Known as the white city, Arequipa is Peru’s second biggest metropolis and an absolute must on any South American itinerary.
From strolling the colonial streets to hiking the nearby canyon, there’s no end to the amount of great things to do and see here, meaning the only real choice left is … where to stay?!
So here, to help you out, is my list of the 9 best budget places to stay in Arequipa.
Perfect for those backpacking this incredible part of the world, these spots offer a great place to rest your head close to the city centre, which is just what you want right?!
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My stay in Arequipa was kindly sponsored by Le Foyer Hostel, but, as always, all views are my own.
#1 Le Foyer Hostel
This gorgeous hostel is definitely my number 1 choice when it comes to the best budget places to stay in Arequipa, Peru.
With an absolutely incredible location right in the heart of the city, Le Foyer Hostel has some super friendly staff and the wonderful breakfasts served on the rooftop terrace hit the spot every time!
Small-number dorms, as well as large private rooms are on offer and all are spotlessly clean.
You can easily organise tours around Arequipa and to the amazing Colca Canyon through the hostel, and they even let me check-in early… bonus!
Piping hot showers, an efficient laundry service and great wifi sealed the deal!
#2 Las Torres de Ugarte
Right near the monastery of Santa Catalina Monastery in the heart of Arequipa, Las Torres de Ugarte, boasts a roof terrace complete with volcano views and includes a buffet breakfast and a very high level of comfort compared to many of the city’s other cheaper hostels.
Perfect for those on a budget, Las Torres de Ugarte is known for its family atmosphere and is a quiet place, perfect for visitors seeking rest and relaxation, rather than a crazy party!
With 24/7 reception, free wifi and tons of room, this place is definitely one of the best places to stay in Arequipa for those who want a central location with good amenities and a good night’s sleep!
#3 Vallecito Backpackers
With the best banana pancakes in town, it isn’t just the great value for money that draws people to the Vallecito Backpackers!
In fact, no matter why they choose to stay here in the first place, people always seem to leave this hostel happy.
A well-established backpackers in Arequipa, this family-run business is super organised, with a tour agency on site and clean, spacious rooms.
Staff go out of their way to help guests and even offer a laundry service for only a few soles p/kg for those that ask nicely – which is perfect after all that hiking in the countryside around Arequipa.
#4 Posada Nueva Espana
If it’s Peruvian hospitality that’s required, then Posada Nueva Espana could be the best spot in Arequipa.
Indeed the staff here really can’t do enough for guests and have plenty of good advice when it comes to exploring the city and attractions beyond such as the Colca Canyon.
Posada Nueva Espana straddles the border well between hotel and hostel and is an excellent choice for those looking for some Arequipa accommodation that is budget-friendly, but not a backpackers.
#5 Peter’s Hostel
Probably the cheapest bed in Arequipa, Peter’s Hostel is perfect for those travelling on a shoestring, but who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Repeatedly getting rave reviews from travellers, this backpackers is really centrally located, at only 1 block from the Plaza De Armes.
There are great communal areas here, as well as free wifi.
It’s small and cosy – with space for only 30 people – which is a nice point of difference from some of the larger backpackers in Arequipa.
#6 La Casa de Ana
For those looking to stay out of the busy centre of Arequipa, in a much quieter and more peaceful setting, La Casa de Ana is a great accommodation choice to consider.
Located in the beautiful suburb of Yanahuara, this budget hotel has a real family atmosphere and is truly a home away from home.
A beautiful roof terrace and a fantastic guest kitchen, complete this look and the included breakfasts are rumoured to be some of the best in the city!
#7 Park Hostel
Situated in a large colonial house, Park Hostel gives Arequipa’s heritage a modern twist.
There’s personal speakers for ipods in the bedrooms for example, as well as cable TV and a great games room.
A sunny terrace, complete with loungers and loads of beautiful plants, frames the volcano views nicely and it’s the perfect place to unwind in the afternoon with a beer.
More like a guesthouse than a hostel, this is definitely a top Arequipa accommodation pick for budget travellers.
#8 Maycawasi
When it comes to backpacker accommodation in Arequipa, it’s hard to look past Maycawasi, one of the newest hostels in town, which offers excellent value for those visiting this city on a shoestring.
With both dorms and private rooms available, there a good range of accommodation to choose from here and all prices include a simple breakfast. There is also a kitchen available for guests to use.
Located in downtown Arequipa, Maycawasi is close to many shops, cafes, restaurants and bars, making it a great choice for travellers who want to enjoy the city nightlife.
There’s no curfew and the sunny terrace is a good place to meet other visitors.
#9 Wild Rover Hostel
This is the place to come if you want to party in Arequipa. Simple as that.
Personally, I’m way too old for this sort of vibe now, but if you’ve still got the energy of a spring chicken, or indeed you are still a spring chicken, then the Wild Rover would be a helluva lot of fun.
