Santa Catalina Monastery Arequipa
A vast 16th-century monastery, a 'city within a city' in Arequipa, renowned for its vibrant colors and historical insights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Discounted entry for locals
Santa Catalina Monastery Arequipa
Best Time
Discounted entry for locals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast 16th-century monastery, a 'city within a city' in Arequipa, renowned for its vibrant colors and historical insights.
"This place is one of the most fascinating monasteries or religious sites we’ve visited."
Download the Free App
Get detailed info on each room without a paid guide. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and vast grounds require comfy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Red and Blue Alleys
Throughout the monastery
Wander through narrow, colorful streets painted in striking reds and blues, offering endless photo opportunities.
Nuns' Cells and Living Quarters
Various sections
Step back in time exploring the preserved cells and rooms, offering a glimpse into the secluded lives of the nuns.
The Fruit Garden
Central courtyard
A peaceful oasis with lush greenery and flowers, offering a serene escape and beautiful views.
Mirador (Viewpoint)
Highest point
Enjoy panoramic views of Arequipa's white city and surrounding volcanoes from this elevated vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Dates
Comfortable Shoes Are a Must
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download the Free App
Get detailed info on each room without a paid guide. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and vast grounds require comfy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Visit on Promo Days
10th of month/last Sunday for 15 soles entry (Peruvians only). :ticket:
Allow 1.5-2 Hours
Plenty to see and learn, don't rush the experience. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download the Free App
Get detailed info on each room without a paid guide. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and vast grounds require comfy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Visit on Promo Days
10th of month/last Sunday for 15 soles entry (Peruvians only). :ticket:
Allow 1.5-2 Hours
Plenty to see and learn, don't rush the experience. :stopwatch:
Capture the Colors
The vibrant red and blue walls are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Free WiFi Available
Stay connected while exploring this historic site. :wifi:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Santa Catalina Monastery as a must-see in Arequipa, often describing it as a 'city within a city' due to its vast size and intricate layout. The vibrant colors, well-preserved cells, and historical insights are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While some find the admission price a bit high, most agree the experience is well worth it for its unique atmosphere and photogenic qualities.
"A very beautiful and very old monastery that gives you an interesting view of the life of the nuns. Many of the old cells seem like the nun living in it might return any minute. The fruit garden was one of my favorite places in the vast, colorful and beautifully decorated edifice. There is free wifi and a guide you can download if you don't want to take a tour guide which you'd have to pay extra."
Enrico DeZulian
"A beautiful place, a city within a city. The monastery is in very good condition, and the guides provide professional service in several languages. Regular admission is 45 soles, but on the 10th of each month, it's 15 soles. The only thing is that it's not recommended for wheelchair users or strollers (no ramps available)"
Fernando Noda
"This place is one of the most fascinating monasteries or religious sites we’ve visited. During the colonial era, the monastery housed nuns dedicated to the Catholic faith, many of whom came from wealthy and powerful Spanish or Creole families.
There are remnants of the extravagant lifestyles the nuns once had, such as high-end tapestries, silver tableware, fine European ceramics, and even a room filled with elegant furniture where they entertained guests.
For me, the highlight of the monastery was the vibrant colors—rust-red and deep blue—on its walls and windows, which let in beautiful natural light across the small village-like complex. The monastery is also very picturesque, with charming gardens and flowers throughout. I found it amusing how many kitchens there were within the grounds.
Towards the exit, there is a small street that leads to a café, set against the stunning backdrop of glacier-capped mountain peaks.
Although we didn’t hire a guide, we took time to read about the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. It took us about an hour and a half to fully enjoy the experience."
Charlotte Bae
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Santa Catalina Monastery is located in the historic center of Arequipa, making it easily accessible. You can walk from the Plaza de Armas in about 10-15 minutes. Taxis are also readily available and will take you directly to the entrance. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with a walking tour of the city. +1
Parking directly at the monastery is very limited. It's best to park in a public lot or garage in the city center and walk, or take a taxi directly to the entrance. The surrounding streets can be narrow and busy.
While there isn't a direct bus route right to the monastery entrance, local buses (combis) run frequently through the city center. You would likely need to get off a few blocks away and walk. Taxis or walking are generally more convenient for tourists.
Yes, guided tours are available for an additional fee. You can also opt for a self-guided tour using the monastery's free app, which provides detailed information about each section.
Many visitors enjoy the free viewpoint across the street from the monastery for stunning exterior shots, especially during golden hour. Once inside, explore the colorful alleys for unique perspectives.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The regular admission price is 45 soles per person. However, on the 10th of each month and the last Sunday of each month, there are promotional days where entry is only 15 soles for Peruvians.
Yes, there are discounted rates for students (5 soles) and children (5 soles) on promotional days, provided they present their DNI. Regular admission prices may vary.
