Arequipa, Peru

August 15 - September 11  [2021]

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Prior to this current leg of travel, I was completely unaware of Arequipa, Peru. Why, I'm not sure. After all, it's the country's third largest city with an ideal climate and architectural jewels that rival most of what you can find in South America. The city was first brought to my attention by locals in Lima who suggested I place it on my itinerary. Further research galvanized their suggestion given its location south of Cusco and in line with my planned trajectory toward Santiago, Chile. Turns out, this was the best impromptu decision of my trip.

 

Arequipa sits at the base of three volcanoes, 7700 feet above sea level in a semi-arid environment at the southern quadrant of Peru. The day time temperature varies 10 degrees year round (62-72 F) with only two months of rain in January and February. The air is high elevation clean, the sun brilliant, breezes light and humidity non existent. If that isn't enough to capture your attention, the original city was built with a local white volcanic stone (Ashlar) during the mid 1500's in a style that's uniquely Baroque (emphasis on ornamentation). To add further charm and aesthetic bliss, many of the residential buildings surrounding the city's core have been painted in a variety of colors ranging from primary solids to shades of pastels with multiple layers in various degree of peeling and erosion. 

 

Unlike all other cities along this trip, I stayed in three separate, equally memorable locations. The first on the south eastern side of the city in a new development about a 20 minute walk from the central plaza. The second, right in the city's center and third, a historic district across the river known as Yanahuara. This was not my original intent but Chile is no longer allowing non residents from entering so I had to make alternative plans which required an extended stay in Arequipa. Clearly, a happy accident.

 

Finally, without question, the most unique feature of this city are the three volcanoes (Misti, Pichu Pichu and Chichani) surrounding its northern border. They are omni present and visually available throughout the day with enhanced perspectives during sunrise and sunset. This unique geologic feature was my initial attraction to Arequipa and its probably what keeps most from leaving.

 

Arequipa, Peru - one of the best kept secrets of South America.