How much is the admission fee to the Santa Catalina Monastery?

Discover the famous Monastery of Saint Catherine

If you’re planning a visit to one of Arequipa ‘s colonial gems , it’s important to know the entrance fees and ticket options for the Santa Catalina Monastery . Depending on whether you’re a foreign or local tourist, a student, a senior citizen, or a minor, the entrance fee varies. This updated guide will show you the current prices, available discounts, and what the visit includes to help you plan your trip without any surprises.

How much does it cost to enter the Monastery?  

Adults (nationals or foreigners)                                                         S/ 45.00

Peruvian university students (undergraduate) with valid ID      S/ 15.00

Peruvian senior citizens (60 years or older)                                    S/ 25.00

Young foreigners (7–21 years old)                                                     S/ 25.00

Peruvian schoolchildren / minors                                                      S/ 06.00

Children under 7 years old:                                                                  Free admission

Schedules, access and recommendations  

• The monastery is open every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm ; last entry is at 5:00 pm

• On Tuesdays and Wednesdays there is a special option called “Santa Catalina de Noche”, with extended hours until 8:30 pm (last entry 7:30 pm).

• Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the monastery’s ticket office.

• The entrance fee includes access only. If you would like a more in-depth explanation of the history and architecture, you can hire an additional guide service for an extra cost (approximately S/ 20 ), and the visit lasts about 2 hours.

Access and purchase of tickets  

• You can buy your tickets online by booking a time slot or directly at the monastery’s ticket office .

• Payment is accepted by cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) or cash.

• There are discounts and special prices depending on the category (students, minors, senior citizens).

• If you are planning a visit during peak season or on a special day, it is advisable to book in advance to ensure your entry.

Guide, services and amenities  

• Entry includes access only. If you want to better understand the history, architecture, monastic life and details of the place, you can hire a professional guide service , optional and at an additional cost (approximately S/ 20 ).

• There are additional services for visitors: a cafeteria, a souvenir shop, and lockers for leaving belongings, which can make your visit more comfortable.

• If you opt for the guided tour, it usually lasts about 2 hours , allowing you to calmly explore the courtyards, passageways, cloisters and historic rooms of the monastery.

Tips to make the most of your visit  

• Arrive early: starting at 9:00 am allows you to explore calmly and avoid crowds.

• If you can, choose the “Santa Catalina by Night” option for a different experience; the nighttime lighting creates a special atmosphere, ideal for photos with the colonial colors of the convent.

• Bring identification, especially if you are entering with a student, senior citizen, or special category price.

• Wear comfortable shoes: the tour involves a lot of walking through passageways, courtyards and stone streets.

• If you’re interested in history, architecture, or colonial culture, hiring a guide is worth the extra cost: the monastery’s rich history is best explained with a guide.

• Take advantage of the services: lockers, souvenir shop or cafe can make your visit more comfortable.

• If you visit during the rainy season (mainly in summer), check the weather, although most of the monastery is covered, some areas could be more humid.