Matarani

Matarani is a major port city in Peru's Arequipa Region on the southern coast. The immediate area has nothing of interest.

Travel to Arequipa, a charming colonial city about 75 miles away.

Arequipa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for striking architecture built largely from white volcanic sillar rock. Known as the White City, it has an enduring history and a visibly relaxed local way of life. Tours cover the main sights, including the cathedral.

See the Jesuit Church, whose façade is among the finest Mestizo Baroque examples, blending Creole, indigenous and Baroque influences.

At Santa Catalina Convent, firstborn daughters of local elite families were cloistered for life, a practice lasting from the mid-16th century to 1970. Built in 1580 and enlarged in the 17th century, the 20,000-square-meter Mudéjar monastery is marked by vivid painted walls. About 20 nuns still live in its northern corner, while the remaining complex is open to visitors.

Arequipa is the home of Colca Canyon and giant South American condors.

A cruise-organised excursion is the safest choice here; taking a taxi can be risky.

Arequipa is more than 7500 feet above sea level, so take care with AMS: the rise from sea level is very rapid.

Lake Titicaca and Machu Pichu can also be reached from Matarani.

Arequipa is called the World´s capital of Alpaca, the very fine, valuable wool produced by these Andean camels.

Peru's currency is the nuevo sol. ATMs are found in big cities, upmarket hotels and tourist areas.

Most restaurants and shops take U.S. dollars, but return change in Peruvian soles.

English is used in tourist centres including Cusco and Machu Picchu, and in high-class hotels. Spanish is needed for other places, especially rural areas.

Peru emergency numbers are 011 / 5114. In Lima, call 105.

Cafes offering customers free WiFi, known in Peru as cabinas públicas, are growing like mushrooms.