Overview
Founded in 1579, Santa Catalina Monastery sprawls across 20,000 sqm in central Arequipa — practically a city within a city. Nuns lived in total seclusion here for 400 years, and the complex only opened to the public in 1970. Walls painted in vivid blue, red, and orange line the narrow lanes, dotted with plazas and fountains. The original kitchens, laundries, and cells have been preserved, giving visitors the sense of stepping back in time.
Travel Tips
An evening tour by candlelight is especially atmospheric. You can wander on your own, but an English guided tour brings the history to life.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Arequipa, Peru from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Peru on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to Arequipa on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Arequipa with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Arequipa 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Santa Catalina Monastery
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Things to Do in Arequipa
Colca Canyon Tour
Visit Colca Canyon — twice as deep as the Grand Canyon — and watch Andean condors soar overhead. Cruz del Condor viewpoint offers the closest encounters.
Santa Catalina Monastery Visit
A 'city within a city' — explore this 16th-century monastery's 20,000 m2 of colorful buildings and lanes, and glimpse the lives of nuns who were cloistered for 400 years.
Misti Volcano Trek
A 2-day/1-night trek to the summit of Misti Volcano (5,822m) — Arequipa's iconic peak. The panorama of the city and surrounding volcanoes from the top is magnificent.