Weird & Unusual Attractions in Arequipa, Peru
1. Museum of Andean Sanctuaries
Explore ancient mummy bundles and intricate pottery in this unique museum.
- Ancient Artifacts: Houses some of the oldest artifacts found in the region
- Mummy Bundles: Displays mummified remains, offering a glimpse into ancient life
- Cultural Insight: Provides valuable insights into Andean culture and beliefs
2. Monasterio de Santa Catalina
Step inside a self-sustaining city within a city at this historic monastery.
- Living Museum: One of the few monasteries still inhabited by nuns
- Architectural Marvel: Beautiful baroque architecture and vibrant courtyards
- Time Capsule: Preserves the daily life of 17th-century nuns
3. Ice Maiden Juanita
Meet the 'Ice Maiden', a mummy found atop a snowy mountain in the 1990s.
- Climate Protection: Preserved by advanced climate control technology
- Ancient Inca: Offers insights into the lives of ancient Incan people
- Mountain Discovery: Discovered atop Mount Ampato, a sacred mountain for the Incas
4. Mystical Volcanoes of Sabancaya and Misti
Hike active volcanoes with steam fumaroles and scenic views.
- Active Volcanoes: Offers a rare opportunity to explore active volcanoes
- Scenic Views: Stunning panoramas of the surrounding countryside
- Natural Phenomena: Witness steam fumaroles and bubbling mud pits
5. Casa del Árbol
Swing over a canyon at this popular viewing point.
- Adventure Seeker's Delight: Thrilling swing offers breathtaking views
- Natural Beauty: Provides panoramic vistas of the Colca Canyon
- Instagrammable Moment: One of the most photographed spots in Arequipa
6. La Raza de los Condores
Witness one of the world's deepest canyons from a condor watching point.
- Natural Wonder: Offers a chance to see Andean condors up close
- Colca Canyon: Provides stunning views of the Colca Canyon
- Birdwatching Paradise: Home to various bird species, including condors
7. Church of San Ignacio
Visit a church adorned with intricate baroque carvings.
- Baroque Artistry: Features stunning baroque wood carvings
- Historical Significance: Dates back to the 16th century
- Spiritual Journey: A place of worship and spiritual reflection
8. Juan Chumpi's Mummy Museum
Explore the mysterious life and death of Juan Chumpi, a local shaman.
- Shamanistic Culture: Offers insights into the role of shamans in Andean culture
- Mystery Unveiled: Unravels the story behind Juan Chumpi's life and death
- Ancient Artifacts: Displays various artifacts related to Juan Chumpi
9. Yanahuara Mirador
Admire the picturesque view of Arequipa from this scenic lookout.
- Panoramic Views: Provides a panorama of the city and its surrounding volcanoes
- Romantic Sunset: Ideal for watching the sunset over the city
- Famous Landmark: Recognized as one of Arequipa's most iconic spots
10. Museo Santuarios Andinos
Learn about the Inca mummies discovered at high altitudes.
- Incan History: Offers insights into Inca culture and burial practices
- Mystery Unveiled: Unravels the stories behind each mummy discovered
- Ancient Artifacts: Displays various artifacts related to the mummies
11. Catedral de Arequipa
Visit this grand cathedral with intricate carved wooden balconies.
- Baroque Architecture: Features beautiful baroque design
- Historical Significance: Dates back to the 17th century
- Spiritual Journey: A place of worship and spiritual reflection
12. Ice Museum
Explore the world's largest ice sculpture museum.
- Artistic Marvel: Showcases stunning ice sculptures
- Educational Experience: Provides information about glaciers and climate change
- Cool Atmosphere: Maintains a cool temperature for optimal ice preservation
13. Monasterio de la Recoleta
Step inside this beautifully preserved monastery and church.
- Baroque Architecture: Features stunning baroque design
- Historical Significance: Dates back to the 17th century
- Spiritual Journey: A place of worship and spiritual reflection
14. Cave Museum (Museo de la Caverna)
Discover the history of Arequipa's cave dwellings.
- Historical Insight: Offers insights into Arequipa's cave-dwelling past
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique look at local life in the caves
- Subterranean Marvels: Features stunning cave formations and artifacts
15. Plaza de Armas
Relax in the city's main square surrounded by historic buildings.
- Historic Landmark: Serves as the city's central hub
- Local Culture: Offers a glimpse into local life and culture
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful colonial architecture