Arequipa
ISO3: PER
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I have not visited ❌
Time Zone: America/Lima
"Arequipa, la Ciudad Blanca | Arequipa, the White City"
16.3988° S, 71.5350° W
About:
Arequipa, Peru, was founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistador Garci Manuel de Carbajal. Known as the "White City" due to its buildings made from sillar, a white volcanic rock, Arequipa has a rich colonial history visible in its architecture, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 2000. It has survived numerous devastating earthquakes, the latest in 2001. Today, Arequipa is Peru's second most populous city and a major Peruvian economic and cultural hub.
When to visit:
It is recommended to visit Arequipa, Peru during the dry season which typically occurs from April to October. This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surrounding attractions. Additionally, visiting during the dry season allows for a better experience of outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby Colca Canyon or exploring the historic city center. However, it is important to note that temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, so it is advisable to pack layers to stay comfortable throughout your visit.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Arequipa on a holiday is during the rainy season, which typically occurs from December to March. This period is characterized by frequent downpours and potential flooding, making outdoor activities and sightseeing challenging. Additionally, the increased rainfall may lead to road closures and transportation disruptions, impacting travel plans. It is advisable to avoid visiting Arequipa during this time to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.
"Wet Season (Jan–Mar)"
In Arequipa, Peru, the warmest part of the year typically spans from December to March, coinciding with the Southern Hemisphere's summer.
During these months, the average daily high temperature is around 22-24 degrees Celsius (72-75 degrees Fahrenheit), while the night time temperatures drop to around 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit).
This period also sees the highest rainfall, with January being the wettest month. Rainfall averages around 50-70 mm per month, but the city's location in the desert means it still experiences relatively low humidity.
Sunlight is abundant during this period, with an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. The mornings usually start off clear, but as the day progresses, cloudiness increases, often leading to afternoon showers.
For a visitor, a typical day in Arequipa during this season would start with a mild and sunny morning, perfect for outdoor activities. As the day progresses, the temperature rises, making it feel pleasantly warm but not too hot, thanks to the city's high altitude. Afternoon might bring some clouds and occasional showers, so carrying an umbrella or raincoat is advisable. Despite the rain, the humidity remains relatively low, so it doesn't feel too sticky or uncomfortable. The evenings are cooler, making it perfect for a relaxed dinner or a casual stroll around the city.
"Summer (December–March)"
In Arequipa, Peru, the warmest part of the year typically spans from December to March, coinciding with the Southern Hemisphere's summer.
During these months, the average daily high temperature is around 22-24 degrees Celsius (72-75 degrees Fahrenheit), while the night time temperatures drop to around 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit).
This period also sees the highest rainfall, with January being the wettest month. Rainfall averages around 50-70 mm per month, but the city's location in the desert means it still experiences relatively low humidity.
Sunlight is abundant during this period, with an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. The mornings usually start off clear, but as the day progresses, cloudiness increases, often leading to afternoon showers.
For a visitor, a typical day in Arequipa during this season would start with a mild and sunny morning, perfect for outdoor activities. As the day progresses, the temperature rises, making it feel pleasantly warm but not too hot, thanks to the city's high altitude. Afternoon might bring some clouds and occasional showers, so carrying an umbrella or raincoat is advisable. Despite the rain, the humidity remains relatively low, so it doesn't feel too sticky or uncomfortable. The evenings are cooler, making it perfect for a relaxed dinner or a casual stroll around the city.
Language:
spanish
Arequipa, Peru primarily features Spanish as its most commonly spoken language, being the official language of Peru. Spanish in Arequipa is characterized by the voseo verbal form, which is common in several regions across Latin America. Additionally, Quechua and Aymara, indigenous languages of Peru, are also spoken by a minority of the population. English is spoken in tourist areas and by those in the tourism industry.