With a large pool, cheap drinks and a poolside bar, it’s no surprise this backpacker claims to have the best atmosphere in town, and it’s so well-located that even if you are tragically hungover the next day, you can just roll of bed and into the centre of Arequipa, it’s that close.
Lockers are found in the dorms, breakfast is included but sleep is optional!
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Mini Travel Guide to Arequipa
Best Time to Visit?
The best time to visit Arequipa, in my opinion, is during the dry season in the Andes aka winter in Peru – a season which runs largely from the months of June through to October.
Learn more in this article I wrote all about Peru’s climate, weather and the best time to go.
How to Get to Arequipa?
You can arrive into the international airport in Lima and from there travel by bus or domestic flight to Arequipa, which takes around 9 minutes.
As always, I recommend Skyscanner for finding the best deals.
Otherwsie to book buses to Arequipa from around Peru, check out Bookaway, who offer secure, easy reservations.
How Long to Spend There?
I’d recommend a stay of at least 2 days in Arequipa, which will give you enough time to explore all the things in the city centre.
If you’re then wanting to explore around Arequipa, including the Colca Canyon, which you definitely should, I’d give yourself anything up to a week in the area, which is the amount of time I spent there!
Wellbeing & Safety in Arequipa
As a solo female traveller, safety when travelling alone (especially in remote areas) is always big on my radar.
Although I have heard and read reports about female travellers being harassed in the city, I haven’t experienced any of that myself and can only say that I felt safe here the whole time.
That said, there’s a lot of common sense involved in safety too.
My advice is to stick with other travellers, don’t wander out alone at night and always be clear about your boundaries in all situations.
You’ll also want to ensure you drink enough water as dehydration can be a problem here.
Travelling with a LifeStraw Go Water Bottle, which you can use to purify water from any fresh water source, is a top option to help you do this.
I bought one for my trip to South America – as it then allowed me to drink the tap water safely – and now wouldn’t be anywhere without it!
Sun protection is another thing to factor in here and packing clothes (like a cap or hat) and lotion that will protect you from the strong UV rays at that elevation is definitely recommended.
5 Peru Packing Essentials
#1 Good Camera – I would never even think of travelling to Peru without a camera good enough to capture the amazing landscape and people of this country. Both my Sony A6000 and GoPro Hero have been perfect for the job!
#2 Waterproof / Windproof Jackets – With so much of this country situated high in the Andes, taking a waterproof and windproof jacket is essential if you’re going to be hiking or sightseeing in the mountains. I highly recommend the North Face Venture 2.
#3 Hiking Boots – You can’t come to Peru and not do some trekking, so make sure you come prepared with some good, supportive hiking boots… I’ve never worn mine so much in my life! These Keen Targhee II’s are the ideal solution.
#4 Day Pack – Also for the hiking and sightseeing, a good daypack to carry water, snacks, camera, hat, gloves and other clothing layers is key in Peru! This one from Osprey is my pick.
#5 Travel Scarf – And finally, I’ve just discovered the amazing travel wraps from Sholdit and am so happy I took mine to Peru. Acting both as a scarf to keep you warm and a place to store your valuables while you’re out and about, this great invention is perfect for travel in South America.
To learn more about what to pack for a Peru trip in general, check out my ultimate Peru packing list.
Travel Insurance for Peru
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.
Recommended Peru Tours
If you’re not totally comfortable with travelling this country independently, then a small group or guided tour is a great option that will have you seeing the best of Peru safely, securely and easily.
Check out these top picks for some super ideas and prices.
Want to Volunteer in Peru?
If you want to combine your time travelling in this South American country with giving something back, then why not consider volunteering in Peru?
It could even help you save money and travel for longer!
You can access loads of great volunteer opportunities in this country when you sign up to Worldpackers. Learn more here.
Travel Money in Peru
The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card in this country, and it links easily with Google and Apple pay. Grab yours here.
SAVE THIS TO PINTEREST!
Have you visited Arequipa in Peru?
What are your recommendations when it comes to budget places to stay?
Do tell me all in the comments box below…
Hi Stephanie! We really think we should be part of this list. Please come stay with us next time you’re in Arequipa.
To tell you a little about the hostel: Le Foyer Hostel is located right in the heart of the city centre and in walking distance to all the most important attractions.
Hope you decide to visit us, all the best!
Hi Le Foyer Hostel, thanks for stopping by my blog! I would love to come and stay with you guys next time I’m in Arequipa, your place sounds perfect. How long have you been open?
Hi Steph, we’ve been a family business since 1986, now being ran by the second generation. So yes, some experience here. Let us know when you come to visit Arequipa again. Get in touch any time!
Thanks, I definitely will do 🙂