Tour Arequipa | 3Days 2Nights

Arequipa in Three Days: A Balanced Look at This Peruvian Gem

If you’re short on time but eager to soak in the highlights of the white city of Arequipa and its stunning surroundings, this 3-day tour offers a well-rounded introduction. For $166 per person, you’ll explore the city’s landmarks, admire the breathtaking depths of Colca Canyon, and walk the Sillar route—an authentic peek into local volcanic stone craftsmanship. The tour is popular among travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes and cultural spots without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What we love about this experience is how it combines city highlights with natural beauty and artisan tradition. First, the city tour gives a quick but rundown of Arequipa’s most photogenic spots, from viewpoints like Yanahuara to historic landmarks. Second, the day in Colca Canyon not only treats you to spectacular vistas but also allows you to witness the famous flight of the condors, which is a must-see for nature lovers.

A possible consideration is the early start on Day 2—you’re waking up around 3 am for the Colca adventure—so if you’re not an early riser, be prepared. Also, since some entrance fees are optional and not included, you’ll want to budget for those if you plan to visit particular sites or enjoy meals.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-structured itinerary that balances cultural sights with natural wonders, especially those with limited time in Arequipa. It’s ideal if you’re curious about local crafts and want a taste of the dramatic landscapes without committing to longer excursions.

Key Points

• Compact and comprehensive: Perfect for travelers with limited time.
• Highlights include: Arequipa city, Colca Canyon, and the Sillar route.
• Includes: Bilingual guides, panoramic transport, and small groups.
• Extra costs: Entrance fees, meals, and souvenirs are not included.
• Early mornings: Be ready for some early starts, especially on Day 2.
• Authentic experiences: Visit to local villages, viewpoints, and artisan quarries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Arequipa in 3 Days: A Practical Guide

This tour offers a balanced mix of urban exploration, natural scenery, and culture. We’ll break down what you can expect each day, along with tips to help you maximize your experience.

Day 1: Discovering Arequipa’s Charm

Starting from the main square, your guide will lead you through the city’s most photogenic spots. The Mirador de Yanahuara provides sweeping views of the city framed by volcanoes—an ideal spot for photos. Then, you’ll visit Carmen Alto, offering another panoramic perspective that captures the city’s whitewashed facades and surrounding mountains.

A highlight of this day is visiting the Incalpaca camelid factory and minizootic, where you’ll learn about local alpaca and llama farming. It’s a chance to see the animals up-close and understand their importance to Peruvian culture and economy. The Founder’s Mansion and Sabandía Mill are also on the list, giving you a glimpse into the colonial past and traditional milling practices.

Throughout the tour, brief stops at spots like Goyeneche Palace, Tingo Spa, and Cayma Square provide additional photo opportunities and insights into local life. The panoramic bus makes this a comfortable outing, especially since you’ll be sitting for most of it, soaking in views without much walking.

Authentic tip: Tour guides tend to be very knowledgeable, often sharing stories behind each site, which adds context and makes the experience more memorable.

Day 2: The Majestic Colca Canyon

Early mornings can be tough, but the payoff is worth it. Your pickup at 3 am will take you out of the city for the approximately three-hour drive to the Colca Canyon. The ride itself offers a good chance to acclimate to the scenic landscape.

The main attraction here is the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where you’ll witness the impressive flight of condors—large vultures with wingspans that can reach 3 meters. As one reviewer noted, “It’s incredible to see such a majestic bird soar so close,” making this a highlight for bird lovers or anyone appreciating wildlife spectacle.

Afterward, visits to nearby villages like Maca and viewpoints such as Wayrapunko and Antahuillque showcase traditional rural life and natural beauty. The thermal baths provide a relaxing break, especially after a morning of sightseeing. The included lunch is a good chance to sample local flavors, though the specifics aren’t detailed.

As you head back toward Arequipa, you’ll stop at Patapampa, where volcano views of Misti and other peaks offer a dramatic end to the day. Expect to return around 5 pm, close to your hotel.

Travel tip: Bring layers, as temperatures can fluctuate from early morning chill to midday warmth.

Day 3: The Artistic Sillar Route

On your final day, you’ll explore the Sillar route, a journey into the heart of Arequipa’s volcanic stone craftsmanship. After departing from the city center, you’ll visit the Añashuayco ravine, famous for its mega talls and stone quarries. Here, artisans will show you how they work with sillar, a volcanic stone unique to the region.

You’ll learn about the stone’s origin and how its properties lend themselves to the city’s distinctive white architecture. The small canyon of Culebrillas, formed by sediment deposits of sillar, provides a scenic backdrop for photography and reflection on local geology.

The tour notes the presence of geoglyphs in the shape of “culebrillas” (little snakes), which add an element of mystery and ancient symbolism to the landscape. This part of the tour emphasizes artisan techniques and natural beauty, giving travelers a tactile connection to local crafts.

You’ll return to the city only a block from the main square, making it easy to explore further or relax at your hotel.

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The Value of This Tour

At $166, this 3-day package offers good value considering the inclusions like professional bilingual guides, panoramic transportation, and small group sizes—limiting the crowd and enhancing the experience. It’s a perfect option for those wanting a structured, guided overview rather than independent exploration.

While the entrance fees aren’t included—such as the Sillar quarry ($5), the Founder’s Mansion ($12), or the Colca Valley ($20)—these are relatively affordable, and your guide can often help streamline the process.

What travelers have said: Many appreciate the stunning views at key sites, especially the condor flight and canyon vistas. Others mention the well-paced schedule and knowledgeable guides, which help make the trip both enjoyable and informative.

However, be prepared for some early mornings, especially on Day 2. Also, depending on your pace, you might want to budget extra time for optional site visits or souvenirs.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced introduction to Arequipa’s city life, surrounding natural beauty, and traditional crafts. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the essentials. The small group size and bilingual guides ensure a personal touch, appealing to those who prefer a more intimate, educational experience.

If you’re excited about birdwatching, local artisan work, or spectacular viewpoints, this tour will meet those desires. It’s also a good choice if you prefer organized, guided activities over navigating alone, especially with early starts and multiple sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is each day’s tour?
Each day’s activities last approximately four hours, with some early mornings on Day 2. The city tour starts at 9:15 am, the Colca Canyon tour begins at 3:00 am, and the Sillar route departs at 8:30 am or 2:00 pm.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses tourist transport, including a panoramic bus for the city tour and a 19-passenger vehicle for Colca and the Sillar route, ensuring space and comfort.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, providing clear explanations and assisting travelers from different backgrounds.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are optional and not included in the price. You might want to budget around S/.3 to S/.70 depending on the site and your nationality.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour has a set schedule, but guides may offer brief stops or extra information if asked. Additional visits or activities outside the itinerary would require separate arrangements.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Given the early start and some walking at viewpoints, it’s best suited for active travelers and families comfortable with early mornings. The small group setting makes it manageable for all ages.

What should I bring?
Pack layers for variable temperatures, some cash for entrance fees or souvenirs, sunscreen, and a camera. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This three-day tour of Arequipa and Colca Canyon offers a practical, engaging way to see some of southern Peru’s most iconic sights. Combining urban exploration, natural beauty, and artisan craftsmanship, it provides a well-paced itinerary that balances guided comfort with authentic experiences. The inclusion of viewpoints, local villages, and geological sites makes it a well-rounded introduction to this fascinating region.

Perfect if you want a value-packed package with knowledgeable guides, small group intimacy, and the chance to witness stunning scenery—especially the soaring condors and dramatic canyon views. While early mornings and extra fees for certain sites are considerations, these are minor compared to the rich experiences you’ll gain.

Overall, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler short on time, this tour offers a solid, memorable introduction to Arequipa’s natural and cultural treasures.

Enjoy your trip and make sure to bring your camera and sense of adventure!

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