From Arequipa: Tour Along the Sillar Route

Exploring the ancient craft of ashlar stone carving, the Sillar Route tour from Arequipa offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers embark on a five-hour journey, seeing the artistry of local masons at the Añashuayco Quarry, where the intricate process of transforming volcanic rock into architectural masterpieces unfolds before their eyes. As they marvel at the stunning natural backdrops, glimpses of the past come alive through the discovery of enigmatic petroglyphs, leaving visitors eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• A 5-hour tour from Arequipa that showcases the Sillar Route, featuring local masons at work, views of volcanoes, and ancient petroglyphs.
• Includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and all entrance fees, priced at $25 per person with free cancellation and pay-later option.
• Highlights include visiting the Añashuayco Quarry to observe the intricate process of extracting and shaping ashlar stone.
• Provides scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding volcanoes, such as El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.
• Explores the mysterious petroglyphs carved into canyon walls, offering insights into the craftsmanship and artistry of ancient creators.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sillar Route Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the historic quarries and stunning landscapes surrounding Arequipa.

Priced from $25 per person, the 5-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and all entrance fees.

Highlights include witnessing local masons at work, taking in views of the nearby volcanoes, and discovering ancient petroglyphs carved into the canyon walls.

With free cancellation and an option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a flexible and affordable way to experience Arequipa’s rich geological and cultural heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

After pickup from accommodations around 8:50 am, the tour begins with a visit to the Añashuayco Quarry. Here, guests observe local masons skillfully carving ashlar stone, learning the intricate process.

Next, the group enjoys scenic views of the surrounding volcanoes. The journey continues through the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a canyon with 20-meter high walls, providing a 20-minute walk.

The tour culminates with the discovery of mysterious petroglyphs – ancient figures carved into stone.

Returning to Arequipa around 1:00 pm, this Sillar Route excursion offers a unique blend of culture and natural wonders.

Visit to Añashuayco Quarry

The tour’s first stop takes visitors to the Añashuayco Quarry, where they observe local masons skillfully carving ashlar stone.

The quarry’s workers demonstrate the intricate process of extracting and shaping this distinctive white stone, which has been used in Arequipa’s historic architecture for centuries.

Visitors can see the masons’ meticulous techniques up close, gaining insight into the labor-intensive craft that has defined the region’s built heritage.

This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into the enduring traditions behind Arequipa’s renowned sillar architecture and the skilled artisans who preserve them.

Scenic Viewpoint

From the quarry, the tour then ventures to a scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding volcanoes.

Towering peaks like El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu dominate the horizon, their snow-capped summits gleaming in the sun. Guests can breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak in the panoramic views stretching out before them.

Towering volcanoes, their snow-capped peaks gleaming, frame a breathtaking panorama for visitors to marvel at and savor.

It’s a moment to pause, snap photos, and appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Arequipa’s volcanic landscape.

This scenic stop provides a picturesque introduction to the geological wonders that lie ahead on the Sillar Route tour.

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Explore Quebrada De Culebrillas

Where does the tour next venture? The group explores Quebrada de Culebrillas, a canyon with towering 20-meter high walls.

They walk through this natural wonder for about 20 minutes, taking in the dramatic scenery. Rugged rock formations and carved cliffs line the canyon, a testament to the power of erosion.

As they make their way through, the tour guide points out the unique geology and shares insights about the canyon’s formation.

This off-the-beaten-path gem offers a chance to take in the region’s striking landscapes before heading back to Arequipa.

Discover Petroglyphs

After exploring the captivating Quebrada de Culebrillas, the tour next ventures to discover the mysterious petroglyphs. Carved into the stone, these ancient figures hold untold stories from the past. Visitors will marvel at the skill and artistry of the craftspeople who created these enigmatic designs. The tour guide will share insights into the meaning and significance of the petroglyphs, sparking curiosity and wonder. Prepare to be transported back in time as you witness these remarkable examples of pre-Columbian rock art.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Sillar Route |

| Age | Pre-Columbian era |

| Significance | Insight into ancient cultures |

| Craftsmanship | Remarkable artistry |

| Photography | Excellent opportunities |

Inclusions

The tour includes a bilingual guide who provides commentary in both Spanish and English, ensuring a comprehensive and informative experience for all participants.

Pickup and return transportation to your hotel is provided, making it convenient to join the excursion.

Pickup and return transportation to your hotel is provided, making it convenient to join the excursion.

The tour travels via bus or minivan, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic ride.

Entrance fees for the Sillar Route and Culebrillas canyon are also included, so you can explore these remarkable sites without any additional costs.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the Sillar Route tour offers a seamless and enriching experience.

Photography Opportunities

With the stunning natural landscapes and captivating cultural heritage, the Sillar Route tour offers ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

Capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes from the scenic viewpoint. Witness the skilled craftsmanship of local masons as they carve the ashlar stone at the Añashuayco Quarry.

Explore the mystical petroglyphs etched into the rock along the Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon. The rugged canyon walls, reaching up to 20 meters high, provide a dramatic backdrop for memorable souvenir photos.

Whether you’re a professional or amateur photographer, the Sillar Route tour promises a visual feast for the senses.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food on the tour. The tour does not provide any meals, so feel free to pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy during the 5-hour excursion.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. Travelers can book a private tour for their group, which allows for a more personalized experience along the Sillar Route. Private tours can be customized to suit the group’s preferences.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is not specified, but it’s likely a small group experience given the intimate nature of the sights visited. Travelers should inquire about the exact group size when booking to ensure it meets their preferences.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour duration is 5 hours, but travelers can’t extend it. The tour has a fixed schedule and can’t be lengthened. However, travelers can book additional tours or activities if they want to spend more time exploring the area.

Is There Wheelchair Accessibility on the Tour?

The tour along the Sillar Route doesn’t offer wheelchair accessibility. The itinerary includes walking through a canyon with high walls, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. However, the tour guide can provide assistance where possible.

Sum Up

The Sillar Route tour offers a captivating glimpse into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carving techniques, admire stunning volcanic landscapes, and uncover ancient petroglyphs, all while immersed in the region’s natural beauty. This unforgettable experience allows travelers to deeply connect with the area’s artistry, history, and breathtaking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: