Walking Tour And Santa Catalina Monastery

After picking you up from your hotel located in the historic center of Arequipa (optional), the walking tour begins in the charming neighborhood of San Lazaro, just five blocks from the Plaza de Armas of Arequipa. This colonial district is known for its narrow streets and houses crafted from sillar, a volcanic stone used in construction.

San Lazaro is one of the oldest districts in the city, and you'll appreciate its beauty as you stroll through its picturesque streets, quaint squares, and white walls. This area was once inhabited by pre-Inca and Inca cultures, and during the Spanish conquest and the city's foundation, the earliest houses were established here.

This district is part of the Historic Center of Arequipa, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour then proceeds to Barrio del Solar, located near the River Chili, where you'll wander through enchanting streets lined with traditional and colonial architecture. You'll explore various areas known as Tambos, which were lodging centers for merchants during the colonial era.

The first Tambo to visit is Tambo El Matadero, a seventeenth-century structure originally used for animal sacrifice. Today, about 30 families reside here.

The walking tour in Arequipa continues to Tambo La Cabezona, a colonial ensemble of houses with a communal entrance dating back to the sixteenth century, where one of the city's first mills operated.

Enjoy a panoramic view of the Plaza de Armas, the main gathering spot for locals, where the Cathedral of Arequipa is situated. This beautiful square is surrounded by elegant portals, with a bronze fountain at its center.

After a brief walk, we will reach the Santa Catalina Monastery. Founded in 1579, this site covers 20,000 square meters with cloisters, patios, squares, streets, a bell tower, and a church.

During the viceroyalty, Doña Maria de Guzman, a wealthy woman, chose to donate all her possessions and live as a cloister nun. Many of the women came from affluent families, and today, cloistered nuns still reside in the Santa Catalina Convent.

This stunning location, steeped in history, provides ample opportunities for taking beautiful photos. Stroll along the ashlar-paved streets and through sections with naturally colored red walls. You'll visit several areas, including the Patio del Silencio, where nuns gathered for silent prayer and Bible reading.

Be captivated by this gem of the city of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Afterwards, we will return you to your hotel (optional).