Morning or afternoon—you decide. We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa (2335 m a.s.l.) at either 09:30 or 14:00.

Once on board our tourist vehicle, we’ll head to the Chilina Valley (in the district of Cayma). Travel time: approximately 30 minutes.

Find more information about this tour in the Details and Notes tab.

You don’t have to stray far from Arequipa’s Historic Centre to enjoy the beautiful landscape of this scenic valley (2500 m a.s.l.), offering stunning views of the Misti and Chachani volcanoes.

The Charcani Canyon lies in the rugged terrain of the warm Chilina Valley (Cayma District). This geographical feature originates from erosion caused by the flow of the Chili River.

Before leaving the valley, take a deep breath and fill your lungs with the fresh air of this peaceful setting.

Then it’s time to hop back on our tourist vehicle—your next stop is the Sabandía Mill. Approximate travel time: 50 minutes.

In 1621, Don García de Vargas Machuca commissioned architect Francisco Flores to build a mill. That request gave rise to one of Arequipa’s most iconic architectural landmarks.

Flores did a remarkable job. His mill—made of sillar, the volcanic stone that defines the character of this southern Peruvian city—still works today using its original mechanism.

For centuries, the Sabandía Mill faithfully supplied the city with flour. Although now mainly for demonstration, the mill’s wheel continues to turn, offering a window into the region’s agricultural history.

In 1973, the now-defunct Central Mortgage Bank of Peru restored the site under the guidance of architect Luis Felipe Calle.

Next, we’ll make our way to the Founder’s Mansion, located in the hamlet of Huasacache. Travel time: 25 minutes.

Legend has it that Garci Manuel de Carbajal, the Spanish soldier who founded Arequipa on 15 August 1540, had this residence built to be his home.

Constructed in the 16th century, the Founder’s Mansion is one of the best-preserved colonial estates in the region. Though not located within the Historic Centre, it is an important part of Arequipa’s architectural heritage.

Built in the Arequipean Baroque style, the mansion stands out for its thick walls and vaulted ceilings. Here, the predominant use is ashlar, the stone that distinguishes the buildings in this city of volcanoes and countryside.

After your visit, we’ll continue on to the Sachaca Viewpoint. Travel time: 20 minutes.

A 19-metre-high sillar tower rises above the district of Sachaca. Now it’s time to climb to the top and take in breathtaking views of the countryside and Arequipa’s three mighty volcanoes.

Take your time—the effort is well worth it. The vistas of the city, the farmland, and the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes are simply unforgettable.

Inaugurated in 1988, the tower was renovated in 1996 and 2002 to improve comfort and safety for visitors.

Once you’ve descended from the viewpoint, we’ll begin the return journey to your hotel in Arequipa. Approximate travel time: 30 minutes.

Depending on your chosen schedule, we’ll drop you off at your hotel in Arequipa at 13:00 (morning tour) or 17:30 (afternoon tour).