Arequipa with Kids: Easy and Free Outings

Most family outings in Arequipa are short, flat and cheap or free. The city sits at about 2,335 m, so plan slow mornings, a rest after lunch and plenty of water for children.

Easy stops

  • Mundo Alpaca at Alameda San Lázaro 101 (the Michell company) is free. Children see live alpacas and llamas, watch weaving and can look around a shop. It is listed as open every day from about 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, so check ahead.
  • Molino de Sabandía, about 8 km out by a taxi of around S/15, is a mill from 1621 with grounds and animals. Entry is about S/10 to 12. The Mansión del Fundador at Huasacache, about 9 km out, is a calmer museum visit.
  • Plaza de Yanahuara has a mirador, sillar arches and a view of Misti and Chachani. It is flat, free and quick to see. Buy a cone of queso helado, the city’s frozen dessert with cinnamon and coconut, from a vendor on the plaza.
  • Santa Catalina Monastery works for children who like colour and corners to explore. Under-sevens are free, and visitors from abroad aged 7 to 18 pay S/30. Opening is daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Tuesday and Wednesday it runs to 8:00 PM, which suits a late afternoon visit after naps. Details are on the official site .

Altitude and age

Small children should not join the 3:00 AM Colca day trip, and they should not cross Patapampa, at about 4,800 m, before they have spent time at height. Volcano walks are out. Misti, Chachani and Ampato are climbs for adults with licensed guides, and Salinas y Aguada Blanca is cold and high. If a child has a headache, is sick or is unusually drowsy, go down and see a doctor.

Animals

For close animal encounters, Mundo Alpaca is the choice. ZooMundo in Paucarpata, opposite the Balneario de Jesus, has attracted welfare concerns, and this guide does not suggest visiting.

Sun, food and taxis

The sun is strong at this height, so pack hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Lunch is the main meal, and picanterías serve it, but chupe de camarones is off the menu from early January to 31 March.

The US rates Peru at Level 2 for increased caution. Roadblocks happen during protests, so ask your hotel before you leave the city. Take hotel-booked taxis or radio taxis rather than hailing one on the street. The UK government page for Peru lists the latest advice.

Read more: Day trips from Arequipa and Walking tours in Arequipa .

Browse family-friendly tours: Arequipa family tours on GetYourGuide .