Best Day Trips from Arequipa in 2025
Nicknamed The White City, Arequipa is much more than its elegant colonial streets and volcanic skyline. Surrounded by otherworldly landscapes and ancient Andean culture, it’s the perfect base for unforgettable day trips into southern Peru’s highlands. Whether you’re chasing condors over the Colca Canyon or exploring surreal salt lagoons, these are the best day trips from Arequipa that capture the region’s adventurous spirit.
1. Colca Canyon – The Classic Adventure
No trip to Arequipa is complete without visiting the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and a natural wonder of Peru. On a Colca Canyon day trip, you’ll traverse high-altitude plains inhabited by grazing vicuñas and reach the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where giant Andean condors soar gracefully above the cliffs.
Along the way, small Andean villages like Chivay and Yanque reveal terraces that have been cultivated for centuries. The trip often includes relaxing in local hot springs, sampling quinoa soup or alpaca steak, and enjoying incredible Andean panoramas—all within a single, unforgettable day.
Tip: For travelers with more time, the two-day version allows for a slower pace and an overnight stay in the canyon area.
2. Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve – Landscapes of Salt and Volcanoes
If you crave wild solitude, the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve is your escape. Just a short drive from the city, this protected area is a haven for flamingos, vicuñas, and foxes set against the dramatic backdrop of volcanoes like Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.
A day trip to the Salinas Lagoon offers the chance to explore salt flats shimmering beneath the Andean sky—sometimes resembling a smaller, quieter version of Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flat. Depending on the season, the lagoon may be flooded with reflections or dry and crusted with salt crystals. It’s an ideal choice for photographers and travelers looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
3. Sillar Route – The White Quarries of Arequipa
Closer to town, the Ruta del Sillar (Sillar Route) takes you to the origin of Arequipa’s nickname. The white volcanic stone used to build the city’s churches and mansions is still quarried today in the Añashuayco quarries, just 30 minutes away.
Here, you can watch local stonemasons carving intricate designs by hand and wander through massive canyon-like walls of white tuff. It’s a fascinating mix of geology, architecture, and local craftsmanship—perfect for a half-day outing.
4. Yura Hot Springs – Relaxation in Nature
After days of exploring, head to the Yura hot springs, located about an hour from Arequipa. Nestled among volcanic hills, these natural pools offer a peaceful soak in mineral-rich waters said to relieve fatigue and stress. Combine the visit with a short hike through the Yura Valley to enjoy waterfalls, thermal streams, and quiet countryside views.
5. Capua Waterfall – A Hidden Gem Near Arequipa
For travelers seeking a short adventure combining hiking and nature, the Capua Waterfall is a rewarding day trip. Located near the town of Yura, this scenic trail follows a narrow canyon to a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The hike is moderate and usually takes about two hours round trip—perfect for those wanting a balance of activity and relaxation.
Planning Your Day Trips
Most tours from Arequipa can be arranged as private or small-group excursions, departing early in the morning and returning by evening. The best time to travel is during the dry season (April to November), when skies are clear and landscapes glow under the Andean sun.
If you prefer flexibility and local insight, Inca Frontiers offers customized private tours that let you combine multiple sites or extend your adventure beyond a single day—to Colca Canyon, the Valley of the Volcanoes, or even onward to Cusco or Puno.
In Summary
From volcanic salt flats to soaring condors and serene hot springs, Arequipa’s surroundings offer some of the most diverse landscapes in Peru—all within reach of a day’s journey. Whether you’re an adventurer, photographer, or culture lover, these best day trips from Arequipa promise to reveal the wild heart of southern Peru—one unforgettable landscape at a time.
