Would you like to know which neighborhoods to avoid for a safe tourist stay in Arequipa?
Indeed, as in any city, some places are more dangerous than others for visitors.
By avoiding these risky areas, you will be able to fully enjoy your stay and explore the magnificent colonial architecture and incredible natural landscapes of Arequipa in peace.
Although the city is not as dangerous as Lima or Cuzco , some neighborhoods in Arequipa should be avoided, especially at night.
Here is the 2025 guide to the most dangerous and safest neighborhoods to stay in Arequipa for a safe stay.
Is Arequipa dangerous in 2025?
Arequipa has seen a significant increase in crime in recent years, moving from a relatively calm city to one with increasing security concerns.
Indeed, criminal activity has grown at an alarming rate over the past four years (an increase of 4% compared to the previous year).
Violent crimes such as aggravated robbery, homicide and extortion have increased significantly.
Compared with the crime rates of other tourist cities, Arequipa is one of the least dangerous cities in South America (see Numbeo.com ).
However, with a crime index of 44.11 , Arequipa is still much safer than Quito , Rio de Janeiro , Valparaiso or Buenos Aires.
Most dangerous areas and neighborhoods in Arequipa
Although Arequipa is one of the most beautiful cities in Peru , there are unfortunately some neighborhoods that present a higher risk for visitors.
The most dangerous areas of Arequipa are in the following districts:
- Miraflores
- Paucarpata
- Bustamante y Rivero
- Colorado hill
- Mariano Melgar
- Cayma y Hunter
- José Luis Bustamante y Rivero
- Alto Selva Alegre
And here are the more specific areas that should be avoided, especially at night:
- Around the shopping center Andrés Avelino Cáceres
- Miguel Grau
- Mall
- The Incas
- Mayta Capac
- Avenida Jesus
- Peru Arbo
- Cono Norte
- Land Terminal
The safest neighborhoods in Arequipa
Arequipa, nicknamed "the white city," offers several beautiful, interesting, and safe neighborhoods for a tourist stay. See how to visit Arequipa on foot.
Here are the most recommended areas to stay:
Historic Center (Cercado)
The historic heart of Arequipa is the most popular area for visitors. It is an area secured by a strong police presence.
Here you can find the most beautiful tourist sites in Arequipa:
- The Plaza de Armas surrounded by colonial buildings made of volcanic white stone.
- The neo-Renaissance cathedral.
- The Santa Catalina Convent.
In addition, many restaurants, cafes, shops and hotels are concentrated in this area.
If you are looking for a well-located hotel in the historic center of Arequipa, I recommend the Plaza Central Hotel :
It's burning
Located in the northwest of the city, Yanahuara is one of the safest and most charming neighborhoods in Arequipa. With its peaceful streets, colonial buildings and green parks, it is an ideal place for a peaceful stroll.
This charming residential area offers:
- A quieter atmosphere than the city center
- Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes
- Picturesque streets lined with colonial houses
- San Juan Bautista Church and its emblematic viewpoint
If you are looking for a well-located hotel in this lovely area, I recommend La Casona Del Olivo Arequipa :
Sources: Rankings, statistics, AI, press articles such as iletradosweb.com , elbuho.pe , diarioep.pe , elbuho.pe/2023/02 , pancarta.pe/crimenes-en-arequipa.