CIRQA Parador’s Field Notes on Arequipa
Courtesy of CIRQA
Field Notes are firsthand travel recommendations for and by our ECT Clubhouse members. Get the lowdown on destinations across the globe from travelers and locals alike. This week, the team behind luxury hotel, CIRQA Parador, shares their insider tips for Arequipa.
A hub of culture and history
The historic city of Arequipa is known for its abundant sillar stone architecture, colorful monasteries, and renowned gastronomic heritage. As Peru's second-largest city, Arequipa is the perfect place to acclimatize to Andean altitudes before continuing to higher destinations. Three snow-capped volcanoes surround the city, and it enjoys a year-round sunny climate with temperatures ranging from 10 °C to 25 °C (50ºF - 77ºF) and barely any rainfall. Our property, CIRQA, is located in the historic center of Arequipa, in a UNESCO-protected site. This former monastery dates back to 1540, the year Arequipa was built and has since been restored to revive the soul of a forgone Parador.
Arequipa is a hub of culture, history, and adventure. If you're planning a trip and wondering where to eat, drink, shop, and explore, look no further. In these notes, we'll share some top spots you want to take advantage of in this vibrant city.
Courtesy of La Benita de los Claustros
Eat
Tio Darío: One restaurant that stands out is Tio Darío, which offers various regional products cooked with unique flavours. The restaurant is in a quiet garden, providing a beautiful view of the three volcanoes of the white city of Arequipa.
Benita de los Claustros: If you're looking for a traditional "picantería" that serves local Arequipean fare, you must visit Benita de los Claustros. This restaurant is located in one of Arequipa's most historic and picturesque plazas. It offers dishes such as beef stew, shrimp celador, and Arroz con Pato (duck rice).
Other recommendations shared: A must-visit restaurant for its naan bread and chicken tikki, the best fine dining spot in the city, and the place to try a variety of exciting cocktails that revolve around Peru’s national drink. Head to the Clubhouse for the details.
Do
San Camilo Market. Visiting the market is one of the best ways to experience the local culture. This vibrant and colourful market has everything you could imagine, from tropical fruits to mystical health potions. It is an authentic reflection of everyday Arequipean life.
Other recommendations shared: An iconic landmark that’s a must on every travelers list, and an off-the-beaten-path experience to discover the city's unique geological history. Head to the Clubhouse for the details.
Courtesy of Anntarah
Shop
Anntarah: This specialty shop focuses on Alpaca and organic cotton items that combine the best natural fibres, special tailoring techniques, and a highly modern and cosmopolitan style.
Other recommendations shared: The spot that showcases the best of Peru's cultural wealth and allows you to learn about the ancient techniques of manual fibre and traditional textile processes. Head to the Clubhouse for the details.