Things to Do When Acclimatising to the Altitude in Arequipa, Peru

Arequipa, Peru’s “White City,” is stunning, but it sits at 2,335 meters (7,660 feet) above sea level so if you’re coming from lower altitudes, your body might need a little time to adjust. Altitude sickness can hit anyone, and while it’s usually mild, taking it easy for your first day or two is key.

The good news? Acclimatising in Arequipa doesn’t mean you have to be bored. There are plenty of relaxing, low-key ways to explore the city while giving your body time to adjust. Here’s a list of fun and safe activities to do when acclimatising to the altitude!

Archways with volcano framed in the distance at sunrise at Yanahuara lookout in Arequipa, Peru

1. Take a Gentle Stroll Around Plaza de Armas

Start slow with a walk around Arequipa’s iconic Plaza de Armas. The square is beautiful, surrounded by colonial buildings and cafés, and perfect for people-watching.

Tip: Move at a relaxed pace, sit down for coffee, and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.

Old style square with Peru flags in Plaza de Armas in Arequipa, Peru

View of church through archway in Plaza de Armas in Arequipa, Peru

2. Visit Santa Catalina Monastery at Your Own Pace

Exploring the colorful corridors of Santa Catalina Monastery is fascinating but low-impact. The monastery is like a tiny city within the city — full of vibrant streets, plazas, and cloisters. Take your time, breathe, and snap photos without rushing.

Tip: Avoid climbing too many stairs your first day.

3. Visit Cafes and Drink Coca Tea

Staying hydrated is essential at altitude. Try traditional drinks like:

Mate de coca (coca tea) – believed to help with altitude adjustment.
Fresh fruit juices – San Camilo Market has incredible options.

Avoid alcohol on your first day — your body will thank you.

Table with plate of waffles and impressive helping of strawberries and blueberries with mango juice in a mason jar in Arequipa, Peru

4. Explore Museums and Cultural Stops

Museums are perfect for low-intensity sightseeing. Consider:

Museo Santuarios Andinos – home to Juanita, the Ice Maiden mummy.
Museo de Arte Virreinal – beautiful colonial art in a relaxed setting.

5. Take a Rooftop Break with Views of El Misti

Arequipa’s skyline is dominated by El Misti Volcano. Find a rooftop café or viewpoint, sip a coffee or herbal tea, and enjoy the scenery. It’s low effort, high reward.

Pizza and juice on a rooftop restaurant with views of snow capped mountains in the background in Arequipa, Peru

6. Visit Yanahuara

If you feel up to it, consider a short, gentle walk up to the Yanahuara neighborhood for a view of the city and El Misti Volcano.

Save the more adventurous excursions, like Colca Canyon, for after a day or two of acclimatisation.

Famous archways with volcano in background at Yanahuara lookout in Arequipa, Peru

Girl taking selfie at Yanahuara lookout in Arequipa, Peru

7. Day Trip to Ruta del Sillar

On your second day, consider taking a day trip to Ruta Del Sillar! This is a fun and easy half day tour to see the Sillar quarry, take some fun pictures with stone carvings and explore a canyon nearby. It was an interesting day out and not too strenuous on the body.

Stone cliffs with volcano in background at Ruta del Sillar in Arequipa, Peru

Girl walking through canyon in Arequipa, Peru

8. Try queso helado

Try the famous local ice cream: Queso Helado! Not made with cheese as the name suggests, but a creamy texture with coconut and topped with cinnamon – delicious!

Hand holding Queso Helado with stone carvings in background at Ruta del Sillar in Arequipa, Peru

9. Wander around the Historic Centre

Enjoy a wander around the historic centre of Arequipa – there are so many beautiful buildings, cafes and restaurants and hidden markets to find. There are also free walking tours available which are always a great way to get to know a new place.

Cute colorful buildings in the historic district in Arequipa, Peru

Cute street with bunting and old white wash building in Arequipa, Peru

10. Visit Mundo Alpaca

There is an Alpaca centre in the Historic Centre that is well worth a visit! A great place to say hi to some alpacas and llamas and stroll through the museum to learn all about alpaca wool production – best of all, it’s free entry!

Lady dressed in a traditional Peru outfit, weaving alpaca wool at Mundo Alpaca in Arequipa, Peru

White llama looking directly at camera through wooden fence in Mundo Alpaca in Arequipa, Peru

Where to Stay in Arequipa

Accommodation Recommendations:
Luxury: Katari Hotel at Plaza de Armas
Mid-Range: Plaza Central
Budget: Viajero Arequipa Hostel

Final Tip: Listen to Your Body and Rest Often

Altitude affects everyone differently. Common mild symptoms include headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath. Rest, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion. Even lounging in a café or people-watching can be a valuable way to acclimatise.

Acclimatising to the altitude in Arequipa doesn’t mean missing out on the city’s charm. With gentle sightseeing, cultural stops, rooftop views, and hydrating drinks, you can enjoy your first day or two while letting your body adjust. By taking it slow, you’ll be ready to tackle Colca Canyon, El Misti hikes, and continuing on to higher altitudes like Cusco feeling refreshed, safe, and fully immersed in the magic of Arequipa.

Check out my full 3-Week Peru Itinerary here!

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Jess at Sea