Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of Arequipa’s Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest is a must-do for adventure-seekers. This one-day tour offers a chance to take in the region’s captivating geological formations and diverse wildlife, all while enjoying the convenience of round-trip transportation and a hearty lunch. Whether it’s the thundering cascade of the Catarata de Pillones or the enigmatic Bosque de Piedras de Imata, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of southern Peru.

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Key Points

This one-day tour from Arequipa allows visitors to explore the Pillones Waterfall and the Stone Forest of Imata, offering a chance to see the region’s geological wonders.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided visit to the attractions, and a hearty lunch at a local restaurant.
Highlights include the majestic Catarata de Pillones waterfall, the Bosque de Piedras de Imata with its unique rock formations, and the opportunity to spot vicuñas in their natural habitat.
The tour is suitable for ages 8-50, with comfortable shoes and warm clothing recommended, and is rated 4.3/5 based on customer reviews.
Private tour options are available for a more personalized experience, with group size limited to 19 for private tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest," is priced from Kč 738 per person.

Explore the stunning Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest in Arequipa with this tour priced from Kč 738 per person.

It’s a one-day adventure, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour departs from Plaza de Armas or a hotel in Arequipa’s historic center. Highlights include visiting Pampa de Arrieros, seeing vicuñas at Pampa Cañahuas, breakfast at Patahuasi, and exploring the Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest.

Lunch at a local restaurant and round-trip transportation are included. The tour accommodates ages 8-50 and has a group size limit of 19 for private tours.

Looking for more options in Arequipa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 6:00 AM, starting with a visit to Pampa de Arrieros, an important station for travelers.

Next, the tour stops at Pampa Cañahuas to see vicuñas with the Misti Volcano as the backdrop.

Afterwards, the group enjoys a breakfast at Patahuasi, sampling Andean teas.

The tour then descends to Catarata de Pillones, where visitors spend 45 minutes exploring the majestic waterfall surrounded by erosion-shaped rocks.

Finally, the group explores the Bosque de Piedras de Imata, marveling at the geological formations resembling prehistoric animals before returning to Arequipa by 4:00 PM.

Natural Attractions

Catarata de Pillones, a majestic waterfall, is surrounded by erosion-shaped rocks that captivate visitors.

The Bosque de Piedras de Puruña, with its natural stone columns resembling prehistoric animals, is another highlight. These geological formations, carved by wind and water over time, create a surreal landscape.

Visitors can also spot vicuñas at Pampa Cañahuas, with the Misti Volcano providing a stunning backdrop.

These natural attractions offer a glimpse into the region’s incredible geological history and wildlife. Exploring this diverse terrain is a must for anyone seeking an immersive outdoor experience in Arequipa.

Tour Inclusions

As part of the tour, a professional guide accompanies participants throughout the day.

The tour includes:

The tour includes hotel pick-up, entrance tickets, and a hearty lunch to fully immerse in Arequipa’s natural attractions.

Hotel pick-up and air-conditioned transportation to the natural attractions.
Entrance tickets to Catarata de Pillones and Bosque de Piedras de Puruña.
A hearty lunch at a local restaurant to refuel after exploring the sights.

The tour also offers a private option for those seeking a more personalized experience.

With these inclusions, travelers can enjoy Arequipa’s stunning natural wonders without worrying about logistics.

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Important Information

Although the tour is suitable for a wide range of ages, certain participants may find it challenging.

Children under 8, pregnant women, and those with mobility issues aren’t recommended to join. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring warm clothing, a camera, snacks, and water.

The age limit is 8-50 years, and the group size is limited to 19 for private tours with prior coordination.

With a 4.3/5 customer rating based on 3 reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience in Arequipa’s natural wonders, from the Pillones Waterfall to the Stone Forest.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Getting to the Meeting Point

To reach the meeting point at the Plaza de Armas or your hotel in the historic center, travelers can take advantage of Arequipa’s well-connected public transportation system. Several options are available:

Taxi: Easily hail a taxi from your hotel or the central Plaza de Armas. Fares are typically inexpensive and the journey takes around 15 minutes.
Bus: Catch a local bus from nearby stops. Lines 105 and 107 run regularly and will drop you off just a short walk from the meeting point.
Walking: For those staying centrally, it’s possible to walk to the Plaza de Armas in 10-15 minutes, enjoying the city’s colonial architecture along the way.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour commences at 6:00 AM, allowing ample time to explore the highlights of the Arequipa region.

The tour commences at 6:00 AM, allowing ample time to explore the highlights of the Arequipa region.

First, you’ll visit Pampa de Arrieros, an important station for travelers. Then, you’ll stop at Pampa Cañahuas to see vicuñas against the backdrop of the Misti Volcano.

After a breakfast of Andean teas at Patahuasi, you’ll descend to the majestic Catarata de Pillones waterfall for a 45-minute visit.

Next, you’ll explore the geological formations of the Bosque de Piedras de Imata.

Lunch at a local restaurant precedes the return to Arequipa by 4:00 PM.

Customer Reviews

Customers who’ve experienced the Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall Tour have praised its remarkable natural attractions and efficient organization.

The tour’s highlights include:

Jaw-dropping vistas of the Pillones Waterfall, surrounded by erosion-shaped rocks.
The opportunity to witness graceful vicuñas against the backdrop of the majestic Misti Volcano.
The exploration of the Bosque de Piedras de Imata, a geological marvel featuring stone columns resembling prehistoric creatures.

With a team of knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a delectable local lunch, the tour provides an immersive experience in Arequipa’s stunning natural landscapes.

Things To Know

Are There Any Restroom Facilities During the Tour?

The tour itinerary includes stops at Patahuasi and a local restaurant, where restroom facilities are available. However, the specific details about restroom availability at other locations during the tour are not provided in the information given.

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

Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and water on the tour. However, the tour includes a provided lunch at a local restaurant, so bringing a full meal may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour provides opportunities to purchase souvenirs at local shops and markets during the lunch stop. Guests can browse and purchase handcrafted items, traditional Peruvian goods, and other mementos to commemorate their experience.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in various languages, including English. Customers can inquire about the language options when booking the tour. Multilingual guides are provided to ensure a seamless and informative experience for all participants.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal for Lunch?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or special dietary meal for the included lunch. The tour operator will accommodate any dietary needs with prior notice when booking the tour.

Sum Up

The Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to discover the region’s natural wonders. Priced at Kč 738 per person, the tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Travelers can enjoy the stunning Catarata de Pillones waterfall and the unique Bosque de Piedras de Imata, all while spotting vicuñas in their natural habitat. This comprehensive tour showcases the breathtaking geology and wildlife of the Arequipa region.