Alison: We were very relieved to arrive in Arequipa and get off the overnight bus but our first trip here was to be a very short one as we arrived at 6.30am and were getting picked up at 8.30am for a 2 day trip to Colca Canyon. We had just enough time for a quick freshen up and a look around the city to hunt for a cash machine.

Arequipa is a very nice looking city. The centre consists of cobbled streets, grand colonial buildings, churches and a square. The most impressive thing though is the snow capped mountains that create a stunning backdrop. Unfortunately, by the time we had done a quick circuit around the city and grabbed some breakfast, it was time to leave but we did return for 1 more evening after the canyon trip. Arequipa by night was also very beautiful. It was nicely lit with lots of people meandering around. There were a lot of small romantic looking restaurants that we could have eaten in but being short of money and presuming they would all be expensive, we looked for a cheaper option. On our search, hunger got the better of us and we ended up in a very unromantic and expensive place.....Pizza Hut Express!

Sorry, only one blurred picture for this one!