Arequipa | Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest

Arequipa’s natural wonders, Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest, offer an exhilarating one-day getaway. Visitors embark on a journey to uncover the region’s breathtaking landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to unique rock formations. With professional guidance and ample amenities, this tour showcases Arequipa’s remarkable beauty. While the day promises adventure and exploration, there’s more to discover about this captivating destination.

Key Points

• Explore the Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest, natural wonders near Arequipa, on a one-day tour starting at $44 per person.
• Enjoy a 2.5-hour journey from Arequipa, a 1 km trek to the waterfalls, and a 30-minute trek through the unique Rock Forest.
• Observe native flora and fauna, including the vizcacha rodent, and learn about the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
• The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and all-inclusive amenities for a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour an accessible and convenient way to explore Arequipa’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This one-day tour allows visitors to explore the stunning Pillones Waterfalls and the captivating Rock Forest near Arequipa.

Departing at 6:15 am, the tour takes travelers on a 2.5-hour journey to San Antonio de Chuca. At the Pillones Waterfalls, guests can walk 1 km and witness the cascading waters, while keeping warm with a windbreaker.

They’ll then visit the unique Bosque de Piedras, a stone forest with unusual rock formations, followed by a 30-minute trek.

The tour includes transport, a professional guide, and ample time to observe the flora, fauna, and protected areas along the way.

Destination and Pricing

The tour takes travelers to the picturesque Pillones Waterfalls and the captivating Rock Forest, both located near the vibrant city of Arequipa.

Priced from $44.00 per person, the 1-day adventure offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The key highlights include:

Witnessing the cascading Pillones Waterfalls, trekking through the Stone Forest, and observing South American camelids along the return journey.

1. Witnessing the cascading Pillones Waterfalls and exploring the surrounding flora and fauna.

2. Trekking through the unique Bosque de Piedras, or Stone Forest, admiring its unusual rock formations.

3. Stopping at protected areas to observe South American camelids as part of the return journey.

This tour promises an immersive exploration of Arequipa’s natural wonders.

Itinerary and Highlights

Departing at 6:00 am, the tour begins with hotel pickups across Arequipa at 6:15 am. The 2.5-hour drive to San Antonio de Chuca along the Arequipa-Puno Highway sets the stage for the adventure. Upon arrival, guests embark on a 1 km trek to the captivating Pillones waterfalls, where a cold climate requires a windbreaker jacket. The itinerary also includes:

| Activity | Duration | Details |

| — | — | — |

| Observe flora and fauna | – | Spot vizcachas, a rabbit-like rodent |

| Descend to the waterfall | – | For photos and enjoyment |

| Visit Bosque de Piedras | 30 minutes | Unique stone forest with unusual rock formations |

The return journey features a lunch stop and views of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca reserve, home to South American camelids, before an estimated 4:30 pm arrival in Arequipa.

Activities at Pillones Waterfalls

After the 1 km walk to the Pillones waterfalls, visitors can observe the area’s unique flora and fauna. The cold climate necessitates a windbreaker jacket.

Highlights include:

1. Spotting the lively vizcachas, a rodent species native to the Andes.

2. Descending to the waterfall itself for photos and to enjoy the serene setting.

3. Marveling at the powerful cascading waters tumbling over the rocky cliffs.

These activities immerse visitors in the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Pillones waterfalls, providing a memorable experience.

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Visiting the Bosque De Piedras

Concluding the Pillones waterfall portion of the tour, the group then travels northeast for 2.5 hours to the unique geological formation known as the Bosque de Piedras of Imata.

This peculiar stone forest features unusual rock formations sculpted by wind and water over time. The 30-minute trek through the Bosque de Piedras allows visitors to observe these strange rock shapes up close.

Towering sandstone spires, twisted pillars, and bulbous boulders create a surreal landscape that fascinates and intrigues. Guests can snap photos and explore the otherworldly terrain before the return journey to Arequipa.

Return Journey and Additional Sightseeing

On the return journey to Arequipa, the group stops for lunch, which is coordinated with the passengers.

Along the way, they’ve the opportunity to view protected areas that are part of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca reserve, home to South American camelids.

The tour provides:

1. A chance to observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

2. An exploration of the unique geological formations in the Bosque de Piedras.

3. An intimate experience with the stunning Pillones waterfalls.

The estimated return time to Arequipa is 4:30 pm, concluding this captivating day of discovery.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes transportation, a professional guide who can provide commentary in both English and Spanish, and all meals, snacks, and drinks during the excursion.

Participants will also receive gifts and souvenirs as part of the package. Optional service gratuities are available for those who wish to tip the guide or driver.

The tour’s all-inclusive nature ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the natural wonders of the Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest without worrying about additional expenses.

The all-inclusive tour allows travelers to fully enjoy the natural wonders without worrying about additional expenses.

This comprehensive tour provides excellent value for the price.

Booking and Meeting Information

To book this tour, travelers can check availability for their desired dates and the number of participants. The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy to find.

Here’s what else you need to know:

1. Reserve your spot now and pay later to secure your place without an upfront payment.

2. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

3. On the day of the tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Arequipa at 6:15 am to begin your adventure.

Since You Asked

How Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour is cool and requires a windbreaker jacket. The cold climate is due to the high elevation, so participants should dress appropriately for the conditions.

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hiking Activities?

The hiking activities have a moderate difficulty level. The trek to the Pillones waterfalls is a 1 km walk, while the hike in the Bosque de Piedras of Imata is a 30-minute trek. Though scenic, both trails require some physical exertion.

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Children can participate in this tour. The hike to the Pillones waterfalls is only 1 km and the trek through the rock forest is 30 minutes, both of which are suitable for families with children.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements Accommodated?

The tour does not specify any special dietary requirements being accommodated. Travelers should let the tour operator know in advance if they have any dietary restrictions or needs that need to be addressed during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t seem to offer an option to extend the duration. It’s a 1-day itinerary with set start and end times. Extending the tour would likely require booking a separate, custom excursion with the tour provider.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour offers a chance to take in Arequipa’s natural wonders. Visitors will be awestruck by the breathtaking Pillones Waterfalls and the unique rock formations of the Bosque de Piedras. With professional guidance and inclusive amenities, this experience provides an opportunity to explore Arequipa’s remarkable landscapes and observe the diverse flora and fauna. It’s a perfect day adventure for nature enthusiasts seeking to discover the region’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: