Arequipa, Peru

I’ve travelled to Europe, Australia, North America and Asia, but never to South America... until November 2024. My daughter was living there for a semester while studying abroad. So over the Thanksgiving week, we ‘dropped in’ to visit. My knowledge of Peru was minimal, but over the course of several days, we got to know the city of Arequipa very well.

Most visitors to Peru arrive in Lima, then tour on to the well-traveled hotspots of Machu Picchu and Cusco. But Arequipa is Peru’s second largest city and I was overwhelmed by the color and vibrancy of the colonial and church architecture; I had no desire to venture any further, specially with my limited time in the country. My favorite places were the monasteries of Santa Catalina and Santa Theresa, where I spent several hours exploring the cloisters and plazas; I don’t think I’ve ever photographed a more colorful spot in my life. Vivid colors were almost leaping off every wall.

I also ventured out and about through the city and beyond, photographing street scenes and more rural areas. There’s much more to explore in Arequipa and I’m considering leading a photo workshop in the area. Let me know if you’re interested in joining me… specially if you speak Spanish!