4-Hour Excursion: Sillar Route With Hiking in Culebrillas

Set out on a captivating 4-hour excursion along the Sillar Route, exploring the historical quarries and the breathtaking Culebrillas Canyon near Arequipa. This guided tour provides insights into the region’s unique geological and archaeological heritage. Witness the stunning ignimbrite walls, hike through the canyon, and enjoy picturesque views of the Andes. The adventure promises an immersive experience for those seeking to uncover the area’s rich history and natural wonders.

Key Points

• This 4-hour excursion takes visitors through the historical quarries and Culebrillas Canyon near Arequipa, providing a unique cultural experience.
• The tour includes a visit to the Añashuayco Quarry to observe ignimbrite walls and learn about the history and production of sillar.
• Hikers will explore Culebrillas Canyon and view ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture during the 20-minute walk.
• The excursion is guided by a live Spanish and English-speaking guide and concludes with a return to Arequipa near the Plaza de Armas.
• The tour is priced from SEK 130 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The Sillar Route Hiking Excursion is a 4-hour adventure that takes visitors through the historical quarries and Culebrillas Canyon near Arequipa.

Priced from SEK 130 per person, the tour includes a live Spanish and English-speaking guide, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

The 4.5-hour experience covers visits to the Añashuayco Quarry, where travelers can observe stone cutting, and Culebrillas Canyon, home to ancient petroglyphs.

The tour concludes with a return trip to Arequipa, arriving near the Plaza de Armas around 1:30 pm.

Itinerary and Highlights

Depending on availability, the excursion begins as early as 09:15 am with a journey to the Sillar Route, where visitors can explore historical quarries.

Excursion begins as early as 09:15 am, journeying to the Sillar Route where visitors can explore historical quarries.

The first stop is a strategic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of volcanoes and the Chilina Valley.

Next, they’ll travel 45 minutes to the Añashuayco Quarry, an active site where they’ll observe ignimbrite walls and learn about sillar history and production.

After a 30-minute drive, guests will embark on a 20-minute walk through the dramatic Culebrillas Canyon, viewing ancient petroglyphs.

The tour concludes around 1:30 pm near Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas.

Starting Time and Duration

The excursion starts as early as 9:15 am, depending on availability.

The 4-hour hiking tour on the Sillar Route, including the Culebrillas Canyon, takes a total of 4.5 hours. Guests will journey to historical quarries, observe stone cutting, and explore ancient petroglyphs before returning to Arequipa around 1:30 pm.

The experience is led by a live tour guide in both Spanish and English.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and customers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

Visit to Sillar Route and Historical Quarries

Guests begin their journey to the Sillar Route, visiting historical quarries that have provided the famous white volcanic stone used in Arequipa’s architecture for centuries.

At a strategic viewpoint, they admire the volcanoes and Chilina Valley.

Next, they travel to the current operational Añashuayco Quarry. Here, they observe the ignimbrite walls and learn about the sillar’s history and production. Guests even get to experience stone cutting with the quarrymen.

The excursion then continues to Culebrillas Canyon, where a 20-minute walk reveals ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture.

Along the way, they see the traditional Apachetas stone formations.

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Viewpoint and Scenic Vistas

Where does the excursion pause for a strategic viewpoint?

The tour stops at a strategic point along the Sillar Route for stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and the Chilina Valley.

From this vantage point, participants can gaze upon the majestic peaks of the Andes and the lush green landscape of the valley below.

This scenic overlook provides an opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the region and capture breathtaking photographs.

After taking in the panoramic views, the group continues its journey to the next stop on the Sillar Route excursion.

Exploration of Añashuayco Quarry

After the scenic viewpoint, the tour continues for a 45-minute journey to the current operational Añashuayco Quarry. At the quarry, visitors observe the ignimbrite walls and learn about the history and production of sillar, the white volcanic stone unique to Arequipa. They’ll have the chance to experience stone cutting firsthand alongside the quarrymen.

| What to Expect at Añashuayco Quarry | |

| — | — |

| Observe ignimbrite walls | Learn about sillar history and production |

| Experience stone cutting | Interact with quarrymen |

The excursion provides an up-close look at the quarrying process that has shaped Arequipa’s distinct architectural style for centuries.

Trek Through Culebrillas Canyon

After the visit to the Añashuayco Quarry, the tour continues with a 30-minute journey to the Culebrillas Canyon.

Guests embark on a 20-minute walk through the canyon, surrounded by its towering 15-20 meter high walls. Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to view ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

The tour then proceeds to observe the Apachetas, unique stone formations that symbolize gratitude and luck, before beginning the return trip to Arequipa, arriving at around 1:30 pm near the Plaza de Armas.

Return Journey and Arrival

The tour then begins the return journey to Arequipa, arriving back near the Plaza de Armas around 1:30 pm.

Along the way, travelers can take in the final views of the stunning Andes mountains and Chilina Valley.

The total excursion lasts around 4.5 hours, providing ample time to explore the historical sillar quarries, witness stone cutting, and hike through the Culebrillas Canyon.

Though some may find the tour a bit touristy, it offers a unique cultural experience and the chance to learn about Arequipa’s rich geological and archaeological heritage.

Things To Know

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Excursion?

The recommended attire for the excursion includes comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight and breathable clothing, sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Physical Requirements?

There are no age restrictions, but the hike in Culebrillas Canyon requires moderate physical fitness. Participants should be able to walk for around 20 minutes on uneven terrain with 15-20 meter high walls.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Excursion?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the excursion. The tour doesn’t provide meals, so bringing snacks and water is recommended, especially for the hiking portion in Culebrillas Canyon.

Is the Excursion Wheelchair Accessible?

The excursion is not wheelchair accessible as it involves hiking in the Culebrillas Canyon with 15-20 meter high walls. The tour requires walking and navigating uneven terrain, which may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tour. Visitors are encouraged to capture the scenic views, historical quarries, and cultural sites along the Sillar Route and in Culebrillas Canyon. However, visitors should respect the guidelines provided by the tour guide.

Sum Up

This captivating 4-hour excursion along the Sillar Route offers a unique opportunity to explore Arequipa’s historic quarries and the breathtaking Culebrillas Canyon. Visitors will witness stunning ignimbrite walls, hike through the canyon to see ancient petroglyphs, and enjoy picturesque views of the Andes before returning to Arequipa around 1:30 pm.

You can check availability for your dates here: