Arequipa City Tour by Mirabus

Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and natural beauty of Arequipa aboard a comfortable open-air open-air bus. This city tour is the perfect way to discover the city’s most iconic landmarks in just a few hours, guided by a local expert who will bring each stop to life. From the traditional viewpoints of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto to colonial mansions, imposing volcanoes, alpaca textiles, and ancient agricultural terraces, Arequipa awaits you with open arms.

Whether you have limited time or want to kick off your stay with a comprehensive panoramic tour, this excursion combines nature, history, colonial architecture, and a touch of adventure, all in the comfort of an open-air double-decker bus.

Arequipa City Tour Itinerary by Mirabus

Day 1 – History, Architecture, and Panoramic Views

Pick-up and departure from the Historic Center (8:40 – 9:00 a.m.)

The tour begins with pick-up from the main hotels in the historic center or from the Plaza de Armas, where we board the panoramic Mirabus. As we travel, the guide will share stories about the founding of the city, its colonial architecture, and the origin of the famous white sillar, the volcanic stone that gives Arequipa its identity.

Panoramic Tour of the Plaza de Armas and Historic Center

We take a panoramic tour of the Plaza de Armas, considered one of the most beautiful in the country. You will see the Arequipa Cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañía), the colonial arcades, and their beautiful balconies carved in stone. The guide will explain why Arequipa is known as the White City and the cultural importance of its architecture.

Traditional Yanahuara Neighborhood

Our next stop is the charming Yanahuara neighborhood, with its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and its famous Baroque church. Here you can take photos at the iconic Yanahuara Arches, which frame a privileged view of the three guardian volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.

Carmen Alto Viewpoint – Arequipa Countryside

We continue to the Carmen Alto Viewpoint in the Cayma district. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the Arequipa countryside, the pre-Incan terraces, the Chili River valley, and once again, the volcanoes that watch over the city. It is one of the best places to capture the vibrant agricultural landscape of southern Peru.

Incalpaca Factory and Camelid Zoo

We will visit the Incalpaca factory, renowned for its fine alpaca and vicuña textiles. You’ll be able to see the garment-making process and visit the camelid zoo, home to llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and vicuñas. There will be time to purchase high-quality clothing or locally made souvenirs.

Founder’s Mansion

We continue to the historic Founder’s Mansion, a 16th-century colonial mansion surrounded by gardens and preserved rooms with antique furniture, religious paintings, and viceregal decor. The guide will narrate passages from Arequipa’s history that shaped the city.

Paucarpata Terraces

The last stop will be at the Paucarpata Terraces, a traditional agricultural landscape where pre-Incan terraces and irrigation canals are preserved. In addition to exploring the area, you can enjoy optional activities such as ATV rides, horseback riding, or cycling, surrounded by natural landscapes and volcanoes.

Return to the Historic Center (approx. 2:00 p.m.)

We will conclude the Arequipa City Tour with a ride back to the city on the Mirabus. The Mirabus will drop you off at a central location so you can continue exploring cafes, restaurants, and museums on your own.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

🚌 Panoramic Mirabus Transportation

You’ll travel in a comfortable, double-decker open-top bus, perfect for enjoying the cityscape and taking photos throughout the tour.

🎤 Professional Bilingual Tour Guide (Spanish/English)

A local guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing cultural, historical, and architectural explanations of each point of interest.

📸 Strategic Photo Stops

You’ll have free time to take photos at the most representative points of interest along the route.

🔊 Audio System During the Tour

You can listen to facts and stories as the Mirabus travels between each stop.

🚰 First Aid Kit on Board

We have a basic first aid kit in case of minor ailments or minimal medical attention required.

🛂 Personalized assistance during the tour

Our team will be with you from the beginning to the end of the tour.

❌ What’s not included?

🍽️ Meals (breakfast / lunch / snacks)

The tour does not include food or drinks. We recommend bringing water and a light snack. You will have free time to try local dishes on your own.

🎟️ Optional entrance fees not specified

Some sites, such as the Sabandía Mill or activities in Paucarpata (like horseback riding or ATV tours), have an additional cost and are optional.

🐎 Additional recreational activities

• Horseback riding in Paucarpata
• ATV tours (check availability and rates in advance)

🧃 Tastings or personal purchases

If you wish to try the traditional queso helado (frozen cheese) or purchase alpaca clothing in Incalpaca, these expenses are the responsibility of the passenger.

🏨 Pick-up from hotels outside the historic center

If your accommodation is outside the center of Arequipa, transportation to the starting point is not included. You can arrange a meeting point.

🌟 Recommendations

🧢 Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses: Especially if you decide to sit on the second level of the Mirabus, where you’ll be more exposed to the Arequipa sun.

👟 Wear comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes: There will be stops with short walks over cobblestones, dirt, or steps in places like Paucarpata or the Founder’s Mansion.

💧 Stay hydrated: Although Arequipa has a dry climate, the sun can be intense. Bring a water bottle with you during the tour.

🎒 Pack light: A small backpack is sufficient. Avoid carrying too much for greater comfort when getting on and off the Mirabus.

💸 Bring cash in soles: At some stops, you’ll find snacks, souvenirs, or optional activities like horseback riding, and they don’t always accept cards.

📸 Get your camera or phone ready:
Each stop offers panoramic views and architectural details perfect for capturing.

🕒 Be punctual at each stop: Free time at each point is planned. Please respect the times indicated by the guide so as not to disrupt the group.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?

Yes. The tour is easy, without strenuous hikes. Ideal for children, seniors, and families.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?

The tour bus has limited space, but this can be arranged in advance. In certain sections, such as the Paucarpata Gorge, access may be difficult.

Does the tour run on holidays or Sundays?

Yes. It is a regular tour that operates every day of the year. It may only be affected by extreme weather conditions or the closure of attractions.

How long does the entire tour last?

Approximately 4 hours. This may vary slightly depending on traffic and the number of visitors.

What happens if it rains?

In case of moderate rain, the Mirabus can be covered with awnings and the tour continues. In heavy rain, some stops may be modified for safety reasons.

Can I bring pets?

Pets are not allowed on the Mirabus for the safety and comfort of other passengers.

Where does the tour end?

The tour ends at the Plaza de Armas or in the vicinity of the historic center. From there, you can continue exploring on your own or go back to your hotel.