Arequipa: Tour to the Pillones Waterfalls and Stone Forest

Arequipa’s stunning natural wonders beckon adventurous travelers. This tour promises an immersive experience amidst the region’s captivating landscapes – from the cascading Pillones Waterfalls to the otherworldly Stone Forest. With an experienced guide, participants can explore diverse flora and fauna while discovering the fascinating volcanic formations that define Arequipa’s unique character. At just $44 per person, this 6-7 hour excursion offers remarkable value. What intrigues you most about this itinerary?

Contents show

Key Points

This tour offers a 6-7 hour experience visiting Pillones Waterfalls and the Stone Forest near Arequipa, Peru, with hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide included.
Highlights of the tour include Pampa de Arrieros, Patahuasi, Imata, and the chance to observe diverse flora and fauna along the way.
Pillones Waterfalls cascade 10 meters high, framed by volcanic stones, while the Stone Forest in Imata showcases unique rock formations shaped by natural erosion.
The tour price of $44.00 per person covers hotel pickup, transportation, guide services, and entrance fees, except for the optional lunch in Imata.
Recommended items for the tour include passport/ID, sunglasses, sun hat, and biodegradable sunscreen, as the tour involves exposure to the elements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour to the Pillones Waterfalls and Stone Forest, located in the province of Caylloma within the Arequipa region, is priced from $44.00 per person.

The one-day tour lasts approximately 6-7 hours and includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a professional bilingual guide.

A 6-7 hour tour with hotel pickup, transportation, and a professional bilingual guide.

Highlights include stops at Pampa de Arrieros, Patahuasi, and Imata, where visitors can see the 10-meter-high Pillones Waterfalls and unique stone formations.

The tour also provides an opportunity for flora and fauna observation along the route.

Entrance fees and meals, except lunch in Imata, are included in the price.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pick-up from guests’ accommodations in Arequipa. Along the way, the group makes stops at the villages of Pampa de Arrieros and Patahuasi, where they have the opportunity to enjoy breakfast. The highlight of the day is the one-hour descent to the mesmerizing Pillones Waterfalls, surrounded by volcanic stones. The path includes rocks shaped by water erosion, showcasing the region’s unique geological features. The tour then continues to the town of Imata, home to a captivating volcanic stone forest, before returning to Arequipa.

| Itinerary Highlights |

|———————|

| Pick-up from Arequipa |

| Stops at Pampa de Arrieros and Patahuasi |

| Breakfast in Patahuasi |

| 1-hour descent to Pillones Waterfalls |

| Visit to Imata’s stone forest |

Natural Attractions

Situated along the route, the breathtaking Pillones Waterfalls cascade 10 meters high, framed by an array of volcanic stones.

Visitors can observe the diverse flora and fauna dotting the landscape throughout the tour.

The unique stone formations in Imata have been shaped over time by natural erosion, creating a striking volcanic stone forest.

These natural wonders offer a glimpse into the region’s geological history and diverse ecosystems.

These natural wonders unveil the region’s captivating geological legacy and vibrant ecological diversity.

Exploring the Pillones Waterfalls and Stone Forest promises an immersive experience, allowing travelers to connect with the area’s remarkable natural beauty.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation, and a professional bilingual guide.

The tour also provides:

Entrance fee to the Pillones Waterfalls, which costs S/. 5 per person
Lunch on your own in the town of Imata, where you can explore the unique stone formations
Opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna along the route
All necessary gear and equipment for the one-hour descent to the waterfalls
Flexibility to make last-minute reservations by contacting the tour operator via email.

More Great Tours Nearby

Preparation and Important Information

To prepare for this tour, visitors should bring their passport or ID, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen – preferably biodegradable. Last-minute reservations can be checked via email, and travelers should contact the tour company via WhatsApp 1-2 days before the tour for the pick-up time.

| Item | Recommended | Reason |

| — | — | — |

| Passport/ID | Yes | Required for entry |

| Sunglasses | Yes | Protect eyes from glare |

| Sun hat | Yes | Provide shade from sun |

| Sunscreen | Yes, biodegradable | Prevent sunburn, eco-friendly |

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Exploring Pillones Waterfalls

After traversing the rocky path, visitors arrive at the captivating Pillones Waterfalls. At 10 meters high, the waterfalls are surrounded by volcanic stones, creating a dramatic natural setting.

Visitors can:

Admire the cascading water and its rhythmic flow
Observe the diverse flora and fauna along the route
Appreciate the unique geological formations shaped by erosion
Feel the refreshing mist of the falls on their skin
Explore the area and take stunning photographs of the picturesque scene.

The Pillones Waterfalls offer a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience in Arequipa’s stunning natural landscape.

Discovering the Stone Forest

After traversing the picturesque Pillones Waterfalls, visitors continue their journey to the unique stone formations of Imata.

Here, they’ll find a surreal landscape sculpted by natural forces over time. Towering volcanic stones, some reaching heights of 10 meters, dot the terrain, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Guests can explore the winding paths, marveling at the intricate shapes and textures of the stones. This stone forest offers a captivating contrast to the flowing waters of the waterfalls, showcasing the diversity of Arequipa’s remarkable natural wonders.

The tour provides an immersive experience in this geological gem.

Getting to Arequipa and the Tour

Arequipa, the "White City" nestled in southern Peru, serves as the starting point for this captivating tour.

From your accommodation in Arequipa, you’ll embark on a journey to discover the Pillones Waterfalls and the Stone Forest.

Along the way, you’ll:

Stop at the towns of Pampa de Arrieros and Patahuasi, where you can enjoy a breakfast opportunity.
Descend for an hour to reach the stunning Pillones Waterfalls, surrounded by volcanic stones.
Explore the unique stone formations of the Imata Stone Forest, shaped by natural erosion over time.
Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna along the route.

Return to your hotel in Arequipa after the tour.

Since You Asked

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour does not specify an average group size. However, it’s common for small group tours in this region to accommodate around 4-8 travelers to provide a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, though young children may need extra assistance during the one-hour descent to the Pillones Waterfalls due to the rocky terrain.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the tour. The only meal included is lunch, so bringing extra provisions is encouraged to enjoy throughout the day’s activities.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

The tour itinerary includes stops at the towns of Pampa de Arrieros and Patahuasi, where restroom facilities are available. However, there may not be restrooms along the hiking trail to the waterfalls and stone forest.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no information about extending the tour duration. However, travelers can inquire with the tour provider if they’d like to spend more time at the Pillones Waterfalls and Stone Forest. Additional fees may apply for any custom tour extensions.

The Sum Up

The tour to Pillones Waterfalls and the Stone Forest in Arequipa offers an opportunity to take in the region’s stunning natural landscapes. Priced at $44 per person, the 6-7 hour adventure includes hotel pickup, breakfast stops, and a guided exploration of the waterfalls and unique volcanic formations. Travelers can expect an unforgettable experience discovering the diverse flora and fauna of this remarkable area.