Visit Arequipa, Peru
The bustling ‘White City’ of Arequipa rests in the shadow of ice-capped volcanoes, their peaks the tombs of young Inca girls sacrificed to the Gods, and their pale rocks used by the Spanish in the construction of the city below.

Santa Catalina Convent, Arequipa
Lady and child, ArequipaLocal lady, ArequipaCathedral, Plaza De Armas, ArequipaCathedral of Arequipa at duskPlaza De Armas, ArequipaSanta Catalina Convent, ArequipaCountryside around Arequipa, PeruClay Jar Laundry in the Santa Catalina ConventPlaza De Armas, ArequipaPlaza De Armas, ArequipaPlaza De Armas, ArequipaSanta Catalina Convent, ArequipaArequipa in the evening lightThe cloister of CompaPichupichu volcano towering over the city of Arequipa
The bustling ‘White City’ of Arequipa rests in the shadow of ice-capped volcanoes, their peaks the tombs of young Inca girls sacrificed to the Gods, and their pale rocks used by the Spanish in the construction of the city below.
Arequipa is a useful place to begin the acclimatisation process, but is also interesting to explore in its own right. The highlight is the Santa Catalina convent, a miniature city within a city.
This peaceful haven, with russet and blue walled streets lined with bright geraniums, is still, 400 years after it was built, home to an order of nuns.