Set out on a captivating 4-hour excursion along the Sillar Route, where you’ll hike through the stunning Culebrillas Canyon. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore ancient Wari petroglyphs and the Añashuayco Quarry, all while marveling at the towering canyon walls and breathtaking views from the Mirador De Los Volcanes. This immersive experience promises to unveil the rich cultural and geological heritage of the region, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the wonders that await.
Key Points
- 4-hour hiking excursion along the Sillar Route, priced from $15 per person and includes a live English and Spanish-speaking guide.
- First stop at Añashuayco Quarry to observe operational stonemasons, followed by a walk through the dramatic Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon.
- Opportunity to view ancient Wari culture petroglyphs over 1,000 years old and observe Apachetas, stone formations symbolizing gratitude.
- Scenic lookout point at Mirador De Los Volcanes, offering panoramic views of Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.
- Inclusions cover tourist transport and professional guide, with an additional 10 soles entrance fee per person for the locations.
Tour Overview
The Sillar Route hiking excursion is a 4-hour adventure that takes participants through the stunning Culebrillas canyon.
Priced from $15 per person, the tour includes a live English and Spanish-speaking guide. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve now and pay later.
The 4-hour experience covers a historical and cultural route, where visitors can observe operational stonemasons, view ancient petroglyphs, and see unique stone formations.
Explore a historical and cultural route, witnessing stonemasons at work, ancient petroglyphs, and unique stone formations.
Transportation and a professional guide are provided, though entrance fees to locations are an additional 10 soles.
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Itinerary Highlights
The 4-hour Sillar Route hiking excursion kicks off at 9:15 am with a departure towards the historical and cultural tourist route.
The first stop is the Añashuayco Quarry, where visitors can observe operational stonemasons and a massive carving of the Church of the Company of Jesus.
Next, they’ll explore the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a 20-minute walk through a canyon with 15 to 20-meter high walls.
Along the way, they’ll see petroglyphs from the Wari culture that are over 1,000 years old.
The tour also includes views of Apachetas, stone formations symbolizing gratitude and good luck.
Culebrillas Canyon
After exploring the Añashuayco Quarry, the tour heads to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a captivating canyon.
Towering 15 to 20 meters high, the canyon walls create a dramatic landscape. Guests will embark on a 20-minute walk through this natural wonder, marveling at the impressive geology.
Along the way, they’ll spot ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture, dating back over 1,000 years. These enigmatic rock carvings offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
The Culebrillas Canyon is a highlight of the Sillar Route, showcasing Arequipa’s stunning natural and cultural treasures.
Mirador De Los Volcanes
After exploring the captivating Culebrillas Canyon, the tour takes visitors to the Mirador de los Volcanes, a lookout point offering breathtaking views of the majestic volcanoes surrounding Arequipa.
At this scenic vantage point, guests can:
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Marvel at the stunning panorama of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes
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Snap photos of the distinctive snow-capped peaks against the azure sky
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Learn about the geological and cultural significance of these iconic Andean mountains
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Soak in the serene ambiance and crisp mountain air
The Mirador de los Volcanes provides an unforgettable highlight of the Sillar Route experience.
More Great Tours NearbyAndenerías
Continuing along the Sillar Route, visitors come across the remarkable Andenerías, ancient terraced agricultural systems carved into the rugged Andean landscape.
These intricate terraces, built by the Inca and pre-Inca civilizations, were designed to maximize arable land and water management in the steep terrain.
Visitors can observe the impressive engineering and marvel at the ingenuity of the indigenous people who constructed these stunning agricultural features centuries ago.
The Andenerías not only showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage but also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Añashuayco Quarries
The Añashuayco Quarries are a highlight of the Sillar Route excursion. Visitors can observe operational stonemasons and a massive carving of the Church of the Company of Jesus.
The quarries offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich architectural history:
The quarries offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich architectural history, showcasing skilled stonemasons and the iconic Church of the Company of Jesus.
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Witness skilled stonemasons in action, chipping away at the sillar rock.
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Marvel at the intricate carving of the Church of the Company of Jesus, a stunning example of the city’s iconic architecture.
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Learn about the importance of sillar, a volcanic rock, in Arequipa’s construction and cultural identity.
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Explore the quarry site and gain an appreciation for the labor-intensive process of quarrying and carving this valuable material.
Transportation and Inclusions
The Sillar Route hiking excursion includes tourist transport and a professional guide to accompany participants.
This means travelers won’t need to worry about navigating the route or getting to the various sites on their own. The guide will provide expert commentary, share historical and cultural insights, and ensure a seamless experience.
While the transport and guide are covered, entrance tickets to the locations, costing 10 soles per person, aren’t included in the tour price. Participants should be prepared to pay this additional fee at the start of the excursion.
Schedule
The tour begins its return trip to Arequipa at 12:30 pm, arriving back in the city around 1:30 pm.
The schedule for the day includes:
The schedule for the day includes departing the Culebrillas Canyon at 12:30 pm, driving back to Arequipa, and arriving around 1:30 pm.
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Departing the Culebrillas Canyon area at 12:30 pm
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Driving back to Arequipa, a journey of approximately 1 hour
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Arriving in Arequipa’s city center around 1:30 pm
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Concluding the 4-hour Sillar Route hiking excursion
This well-paced itinerary allows guests to fully experience the Culebrillas Canyon and Añashuayco Quarry before a comfortable return to Arequipa in the early afternoon.
Things To Know
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. Travelers can book the tour individually or with a group, as it’s an open group tour. The price remains the same regardless of the number of participants.
Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Clothing for the Hike?
You’ll need comfortable hiking shoes and light, breathable clothing for the hike. It’s also a good idea to bring sun protection, water, and a light snack. No special equipment is required.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements for Participants?
There are no age or fitness requirements for this tour. The hike in Culebrillas Canyon is moderate, suitable for most participants. However, the terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Can I Modify the Itinerary to Spend More Time at Certain Locations?
Yes, travelers can modify the itinerary to spend more time at certain locations. The tour operator allows flexibility and is open to customizing the experience based on the group’s interests and preferences.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price doesn’t cover the entrance fees to the locations, which are 10 soles per person. There aren’t any other additional costs or fees not mentioned in the tour overview.
Sum Up
This captivating 4-hour excursion along the Sillar Route offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the stunning natural and cultural heritage of the region. Hike through the breathtaking Culebrillas Canyon, marvel at the Mirador De Los Volcanes, and explore ancient Wari petroglyphs and quarries – all for just $15 per person. Don’t miss this chance to experience the rich history and stunning beauty of this captivating destination.
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