Cayma, Arequipa Travel Guide

Discover Cayma in Arequipa, Peru: A neighbourhood rich in history, stunning architecture, and vibrant local culture, with panoramic views of Misti Volcano and the Chili River.

Nestled in the northern part of Arequipa, Cayma is a charming neighbourhood that offers a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant local culture. Known for its panoramic views of the surrounding Misti Volcano and the Chili River, Cayma is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic Peruvian experience. Cayma is home to the beautiful Plaza de Cayma, a picturesque square that serves as the heart of the neighbourhood. Here, you can admire the historic Church of San Miguel Arcángel, a stunning colonial-era structure that dates back to the 18th century. The church's intricate façade and serene interior provide a glimpse into the region's deep-rooted religious traditions. For food lovers, Cayma offers a delightful array of culinary experiences. The neighbourhood is known for its traditional picanterías, where you can savour local dishes like rocoto relleno and chupe de camarones. These charming eateries provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family. Cayma also boasts a range of outdoor activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic trails that wind through the neighbourhood, or visit the nearby Yanahuara viewpoint for breathtaking vistas of Arequipa's skyline. Whether you're exploring its historic streets or enjoying its natural beauty, Cayma promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cayma.

Visit Plaza de Cayma early in the morning to enjoy the square without the crowds.
Don't miss the traditional picanterías; they offer some of the best local cuisine.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the neighbourhood's cobblestone streets can be uneven.
Check the weather forecast before heading to the Yanahuara viewpoint for the best views.

Explore Cayma: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Cayma

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Plaza de Armas Arequipa

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning architecture at Plaza de Armas, Arequipa's historical heart where tradition meets beauty.

4.7

Yanahuara Scenic Overlook

Explore stunning panoramic views of Arequipa and the majestic Misti volcano at Yanahuara Scenic Overlook, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

4.5

Plaza Las Américas

Explore Plaza Las Américas, a lively park in Cerro Colorado, offering lush greenery, vibrant cultural events, and a taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine.

4.1

Airplane Park

Explore the unique Airplane Park in Arequipa, where aviation history meets stunning green landscapes, perfect for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.

3.9

Best landmarks in Cayma

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Plaza de Armas Arequipa

Experience the charm of Arequipa at Plaza de Armas, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking architecture and vibrant local culture.

4.7

Yanahuara Scenic Overlook

Explore the stunning vistas and rich culture at Yanahuara Scenic Overlook, a top tourist attraction in Peru showcasing breathtaking views of El Misti volcano.

4.5

Plaza Las Américas

Discover the serene beauty of Plaza Las Américas in Cerro Colorado, a vibrant park combining nature, culture, and local charm for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Carmen Alto viewpoint

Discover stunning panoramic views of Cusco's landscapes at Carmen Alto Viewpoint, a must-see observation deck for nature lovers and photographers.

4.3

Best restaurants in Cayma

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La Nueva Palomino

Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at La Nueva Palomino in Yanahuara – where every dish tells a story.

4.3

El Tablón Cayma

Discover El Tablón Cayma - where delicious pizzas meet authentic Peruvian cuisine in a cozy setting perfect for any occasion.

3.6

Picantería La Capitana

Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Picantería La Capitana in Cayma - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.3

Fridays Arequipa

Experience vibrant dining at Fridays Arequipa - where local flavors meet lively ambiance in the heart of Cayma.

4.2

Best bars in Cayma

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B52 Restobar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru at B52 Restobar, a top gastropub in Arequipa offering a unique blend of local and international cuisines.

3.8

República

Experience the best of Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist at República Gastropub in Cayma, where every meal is a celebration of flavors.

4.1

Arena Sports Bar

Experience the perfect blend of sports and culinary delights at Arena Sports Bar in Cayma, an exciting gastropub for every visitor.

4.2

Mahalotikibaraqp

Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru at Mahalotikibaraqp, where tradition meets innovation in a cozy gastropub setting.

3.4

Best nightclubs in Cayma

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La Casona Forum

Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Casona Forum, Arequipa's premier disco club with electrifying music and a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Patria 209

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Arequipa at Patria 209, the premier disco club offering unforgettable music and dancing.

4.0

BLACK MOON - Bar club

Immerse yourself in the electrifying nightlife of Arequipa at BLACK MOON - the ultimate disco club experience.

4.0

La Noche

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cerro Colorado at La Noche, a premier disco club offering electrifying music and unforgettable dance parties.

3.4

Best shops in Cayma

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Mall Plaza Arequipa

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Mall Plaza Arequipa, where vibrant culture meets modern convenience.

4.3

Parque Lambramani

Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Parque Lambramani, Arequipa's top destination for retail, dining, and entertainment.

4.2

Saga Falabella

Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Saga Falabella in Cayma, where international brands meet local flair in a stunning department store.

4.0

Mundo Alpaca

Discover the beauty of Peruvian craftsmanship at Mundo Alpaca, a boutique showcasing exquisite alpaca textiles and rich cultural heritage in Arequipa.

4.4

Explore Cayma on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cayma, mapped for you.

Cayma Essentials

Cayma is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Arequipa. You can take a taxi or a mototaxi from the city center, which typically takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses also connect Cayma to the main areas of Arequipa, with routes frequently running throughout the day. The main bus terminal for local routes is located near the Plaza de Armas, making it convenient for travelers.
Cayma is relatively small and can be explored on foot, allowing visitors to appreciate its local charm. Local buses and taxis are readily available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. Bicycles can be rented from various shops, and there are dedicated bike lanes in some parts of the neighborhood. It's advisable to agree on taxi fares beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Cayma is generally safe for tourists; however, it is advisable to exercise caution, especially after dark. Areas near the outskirts may have higher crime rates, so it's best to avoid them at night. Always keep your belongings secure and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas. Trust your instincts and seek help if you feel uncomfortable.
In case of an emergency, dial 105 for police assistance or 116 for fire services in Peru. Medical emergencies can be directed to the nearest hospital, which you can find through locals or your accommodation. Always carry a copy of your passport and any important contact numbers. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting churches. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; remove your hat when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake; a warm smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and accept food offers. Don’t waste food or decline hospitality, as it may be seen as offensive.
To experience Cayma like a local, visit the small markets where fresh produce and artisanal goods are sold. Join in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the culture. Engage with locals; they are often hospitable and willing to share stories about their neighborhood. Explore the surrounding natural beauty, including nearby hiking trails and lookout points for stunning views of the Misti Volcano.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cayma

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cayma. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-vohr]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [eh-soh ehs moo-ee kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dee-ah (deez) vehn-tee]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2dos
  [dohs]
- 3tres
  [trehs]
- 4cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6seis
  [sehs]
- 7siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl prohk-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

History of Cayma

Cayma's history dates back to pre-Columbian times when it was inhabited by indigenous groups, including the Collaguas and the Cabana. These communities utilized the fertile lands along the Chili River for agriculture, cultivating crops such as potatoes, corn, and quinoa. The area served as an essential agricultural hub, contributing to the sustenance of nearby populations, including the growing city of Arequipa.
With the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, Cayma began to transform under colonial rule. The Spaniards established estates and colonial buildings, contributing to the area's architectural heritage. The construction of the Church of Cayma in the 18th century exemplifies the fusion of indigenous and Spanish influences, featuring baroque styles alongside local artistic expressions.
Cayma is known for its rich cultural traditions, particularly in the celebration of religious festivals. The Feast of the Virgin of Cayma, celebrated in September, draws both locals and visitors who partake in vibrant processions, music, and traditional dances. This event highlights the area's strong spiritual and communal identity, deeply rooted in both indigenous and colonial histories.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Cayma has experienced significant urban development, transitioning from a predominantly agricultural area to a suburban neighborhood of Arequipa. This growth has brought about modern amenities, housing developments, and an influx of residents seeking a quieter lifestyle while remaining connected to the vibrant city. Despite this modernization, Cayma retains its cultural essence, with historical sites and local markets still reflecting its rich past.
Cayma is home to several historical buildings that showcase its architectural heritage, including the colonial-era mansions and the iconic Church of Cayma. Efforts have been made to preserve these structures, recognizing their significance in narrating the history of Arequipa and the region. The area's architecture reflects the broader Baroque influence seen throughout Arequipa, earning it the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.