Areas to Avoid in Arequipa
Peru
|🛡️ SafeHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Arequipa. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Arequipa is generally Safe
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Historical Center, Yanahuara, Cayma
Travel Insurance for Arequipa
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Arequipa are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Areas immediately surrounding the bus terminals
These areas can be chaotic, noisy, and are known for petty theft targeting arriving and departing travelers.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Historical Center
Colonial charm and vibrant plazas, the heart of Arequipa's history and culture.
Less developed outskirts
While not inherently dangerous, these areas lack tourist infrastructure and can present safety challenges, especially after dark.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Yanahuara
Charming residential district with stunning views of the Misti volcano.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Arequipa
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Arequipa Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Arequipa on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Arequipa Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Arequipa with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Arequipa: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Arequipa's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Arequipa: Scenic Excursion
Escape Arequipa for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Arequipa Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Arequipa's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Arequipa
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Arequipa on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Arequipa safely with a local guide
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Historical Center
Colonial charm and vibrant plazas, the heart of Arequipa's history and culture.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets.
Yanahuara
Charming residential district with stunning views of the Misti volcano.
Generally very safe day and night due to its residential nature; well-lit main streets.
General Safety Tips for Arequipa
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas in the Historical Center. Avoid walking alone in deserted streets or parks after dark. Taxis or ride-sharing are recommended for late-night travel.
Solo Female Travel
Arequipa is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, and be mindful of your surroundings.
Emergency Number
105
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Arequipa
- 1Overcharging by unofficial taxis
- 2Distraction pickpocketing in crowded markets and plazas
- 3Fake police officers asking for 'fines'
Travel Insurance for Arequipa
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Historical Center
Colonial charm and vibrant plazas, the heart of Arequipa's history and culture.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets.
Yanahuara
Charming residential district with stunning views of the Misti volcano.
Generally very safe day and night due to its residential nature; well-lit main streets.
Cayma
Upscale residential area with modern amenities and green spaces.
Very safe during the day and night; well-lit streets and a strong police presence.
Safety in Arequipa
SafeSolo Female Travel
Arequipa is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, and be mindful of your surroundings.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas in the Historical Center. Avoid walking alone in deserted streets or parks after dark. Taxis or ride-sharing are recommended for late-night travel.
Emergency
105
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unofficial taxis
- 2Distraction pickpocketing in crowded markets and plazas
- 3Fake police officers asking for 'fines'
Found your hotel in Arequipa?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Areas to Avoid in Other Popular Cities
Safety guides for other destinations travellers are researching
Areas to Avoid in London
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Paris
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Barcelona
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Rome
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Tokyo
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Amsterdam
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Plan Your Perfect Arequipa Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.