La Apacheta Cemetery
A vast historical cemetery in Arequipa, Peru, known for its impressive mausoleums, local legends, and stunning views of Misti Volcano.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
La Apacheta Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast historical cemetery in Arequipa, Peru, known for its impressive mausoleums, local legends, and stunning views of Misti Volcano.
"It's almost a museum that should be much more promoted, offering impressive photos with Misti Volcano in the background."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many sections. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized during your visit. Purchase flowers outside as options inside are limited. :water_wave: :apple:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 65 reviews
Type
Cemetery
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Lira Family Mausoleum
Monumental Area
Explore the legendary mausoleum of the Lira family, steeped in tales of witchcraft and dark magic. A must-see for those interested in local folklore.
Victor Apaza Quispe's Tomb
Monumental Area
Discover the tomb of Victor Apaza Quispe, a criminal who became a revered folk saint. His story is a fascinating blend of crime and popular devotion.
Misti Volcano Views
Various vantage points
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Misti Volcano as a stunning backdrop to the cemetery's solemn landscape.
The Pavilion for Unborn Children
Specific section
A poignant and unique area dedicated to unborn children and babies, offering a different perspective on the cemetery's diverse sections.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating the Vast Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many sections. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized during your visit. Purchase flowers outside as options inside are limited. :water_wave: :apple:
Last Entry at 4 PM
Plan your visit accordingly to ensure you enter before the last admission time. :clock1:
Look for Guided Tours
Enhance your understanding of the history and legends with a knowledgeable local guide. 🚶 📜
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many sections. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized during your visit. Purchase flowers outside as options inside are limited. :water_wave: :apple:
Last Entry at 4 PM
Plan your visit accordingly to ensure you enter before the last admission time. :clock1:
Look for Guided Tours
Enhance your understanding of the history and legends with a knowledgeable local guide. 🚶 📜
Capture Stunning Photos
The cemetery offers unique photographic opportunities, especially with Misti Volcano in the background. :camerawithflash:
Check for Special Events
Experience the cemetery during events like the 'Festival Paranormal' for a spooky, immersive visit. 👻 🎆 +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Apacheta Cemetery is a vast historical site with impressive mausoleums and beautiful views of Misti Volcano. While rich in history and local legends, some areas can be neglected, and visitors should be mindful of the cemetery's size to avoid getting lost. Special events offer a unique, albeit busier, experience.
"This place is big, has a beautiful modest church at the Main Street of the cemetery, some people did nice mausoleums, is easy to get lost. You need to buy flowers outside, inside only people for some tip helps with the ladder and water. Last entrance is 4pm. Views of Misti the volcano are beautiful."
Ljubica Banic
"The cemetery has a lot of history, many famous people are there, and just by looking at the art on display, carved in the mausoleums, etc. However, it's not pleasant for me to see how they burned the trees at the entrance with the excuse of placing benches, only to end up with only four, and only two of them have polycarbonate roofs. They damaged the environment and in the process, they saved the money that was intended for that purpose."
Ariana A
"The La Apacheta General Cemetery is a cemetery located in the city of Arequipa, Peru. It is the oldest and largest cemetery in the city, with more than 200,000 graves. It is located a few meters from the oval of the same name. The cemetery began construction in 1826. Its construction was promoted in 1828 by Prefect Antonio Gutiérrez de la Fuente, and it was inaugurated in 1833. On that occasion, the first remains to be buried were those of Arequipa's national hero, Mariano Melgar, with a ceremony and speech by Dean Juan Gualberto Valdivia y Cornejo. The cemetery's name comes from the site where it was built (Apacheta or Apachita), a Quechua name that refers to the stone mounds that indigenous people formed on the summit of the Andes to thank God for their ability to reach the summit with strength. Its location was assigned by Simón Bolívar, considering that the Battle of Apacheta was fought here in 1814, where rebel troops under the command of Mateo Pumacahua defeated the royalist army. From its opening until 1873, it was administered by the Provincial Municipality of Arequipa, and from that year on, by the Arequipa Public Welfare Society.
The cemetery is divided into two parts. The first corresponds to the European migration. The second is the monumental area, where mausoleums dating from the 19th century are located. The cemetery also had an area for atheists and another for condemned prisoners. The cemetery is one of the most notable in the country, containing the tombs of national heroes, presidents of Peru, members of parliament, and mayors of Arequipa."
RAFAEL GARCÍA GODOS SALAZAR
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Apacheta Cemetery is located a few meters from the oval of the same name in Arequipa. You can reach it by taxi or local bus from the city center. The journey is relatively short, making it an accessible destination for day-trippers.
While specific parking details can vary, it's generally advisable to check with local transport providers or consider public transport options as parking might be limited or challenging near the entrance.
Depending on your starting point in Arequipa, walking might be an option, but it's a considerable distance from the main city center. Taxis or buses are more practical for most visitors.
For special events like the 'Festival Paranormal,' it's best to arrange transport in advance or follow the specific instructions provided by the event organizers, as access might be managed differently. +1
The cemetery is located near the 'Apacheta oval,' a significant landmark in Arequipa. This can serve as a good reference point when navigating to the cemetery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The last entrance to La Apacheta Cemetery is typically around 4 PM. It's always a good idea to confirm the exact closing times before your visit, especially if you plan to explore extensively.
General entry to the cemetery might be free or require a small fee. However, for special events like the 'Festival Paranormal,' separate tickets are usually required and can be purchased in advance.
While general access might be minimal, special tours or events like the 'Festival Paranormal' have associated costs, often around 25 soles, as mentioned for Halloween events.
Tickets for special events like the 'Festival Paranormal' can often be purchased at the Arequipa Public Welfare Society or potentially on-site, but booking in advance is recommended due to limited availability.
Yes, the last entrance to La Apacheta Cemetery is at 4 PM, so plan your visit to allow ample time for exploration before closing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the legendary Lira Family Mausoleum, the tomb of folk saint Victor Apaza Quispe, and the poignant pavilion for unborn children. The views of Misti Volcano are also spectacular. +2
Absolutely! The cemetery offers unique photographic opportunities with its historical mausoleums, intricate art, and the stunning backdrop of Misti Volcano. The 'golden hour' in the late afternoon is particularly good for photos.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to understand the rich history, legends, and notable figures buried here. They can also help you navigate the vast grounds.
The name 'Apacheta' comes from Quechua, referring to stone mounds indigenous people built on mountain summits. The cemetery's location is significant as the site of the 1814 Battle of Apacheta.
The monumental area features mausoleums dating from the 19th century, showcasing impressive artistry and architectural styles. Many are quite ornate and historically significant.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for vantage points that capture the grand mausoleums with Misti Volcano in the background. The intricate details on older tombs also make for compelling shots.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with cemetery management or local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
Late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' offer beautiful lighting for photography, casting a warm glow on the monuments and landscape.
Consider capturing the architectural details of the mausoleums, the historical inscriptions, and the unique atmosphere of the cemetery, especially during twilight or special events. +1
While general photography is usually permitted, it's respectful to be mindful of ongoing ceremonies or private family plots. Always be discreet and respectful.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit