Solo Female Travel in Arequipa

Situated in the spectacular highlands of southern Peru, Arequipa, fondly referred to as the "White City", is a stunning blend of colonial and indigenous cultures. Known for its unique architecture featuring buildings constructed from sillar, a white volcanic stone, this UNESCO World Heritage site provides unparalleled views of the towering snow-capped volcanoes. With attractions like the awe-inspiring 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery, the captivating Andean Sanctuary Museum which houses the famous Ice Maiden "Juanita", and succulent local cuisine dominated by spicy dishes and traditional picanterías, Arequipa leaves no stone unturned in proving itself as a remarkable destination for culture, history, and gastronomy enthusiasts.

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Is Arequipa worth visiting solo?

Safety:Safe

Arequipa is generally safe for tourists with a lower crime rate than other major cities in Peru. However, as a solo female traveler, you should take some precautions - always maintain awareness of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night and keep your belongings secure. Petty thefts can occur, especially in crowded places, so always keep an eye on your luggage and personal items. Try to stay in well-traveled areas, dress modestly, and carry a local map or GPS to help navigate through the city. Local people are usually friendly and more than willing to give directions or advice.

Transport:Easy

Arequipa is navigable for the solo traveler. Streets are generally laid out in an easy-to-understand grid pattern and the city center isn't overly large to walk around. However, while the city itself isn't overly sprawling, some main attractions may require a taxi or bus ride. English is not widely spoken among locals so it's helpful to have basic knowledge of Spanish or a translation app.

Things to do:Interesting

Arequipa, wonderful Peru's 'White City', is incredibly diverse with a lot of activities to offer. From exploring the city's stunning architecture, including a rich collection of colonial-era churches and casonas surrounded by beautiful gardens, to experiencing its vibrant gastronomy scene, you will never run out of things to do. For more adventurous souls, Arequipa opens the gateway to trekking in the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, and the Misti volcano offers a challenging but rewarding climb. Overall, it's culturally rich, friendly, and full of adventure for solo female travelers.

Food:Above average

Arequipa offers a very diverse range of food options. Local specialties include dishes made from llama, traditional Peruvian recipes like rocoto relleno (stuffed hot peppers), and fresh seafood from the nearby coast. Arequipa is also known for their dairy so don't miss to try the local cheeses and ice creams. Regional flavors are robust with a blend of Spanish and local Quechua influences. The alpaca steak is a particularly unique treat. Street food is common and provides a chance to try small snacks and sweets, while the local market is a delight for food explorers. However, as a precaution, always ensure the street food stalls and markets have high hygiene standards.

Budget:Affordable

Arequipa is a great budget-friendly destination. Housing, dining, and transportation are quite affordable, accompanied by the cost-effective local markets and street food stalls. Of course, prices may vary if you opt for more luxurious services and experiences, but for the most part, the city caters to budget-conscious travelers very well.

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Meet locals in Arequipa

Meet local women in Arequipa who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Marión

Marión

About Me

Hi! My name is Marion and i love to travel, make friends, animals, dancing, reading and swimming. I'm a child psychologist and going on my first solo trip to Europe this August ( for my bday!) YOU can text me for whatever you need and u can stay in my house up to 5 days!❤️

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Kathy

Kathy

About Me

Hey, I'm Kathy and I'm interested in animals, art, backpacking, books, cinema, culture, dancing, events & social, food & cuisine, fashion, languages, live music, nightlife, photography, science, shopping, sightseeing, solo travel, nature and health

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Stay with locals in Arequipa

Stay with local women in Arequipa who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Marión

Marión

Arequipa

Can host for:

5 days

About me

Hi! My name is Marion and i love to travel, make friends, animals, dancing, reading and swimming. I'm a child psychologist and going on my first solo trip to Europe this August ( for my bday!) YOU can text me for whatever you need and u can stay in my house up to 5 days!❤️

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