AREQUIPA is located in the foothills of the Western Andes. It is surrounded by spectacular volcanoes; the most famous of these, Misti volcano (5821m), symbol of the city, which can be seen clearly from the Plaza de Armas, and is flanked by two other volcanoes: Chacani volcano (6075 m) and Pichu Pichu volcano (5400 m). Arequipa is known as the white city because of the white colour of the sillar (a volcanic stone used in the colonial constructions).

The city is the capital of the present day Department of Arequipa, founded by the Spaniard Garcia Manuel de Carbajal on 15 August, 1540. The originality and variety of the landscapes - with impressive volcanoes, terraces, valleys and canyons pre-Hispanic traditions and art, the mild climate, the gastronomy and the impressive ecclesiastic as well as civil colonial heritage make the city and its surrounding regions one of the most attractive touristical centre in Peru.

The urban layout of the city follows the traditional square pattern which the Spaniards introduced in America, organized around the Plaza de Armas, from where the main roads begin. The colonial buildings in the city were initially made of adobe and straw, but nearly affected this region in the seventeenth century.

The reconstruction ancient buildings, as well as the construction of new ones, was performed with white volcanic rocks referred to as sillar (ashlar), which is very common in the area due to the eruptions of the enormous volcanoes surrounding Arequipa. The malleability of the volcanic material provided the builders in the region with a dense, abundant decoration for the façades of the buildings.

The city preserves several monuments from its colonial past: convents, churches, monasteries and large private homes. Although they are a clear reflection of the Spanish presence, its architectural style is not at all reminiscent of that which predominates in the peninsula Rather, the convergence of cultural experiences and trends from the development of an original mestizo or mestizo Baroque art.

Its originality can be found not so much in the search for their own stylistic forms as in the full adaptation of different influences with the possibilities, requirements and resources presented by the environment in the Arequipa region.

The economic activity of Arequipa is industrialist, agriculture, and tourism is the work source and economic entrance of the families.

Arequipa has a clear and sunny climate all year round and feels warmer than the official temperature suggests (23ºC - 71ºF). Rain is highly unusual even in the 'rainy' months of January and February, but in winter (June - August) it gets cold, especially at night.

Colca Canyon stands at a higher altitude than Arequipa and is colder with temperatures at night often reaching below zero in winter. So you might need a warm jumper... or a Llama fleece!

HEALTH & SAFETY IN AREQUIPA

Unfortunately, some parts of South America have gained a bad reputation in the media where safety is concerned. While it is true that there are some parts of cities in Peru that are as dangerous as the worst parts of New York, London or Amsterdam, crime is limited for the most part to minor robbery and pick pocketing and there is little threat of any violence. By taking sensible precautions, adverse situations can be avoided.

During the introductory "getting to know each other" day, Llama Education will provide a full briefing on how to avoid any safety issues. However, should an incident occur, there is always a 24-hour support service available from the Kuijt family. This support is also available for any health issues that may arise during your stay in Peru.