AREQUIPA – THE WHITE CITY

Arequipa, known as the White City, is one of the most fascinating destinations in southern Peru. Its unique charm comes from its architecture built in sillar –a white volcanic stone–, its impressive Andean landscapes, and its exceptional cultural and gastronomic richness. Declared UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, the city combines history, tradition, and modernity in perfect harmony.

The heart of Arequipa is its majestic Historic Center, where the Plaza de Armas stands out, surrounded by elegant arches and dominated by the imposing Basilica Cathedral. Just a few steps away, the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a true citadel within the city, invites you to walk through its colorful passages and discover centuries of history.

The region also offers world-class natural experiences. The Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, is the ideal setting to observe the flight of the condor and enjoy impressive landscapes, traditional villages, and hot springs. Likewise, the volcanoes Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu frame the city with their majesty, offering trekking routes for adventure lovers.

Arequipa also captivates with its gastronomy, recognized among the best in the country. Typical dishes such as rocoto relleno, shrimp chupe, or Arequipa-style adobo are best enjoyed in its traditional picanterías.

Visiting Arequipa is living an experience where culture, nature, history, and flavor converge. An essential destination for those seeking authenticity and beauty in every corner.

Plaza de Armas of Arequipa

The Plaza de Armas is the main tourist destination in the city of Arequipa, located in the heart of the city's Historic Center. Every day it attracts hundreds of visitors from different parts of the country and the world. In the center there is a bronze fountain with a sculpture of a little elf playing a trumpet (known as El Tuturutu). It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Convent of Santa Catalina

This place dazzles not only for its colorful colonial architecture but also for its secrets that have been hidden behind its walls for centuries.

It is considered a small city because its streets resemble Spanish cities. There are 6 streets in total: Córdoba, Málaga, Toledo, Granada, Sevilla, and Burgos. Of course, there are other passages that connect the entire convent.

One of the main attractions is the volume attraction in terms of rigidity. Something to highlight about its structure is that it has space to store various plants and flowers.

You can observe about 400 paintings. It is essential to mention that the Santa Catalina Museum is considered one of the 7 best museums in Arequipa.

Sillar Quarries

The city of Arequipa is known for its sillar-based structures. This whitish rock was used by the Incas for sacred constructions and later by the Spanish to build houses and churches. Due to the use of sillar, Arequipa is known as the White City. A visit to the Sillar Route will allow you to discover how this material is processed and marvel at the beauty and peculiarity of the work.

Yanahuara Viewpoint

The Yanahuara viewpoint is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city of Arequipa. This sensational viewpoint offers impressive views of Arequipa from the white sillar arches that connect the iconic volcanoes of Arequipa Misti, Picchu Picchu, and Chachani.

You can observe that the facade of the observatory is inscribed with famous quotes from Arequipa and quotes from important thinkers from Arequipa. Nearby, various types of crafts are sold, as well as various tourist services such as restaurants, cafeterias, and hotels.

Misti Volcano

The Misti volcano is located 17.5 km northeast of the city of Arequipa, it is located in the Salinas y Aguada Blanca Natural Reserve.

The main attraction is the entire volcano. With its almost perfect cone shape and snowy peaks, the city of Arequipa has exceptional scenic beauty in the world.

WHEN TO VISIT THE COLCA CANYON?

The temperatures are almost the same, so the Colca Valley can be visited throughout the year (5°C at night and up to 20°C during the day).

The best time for trekking is from April to November, when the climate is dry.

WHAT ATTRACTIONS CAN I VISIT?

1. Salinas y Agua Blanca Reserve:

The reserve is located 110 km east of the city of Arequipa, near the towns of Huito and Pucarillo. The area has small Andean forests and high Andean grasslands, with typical species being Yareta, Kenual, and Tigre, used for fuel and grazing.

The area includes several volcanoes and snow-capped mountains such as Misti, Pichu Pichu, Chachani, Tacune, and Ubinas, mountains and lagoons, including the Salinas lagoon.

2. Volcanoes Viewpoint

It is the highest point on that road, the Abra de Patapampa, at 4,910 meters above sea level.

It is called the Volcanoes Viewpoint because the viewpoint offers a great view of the Cordillera and the Andes, as well as the nearby volcanoes such as Ubinas, Misti, Chachani, Ampato, Sabancaya, and Mismi.

3. Chivay: It is the main arrival point to the canyon and is the most visited by tourists, with many restaurants, hotels, etc. In addition, its viewpoint offers a beautiful panoramic view of the area. 3 km away are the hot springs of La Calera, perfect for relaxing after a long day of travel.

4. Coporaque: Beautiful town with House of Culture in the main square, with museums and community craft sales, Hot springs of Sallihua.

5. Cabanaconde: Town of 3,000 inhabitants, a must-visit for hikers as it is the starting point for trekking in the Colca Valley, you can also reach the viewpoints of Cejana or Achachiwa in 20 minutes on foot.

Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint

The viewpoint is located in the district of Cabanaconde, at an altitude of 3,287 meters above sea level

The Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint is a must-see in the Colca Canyon. About 1,200 meters below runs the Colca River, in front of the 5,547-meter-high Mismi volcano. Not only does it offer spectacular views of the canyon, but it also proves to be a strategic place to observe one of the largest birds in the world, the Andean condor (with a wingspan of 3.50 meters!)

6. Yanque: Located 7 km from Chivay, this town has one of the most beautiful main squares in the area (the church is also very beautiful!). Here, at 7 am most days, children in traditional costumes dance to the rhythm of typical music.

RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Bring water and snacks for the road (trekking)
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Warm and light clothing
  • Flashlight (to leave before dawn)
  • Hiking shoes
  • Swimsuit and towel (can also be rented)
  • Cash

BOLIVIA: COMPLETE TOURIST GUIDE FOR TRAVELERS

The Andean destination where culture, history, and nature meet.

Bolivia is a country that surprises in every corner: vast salt deserts, forests full of life, colonial cities that seem frozen in time, sacred lakes, imposing mountains, and a mosaic of cultures that preserve ancestral traditions.

To help you plan an unforgettable experience, we present a complete tourist guide with the best places to visit in Bolivia, practical recommendations, and suggestions specially designed for our travelers.

THE BEST TOURIST PLACES IN BOLIVIA (COMPLETE GUIDE)

La Paz: Wonder City of the World

La Paz is a unique mix between modernity, history, and living culture. Its cable cars, traditional markets, and urban landscapes make every visit an unforgettable experience.

Must-sees in La Paz

  • Mi Teleférico cable cars: aerial routes that cross the entire city.
  • Witches' Market: crafts, amulets, and Andean rituals.
  • Jaén Street: museums and colonial architecture.
  • Valley of the Moon: surreal rock formations.
  • Killi Killi Viewpoint: perfect panoramic for photos.
  • Murillo Square: seat of the Government Palace and Cathedral.

Recommended tours

  • City tour + cable cars
  • Excursion to the Valley of the Moon
  • Paceña cultural night
Tiahuanaco (Tiwanaku): Capital of a Millenary Civilization

Just 1 hour from La Paz is one of the most important archaeological centers in South America.

What to see in Tiwanaku

  • Gateway of the Sun
  • Kalasasaya Temple
  • Ponce Monolith
  • Akapana Pyramid
  • Museum of Tiwanakota Culture

Recommended for travelers interested in ancestral cultures and pre-Inca history.

Copacabana and Lake Titicaca

The highest navigable lake in the world offers a perfect combination of nature, mysticism, and tradition.

Attractions of Copacabana

  • Basilica of the Virgin of Copacabana
  • Calvario Hill (impressive sunsets)
  • Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun)
  • Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon)
  • Traditional towns of Yampupata and Sampaya

Experiences

  • Navigation on the Titicaca
  • Walk along ancestral trails
  • Fresh trout tasting
SALAR DE UYUNI: The White Desert

The largest salt desert in the world and one of the most impressive destinations on the planet.

What to visit in Uyuni

  • Incahuasi Island (giant cactus forests)
  • Eyes of the Salt
  • Salt mounds
  • Salt Hotel
  • Train Cemetery
  • Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon)
  • Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon) and Licancabur Volcano

Popular tours

  • 1 day Salar de Uyuni
  • 3 days Salar + Colored Lagoons
  • Sunrise / Sunset Tour
  • Mirror effect season: January – March
EDUARDO AVAROA RESERVE:

One of the most beautiful protected areas of the altiplano.

Attractions

  • Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon)
  • Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon)
  • Stone Tree
  • Sol de Mañana (geysers)
  • Siloli Desert
  • Andean flamingos

Perfect for nature and photography lovers.

SUCRE: The White City

Considered the most charming city in the country.

Highlighted places

  • Plaza 25 de mayo
  • Casa de la Libertad (House of Freedom)
  • La Recoleta Viewpoint
  • San Felipe Neri Church
  • Cretaceous Park – dinosaur footprints
  • San Francisco Convent
POTOSI: World Heritage

A mining city full of history.

Essential places

  • Cerro Rico (Rich Mountain)
  • National Mint House
  • Colonial churches of the historic center
  • Silver mine (guided experience recommended)
COCHABAMBA: The city of eternal spring climate

Cochabamba is known for its pleasant climate and its gastronomy.

What to visit

  • Christ of Concord
  • Alalay Lagoon
  • Torotoro National Park
  • Portales Palace

Recommendations for Traveling to Bolivia (Complete Edition)

Acclimatization

Take the first day calmly in high altitude areas. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals.

Safety

Bolivia is a safe country. Just take basic precautions: avoid isolated areas at night and use formal taxis.

Recommended clothing

  • Altiplano → thermal clothing
  • Amazonia → light clothing and repellent
  • Valleys → comfortable clothing

Currency

The Bolivian (BOB). Always carry some cash.

Transportation

It is advisable to hire safe transfers with the INCAS EXPEDITION Travel Agency.

Tours

Hire formal tours, such as INCAS EXPEDITION especially for Uyuni and Amazonia.

Ready to travel to Bolivia?

At our Virtual Travel Agency, we design personalized routes, reliable tours, and authentic experiences so you can enjoy Bolivia from beginning to end.

Requirements to Enter Bolivia

So that your clients are well informed before traveling to Bolivia, it is important that they know the main migration and health requirements. Below, I share the most relevant ones.

1. Passport or identity document

  • A valid passport is required for a minimum of 6 months. Cancillería Bolivia
  • In some cases, depending on the country, you can enter with national identity document (such as DNI), especially for citizens of some Andean countries. Migración Bolivia

2. Tourist visa:

  • Not all countries require a visa to enter Bolivia. There are different groups of countries:
  • Group I: do not need a tourist visa. boliviawdc.org
  • Groups II and III: do require a visa. embajadabolivia.ec.

Visa requirements (for those who need it):

3. Vaccination certificate

  • Vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory for those going to endemic areas (for example, in the Bolivian Amazon). boliviaturismo.com.bo
  • It is recommended that travelers carry their international vaccination certificate.

4. Migration registration

  • Upon entry, especially if it is your first time, migration authorities may ask you to complete a registration with accommodation data. Gobierno Autónomo Municipal de La Paz
  • It is important to stamp upon entry and exit from the country to avoid problems when making extensions or future entries.

5. Duration of stay

  • The tourist visa (when required) can initially allow 30 days, and it is possible to extend up to 90 days per calendar year. boliviawdc.org
  • If you plan to stay longer, it is advisable to consult with migration or an agency before entering the country.

6. Other requirements

  • Recent photograph (4×4) with background according to the consulate. Cancillería Bolivia
  • You may be asked to demonstrate economic solvency with bank documents. embajadabolivia.ec
  • Visa payment according to the consulate or border: varies according to nationality

PUNO: THE CRADLE OF LAKE TITICACA AND THE LIVING CULTURE OF THE ALTIPLANO

Puno is one of those destinations that surprise from the first moment. Located at more than 3,800 m a.s.l., in the middle of the Peruvian altiplano, it is the home of the majestic Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world and cradle of ancient Andean civilizations. If you are looking for a trip full of incredible landscapes, living culture, and unique experiences, Puno is the ideal place.

As a travel agency, we take you to discover the most fascinating corners of this region, with organized tours, expert guides, and a service designed to make your adventure unforgettable.

The Best Tourist Places in Puno

  • Lake Titicaca
    The main attraction of Puno. Its blue waters surrounded by mountains create an impressive landscape.
    Navigating the Titicaca is an experience that connects with tradition, nature, and Andean spirituality.
  • Uros Islands
    A set of floating islands built entirely with totora reeds. Their inhabitants maintain ancestral customs that you can learn about up close.
    Ideal for cultural tours and unique photographs.
  • Taquile Island
    Famous for its impressive panoramic view of the lake and its textile crafts recognized by UNESCO.
    A perfect place to walk, learn, and share with the local community.
  • Amantaní Island
    Known for its tranquility and the community lodging experience, where travelers sleep in the houses of local families.
    An authentic trip full of cultural exchange.
  • El Cóndor Viewpoint
    One of the best points to admire the city of Puno from the heights. Perfect for photography lovers and sunsets.
  • Sillustani
    A unique archaeological complex where the famous Chullpas de Sillustani are found, funerary towers of the pre-Inca Colla culture.
    It is one of the most important archaeological sites of the altiplano and a must-visit.
  • Fertility Temple (Chucuito)
    A place full of mystery, history, and symbolism. Ideal for a short excursion and for those who seek to know the most ancient traditions of the region.
  • Feast of the Candelaria (only in February)
    Puno is transformed into a stage full of dance, music, and color during the famous Feast of the Candelaria, considered Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
    A cultural spectacle that attracts thousands of travelers each year.

Why travel to Puno with our agency INCAS EXPEDITION Travel Agency?

  • Organized tours to Lake Titicaca
  • Community experiences in Amantaní and Taquile
  • Safe and comfortable transportation
  • Official guides expert in Andean culture
  • Personalized attention 24/7
  • Combined packages Puno – Cusco – Arequipa
  • Our goal is for you to enjoy Puno safely, authentically, and without worries.

Tips for Traveling to Puno

Acclimatization:

Puno exceeds 3,800 m a.s.l., so it is important to acclimatize. We recommend resting the first day, avoiding heavy meals, and staying hydrated.

Best time to visit:

April to November: dry climate, ideal for tours on Lake Titicaca.
January to March: rainy season, but greener landscapes.

What to bring:

  • Warm clothing
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Comfortable footwear
  • Cash for crafts
  • Photographic camera

Recommended tours:

  • Uros – Taquile Full Day
  • Amantaní Island with overnight stay
  • Sillustani
  • City Tour Puno
  • Dawn navigation on the Titicaca

Puno, a destination that connects culture, nature, and tradition

Traveling to Puno is entering the heart of the altiplano, where each experience has a deep meaning. From the islands of the Titicaca to its ancestral sites, this destination offers an authentic, enriching trip full of adventure.

BLOG: CUSCO – NAVEL OF THE WORLD

If there is a destination in Peru that falls in love at first sight, it is Cusco. Walking through its stone streets is like touring a living museum: Inca temples, colonial constructions, and a vibrant cultural atmosphere that captivates anyone. Not for nothing is it considered the Historical Capital of Peru and one of the most visited places in South America.

Cusco is not just a city; it is the perfect starting point to know some of the most impressive landscapes, routes, and monuments on the planet. And if you are planning your trip, here we tell you what you cannot miss and some essential recommendations to enjoy it to the fullest.

Machu Picchu: The Jewel of Peru:

No trip to Cusco is complete without visiting Machu Picchu, the Inca citadel that continues to marvel the world. Whether by panoramic train or through trekking routes, reaching this place is a unique experience.

If you want to avoid setbacks, the ideal is to reserve your entries and tickets in advance especially in high season.

The Sacred Valley: Living Culture Between Mountains:

The Sacred Valley of the Incas combines tradition, landscapes, and archaeology. Among its most recommended stops are:

Pisac, famous for its archaeological complex and its colorful artisan market.

Ollantaytambo, a "living Inca town" that maintains its ancestral structure.

Chinchero, where you can learn about Andean textile art up close.

It is a perfect route for those looking for a day full of history, nature, and spectacular photos.

Sacsayhuamán: A Monumental Viewpoint

Just minutes from the center is Sacsayhuamán, a fortress that surprises with its gigantic stone blocks perfectly fitted. From there, you will have a unique panoramic view of the city of Cusco. Ideal for a short tour and for those looking for a cultural experience without straying too far.

Qorikancha: Where Two Worlds Converge

The Qorikancha, ancient Temple of the Sun, is an impressive sample of the meeting between Inca and colonial architecture. Its walls, its history, and its museum make it a mandatory stop to understand the Cusco cultural legacy.

San Blas Neighborhood: Art, Views, and Charm

San Blas is that place where the city breathes art. Its narrow streets, artisan workshops, cafés, and viewpoints make it perfect for a relaxed walk. If you want to take incredible photos or buy authentic art pieces, this is your place.

Rainbow Mountain: Nature That Impacts

The Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) has become one of the most popular destinations in Cusco. Its colorations formed by minerals create a surreal landscape.
It is an demanding hike, but absolutely unforgettable.

Humantay Lagoon: A Turquoise Mirror in the Andes

The Humantay Lagoon is one of the most beautiful natural jewels of the region. Surrounded by snowy mountains and with a unique emerald color, it is perfect for those seeking disconnection and adventure.

Inca Trail: The Most Famous Route in Peru

If you like trekking, the Inca Trail is an epic experience. Four days of walking between mountains, cloud forests, and archaeological sites that culminate in Machu Picchu. An experience for hiking and history lovers.

Recommendations for Traveling to Cusco

  • Acclimatize:
    Cusco is at 3,300 m a.s.l. Take your time the first day: hydrate, avoid heavy meals, and rest.
  • Best time to visit:
    April to October: dry climate, ideal for tours.
    November to March: rainy season, but with fewer tourists and greener landscapes.
  • What to bring
    Warm clothing, sunscreen, walking shoes, hat, water bottle, and a light backpack.
  • Buy your tickets in advance
    Especially if you will visit Machu Picchu. Tickets and trains sell out quickly.

Planning your trip?

If you want to save time, avoid setbacks, and ensure a complete experience in Cusco, it is advisable to travel with the INCAS EXPEDITION Travel Agency that can help you with:

  • Machu Picchu reservations
  • Personalized itineraries
  • Guided tours
  • Safe transfers
  • Permanent assistance
  • So you can dedicate yourself only to enjoy every minute.
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