Arequipa is often called Peru’s ‘White City’, because so many buildings in the historical centre are built from sillar stone (white volcanic stone, with a porous texture that allows it to withstand many of the area’s huge earthquakes). It’s set against a backdrop of three stunning volcanoes (although I only ever saw one of them, because it was cloudy basically the whole time I was there!).
I find Arequipa to be really under-rated. I’ve seen a lot about Peru and South America on Tiktok and Pinterest lately, and Arequipa hardly gets a mention! However, it was one of my favourite places in Peru and it’s one I feel I haven’t fully explored yet, so it’s on my list of places to go back to.
Unlike many other major cities in Peru, Arequipa’s tourist-friendly areas are quite concentrated (I wouldn’t say it’s unsafe to go outside of the city, but it wouldn’t be wise to stay there), making it fairly easy to choose where to stay. Most travellers base themselves in or around the historical centre, although though there are some interesting options in other neighbourhoods nearby.
🇵🇪 Read more: The 12 Best Things to do in Arequipa
Contents
- Where to Stay in Arequipa, Peru
- Where to Stay in Arequipa’s Historic Centre
- Where to Stay in South-East Arequipa
- Where to Stay in Yanahuara, Arequipa
- Things to Consider When Choosing Where to Stay in Arequipa
- Where to Stay in Arequipa FAQs
- Conclusion
Where to Stay in Arequipa’s Historic Centre (Centro Histórico)
Best for: first-time visitors & anyone short on time
The historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is undoubtedly the best place to stay for most visitors to Arequipa. It revolves around the stunning Plaza de Armas with its imposing cathedral and colonial arcades, and of course puts you within walking distance of most major attractions, restaurants, and shops.
The neighbourhood is characterised by its colonial architecture; like I mentioned above, the buildings are all made from white volcanic rock that gives Arequipa its nickname the White City.
The streets are very walkable and the area is impressively well-lit and patrolled at night, making it safe for tourists (but still don’t walk alone at night).
Best Hotels in the Historic Centre of Arequipa
Casa Andina Premium Arequipa – this hotel in Arequipa is a renovated colonial mansion just steps from the main square. It’s a great mix of fascinating architecture (built from Arequipa’s famous sillar) and modern amenities.
Palla Boutique Hotel – this hotel is in a much more modern building which gives it that really sleek and elegant feel. It has a rooftop terrace which gives you some seriously amazing views of the volcanoes around (as long as it’s not cloudy, of course!).
Best Hostels in the Historic Centre of Arequipa
Selina Arequipa – this hostel in Arequipa is in a restored colonial building and has both dorms and private rooms. Of course, it’s a Selina, so it’s really popular with digital nomads and caters to that kind of crowd, so it’s great if you’re looking to make friends with that kind of traveller.
Wild Rover Arequipa – has a super a lively party hostel atmosphere. By the way, if you don’t know, all Wild Rover hostels have this reputation! They are party hostels through and through, and they tend to attract a really young crowd (I love a party, but even I usually avoid Wild Rovers…). This Wild Rover in particular has an accommodation block separate from its bar and social area, so you should still be able to get a good nights sleep.
Where to Stay in South-East Arequipa
Best for: quiet stays & value for money
The area south east of the historical centre of Arequipa is home to a few really nice hotels and hostels. It’s a more peaceful, residential neighbourhood just outside of the tourist bubble that offers good value accommodation while still being within walking distance of the main square and most attractions in Arequipa.
It’s definitely not as picturesque as the historic centre, but the hostels and hotels around here are really great value and you’re really just minutes away from the centre. Given that you shouldn’t really be walking alone at night anyway, it doesn’t make much of a difference to be set back a few streets, in my opinion! This was the area that I stayed in Arequipa, and I really liked it.
Best Hostels in South-East Arequipa
Arequipay Backpackers Downtown – this is where I stayed in Arequipa, and I would recommend it for vibes, meeting new people, and comfortable beds, as well as a decent free breakfast that’s pretty easy to wrap up and take with you on-the-go. Although, there was a mix up with my friends booking and they were a bit rude about it!
⭐️ My friend had taken the night bus to Arequipa from Huacachina and made a reservation for that same night, so that when he arrived at 6am he could flop straight into bed instead of waiting to check in. However, he didn’t respond to their confirmation email (which does ask you in big letters to confirm your booking if you intend to arrive after midnight), so they cancelled his booking and he had to find somewhere else to stay. ⭐️
Econunay – this is a quiet, cosy hostel in Arequipa that has more of a family feel to it, and they take their status as an eco hostel quite seriously! They also offer Spanish classes, which can be a big plus for many guests.
