Arequipa is
located in the point where the central Andean area and the Andean south
center are divided. The valleys to the south of the Sihuas Rivers are
incorporated into this area. This division was more notorious in the Wari
Age, which embraces the valleys in the north up to Sihuas.
The most brilliant era is identified with the Churajon culture, which
conducted big agricultural and irrigation projects. The Chuquibamba culture
was developed at the same time as the Churajons. The settlements of this
culture are generally identified with the Collaguas and are especially
important in the Colca Valley.
The Incas descended to the Yunga region through Arequipa looking for new
conquests. Lead by Manuel de Carbajal, the Spaniard conquistadors founded
the city of Arequipa in the foothills of the Misti Volcano. In the
Republican Age, important battles were waged in this department like the
ones performed by Ramon Castilla, Mariano Prado, Nicolas de Pierola, and
Sánchez Cerro among others.
Arequipa has become the economic center for the south of Peru. It is one of
the most important milk producers in the country.
Tourism
The capital of the department is called Arequipa or "the White City",
due to the many structures built using the white sillar stone. Arequipa is a
popular tourist destination due to its diverse architecture such as:
temples, convents, monasteries and the very famous Santa Catalina Convent,
which dates back to 1580.
The countryside provides beautiful landscapes and the surrounding towns
off Cayma, Carmen Alto, Yanahuara and Characato are charming. The impressive
and gorgeous volcanic cone of the Misti Mountain forms the backdrop of the
area.
The coastal area has the Mejia, Mollendo and Camana beach resorts and the
Yura, Socosani and Jesus thermal baths.
The Colca Canyon, located in the Province of Cailloma, runs more than 100 km
of length and is 3400 meters at its deepest point. It is considered the
deepest canyon of the world. The Colca area is very popular for rafting,
kayaking, trekking.
The Aguada Blanca Reserve is one of the principal reserves dedicated to the
reproduction of vicuñas. Their fine fur is used for high quality textiles.
Tours in Arequipa:
THE BEST OF AREQUIPA 3
DAYS / 2 NIGTHS
COLCA CANYON 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT
MAJES RIVER 2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT