Arequipa | Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest

Nestled in the picturesque region of Arequipa, the Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest offer a truly captivating day trip for nature enthusiasts. Travelers can marvel at the cascading waters and unique rock formations, creating a serene escape from city life. With opportunities for wildlife observation and photography, this excursion promises to showcase Arequipa’s breathtaking natural beauty. But what lies beyond the stunning landscapes and tranquil ambiance? Uncover the secrets of this enchanting destination as you delve deeper into the Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest experience.

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Key Points

A full-day excursion to explore Arequipa’s natural wonders, including Pillones waterfalls and a rock forest trek, priced from £34.05 per person.
Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and transportation plus an English/Spanish-speaking guide included.
Opportunity to observe diverse flora, fauna, and serene ambiance, with a 1 km walk to reach the Pillones waterfalls recommended.
150 km travel to Imata for a 30-minute trek through the rock forest, featuring an otherworldly landscape of towering stone structures.
All meals, snacks, and drinks included during the tour, with optional gratuities for the guide and driver appreciated.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Arequipa | Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest tour offers a full-day excursion to explore the natural wonders of the Arequipa region. Priced from £34.05 per person, the tour lasts one day and features flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later. The tour departs at 6:15 am from hotels in Arequipa, with a 2.5-hour drive to the first stop. Breakfast is not included, but the tour provides a guided experience to discover Pillones waterfalls, observe wildlife, and trek through the stunning Bosque de Piedras rock forest.

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

Booking Details

How can travelers book the Arequipa | Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest tour? The tour is priced from £34.05 per person and lasts one day. Guests can reserve now and pay later. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Tour times vary, so travelers should check availability. The tour includes transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and a rock forest trek. Meals and snacks are not included. With a 5/5 overall rating, the tour offers visitors a chance to explore Pillones waterfalls and unique rock formations in Arequipa’s natural beauty.

Itinerary and Schedule

The tour starts at 6:00 am, with pickup from hotels in Arequipa at 6:15 am.

The travel time to San Antonio de Chuca is 2.5 hours along the Arequipa-Puno Highway. Breakfast isn’t included in the tour price.

Visitors will walk 1 km to reach the Pillones waterfalls, so a windbreaker jacket is recommended.

After observing the waterfalls and local fauna and flora, the group will travel 150 km northeast to Imata, which takes 2.5 hours by car.

Here, they’ll trek for approximately 30 minutes through the unique stone forest landscape.

Attractions and Highlights

Visitors can discover the Pillones waterfalls and unique rock formations that define the landscape. The tranquil waterfalls offer a chance to observe the local fauna, including the vizcachas, as well as the diverse flora. Away from the city noise, guests can enjoy the peaceful natural environment and capture captivating photos.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Pillones Waterfalls | Marvel at the cascading waters and unique rock formations. |

| Rock Forest | Explore the otherworldly landscape of towering stone structures. |

| Natural Beauty | Appreciate the flora, fauna, and serene ambiance of the sites. |

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Inclusions and Services

The tour includes comfortable transportation to and from the sites, as well as the services of a professional guide who can provide insights in both English and Spanish.

All meals, snacks, and drinks during the tour are included, ensuring you stay nourished and hydrated throughout the day.

Stay fueled and refreshed throughout the tour with all meals, snacks, and drinks conveniently included.

You’ll also receive gifts and souvenirs as a memento of your experience.

While gratuities for the guide and driver are optional, they’re a great way to show your appreciation for their excellent service during the day.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Customer Feedback

How do past customers rate this tour? Based on a single verified review, the Arequipa | Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest tour earns a stellar 5/5 rating.

A traveler from Italy who visited in September 2024 was highly satisfied with the overall experience. Feedback highlights the tour’s ability to showcase the natural beauty of the region, from the Pillones waterfalls to the unique rock formations.

Customers appreciate the professionalism of the guide and the seamless transportation provided. While only one review is available, it suggests this tour delivers an exceptional experience for those seeking to explore Arequipa’s stunning natural landscapes.

Getting to Pillones Waterfalls

The tour begins with a 2.5-hour drive from Arequipa to the village of San Antonio de Chuca, located along the Arequipa-Puno highway at kilometer 154.

From there, it’s a 1 km walk to reach the Pillones waterfalls. Travelers are advised to bring a windbreaker jacket, as the waterfall area can be quite breezy.

Once at the falls, visitors can observe the unique local flora and fauna, including the vizcachas – a type of mountain chinchilla.

The peaceful natural setting offers a welcome contrast to the bustling city of Arequipa.

Exploring the Rock Forest

After exploring the Pillones waterfalls, the tour then travels 150 km northeast to the Imata region for the next highlight – the Bosque de Piedras, or Rock Forest.

Trekking through this unique landscape, visitors marvel at the array of striking rock formations sculpted by wind and water over millennia.

The tour guide shares insights into the geology and highlights the diversity of plant and animal life that thrive in this harsh environment.

Guests capture awe-inspiring photos and soak in the serenity of this peaceful natural wonder, a true highlight of the Arequipa adventure.

Since You Asked

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

There’s no minimum group size for this tour. Travelers can book individually, and the tour will run with even a single participant. The tour provider ensures a personalized experience regardless of group size.

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

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour price doesn’t include meals, so bringing snacks and drinks is allowed and encouraged to have throughout the day.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions or requirements. Travelers of all ages are welcome to participate, though the activities may not be suitable for very young children. It’s recommended to check with the tour provider if you have any specific concerns.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Point During the Day?

Travelers can leave the tour group at any point during the day, but they’ll be responsible for their own transportation and activities thereafter. It’s best to coordinate with the guide if planning to depart early or separately.

Is There Any Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Customers can’t extend the tour duration on their own. The tour has a fixed schedule, and extending the duration would require making arrangements with the tour operator in advance. Any changes to the itinerary need to be coordinated with the provider.

The Sum Up

Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest offer a captivating escape into Arequipa’s natural wonders. Witness the cascading falls, then venture into the otherworldly rock formations of the forest. This full-day tour provides opportunities to observe wildlife and capture stunning photographs, making it an unforgettable journey showcasing the region’s breathtaking beauty. Whether seeking serenity or adventure, this excursion promises an enchanting experience.