Peru’s second largest city, sits under the gaze of the snow-capped Volcan El Misti, Volcan Chachani and Volcan Pichu-Pichu near a land of active volcanoes, canyons, salt lakes, deserts and thermal springs. The nearby Colca Canyon, flanked by some stunning snow-capped peaks, is particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s also a great place to view the soaring Condor.

A little farther away is the deeper Cotahuasi canyon which is equally impressive if not quite so accessible. Many of Arequipa’s attractive colonial buildings in and around the Plaza de Armas as well as many of its churches and mansion houses have been constructed from volcanic sillar rock which is why it’s often referred to as the White City.

One of the most popular attractions in Arequipa is the restored Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a city within a city, which occupies over two hectares just a few blocks north of downtown, but also worth a visit is the Museo Santuario Andinos which has a fascinating display of mummies including the famous Juanita, the ice princess.

Farther inland is the world's largest navigable lake, Lago Titicaca, half in Bolivia half in Peru. The lake is dotted with islands, many of which are inhabited by local indigenous peoples whose way of life has changed little in hundreds of years. The main city of Puno, which sits on the lake shores at over 3,800 metres, was originally established around a silver mine by the Spanish. It subsequently became an important port and today serves as a base for those tourists wanting to explore the surrounding attractions such as the Sillustani chullpas (funeral towers), the floating reed islands or one of the fixed islands farther afield.