For regular admission, booking in advance is generally not required, as tickets can be purchased at the entrance. However, for special events or during peak tourist seasons, it might be advisable to check their official website.
The monastery is typically open daily from around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check the official website or contact them for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
Unfortunately, the monastery is not recommended for wheelchair users or those with strollers due to its historic cobblestone paths and uneven terrain. There are limited ramps available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the monastery to fully appreciate its history, architecture, and vibrant colors. You could easily spend longer if you take your time or join a guided tour.
Don't miss the stunning red and blue painted alleys, the preserved nuns' cells, the peaceful fruit garden, and the viewpoint offering panoramic city views. The old kitchens are also a fascinating glimpse into daily life.
Yes, free WiFi is available within the monastery grounds, allowing you to stay connected and perhaps share your experiences in real-time.
Some TikTok videos mention paranormal legends and ghost stories related to the monastery, adding an intriguing layer to the visit for those interested in the supernatural. +2
The monastery is incredibly photogenic with its colorful walls, charming courtyards, and intricate architecture. It's a dream location for photographers, especially during the morning or late afternoon light. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located towards the exit of the monastery, offering refreshments with a view of the mountains. It's a nice spot to relax after your exploration.
The area around the monastery is filled with excellent restaurants and cafes. You can find traditional Peruvian cuisine, local Arequipeñan specialties, and international options. Many cafes offer great views.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best practice to consume outside food and drinks before entering religious sites. There are cafes and eateries available within and near the monastery.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a beautiful atmosphere. The vibrant colors pop during these times.
Drones are generally not permitted inside religious sites or historical monuments like the Santa Catalina Monastery to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. Always check local regulations.
The narrow, brightly painted alleys (especially red and blue), the cloisters, the fruit garden, and the architectural details of the buildings are all highly photogenic. The viewpoint also offers great cityscapes.
You can photograph the preserved cells and living quarters to get a sense of the nuns' lives. However, always be respectful of the religious nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the narrow alleys and expansive courtyards. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots. A prime lens can be useful for low-light conditions inside some buildings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for kids, focus on the visual aspects – the bright colors, the different rooms, and the unique architecture. You can also weave in some of the more intriguing (but not too scary) legends about the monastery to spark their imagination. Pack snacks and water, as options inside are limited to a cafe.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money on guides, utilize the free downloadable app provided by the monastery. This allows you to explore at your own pace and learn about the history without the extra cost of a private guide. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at the on-site cafe, which can be pricier.
📸 Photographers
+1Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive courtyards and tight passages. A standard zoom will be versatile for details and wider scenes. Be mindful of the lighting inside some of the older buildings, where a prime lens might be beneficial. Remember to be respectful of the site's religious nature while capturing its beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A City Within a City: The Monastery's Layout
+2Visitors often describe it as stepping back in time, with each corner revealing a new vista or historical detail. The architecture is a stunning blend of colonial Spanish and indigenous influences, reflecting the era of its construction in 1579. The sheer scale of the monastery is impressive, and it's easy to spend hours getting lost in its colorful maze, discovering hidden courtyards and admiring the intricate details of the religious art and artifacts.
+1Exploring the monastery offers a profound insight into the disciplined yet rich lives led by the Dominican nuns. From the austere simplicity of the cells to the remnants of luxurious items that hint at the wealthy backgrounds of some inhabitants, the monastery tells a compelling story of faith, tradition, and social history. The contrast between the quiet, contemplative atmosphere and the vibrant colors creates a truly unique and memorable experience.
The Colors of Arequipa: A Visual Feast
+2These vivid hues transform the monastery into an incredibly photogenic destination. Photographers and travelers alike are drawn to the narrow, winding streets, where the intense colors create dramatic backdrops for portraits and architectural shots. The play of light and shadow on these painted walls adds another layer of depth and beauty, making every turn a potential postcard-perfect moment.
+2The colorful aesthetic extends beyond the monastery, as Arequipa is known as the 'White City' due to its sillar volcanic stone architecture, but also features many brightly painted buildings. The Santa Catalina Monastery stands as a prime example of this tradition, offering visitors a feast for the eyes and a deep appreciation for the artistic heritage of the region.
+1Legends and Lore: The Monastery's Mystique
One recurring theme is the idea that some nuns who entered the monastery never left, leading to speculation about their fates and lingering presences. While these are largely folklore, they contribute to the monastery's mystique and can add an exciting dimension to a visit, especially for those interested in the supernatural. The sheer age and enclosed nature of the complex lend themselves to such captivating narratives.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these legends are an integral part of the monastery's cultural fabric. They are often shared by locals and can be a fun topic of conversation as you explore the quiet corridors and cells, imagining the lives and stories of those who walked these paths long ago.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit