How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Arequipa, Peru

1. Social Meetups Arequipa

Join local meetup groups for activities like hiking, cooking classes, and art workshops to meet friendly locals.

Variety of Activities: Offers a wide range of interests to cater to diverse traveler preferences.
Local Guides: Connects you with local guides who can provide insider tips on the city.
Social Network: Gives you access to a network of like-minded individuals for ongoing friendships.

Visit the Cultural House for events, exhibitions, and workshops that attract locals and fellow travelers.

Historical Building: Set in a beautiful colonial-era building, offers a unique cultural experience.
Local Art and Culture: Showcases local art, music, and dance performances.
Community Engagement: Encourages active participation in workshops and discussions.

Relax at the main square and strike up conversations with locals enjoying the same scene.

Central Location: Situated in the heart of Arequipa, it's easy to access various attractions.
Cafes and Restaurants: Abundance of cafes and restaurants for casual encounters with locals.
Festivals and Events: Hosts various events, such as the National Independence Day celebrations.

Participate in volunteer work at local schools, orphanages, and community projects.

Community Integration: Provides opportunities to connect with locals on a deeper level.
Making a Difference: Contribute positively to the local community while building friendships.
Flexible Time Commitment: Offers projects with varying time commitments, from short-term to long-term.

Stay at a social hostel where travelers gather for group activities and meals.

Group Activities: Organizes day trips, cooking classes, and city tours.
Communal Spaces: Shared kitchens, lounges, and terraces for easy socialization.
Traveler Community: Meet fellow travelers who are also interested in making local connections.

Visit bustling markets like the San Camilo Market to interact with vendors and locals.

Authentic Experiences: Provides an authentic glimpse into daily life in Arequipa.
Local Food Tastings: Taste traditional Peruvian dishes and ask vendors about their recipes.
Crafts and Souvenirs: Purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs directly from local artisans.

Learn to cook traditional Peruvian dishes and share the experience with fellow students.

Cultural Immersion: Gain insight into local culinary traditions and techniques.
Interaction with Locals: Work alongside local chefs and learn from their stories.
Shared Meal: Enjoy the fruits of your labor during a communal meal with fellow students.

Join a local sports club to play soccer or basketball and socialize with locals.

Active Lifestyle: Promotes physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
Mixed Groups: Offers opportunities to socialize with locals of all ages and backgrounds.
Competitive Play: Compete in friendly matches against other local teams.

Practice yoga and mindfulness with like-minded locals at a studio.

Relaxation and Wellness: Promotes mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.
Local Instructors: Learn from experienced local instructors who can share their wisdom.
Community Classes: Participate in community classes that bring together locals and travelers.

Meet locals eager to practice English while you practice Spanish.

Language Learning: Improve your Spanish skills through meaningful conversations.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Peruvian culture and customs from native speakers.
Networking Opportunities: Build a network of local contacts for future visits or collaborations.

Visit the breathtaking Colca Canyon and interact with locals in the nearby villages.

Natural Wonders: Witness stunning landscapes, including the deepest canyon in the world.
Cultural Heritage: Discover traditional Andean cultures and way of life.
Adventure Activities: Participate in activities like trekking, horseback riding, and birdwatching.

Explore the secluded convent of Santa Catalina and connect with nuns or local guides.

Historical Significance: Step back in time to a 16th-century convent.
Cultural Insight: Gain insight into the daily life of the nuns and the convent's history.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene atmosphere that encourages reflection and conversation.

Attend local festivals like the Fiesta de la Cruz to experience Peruvian traditions and meet locals.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Peruvian culture and traditions.
Community Celebration: Join locals in their celebrations and share in their joy.
Unique Traditions: Experience unique customs and rituals that are only found in Arequipa.

Visit local bars and clubs to socialize with locals over drinks and music.

Nightlife Scene: Experience the vibrant nightlife Arequipa has to offer.
Local Music and Dance: Enjoy traditional Peruvian music and dance performances.
Social Opportunities: Meet locals who are open to making connections with travelers.

Connect with local hosts through Couchsurfing for an authentic cultural exchange.

Homestay Experience: Stay with a local host to experience daily life in Arequipa.
Insider Tips: Receive insider tips and recommendations from your local host.
Cultural Exchange: Share your own culture and experiences with your local host.