Yanahuara lookout point in Arequipa

The Yanahuara viewpoint, located in Arequipa, offers a panoramic view of the city and the Chachani, Pichu Pichu, and Misti volcanoes. Next to it stands a colonial church, making it one of the main landmarks of the "White City".

History of the Yanahuara Viewpoint in Arequipa

During the pre-Hispanic period, the most important settlement in Arequipa was Yanahuara, initially known as Chimba, which spanned from Cayma to Tiabaya. It was later renamed San Juan Bautista de Chimba and eventually Yanahuara, after the Yanahuara people who inhabited the area.

Yanahuara was an important center for textiles, producing items like bayetas and ponchos. Francisco López Ballesteros, a famous weaver, contributed to the training of textile masters in the Arequipean mestizo art. In 1870, Yanahuara was declared a town, alongside Tiabaya, one of the oldest districts in Arequipa.

Today, Yanahuara is one of the 29 districts of Arequipa, known for its colonial church, the Convent of San Juan Bautista, and its famous viewpoint. Despite the earthquakes that have shaken the area, the viewpoint has endured and has become one of the most visited and photographed places in the city.

Architecture of the Yanahuara Viewpoint

Architecturally, the viewpoint is built with volcanic rock from the city. Its arches were constructed in the 19th century to enhance the beauty of the location, situated at the foot of the snow-capped Chachani, Pichu Pichu, and Misti volcanoes.

But that's not all—each of its arches has inscriptions on its facade with some of Arequipa's most popular quotes, as well as those from Arequipean thinkers. If you're there, you should take a moment to read them.

What to See and Do at the Yanahuara Viewpoint?

The Yanahuara viewpoint is one of Arequipa's most iconic landmarks, offering a spectacular view of the city and nearby volcanoes. Here are some of the main attractions you can explore in the area:

• Enjoy a great view of the 3 volcanoes and the city. The viewpoint offers an impressive view of the city, both by day and night, and its architecture and panorama are always spectacular at any time of year.
• Walk through the streets. The houses in Callejón del Cabildo are built with sillar, a white volcanic rock. Just a few blocks away is the famous Haunted House, a well-known spot in the area.
• Stroll around the Yanahuara Square. The Yanahuara square is peaceful, surrounded by palm trees, and right in front of the viewpoint. It's perfect for taking photos and enjoying the traditional ice cream made from cheese (queso helado).
• Visit the San Juan Bautista de Yanahuara Parish. The church of San Juan Bautista stands out for its Baroque style and is the preferred place for Arequipeans to hold weddings and baptisms.
• Get the Arequipa Republic Passport. Near the church, there is a craft shop offering various products, including the famous Arequipa Passport.

What Do the Scribbles on the Arches of the Yanahuara Viewpoint Mean?

The arches of the viewpoint feature excerpts from the verses of poems written by Arequipean literary figures:

• First arch: "The street no one walks, the lamp that doesn’t light, a winding neighborhood inhabited by people who tremble at hearing about a ghost."
  Second arch: "Here, metal cannons were made from bells to direct the waters of republican lava."
  Third arch: "City with the philosophy of a seed, where a mistake gives rise to a revolution."
  Fourth arch: "I wish to be humble like your people, resting after work when the light fades."
  Fifth arch: "Arequipa has fought for years, bravely conquering institutions for the country, one is not born in vain at the foot of a volcano."
  Sixth arch: "The people who defend their rights carry an invincible wall in their chest."
  Seventh arch: "I am Arequipean and I love you like a mother, your greatness feeds my desires and makes me a lion before anyone who insults you. Arequipa is righteous land, I affirm it."
  Eighth arch: "Mystic Yanahuara, with its gardens of Judea, surrounded by rustic fields where fruit trees rise, adorning your streets with the peace of a village."
  Ninth arch: "Arequipa, land of the free, united under the volcano: you live free and happy when you choose to be free before your bread."

Spectacular Views from the Yanahuara Viewpoint

From the Yanahuara viewpoint, you'll have a panoramic view of the entire city of Arequipa and the three volcanoes surrounding it: Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani. You'll also be able to enjoy Yanahuara Square, surrounded by palm trees, making it an ideal spot for photos.

Contemplating the Misti Volcano from the Viewpoint

Seeing the Misti volcano from the viewpoint is breathtaking, though there are other viewpoints with similar views. However, this one stands out for its history and the quotes from Arequipa writers inscribed on each of its arches.

Panorama of Arequipa City from Yanahuara

The viewpoint offers spectacular views of the city, including the Arequipa Cathedral, the Santa Catalina Monastery, and the three volcanoes. Many visitors wait for sunset, when the sun sets behind the volcanoes and the city lights up, creating the perfect moment to enjoy and photograph.

Visit the Yanahuara Chapel

The chapel, built in the 18th century with sillar and Baroque style, retains its colonial architecture. It is a popular spot among locals, who choose it for weddings and other religious events.

Buy Souvenirs and Crafts from Yanahuara

Just a few steps away, you can find various handicrafts, ceramics, clothing, and sillar carvings. The highlight is that you can acquire the Arequipa Republic Passport, which recognizes you as an honorary citizen of the city.

Where is the Yanahuara Viewpoint Located?

The viewpoint is located 2 km from the city of Arequipa, specifically on Miguel Grau, Yanahuara.

Location of the Yanahuara Viewpoint

How to Get to the Yanahuara Viewpoint?

You can walk to the viewpoint, which takes between 20 to 25 minutes. Simply walk to Santa Catalina Street, turn at Puente Grau, cross the Chili River, and follow the Cuesta del Ángel, which will take you directly to the viewpoint.

Another option is to take a taxi for about 5 soles or hire a tour agency, which will not only take you to the viewpoint but also to other tourist attractions in Arequipa.

Bus Lines that Go to the Yanahuara Viewpoint

The Yanahuara Viewpoint can be reached on foot from the center of Arequipa. You can also take a bus. The bus lines that go to the Yanahuara Viewpoint are 5202, CR62, IO03, IO14, IO37B, and OM24.

How to Get to the Yanahuara Viewpoint from Arequipa's Main Square?

Entry Fee to Yanahuara

Visiting this place is perfect for enjoying with family and friends. Plus, it’s free, and I assure you it will be an unforgettable experience.

Visiting Hours

The Yanahuara viewpoint in Arequipa is open from 8 AM to 5 PM, so you can enjoy its views during these hours.

In summary, Arequipa offers a unique experience, with its Main Square, traditional markets, viewpoint, colonial churches, and sillar houses that make it special.

Don't forget to visit all the tourist destinations in Arequipa with Illapa Culturas Andinas travel agency. They have specialized staff. If you're interested, contact us via our website at info1@illapa.com or call +51 944 714 563.