Arequipa, The Hidden Gem of Southern Peru

Peru is a wonderful country that is known for its beautiful scenery, the happiness of its people, and its historical and cultural landmarks. It’s likely that most of you have heard of Lima, the capital, and the business center and economic engine of Peru. Or you may have heard of Cusco, the Imperial City, visited by thousands of tourists year after year who travel far to be amazed by one of the wonders of the world: Machu Picchu. Both cities are splendid destinations that no one should miss out on during a visit to our country. But today, I want to invite you to join me on a special trip a little further south in Peru to see a gem hidden among the volcanoes, beneath the radiant sun, and an eternal blue sky. It has colonial architecture, exquisite gastronomy, and a people who are proud of their traditions. Known by many as “The White City” (you’ll definitely see why it is deserving of that title by the end of this article). I invite you to learn more about the magical city of Arequipa.

Only a city of strong character, proud, and grand could be built at the feet of a volcano, and Arequipa is surrounded by three: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. Each one stands out in the photographs that immortalize the innumerable Arequipan landscapes. Do you remember that I told you that Arequipa is known as “The White City?” The volcanoes are the reason for this. The city is full of structures that were built with a white volcanic rock called ashlar. The majority of these buildings can be found in the historic center that has also been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Among the colonial mansions and historic neighborhoods, a modern city is developing. Arequipa is the second largest city in terms of economic activity in Peru. It is an important industrial and commercial center with concentrations in mining, tourism, textile manufacturing, construction, and gastronomy. The economic progress has blended harmoniously with the city’s essence that still conserves its traditions and cultural expressions. I would dare to say that this city is the perfect mix between history and modernization.

Arequipa doesn’t only surprise with its natural and architectural wonders, but also with its incredible gastronomy. It is tied to a heritage passed from one generation to the next which gave birth to one of the most important cultural manifestations of Arequipa: “The Arequipan Picanteria '' which is considered a National Cultural Heritage. The picanteria is a unique expression of the peruvian culinary culture where flavor and tradition meet. The flavor is represented by the exquisite local ingredients, the tradition, culinary techniques, and the recipes from prehispanic times that are part of a millennial legacy.

Arequipa is full of tradition, culture and history, and fun. It is impossible to summarize the wonders of this city in only one article, but if you have made it this far in our trip, then this is the moment to think about taking the next step. That next step is daring to live a unique, immersive experience in this incredible destination that will welcome you with open arms. Would you like to know how? I invite you to contact me at info@peruvianimmersion.com and I would love to help you live a new adventure in the hidden gem of southern Peru.