Sillar Route | Quarries of Añashuaycos | Half Day

Explore the captivating Sillar Route, a half-day adventure amidst the quarries of Añashuayco. This volcanic landscape beckons visitors with its stunning rock formations and scenic viewpoints. Led by knowledgeable guides, the itinerary immerses you in the region’s rich history, from the Añashuayco Quarry to the ancient petroglyphs hidden within the Culebrillas Gorge. Prepare to be enchanted by the sheer beauty and cultural significance of this remarkable destination.

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Key Points

A 5-hour, half-day tour of the Sillar Route and Añashuaycos quarries, with visits to a viewpoint, Culebrillas Gorge, and petroglyphs.
Tour offered in English and Spanish, with hotel pickup and all entrance fees included in the $20 per person price.
Limited to 15 participants, with a professional bilingual guide providing insights into stone carving and the local geology.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and no upfront payment is required for reservations.
Restrictions include not being suitable for wheelchair users or visually impaired individuals, and participants must have an active WhatsApp number.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sillar Route | Quarries of Añashuaycos is a half-day tour that provides an insightful exploration of Arequipa’s unique geological and cultural heritage. Lasting 5 hours, the tour is limited to 15 participants and offered in English and Spanish. Priced from $20 per person, it includes hotel pickup, professional bilingual guides, and entrance fees. The tour visits a viewpoint overlooking volcanoes, the Añashuayco Quarry to witness stone carving, and Culebrillas Gorge. Participants can also discover petroglyphs before returning to Arequipa by 1 PM. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made with no upfront payment.

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Itinerary

The tour begins with a hotel pickup near or within Arequipa’s historic center at 8:50 a.m.

The first stop is a viewpoint to observe two volcanoes surrounding the city.

A stunning viewpoint to observe the two majestic volcanoes that encircle the city of Arequipa.

Next, visitors explore the Añashuayco Quarry, witnessing the ashlar stone carving process.

The tour then moves to Culebrillas Gorge, where you will embark on a 20-minute walk along the 20-meter high walls.

The final stop is a discovery of petroglyphs in the canyon.

The tour concludes with a return to Arequipa by 1:00 p.m.

Inclusions

This tour includes tourist transport, a professional bilingual guide, hotel pickup service near or within Arequipa’s historic center, and entrance fees for Culebrillas Canyon ($5.00 per person) and the Sillar Route ($5.00 per person).

The guide will provide insights into the stone carving process at the Añashuayco Quarry and lead the exploration of the 20-meter high walls of the Culebrillas Gorge.

The final stop allows participants to discover petroglyphs in the canyon before returning to Arequipa by 1:00 p.m.

This half-day tour offers a comprehensive look at the Sillar Route and the quarries of Añashuaycos.

Restrictions

Not all travelers may be able to fully participate in this tour.

Certain travelers may face limitations in fully engaging with this tour.

The Sillar Route tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. Plus, the tour doesn’t allow the consumption of alcohol or drugs.

Participants must have an active WhatsApp number for communication purposes. It’s important to check availability and participant selection, as the group size is limited to 15 people.

Following these restrictions ensures the safety and enjoyment of all guests on the tour.

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Important Information

Participants are advised to bring their passport or ID card, as well as cash, for this tour. An active WhatsApp number is required for communication during the excursion. Customers should check availability for starting times and participant selection, as group sizes are limited to 15 people. This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited. Following these guidelines will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Sillar Route | Quarries of Añashuaycos tour.

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Explore the Quarries of Añashuaycos

The Añashuayco Quarry offers a fascinating glimpse into the age-old craft of ashlar stone carving.

Visitors can observe skilled artisans skillfully shaping the local sillar stone into precisely cut blocks. These quarries have supplied the distinctive white stone used in Arequipa’s historic buildings for centuries.

Explore the rugged canyon landscape, its 20-meter high walls, and a 20-minute walk to discover ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock.

This immersive experience provides a unique window into Arequipa’s rich architectural heritage and the enduring traditions of its stonemasons.

Discover the Culebrillas Gorge

What awaits visitors as they venture into the Culebrillas Gorge? Towering 20-meter high walls surround the deep ravine, creating a dramatic natural setting.

Guests will embark on a 20-minute walk through this geological wonder, marveling at the impressive scale and unique rock formations.

A 20-minute walk through the geological wonder of the Culebrillas Gorge, marveling at its impressive scale and unique rock formations.

Along the way, they’ll discover ancient petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural history.

The hike offers a chance to connect with the area’s rugged landscapes and appreciate the geological forces that shaped this captivating natural attraction.

Witness the Petroglyphs in the Canyon

As visitors make their way through the captivating Culebrillas Gorge, they’ll discover a treasure trove of ancient petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls.

These intriguing rock carvings offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Guided by an expert, guests will be able to examine the petroglyphs up close, learning about their significance and the stories they tell.

The final stop on the tour, this encounter with the canyon’s rock art promises to be a memorable and enlightening experience, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s remarkable history.

Things To Know

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

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, consuming alcohol and drugs is not allowed. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any specific guidelines or restrictions regarding outside food and beverages.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no minimum age requirement for participants. The tour is open to all ages, though it’s not recommended for young children as the hike includes steep, rocky terrain. Families with kids should consider their child’s abilities before booking.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price of $20 per person is the standard rate for all participants, regardless of age or student status. Specific discounts are not available for this tour.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Stop During the Tour?

The tour spends about 1 hour at the viewpoint, 1.5 hours at the Añashuayco Quarry, 1 hour exploring the Culebrillas Gorge, and 0.5 hours discovering petroglyphs before returning to Arequipa by 1:00 p.m.

Can I Take Photographs and Videos During the Tour?

Participants are welcome to take photographs and videos throughout the tour, except in areas where it’s prohibited for safety or preservation reasons. The guide will provide guidance on appropriate times and locations for capturing memories during the experience.

Sum Up

The Sillar Route tour offers a captivating half-day experience exploring the quarries of Añashuayco. Visitors will be guided through breathtaking landscapes, including a scenic viewpoint showcasing two majestic volcanoes. The itinerary features an insightful visit to the Añashuayco Quarry, a scenic walk through Culebrillas Gorge, and the discovery of ancient petroglyphs. With a limited group size and professional bilingual guides, this tour promises an engaging and informative adventure for all.