Arequipa, often referred to as the “White City” for its stunning colonial-era architecture made from sillar (white volcanic stone), is a captivating destination with a rich history and vibrant culture. If you’re visiting this Peruvian gem, the Free Walking Tour of Arequipa is an essential way to experience the heart of the city. Join a knowledgeable local guide who will share fascinating insights into Arequipa’s past and unique identity while you explore its historic streets, monuments, and neighborhoods.
During this immersive walking tour, you’ll stroll through the Plaza de Armas, the bustling central square, where you’ll hear about its significance and see the stunning Arequipa Cathedral, an architectural marvel. From there, you’ll visit the San Francisco Church and the charming San Lázaro district, Arequipa’s oldest area, rich with history and character. These landmarks offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s past, where the old and new intertwine.
The tour will also take you to the Company of Jesus Cloisters, an iconic religious site, and introduce you to several other significant monuments that highlight the city’s colonial and indigenous heritage. Along the way, you’ll learn about Arequipa’s traditions, folklore, and the essential role of its stunning landscapes, from the surrounding volcanoes to the Andean foothills.
For an added cultural touch, you’ll even have the chance to enjoy a drink of Peruvian pisco, the country’s renowned spirit, while discovering the best spots for local cuisine, offering an authentic taste of Arequipa’s culinary delights.
What You Will See During the Free Walking Tour Arequipa
Join our free tour Arequipa to discover the top things to do in Arequipa, from gleaming sillar façades to cozy bars where you can taste local pisco, perfect if you want a compact, local-led introduction to the city.
San Francisco Church
A compact, atmospheric church whose carved stonework and intimate plaza capture Arequipa’s colonial charm. It’s a peaceful stop to appreciate religious art and the everyday life that unfolds around these historic corners.
Order of Friars Minor Temple
This Franciscan temple showcases simple, elegant colonial architecture and quiet cloistered spaces that reflect the contemplative side of the city’s religious heritage. Guides often point out stone details and the role the friars played in Arequipa’s social history.
Guillermo Zegarra Meneses History Museum
A focused local museum that traces Arequipa’s past through maps, portraits and everyday objects—ideal for getting cultural context before you explore the streets. It’s a good place to hear anecdotes about regional identity and historic events.
Fundo el Fierro Mansion
This historic mansion evokes the grand domestic architecture of wealthy local families, with ornamental balconies and an old-world courtyard. It makes a lovely photo stop and a window into Arequipa’s aristocratic past.
San Lázaro Neighborhood
A living quarter full of narrow lanes, artisan workshops and neighbourhood markets where you can feel the rhythm of local life. Walking here gives you a sense of how Arequipans live, work and gather away from tourist routes.
Mundo Alpaca
A showcase for Peru’s famous alpaca textiles and handicrafts—expect richly textured garments and explanations of traditional weaving techniques. It’s a great place to learn about alpaca wool and pick up ethically made souvenirs.
Plaza de Armas
Arequipa’s bustling central square is ringed by arcades, cafés and the city’s most photogenic buildings; it’s the social heart where locals meet and festivals take place. Pause here to watch street life unfold against a backdrop of volcanic peaks.
Cathedral of Arequipa
Dominating the Plaza de Armas, the cathedral’s lofty towers and white sillar façade are a city emblem—inside you’ll find chapels, paintings and an atmosphere shaped by centuries of devotion. It’s one of the most iconic stops on any free tour of Arequipa.
Jesuit Cloisters
These tranquil cloisters reveal quiet gardens, vaulted walkways and a sense of monastic calm tucked behind busy streets. They’re perfect for a moment of reflection and to admire colonial craftsmanship away from the crowds.
Traditional Bar with Pisco Tasting (optional)
Round off the walk with an optional visit to a cosy, traditional bar where you can sample pisco or a Pisco Sour and learn about local drinking customs. It’s an excellent way to taste Arequipa’s flavours and toast a memorable day of exploring.
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Tips to Enjoy the Free Tour of Arequipa
Getting the most from your Free Tour Arequipa is easy—pack smart, pace yourself, and lean into the city’s calm, colonial vibe.
🕘 Arrive 10 minutes early – Meeting points are in the historic center; being early helps you spot the guide and enjoy a quiet look at nearby sillar façades.
👟 Wear grippy, comfy shoes – Polished sillar and cobblestones (San Lázaro lanes, cloisters) can be slick; supportive soles beat sandals.
🧴 Sunproof at altitude – Arequipa sits over 2,300 m; bring SPF 50, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat—the white sillar amplifies glare in Plaza de Armas.
💧 Hydrate & pace yourself – Altitude can sneak up on you; sip water regularly and go easy if you opt for a post-tour pisco tasting.
🕊️ Dress respectfully for churches – Shoulders covered, hats off, voices low—especially inside the Cathedral, San Francisco Church, and Jesuit Cloisters.
💸 Carry small soles (PEN) – Free tour means tip-based; bring change for gratuities and any optional stops (museum entries or a café break).
📷 Ask before you photograph – Vendors, artisans, and cloistered spaces may prefer no photos; a quick “¿Puedo tomar una foto?” goes a long way.
🌅 Time your visit wisely – Cool, clear mornings show crisp volcano views; late afternoon gives golden light for San Lázaro and courtyard shots.
👥 Book a private tour for groups 7+ – Most free tours cap at six to stay interactive; larger parties should arrange a private Arequipa tour for a custom route, start time, and pace.
With these essentials, your free tour will feel smooth, respectful, and richly local—perfect groundwork for deeper Arequipa exploring.
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FAQs 🔎
What will I see during the Free Tour of Arequipa?
The Free Tour of Arequipa offers an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s historic landmarks, unique architecture, and vibrant culture. Key highlights of the tour include the stunning Fundo de Fierro Mansion, the captivating San Francisco Church, and the bustling Plaza de Armas Square. As you explore the enchanting San Lázaro Neighborhood, you’ll also get a chance to sample Peruvian Pisco, the country’s iconic spirit, and visit Mundo Alpaca to learn about the region’s famed alpaca wool. The Free Tour of Arequipa promises a memorable journey through the rich history, traditions, and picturesque landscapes of the city.
How much should I tip my guide?
For free tours the general principle of tipping is based on your satisfaction with the tour and your budget. A common practice could be in the range of 10 to 50 Peruvian Soles per person, depending on your satisfaction with the tour, the guide’s performance, and your budget. Of course, if you feel that the guide went above and beyond, you could tip more as a token of appreciation.
Keep in mind that these amounts are just suggestions, and you should adjust your tip according to your level of satisfaction with the tour. It’s always a good idea to carry some small bills to make tipping easier.
How do I find the guide?
Go to Plaza de San Francisco a few minutes before the scheduled start time. Keep an eye out for a group gathering, as there could be fellow tour participants. By arriving early and being attentive to signs and group dynamics, you’ll easily find your guide and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Arequipa.
What is the meeting point for the Free Tour of Arequipa?
The meeting point is in Plaza de San Francisco.
How long does the Free Tour of Arequipa last?
The Free Tour of Arequipa lasts around 2 and a half hours.
