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Santa Catalina Convent, Arequipa
Lady and child, Arequipa
Local lady, Arequipa
Clay Jar Laundry in the Santa Catalina Convent
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.
Cathedral, Plaza De Armas, Arequipa
Arequipa in the evening light
Cathedral of Arequipa at dusk
The cloister of Compa
Pichupichu volcano towering over the city of Arequipa
14 Days from £2,450pp
16 Days from £5,410pp
When in the Sacred Valley, ask your guide to stop at a chicheria to sample the locally made corn-beer. The strawberry-infused version is lovely.
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