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What to pack for the weather in Arequipa?

What to Pack for Arequipa’s Weather? A Complete Guide for Your Trip to the White City

Packing for Arequipa can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors. While the climate is temperate, it’s also quite dry and changes throughout the day, so packing strategically is essential. Arequipa also experiences sunny days and cool nights, requiring you to dress in layers. Knowing what to pack for Arequipa’s weather will allow you to enjoy the city comfortably.

1. What’s the Weather Like in Arequipa? (To Understand What to Pack)

Arequipa’s climate has unique characteristics that directly influence the clothing you should pack. First, Arequipa has dry air that can cause dehydration or skin irritation. Second, while temperatures are generally warm during the day, they drop considerably in the evening.

Dry Climate

Arequipa is located in a high valley surrounded by volcanoes, so humidity is low.

Warm and Sunny Days

Temperatures range between 18°C ​​and 24°C, but solar radiation is intense.

In fact, even on cloudy days, sunscreen is necessary.

Cold Nights

From 7:00 pm onwards, the temperature drops rapidly. Therefore, it is necessary to bring a jacket.

High Solar Radiation

Even when the sky is cloudy, UV radiation is strong, so sun protection is essential.

Altitude

The city is at 2,300 meters above sea level, which can cause mild fatigue. However, most travelers adapt without problems.

In short, it is warm during the day and cold at night; therefore, dressing in layers is the best option.

2. Recommended clothing for Arequipa

When deciding what to pack for Arequipa’s weather, it’s essential to choose versatile clothing. You should also consider whether you’ll be traveling to higher altitudes like the Colca Canyon or Salinas Grandes.

Daytime Clothing

It can be chilly in the morning, but the sun warms things up considerably later.

Evening Clothing

Even if the days are warm, the nights can be unpredictable. Therefore, it’s vital not to forget a jacket.

Clothing for High Andean Regions

Even in summer, these areas maintain low temperatures.

3. Ideal Footwear

The type of footwear you need will depend on your plans. For example, if you’ll be walking around downtown, comfortable sneakers will suffice. However, if you’ll be hiking, you’ll need something more durable.

For the city

Comfortable sneakers

For hiking

Durable sneakers

Lightweight boots

For summer

Sturdy sandals

4. Sun Protection (very important)

UV radiation in Arequipa is high year-round. Therefore, your packing list for Arequipa’s climate should always include:

Even if you don’t feel hot, you can easily get sunburned.

5. Skin Care and Health

The dry climate can affect some travelers. Therefore, it is recommended to bring:

In addition, it is essential to drink water constantly.

6. What to bring for the altitude

Although most visitors do not experience altitude sickness, some people, especially those who are more sensitive, may feel tired or have headaches.

Therefore, it is recommended to:

Coca leaf candy or tea

Avoid alcohol on the first day

Walk at a leisurely pace

This will help your body adapt better.

7. Useful accessories

Bring:

Also, if you are sensitive to dust, a face mask can be helpful during rural tours.

8. Documents and Money

Finally, remember to bring your booking confirmations in printed or digital format.

Conclusion

Knowing what to pack for Arequipa’s weather will help you make the most of your trip. It will also allow you to adapt to temperature changes and the intensity of the sun. Ultimately, the most important thing is to dress in layers, protect yourself from the sun, and pack a jacket for the evenings.
Arequipa is a wonderful city, and with the right luggage, your experience will be even better.

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