Yanahuara Viewpoint: The White City in a superb setting

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And the ashlar became art. The Yanahuara viewpoint offers a privileged view of Arequipa from its white arches that unite Misti, Pichu Pichu and Chachani, the emblematic volcanoes of Arequipa, in a single embrace. From its imposing height, more than 2,300 meters above sea level, it also dominates the entire city, with its puzzle of cobbled streets and colonial buildings.

Description

The Yanahuara viewpoint is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Arequipa. It was built in the 19th century in the neighborhood of the same name. It is made up of several arches made of ashlar, a volcanic stone abundant in the region. On its façade the thoughts of some of the city's most illustrious people are recorded. From there you have a view of the city as well as the three most famous snow-capped mountains in the region: Chachani, Pichu Picchu and Misti.

Where is the Yanahuara Viewpoint located?

The Yanahuara Viewpoint is located in the picturesque district of Yanahuara, just 2 kilometers from the historic center of Arequipa. It can be easily reached by taxi, by walking about 20 minutes from the Plaza de Armas, or by taking a city tour. This viewpoint is in a small square surrounded by cobblestone streets and sillar mansions, the same white volcanic material used to build many of Arequipa's colonial buildings.

From this spot, you get one of the best panoramic views of the Misti volcano and the city of Arequipa. In addition, its sillar arches carved with famous quotes from local writers make it one of the most popular places to take photos and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

How to get there?

Starting from the Plaza de Armas, you must cross the Chili River and follow the path that leads to El Ejercito Avenue. Then, you continue through narrow and picturesque streets until you reach the Yanahuara viewpoint. Although it is possible to get there on foot, some people prefer to take a taxi.

The looker

The Yanahuara viewpoint was built in the 19th century during a process of beautification of the place. It is located right in front of a park and next to a church of colonial origin called 'San Juan Bautista'. Its streets are narrow and have an Andalusian style that gives it a magical atmosphere. The viewpoint is made of ashlar found at the foot of the snow-capped Chachani, Pichu Picchu and Misti (the most famous volcano in the city). The viewpoint has inscriptions on its façade with popular quotes from Arequipa as well as quotes from important Arequipa thinkers. Nearby the sale of different types of crafts is carried out as well as different tourist services such as: restaurants, cafes, hotels and more.

Important fact: From the viewpoint, you get one of the best panoramic views of the city of Arequipa and the Misti volcano, especially at sunset, when the light highlights the colors of the white sillar that characterizes the city.

The volcanoes of Arequipa

El Chachani – It is located 55 kilometers from the city. It is located at 6,057 meters above sea level. It is relatively easy to scale. Its snow has decreased due to the effects of global warming.
Pichu Picchu – It is located 32 kilometers in a straight line from the city of Arequipa. It is made up of several summits. The highest, the 'Coronado' reaches 5,665 meters above sea level. In this snowy mountain, Inca human sacrifice mummies were found.
El Misti – The Misti volcano is one of the symbols of Arequipa. It is located 23 kilometers from the 'White City'. Its summit rises to 5,820 meters above sea level. Various studies show that Misti erupted on several occasions, the last and most powerful one was in the Inca era. Human sacrifices of six Inca skeletons were found there.

How much does it cost to go?

The visit to the Yanahuara viewpoint is free for everyone.

Note: The visit to Yanahuara is included in some 'City Tour Arequipa' services, the cost of which is approximately 60 US dollars.

The amazing glass viewpoint in Yanahuara

This new viewpoint is located very close to the Yanahuara viewpoint, one of the most popular and popular attractions in the city of Arequipa.

This platform is hexagon-shaped and made of tempered glass, which is held with cables that can support up to 50 tons of weight. To raise it, a crane is necessary to raise the platform up to 50 meters high. With this height you will have an unbeatable view of the city of Arequipa and, above all, Misti, one of the most important and emblematic natural places in the region.

A few days after being inaugurated, the Yanahuara viewpoint Arequipa has been visited by dozens of people who come to climb the platform, overcome their fear of heights and obtain one of the most beautiful and impressive panoramic views that can be had of Arequipa.

After this trip to the heights, you can continue touring and getting to know the city. In the Plaza de Yanahuara it is common for tourists to try one of the most emblematic desserts of the city of Arequipa: frozen cheese. This dessert is a delight of Arequipa pastries. Likewise, around the Yanahuara viewpoint you can find various restaurants that offer tourists the best offering of Arequipa cuisine, such as spicy guinea pig or rocoto stuffed.

What else to see?

Yanahuara Church – The San Juan Bautista de Yanahuara church is a baroque temple with an admirable façade. It was built in the 18th century. It is made up of a single nave above which a barrel vault stands out. On the outside there is a beautiful decoration where the image of San Juan Bautista, the patron of the church, also stands.
Plaza de Yanahuara – The small plaza of Yanahuara stands out for its cozy atmosphere with green areas, a swimming pool and dozens of tourist services such as a craft store, lodgings and restaurants. It borders on one side with the colonial church and, on the other, with the Yanahuara viewpoint.
Crystal viewpoint in Yanahuara – The Yanahuara plaza stands out for the presence of a viewpoint made of glass that, elevated 50 meters by a crane, offers one of the best views of the city of Arequipa. This alternative is recommended for people who are not afraid of heights. Security is guaranteed.

Best Tours in Peru

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail Tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Perú, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.