Arequipa Tour | 3 Days 2 Nights

Discover Arequipa in three days with this comprehensive tour, priced at $166 per person, offered by Latitudes. You’ll explore the city’s beautiful architecture, venture into the breathtaking Colca Canyon to see condors soaring above, and marvel at the volcanic stone carvings along the Sillar route. With a well-balanced mix of city sightseeing, natural beauty, and cultural insights, this tour offers a solid introduction to Peru’s “White City” and its surroundings.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its thoughtfully paced itinerary. The first day’s city tour is perfect for those who love local history and scenic viewpoints, while the day in Colca Canyon provides a genuine connection to nature and wildlife. The highlight for many is the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where condors glide effortlessly overhead — a sight that sticks with you. Another plus is the visit to the Sillar quarries, giving travelers a rare look at the volcanic stone that defines Arequipa’s architecture.

A potential consideration is the early start on day two, with a 3:00 am pickup for the Colca Canyon trip. That’s a long day of travel and sightseeing, so if you’re not an early riser or prefer a more relaxed pace, it might feel a bit rushed. This tour works best for those eager to cover a lot of ground and keen to see both natural wonders and city highlights in just three days.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced overview — combining city culture, stunning landscapes, and geological marvels — without the hassle of organizing each site independently. It’s perfect if you prefer guided comfort while still getting authentic, memorable experiences.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 3-day itinerary covers city, canyon, and geological sights.
• Expert bilingual guides ensure informative and engaging tours.
• Highlights include Yanahuara Viewpoint, Colca Canyon, and the Sillar route.
• Early mornings on day two are necessary to reach Colca Canyon at peak times.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a multi-day guided experience.
• Includes panoramic transport, some entrance fees, and scenic stops, but excludes optional site tickets, meals, and souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Arequipa: A City of White Walls and Warm Hearts

Starting with Arequipa itself, the city is often called the “White City” because of its striking buildings made from volcanic sillar stone. This tour gives you a chance to see some of the city’s most iconic sights, like the Goyeneche Palace, San Lázaro neighborhood, and the San Camilo Market, all from the comfort of a panoramic bus. The city tour’s duration is four hours, making it an ideal introduction without feeling rushed.

Your guide will take you to key viewpoints like Yanahuara and Carmen Alto, both offering sweeping views of the city framed against the backdrop of the surrounding volcanoes. These spots aren’t just pretty—they’re also rich in local stories and history. The visit to the Incalpaca camelid factory is a fun way to learn about Peru’s wool industry, and the Sabandía Mill offers a glimpse into traditional agriculture and milling practices. Small stops at Cayma Square and the Goyeneche Palace add layers to your understanding of Arequipa’s architecture and history.

One of the best parts of the city tour is the chance to photograph the city’s unique facades and rooftops, with many locations offering panoramic views. Several reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, making these sightseeing moments both educational and enjoyable.

Day Two: Into the Depths of Colca Canyon

The trip to Colca Canyon starts with an early 3:00 am pickup — a bit of a commitment for those wanting to maximize sightseeing time. The 3-hour drive takes you through scenic highlands, giving you a taste of Peru’s diverse landscapes before reaching the canyon.

The Cruz del Condor is the star of this day. It’s the best place to see the majestic Andean condors with wingspans reaching up to 10 feet, soaring effortlessly above the canyon. Many travelers comment on the breathtaking views and the thrill of witnessing these powerful birds. The surrounding town of Maca and viewpoints like Wayrapunko and Antahuillque add to the natural beauty, with some reviews describing the scenery as “simply stunning.”

A visit to hot springs around mid-morning offers a relaxing break before lunch, which is included. Post-lunch, the return journey includes stops at Patapampa, where volcanoes loom overhead, and Patahuasi, with views of Misti volcano. The journey back is a good chance to reflect on the day’s sights while enjoying the scenery from the bus window.

While the trip is a long day, the guide’s commentary and the variety of stops help break up the travel. Many reviewers mention how special it is to see the condors and to experience the vastness of the canyon — a truly awe-inspiring landscape.