Friendly AQP – another cosy and apparently family run hostel, their focus is on bringing their guests together which is a great atmosphere for solo travellers! The communal areas are really nice and there’s a big kitchen (which, actually, is quite uncommon for hostels in Peru? I don’t know why, but specifically in Peru there was a distinct lack of kitchens in hostels, which is supposed to be the whole point of a hostel!).
Best Hotels in South-East Arequipa
Casa Arequipa – this is like the best of both worlds, because although it is a hotel, and fairly luxury at that, it also has breakfast included and a communal kitchen, much like a hostel, so you don’t have to fork out (no pun intended) for a restaurant every night if you don’t want to.
Casona Plaza Hotel Colonial – this is another great hotel with breakfast included (if you know me, you’ll know I love a free breakfast!); the staff are really friendly and they’ll help you to book a whole range of tours both inside and outside of Arequipa.
🇵🇪 Read more: How to Get from Arequipa to Cusco
Where to Stay in Yanahuara, Arequipa
Best for: Local atmosphere & views
Yanahuara is an upscale residential district just northwest of the historic centre, mostly known for its scenic viewpoint (Mirador de Yanahuara) and traditional restaurants. The area offers a more authentic glimpse of life in Peru, but is still within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the main attractions in the centre of Arequipa.
The neighbourhood has its own colonial church and plaza, plus some of the best views of the surrounding volcanoes. It’s more popular with longer-term visitors than travellers, as well as those looking for a quieter alternative to the historic centre.
Best Hotels in Yanahuara
Hotel Mediterraneo Arequipa – this hotel in Arequipa has a rooftop terrace with volcano views, and is within easy walking distance of both Yanahuara’s viewpoint and the historic centre.
Samadri – this hotel has really cute garden views, and you can go out there which makes for a lovely space to relax, and the helpful staff can arrange tours to local attractions.
Things to Consider When Choosing Where to Stay in Arequipa
First things first – Arequipa is at 2,335 metres above sea level. That’s not so high that you’re likely to get altitude sickness, but it may cause some shortness of breath or tiredness, especially when you first arrive. If you’re sensitive to altitude, consider that you may want to minimise walking around for the first couple of days. Most hotels and hostels will offer coca tea or similar, which helps with altitude sickness.
Again due to the altitude, Arequipa is generally hot during the day but cold at nighttime. Even when it isn’t hot during the day, the sun may be stronger than you’re used to, so watch out for sunburn, too!
The city is relatively compact, and taxis aren’t expensive, so don’t worry too much about being further out of town if the above aren’t really an issue for you.
Most people spend two to four nights in Arequipa, not including overnight excursions like the Colca Canyon hike. There are a few things you can do in the city, and day trips as well. Here’s my list of things to do in Arequipa!
FAQs About Where to Stay in Arequipa
Is Arequipa, Peru safe for tourists?
Yes, Arequipa is generally safe for tourists, especially in the historic centre which is well-lit and patrolled at night. However, as with any city, it’s advisable not to walk alone after dark and to take standard safety precautions with your belongings.
How many days should I spend in Arequipa?
Most travellers spend between two to four nights in Arequipa, not including any overnight excursions like the Colca Canyon hike. This gives enough time to explore the city’s attractions and potentially take some day trips to surrounding areas.
Will I experience altitude sickness in Arequipa?
At 2,335 metres above sea level, Arequipa’s altitude isn’t typically high enough to cause severe altitude sickness. However, you might experience some shortness of breath or tiredness when first arriving. Most accommodations offer coca tea to help with any mild symptoms.
What’s the best area to stay in Arequipa for first-time visitors?
The Historic Centre (Centro Histórico) is the best area for first-time visitors. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that puts you within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants, and shops, plus it’s generally safer and well-maintained for tourists.
What’s the weather like in Arequipa and how should it affect my accommodation choice?
Due to the altitude, Arequipa experiences hot days and cold nights. The sun can be quite strong even on cooler days. When choosing accommodation, consider facilities like heating for night-time and whether the location minimises walking during your initial adjustment to the altitude.
Conclusion
No matter where you decide to stay in Arequipa, just make sure it’s on your itinerary! It’s missed off of so many Peru itineraries I see on Tiktok and Pinterest, and whilst that does make sense because it’s quite far away from many other things to do and see in Peru, I think it’s a real shame. It’s also the perfect base for exploring the very south of Peru that otherwise goes largely missed.
