SIMBig 2026 will be held in Arequipa, Peru. Located in the south of the country at the foot of the majestic Misti volcano, Arequipa is a city renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Nicknamed the "White City" thanks to its historic buildings constructed from white volcanic sillar stone, Arequipa offers visitors a remarkable blend of colonial charm and natural beauty. Its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases elegant churches, monasteries and mansions that reflect a unique fusion of European and local architectural traditions.
The sillar is a volcanic rock formed by ancient eruptions of the surrounding volcanoes. Resistant, light in colour and easy to carve, this material gave rise to a distinctive architectural style found nowhere else in the world. Its use not only defines the visual identity of Arequipa but also symbolises the deep connection between the city and its geological origins.
With its pleasant climate, rich gastronomy and impressive scenery, Arequipa is one of Peru's most captivating destinations and an ideal setting for international academic exchange.
Arequipa is framed by three imposing volcanoes that define its horizon and form an essential part of its identity. These peaks have shaped the history, climate and landscape of the city for centuries.
The Misti volcano is the most emblematic symbol of Arequipa. Rising above 5,800 metres with a near-perfect conical shape, it is one of the most recognisable volcanoes in Peru and can be seen from virtually every point in the city. Its ancient volcanic activity contributed directly to the formation of the sillar stone that characterises Arequipa's architecture.
Exceeding 6,000 metres in altitude, Chachani is one of the highest volcanoes in southern Peru. Its vast snow-capped summits form an imposing backdrop that complements the silhouette of the Misti. Geologically significant, its eruptions contributed to the volcanic materials that define the region's landscape and construction traditions.
Located to the northeast of the city, Pichu Pichu is distinguished by its series of aligned summits that form a characteristic silhouette on the horizon. Less well-known than its counterparts but historically and archaeologically significant, its slopes contain ancient roads and settlements. Together with the Misti and Chachani, it completes the remarkable natural panorama that surrounds Arequipa.
SIMBig 2026 will take place at the Universidad Católica San Pablo (UCSP), Arequipa. UCSP is one of the leading universities in the region, equipped with modern facilities for large-scale academic and scientific events. The Main Conference sessions will be held in the university's auditorium.
The campus is well connected to the city centre and the principal accommodation areas of Arequipa, making it easily accessible for all participants. Further details on exact room assignments and campus maps will be published closer to the conference dates.
Date: October 29, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: MALBEC 121 — Carnes & Vinos, Arequipa
Join us for an elegant Gala Dinner on the second evening of SIMBig 2026. Enjoy a night of fine dining, networking and celebration in one of Arequipa's most distinctive restaurants. Registration for the Dinner Gala is separate — see the Registration page for details.
Arequipa is served by Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP), located approximately 8 kilometres from the city centre. The airport operates domestic flights from Lima and other Peruvian cities, as well as international connections.
The most convenient options are official taxis and ride-hailing apps (Taxitel, Alo45, Uber, InDrive). Fares from the airport to the city centre range from approximately USD $8–15 (S/30–60). From the city centre to UCSP, approx. USD $3–7 (S/10–25).
Local buses are available at very low cost (approx. S/1–2 per trip), though less straightforward for first-time visitors.
Arequipa offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. The most convenient areas are the Historic Centre (Cercado), Yanahuara and Cayma / Umacollo, all with easy taxi access to UCSP.
Arequipa is widely regarded as one of Peru's gastronomic capitals. Its cuisine is a rich blend of traditional Andean ingredients and contemporary techniques, offering a distinctive culinary identity.
Cafes and casual restaurants from approx. USD $3–15 per meal.
The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). The approximate exchange rate is USD $1 ≈ S/3.4–3.6 (subject to market variation).
| Item | USD (approx.) | Soles (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical set lunch | $7–12 | S/25–40 |
| Dinner at a restaurant | $20–40+ | S/70–150+ |
| Coffee | $3–6 | S/12–24 |
| Short taxi ride | $3–7 | S/12–28 |
| Taxi from airport to centre | $8–15 | S/30–60 |
| 3–4 star hotel (per night) | $60–150 | S/230–580 |
| Luxury hotel (per night) | $150–220+ | S/580–860+ |
Arequipa has a dry and temperate climate throughout the year. In October, expect daytime temperatures of 18–24 °C and cooler evenings around 8–12 °C. Light layers are recommended for the evening, along with sunscreen and sunglasses given the high altitude sun exposure.
The official language is Spanish. English is widely understood in hotels, tourist restaurants and transport services. A few basic phrases in Spanish will be useful when visiting markets, local shops or using public transport.
Arequipa is generally considered safe in tourist and central areas. As with any city, standard precautions are advisable: use official or app-based taxis, avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night, and keep important documents and valuables in a secure location.
Tap water is not recommended for drinking; bottled water is readily available and inexpensive. International travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly advised for all participants travelling from abroad.
Arequipa offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions that can be combined with your conference attendance. The following are among the most notable:
Machu Picchu, also known as the Incas' Sacred City, is located 112.5 kilometres northeast of Cusco at an altitude of 2,430 metres in a region of majestic beauty. If you visit Peru, Machu Picchu is undoubtedly the place you must see. To this end, SIMBig is organising a trip for conference attendees. If you are interested in joining us for this magical experience, please ask the conference chairs for details of the trip (costs and travel dates).
