Arequipa Adventure: A Backpacking Guide to Peru's White City

Arequipa's Unique Cafe Culture

Arequipa's cafe scene surprised me. It wasn't just about the coffee (though that was excellent!), but about the whole experience. One place we visited had a truly innovative ordering system: everything was handled via WhatsApp. You'd send your order, and the waiter would respond with GIFs or stickers – a quirky touch that added to the charm.

Beyond the tech, the cafes themselves were gems. Each one we visited felt unique, brimming with character. From cozy nooks perfect for quiet contemplation to vibrant spaces buzzing with conversations, there was a cafe to suit every mood and preference. And let's not forget the delicious pastries and treats; they paired perfectly with the strong, aromatic coffee. It was a delightful way to spend an afternoon, watching the city life unfold while enjoying a perfect cup.

Finding the Perfect Arequipa Hotel

Our first Arequipa hotel? Let's just say it wasn't exactly a dream stay. Tiny, dark, and frankly a bit claustrophobic, it felt more like a cupboard than a hotel room. The price was right, mind you—a steal, even, at 50 soles for three nights. But, alas, a good night's sleep is priceless, isn't it?

So, we decided to treat ourselves. A little splurge, a change of scenery. And honestly, it was the best decision. Our new hotel was a revelation: spacious, bright, with an actual window! The bed was a cloud of softness, a stark contrast to the rock-hard mattress we'd endured previously. It was an instant upgrade, and one that instantly improved our mood and well-being. Sometimes, a bit of luxury is exactly what you need to fully appreciate a destination.

Arequipa's Top Activities and Sightseeing

After our much-needed rest, we dove headfirst into exploring Arequipa. First up was the Monastery of Santa Catalina – a sprawling complex of rooms, plazas, fountains, and cobblestone streets. It’s a stunning former convent, and although most of it is now a tourist attraction, some nuns still reside there. It's a must-see, a captivating blend of history and beauty.

We easily spent a couple of hours wandering its captivating streets, even discovering a charming little café tucked away inside. From there, we took in panoramic views of the city from a nearby viewpoint. It’s always rewarding to take a moment to appreciate your surroundings from a new perspective, and Arequipa, viewed from above, truly took my breath away.

Later, we indulged in a chocolate-making workshop. This was much more than just a simple activity; it was an immersive experience that taught us about the origins of chocolate, the different types, and the careful process of making it. We even got to sample different varieties and, yes, even make our own chocolates—a delightful souvenir to savor long after we’d left Arequipa.

Our final day brought us to the Ruta del Sillar, a remarkable outdoor sculpture park showcasing the volcanic stone of the surrounding region. It was a truly unique experience; the wind whipped through the canyon as we walked among the impressive sculptures, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience. And of course, no trip to Arequipa would be complete without trying the legendary cheese ice cream—a bizarre yet surprisingly enjoyable experience.

Alpaca Shopping in Arequipa

Arequipa's artisan scene is vibrant, and alpaca wool is king. I wasn't initially planning on a major alpaca shopping spree, but the sheer quality and variety available quickly changed my mind. From chunky, hand-knitted sweaters to delicate scarves, the options were endless. And the colors! Think rich, earthy tones, punctuated by pops of brighter hues – a visual feast for any textile enthusiast.

I found myself drawn to a particular shop boasting ethically sourced alpaca products. The prices were, admittedly, higher than some of the more touristy stalls, but the difference in quality was evident. The soft, luxurious feel of the alpaca wool was simply irresistible, and the attention to detail in the craftsmanship was exquisite. I ended up buying a beautiful, baby-alpaca sweater – a splurge, perhaps, but one I don't regret for a second. It's the perfect souvenir, a tangible reminder of this charming city and its talented artisans.

Arequipa's Chocolate Workshop

After a couple of days of much-needed rest, we decided to dive headfirst into one of Arequipa's more unique experiences: a chocolate-making workshop. It wasn't just a simple class; it was an immersive journey into the world of cacao.

We learned about the origins of chocolate, the various types of beans, and the meticulous process of transforming them into the delicious treats we all know and love. The hands-on aspect was particularly engaging – we even got to peel cacao beans and make our own traditional chocolate drink spiced with chili. It was surprisingly delicious, a perfect blend of sweet and spicy.

The highlight, of course, was making our own chocolates. We carefully tempered the chocolate, added our chosen mix-ins (mine was peanut and chili – a surprisingly delicious combination!), and shaped them into individual treats. The process was surprisingly therapeutic, focusing intently on the careful steps and the feel of the smooth, cool chocolate. The end result? A delightful selection of artisan chocolates to savor – the perfect, edible souvenir.

And if that wasn't enough, we even participated in a blind tasting contest, guessing the cacao percentage and identifying whether each chocolate was truly artisanal or not. Let's just say I won – mostly because I accurately identified the single fake chocolate amongst a selection of very fine, pure cacao treats. A delicious victory, if I may say so myself! The entire workshop was fun, informative, and a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Arequipa. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting this charming city.

What is the best accommodation in Arequipa?

The authors initially stayed in a budget-friendly but small and dark hotel. They later upgraded to a more spacious and brighter hotel with a window, which significantly improved their experience. The article suggests that while budget options exist, a slight splurge for a more comfortable hotel room is worthwhile.

What are some unique Arequipa activities?

Arequipa offers diverse activities, including a chocolate-making workshop where participants learn about cacao, make their own chocolates, and participate in a tasting, and exploring the Ruta del Sillar, an outdoor sculpture park featuring volcanic stone. The article also mentions visiting the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a sprawling former convent.