Sachaca to treasure different vistas. You should also take a close look at the arcades in the Plaza de Armas, an architectural legacy that fills the locals with pride in this volcanic land.
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Iconic Viewpoints
Yanahuara: the most visited in the city
In the 19th century, the most popular and bustling viewpoint in Arequipa was constructed. This project was part of an urban beautification initiative in one of the city’s historic districts.
From the Yanahuara viewpoint, you’ll enjoy exceptional views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. Your gaze will be framed by a series of sillar arches, where you can read verses celebrating the pride of being from Arequipa.
Make the most of your visit to this viewpoint — located just 20 minutes from the Plaza de Armas — to photograph the sunset, explore the colonial temple of San Juan Bautista, and sample some of the finest dishes of the “White City” in Yanahuara’s picanterías.
Carmen Alto: from observatory to viewpoint
Before becoming one of Arequipa’s most visited viewpoints, this traditional village in the Cayma district housed the Carmen Alto Observatory, or Boyden Station, from 1890 to 1926, which was part of the Harvard College Observatory.
From the Carmen Alto Observatory, the first meteorological station in the Southern Hemisphere, photographs were taken of the Magellanic Clouds (galaxies) and Saturn’s moon Phoebe. It was also where an unknown asteroid was discovered and named (737) Arequipa.
At the Carmen Alto viewpoint — just 6 km from the Historic Centre — let your imagination run wild and picture yourself as a scientist exploring the sky and the earth. In your quest, you’ll discover the lush greenery of the Chilina Valley and stunning pre-Hispanic terracing.
Sachaca: a sillar tower
Una torre de 19 metros de altura se proyecta hacia el cielo para convertirse en un mirador de la “Ciudad Blanca”. Eso es lo que encontrarás en el distrito de Sachaca, un pueblo de raíces agrícolas con casas de adobe que todavía conserva una brisa de su aire rural.
El mirador se construyó en 1988 sobre la cima de un cerro que fue un cementerio; pero, no te preocupes, durante tu visita no tendrás que lidiar con almas en pena, solo lo harás con los escalones que conducen a lo más alto de esta torre remodelada en 1996.
Por su cercanía al Centro Histórico —15 minutos en auto— y su encanto rural, Sachaca es una excelente alternativa para tener una perspectiva distinta de la ciudad del sillar, de la ciudad de los volcanes.
A 19-metre-high tower reaches for the sky, offering a viewpoint over the “White City.” This is what you’ll find in the Sachaca district, a village with agricultural roots and adobe houses that still retains a hint of its rural charm.
The viewpoint was built in 1988 atop a hill that was once a cemetery; but don’t worry, during your visit you won’t encounter any restless spirits, just the steps leading to the top of this tower, which was refurbished in 1996.
Due to its proximity to the Historic Centre — just a 15-minute drive away — and its rural allure, Sachaca is a great alternative for a different perspective of the city of sillar, the city of volcanoes.
Historic Arcades
Portal de San Agustín
Built in 1651, this arcade stands out for its intricately carved stone arches and Spanish-inspired wooden balconies. These features capture the essence of colonial architecture in Arequipa’s Historic Centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Known as the Portal de las Delicias during the colonial period, it has always played a crucial role in the city’s social and commercial life. Over the centuries, its spaces have hosted family dreams, witnessed the prosperity of various businesses, and been the backdrop to countless historical events.
Its current name is associated with the Universidad Nacional de San Agustín, founded in 1828, which was once based on the street of the same name.
This arcade is one of three flanking the Plaza de Armas. Be sure to visit it on your journey through Arequipa’s urban heart.
Portal de la Municipalidad
A Portal with Many Names: Cabildo, Cárcel, Escríbanos, and, today, the Portal de la Municipalidad. This is the first arcade built in the area surrounding the Plaza de Armas.
The origins of this arcade date back to 1614. Since then, it has undergone several architectural interventions, particularly after the 1940s.
Located to the southeast of the Plaza de Armas, this arcade — part of Arequipa’s municipal palace — is unique in featuring three carved granite human heads.
Portal de Flores
There are two versions regarding the origin of its name. One is related to the floral gardens that once existed here, owned by the Pizarro brothers during the colonial era.
The other version links the name to Mayor Manuel Flores del Campo, who is said to have financed its construction in 1821. Initially, the striking arches were known as the New Arcade.
Later, it was called Regocijo due to the public celebrations it hosted, and subsequently Dos de Mayo, in honour of the naval battle fought off the coast of Callao in 1866.
The Portal de Flores is located to the west of the Plaza de Armas, and while it may not be as old as its neighbouring arches, its architectural beauty makes it an important part of the “White City’s” heritage.
Travel Tips
- Before you set off on your journey, gather information, details, and tips about Arequipa’s tourist attractions.
- Create an itinerary that includes the viewpoints and arcades you plan to visit. Consider their locations and plan an efficient route.
- Check the opening hours and entry fees for the places you intend to visit.
- Enjoy Arequipa’s delicious cuisine at restaurants near the arcades and viewpoints. Try a rocoto relleno or a hearty adobo. For dessert, nothing beats a refreshing queso helado.
- Be mindful of the weather conditions. Arequipa is generally sunny, but rain is not uncommon. Always carry sunscreen and a raincoat.
- If you plan to join guided tours or special activities in Arequipa, consider making reservations to avoid any inconveniences.
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