General Info:

Known as La Ciudad Blanca or “The White City” because of its resplendent white walls made of  sillar, a local stone which is a volcanic rock, Arequipa, rests in the heart of the imposing volcanoes of Chachani, Misti and of the unmistakable Pichu Pichu. In the centre of the city which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, one can see churches and colonial buildings of a mixed Baroque style, such as the Monastery of St. Catherine which is a Spanish city in miniature complete with  stone cobbled streets and splendid courtyards and plazas. Sabandia, Tiabaya and Tingo, in the nearby countryside are places not to miss and the irresistible Arequipenean cooking makes for the perfect complement to any visit.

Who needs your help?

Within the district, in the suburbs of Arequipa sits “Villa Cerrillos” a shanty town. This is one of the poorest areas of the city with the people living without the most basic services such as running water or lighting. A few years ago a group of volunteers began construction of a school for children aged from 5-12, offering them the chance of a basic education. Your help could be vital in this! You could teach lessons, look after the children during classes, play with them during breaks and help in the kitchen, as well as giving a hand with special activities such as contests, sports days or festivals. For these children the time you spend with them and sharing in their lives really counts and your hard work will all seem worthwhile to you when you see the smiles on their faces!