La Puerta del Sol

We were charged more than expected because of a poor USD-to-soles exchange rate. There was also an issue around checkout: our booking said 11:30 am, but at 11:10 am we got a text saying they'd charge 50 soles for staying late. They didn't charge us after we showed the booking, but the message felt like a threat when they could simply have explained the situation. The shower in our room barely had any pressure, just a trickle, and breakfast was very basic compared with other hotels at a similar price. We left disappointed and would choose somewhere else in Arequipa.

Everything felt just right, from the comfortable bed to the pleasant, professional staff. I probably slept better here than anywhere else during my two months in Peru. The rooftop terrace has an amazing view, and breakfast there was superb. It's right in the heart of Arequipa, too. If you're after a place to stay here, head to La Puerta del Sol. I'd definitely return 🙃

The rooms were clean and well kept, and breakfast was great. Staff were helpful and courteous. La puerta del sol is right in the middle of historical arequipa, with just about everything around you. A fantastic place to stay.

Keep track of your own payment, because the staff won't remind you. They only accept cash, so you can't check whether you've paid. Later, the hostel kept contacting us to demand payment, adding a fee because payment had to go through a link. It felt a bit scammy. They took no responsibility and acted very unprofessionally. I wouldn't recommend staying here unless you're really on top of your personal admin.