From Arequipa: Tour Along the Sillar Route

Escape the urban bustle of Arequipa and venture into the stunning natural landscapes just outside the city. On this captivating 5-hour tour, you’ll explore the renowned Sillar Route, discovering the centuries-old quarries where local masons meticulously carve ashlar stone. But the real marvel lies in the breathtaking Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon, where dramatic cliffs and enigmatic petroglyphs await. With comfortable transportation and an expert guide by your side, you’re in for an unforgettable cultural and scenic adventure. Prepare to be enchanted by the rich heritage and natural wonders that lie just beyond Arequipa’s urban core.

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Key Points

5-hour excursion from Arequipa along the iconic Sillar Route, including visits to Añashuayco Quarry and Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon.
Priced from $25 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before and reserve now, pay later option available.
Opportunities to witness local masons carving ashlar stone, explore striking canyon cliffs, and discover enigmatic petroglyphs.
Transportation provided by bus or minibus with a live tour guide offering insights and commentary in English and Spanish.
Straightforward booking process available on the tour provider’s website, with flexible options and free cancellation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Tour Along the Sillar Route is a 5-hour excursion that takes visitors from Arequipa along the iconic Sillar Route.

A 5-hour excursion that takes visitors from Arequipa along the iconic Sillar Route.

Priced from $25 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a reserve now, pay later option.

Guests will be picked up from their accommodation around 8:50 am and explore the Añashuayco Quarry, where they’ll witness skilled masons carving the local ashlar stone.

The tour also includes a visit to the breathtaking Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon and a chance to spot mysterious petroglyphs.

Transportation and an English/Spanish-speaking guide are provided throughout the experience.

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Itinerary Highlights

After guests are picked up from their accommodation in Arequipa around 8:50 am, the tour begins with a visit to the Añashuayco Quarry.

Here, they’ll see local masons skillfully carving ashlar stone, learning the intricate process firsthand.

Next, guests marvel at the striking canyon cliffs formed by years of stone extraction.

The tour then explores Quebrada de Culebrillas, a dramatic water canyon with walls up to 20 meters high.

During a 20-minute walk, guests discover enigmatic petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls, whose meanings remain a mystery.

Throughout the excursion, scenic views of the surrounding volcanoes provide a breathtaking backdrop.

Transportation and Guide

How does the tour provide transportation and a guide to enhance the experience?

The tour includes transportation by bus or minibus, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey along the Sillar Route.

A live tour guide, available in both English and Spanish, accompanies the group, providing valuable insights and commentary throughout the excursion.

The guide’s expertise helps bring the history and cultural significance of the region to life, enriching the overall experience for participants.

The guide’s expertise brings the history and cultural significance of the region to life, enriching the overall experience.

With the transportation and knowledgeable guide, guests can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique attractions along the Sillar Route.

Experiential Aspects

Complementing the transportation and guide, the tour offers ample opportunities for participants to take souvenir photos, capturing the scenic beauty of the surrounding volcanoes from a designated viewpoint.

The rugged canyon walls and towering cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, while the chance to witness local masons at work, skillfully carving ashlar stone, add a unique cultural element.

Exploring the Quebrada de Culebrillas water canyon and discovering mysterious petroglyphs along the way promise a captivating and immersive experience.

These experiential aspects elevate the tour, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the region’s natural and historical wonders.

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Booking Information

Booking the tour along the Sillar Route is a straightforward process.

Travelers can check availability for starting times on the tour provider’s website or by contacting them directly. To reserve a spot, participants select the desired date and number of people. The process is flexible, allowing customers to book now and pay later.

Travelers can check availability and book their desired date and number of participants, with the flexibility to pay later.

Here’s what the booking experience entails:

Verify tour availability and select your preferred date.
Provide the number of participants.
Confirm your booking details.
Pay for the tour upon arrival or in advance, as per your preference.

With free cancellation and a convenient booking system, exploring the Sillar Route has never been easier.

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Sillar Stone Quarry

The Añashuayco Quarry stands as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of local masons, who’ve honed their techniques over generations.

Visitors can witness these artisans expertly carving the distinctive ashlar stone, a hallmark of Arequipa’s architecture.

As you explore the quarry, you’ll be struck by the dramatic canyon cliffs formed from years of stone extraction.

The Quebrada de Culebrillas, a nearby water canyon, offers a scenic 20-minute walk and the chance to spot mysterious petroglyphs etched into the towering walls.

This quarry tour provides a unique glimpse into Arequipa’s storied past and present-day stone carving traditions.

Quebrada De Culebrillas

Nestled within the rugged terrain, the Quebrada de Culebrillas captivates visitors with its natural splendor.

This water canyon boasts walls up to 20 meters high, inviting explorers on a 20-minute walking adventure. Along the way, they’ll discover:

Mesmerizing petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls, whose meanings remain a mystery.
Towering cliffs formed by centuries of stone extraction, showcasing the region’s rich geological history.
Tranquil streams that meander through the canyon, creating a serene and picturesque ambiance.
Breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes, adding to the area’s visual grandeur.

Petroglyphs in the Canyon

Enigmatic petroglyphs, etched into the towering canyon walls, captivate visitors as they explore the Quebrada de Culebrillas. These ancient rock carvings, whose mysterious symbols and meanings remain largely unknown, offer a tantalizing glimpse into the past.

| Symbol | Interpretation |

|——–|—————-|

| Circle | Celestial body |

| Spiral | Cycle of life |

| Snake | Fertility |

Trekking through the dramatic landscape, guests marvel at the intricate designs, wondering about the stories they might hold. These petroglyphs, a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the region’s indigenous peoples, add an air of wonder to the Sillar Route adventure.

Things To Know

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable hiking attire and sturdy shoes are recommended. The terrain can be a bit uneven, so guests should dress for an active outdoor experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour itinerary allows for plenty of time to enjoy picnicking and snacking during the stops. Just be sure to pack everything you’ll need for a comfortable day exploring the Sillar Route.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, so families with children can enjoy the experience. As long as participants can handle the light walking, they’re welcome to join the tour.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but the itinerary’s flexible. Guests can explore the sites at their own pace within the 5-hour timeframe. If more time is needed, they’d need to book a private tour or a longer excursion.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour along the Sillar Route isn’t wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes uneven terrain, stairs, and narrow paths through the quarry and canyon that would be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, the tour can be adapted for visitors with special needs upon request.

Sum Up

The Sillar Route tour from Arequipa offers a captivating blend of cultural insights and breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can witness the intricate craft of local masons, explore the dramatic Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon, and discover enigmatic petroglyphs, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide. At just $25 per person, this 5-hour excursion is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive and memorable experience in Arequipa’s stunning surroundings.

You can check availability for your dates here: