Yanahuara Viewpoint
Arequipa's Best Scenic Spot

🏛️ General Presentation

The Yanahuara viewpoint, located at 2,343 meters altitude in the neighborhood of the same name, is one of the most famous viewpoints in Arequipa. This architectural complex composed of stone arches offers a exceptional panoramic view of the white city and its three volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.

📜 History and Symbolism

• Inaugurated on November 8, 1970, on the occasion of the centennial of the official recognition of the Villa de Yanahuara (1870-1970)
• The viewpoint is made up of 10 arches in sillar, a white volcanic stone emblematic of Arequipa:
  • Typical architecture of the region
  • The arches are aligned facing the volcanoes, creating a harmonious setting
• Decorated with engraved quotes and maxims:
  • Texts from writers, poets, and thinkers from Arequipa
  • Tribute to the intellectual richness of the city
• Creation context:
  • Project designed to enhance the neighborhood during the centennial
  • Integrated into an architectural complex around the Yanahuara square

🌟 Highlights

• The view of Arequipa and its three volcanoes
• The poetic inscriptions on the arches
• The San Juan Bautista church (18th century) nearby
• The colonial streets of the neighborhood

🕒 Best Time to Visit

• At sunrise: Golden light on the volcanoes
• In the late afternoon: Spectacular sunsets
• Avoid: Midday (strong sunlight)

🚶‍♂️ From Arequipa's Center

• Distance: 2 km (25-30 minutes on foot)
• Route: Cross the Grau bridge to the northwest

🚕 Transportation Options

• Taxi: 5-7 soles from the Plaza de Armas
• Urban bus: Y or YB lines (1.50 soles)
• On foot: Pleasant walk from the historic center

GPS Coordinates

16°23'13.0"S 71°32'20.0"W

🕒 Hours

• Open: All days, 24/7
• Recommended visit: 6 am - 7 pm

🎟️ 2025 Rates

• Entry: Free
• Tour guide: 30-50 soles (optional)

⏳ Visit Duration

• Quick visit: 30-45 minutes
• Full visit: 1-2 hours (with neighborhood exploration)

🌟 Best Angles

• From the center of the arches: Perfect frame with the volcanoes
• Backlight: Silhouettes of the arches at sunset
• Architectural details: Inscriptions and motifs on the arches

🎒 Recommended Equipment

• Wide-angle lens to capture the entire arches
• Tripod for nighttime photos
• Polarizing filter to reduce reflections

🏛️ Nearby Sites

• San Juan Bautista church (2 min): Superb example of Andean Baroque
• Yanahuara square: Peaceful setting with central fountain
• Colonial streets: Traditional houses in sillar

🍽️ Dining Options

• Cafes and restaurants: Several establishments offer local cuisine with a view of the volcanoes
• Picanterías: To discover traditional Arequipa cuisine
• Small cafes: Ideal for a break with a panorama of the volcanoes

👕 Suitable Attire

• Light clothing during the day
• Warm jacket for the evening
• Comfortable shoes

⚠️ Safety

• Avoid showing valuable objects
• Stay in frequented areas
• Visit during the day for a first visit

🌞 Protection

• Essential sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hat or cap

Yanahuara is more than just a viewpoint: it's an unmissable cultural and visual experience in Arequipa. Between:

• The unique architecture in white sillar
• The panoramic views of the volcanoes
• The authentic atmosphere of the neighborhood

Photo tip: Come early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light on the volcanoes!