The Sillar Route: A Geological and Artistic Journey

The final day’s Sillar route offers a different kind of insight into Arequipa’s identity. Departing at either 8:30 am or 2:00 pm, this four-hour tour takes you into the Añashuayco ravine, where you’ll see massive carvings in volcanic stone, created by skilled stonemasons. The guides explain the origin of the volcanic sillar and demonstrate how its unique properties mean it must be worked by hand.

Driving along the Culebrillas road, you’ll pass through a small canyon formed by sedimentary layers of the same volcanic stone. It’s quite scenic, and the geoglyphs in the shape of “culebrillas” (little snakes) add a mysterious element to the landscape. Many travelers find this part of the tour fascinating because it combines natural beauty with a glimpse of local craftsmanship.

The stops here are brief but impactful, giving you a taste of Arequipa’s geological and cultural fabric without taking up a full day. Returning to the city just blocks from the main square makes this a convenient, enriching addition to your itinerary.

Practicalities and Value

Price-wise, at $166 for three days, this tour covers a lot of ground. It includes transportation, a professional bilingual guide, and some entrance fees—adding up to a value-packed experience. Optional costs like site entrance tickets (ranging from S/.3 to S/.70 depending on the site and nationality) are reasonable if you choose to explore further.

Transportation is courtesy of panoramic buses and smaller vehicles for day trips, ensuring comfort and scenic viewing opportunities. The group size is limited to 19, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and touring efficiency.

A key point to remember: meals, souvenirs, and additional entrance fees are not included, so budgeting accordingly is wise. Also, the early start on day two might not suit everyone, especially if you’re not used to early mornings.

Flexibility is another plus — with the “reserve now & pay later” option, you can secure your spot without immediate commitment, a smart move if your plans are still evolving. The tour’s cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided experience fits travelers who want to see some of the most iconic sights surrounding Arequipa without the hassle of planning every detail. If you enjoy a mix of city culture, dramatic landscapes, and geological wonders, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suitable for those with limited time but eager to get a broad, authentic sense of the region.

Keep in mind, early mornings, especially on day two, are essential to experience the best of Colca Canyon. The tour’s pace is quite full, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a busy schedule. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate nature, history, and scenic vistas, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Arequipa tour offers a careful blend of cultural insight, natural beauty, and geological marvels — all at a reasonable price. From the stunning viewpoints overlooking Arequipa’s white facades to the soaring condors of Colca Canyon, each day provides memorable moments and photo opportunities. The inclusion of the Sillar route gives a tangible connection to the city’s volcanic origins and artisan craftsmanship, enriching your experience.

For those looking to maximize their brief visit to southern Peru, this tour hits the high points while offering guided commentary that deepens your understanding. It’s a good choice if you value comfort, authenticity, and a well-rounded overview of the region.

If your trip plans include exploring beyond Cusco or Machu Picchu, this tour provides a meaningful contrast with its focus on natural landscapes and local culture. Though it involves some early mornings and busy days, the sights and stories you’ll carry home make it worth the effort.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup in Arequipa’s city center, transportation in scenic buses and smaller vehicles, and a professional bilingual guide for all activities.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, except for the lunch on day two during the Colca Canyon excursion. You should budget for snacks or additional meals.

How much do the entrance tickets cost?
Some optional entrance fees are not included. For example, the Carmen Alto Viewpoint costs S/.3, Founder’s Mansion S/.12, and Sabandía Mill S/.10. The Colca Valley entrance fee is S/.20 for Peruvians and S/.40 for foreigners.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable, the early start on day two and long travel days may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start date for a full refund.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How long is the city tour?
The city tour lasts approximately 4 hours, covering major viewpoints and city highlights.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Most activities involve some walking and bus travel; the tour is suitable for those comfortable with moderate walking.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially if you want to secure a spot, as availability can be limited. Booking is recommended, with flexible payment options.

When should I reserve my spot?
It’s wise to reserve as soon as your plans are firm, especially since you can pay later, giving you flexibility.

This detailed, balanced look at the Arequipa 3-day tour should help you decide whether it fits your travel style. It offers a great mix of city charm, stunning landscapes, and geological artistry, making it a worthwhile addition for those eager to understand and enjoy southern Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby