Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, offers an array of natural wonders to explore. One such adventure is the Pillones Waterfall and Puruña Stone Forest excursion. This 10-hour tour whisks travelers to breathtaking landscapes, where they’ll witness the thunderous cascade of the waterfall and the otherworldly formations of the stone forest. With opportunities to spot South American camelids and stunning views of the region’s volcanoes, this $25 per person experience promises an unforgettable day in nature. What secrets might this adventure hold?

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Key Points

Comprehensive 10-hour excursion from Arequipa exploring Pillones Waterfall and Puruña Stone Forest with photography opportunities.
Highlights include South American camelids, volcanoes, and unique rock formations at the Puruña Stone Forest.
Pillones Waterfall offers a captivating natural sanctuary experience with dramatic rock formations and a thunderous roar.
Puruña Stone Forest showcases an otherworldly landscape with towering spires and hoodoos formed through centuries of erosion.
Tour available in Spanish and English with full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Adventure Day in Arequipa offers a comprehensive tour that showcases the natural wonders of the region.

Priced at $25 per person, the 10-hour excursion explores Pillones Waterfall and the Rock Forest, with options to explore and photograph these stunning landscapes.

Explore Pillones Waterfall and the Rock Forest on a 10-hour, $25 per person excursion with opportunities for immersive photography.

The tour is available in Spanish and English, and guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Customers can also reserve their spot now and pay later.

With a focus on highlights like South American camelids and volcanoes, the tour provides an immersive experience in Arequipa’s captivating natural environment.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The tour departs from Arequipa, with pickup from a coordinated point in the historic center. Guests will visit Pampa Cañahuas, Salinas National Reserve, and Pampa de Arrieros, stopping to view South American camelids and volcanoes. After a snack break and acclimatization, they’ll reach the Pillones Waterfall, with its impressive views and rock formations. Next, they’ll explore the Puruña Stone Forest, with its unique rock formations resembling another planet. Throughout the day, they may spot vizcachas in their natural habitat.

| Highlights | Locations |

| — | — |

| South American Camelids | Pampa Cañahuas |

| Volcanoes | Salinas National Reserve |

| Pillones Waterfall | Pampa de Arrieros |

| Puruña Stone Forest | – |

| Vizcachas | – |

Exploring Pampa Cañahuas and Salinas National Reserve

As the tour departs from Arequipa, guests are first taken to Pampa Cañahuas, a picturesque region within the Salinas National Reserve.

Here, they’ve the opportunity to spot South American camelids, such as vicuñas, llamas, and guanacos, grazing in the vast, open plains.

The tour then continues to Pampa de Arrieros, where guests can admire the majestic volcanoes in the distance.

During this portion of the journey, the group stops for a snack break and acclimatization, preparing them for the next exciting destination – the Pillones Waterfall and Puruña Stone Forest.

Encounters With South American Camelids

Where do the South American camelids roam during the Adventure Day in Arequipa?

On the tour, visitors have the chance to spot vicuñas, llamas, and guanacos – the three native camelid species of South America.

These majestic creatures graze freely in the Pampa Cañahuas and Salinas National Reserve.

The guide points out the different camelids, explaining their unique features and behaviors.

Guests observe the camelids from a safe distance, marveling at their adaptations to the high-altitude environment.

The sightings of these iconic Andean animals add an extra layer of wonder to the day’s adventures.

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Pillones Waterfall: A Natural Marvel

Pillones Waterfall stands as a mesmerizing natural wonder within the rugged landscape of Arequipa’s surroundings. Cascading down the rocky cliffs, the waterfall’s thunderous roar and mist-shrouded beauty captivate visitors.

Erosion has sculpted the area into a dramatic, otherworldly setting, with towering rock formations flanking the falls. Adventurers can descend to the waterfall’s base, offering a chance to admire the cascading water up close and snap photographs.

Though the descent and ascent pose physical challenges, the reward is immersing oneself in this captivating natural sanctuary, where the power of water has carved a stunning natural masterpiece.

Puruña Stone Forest: A Otherworldly Landscape

Nestled within the rugged terrain of Arequipa’s surroundings, the Puruña Stone Forest presents a captivating and otherworldly landscape.

Formed by centuries of erosion, these unique rock formations resemble an extraterrestrial setting, with towering spires, pinnacles, and hoodoos dotting the vast expanse.

The tour participants have the opportunity to explore this geological wonder, marveling at the sheer scale and diversity of the rock structures.

Contrasting sharply with the lush greenery of the surrounding environment, the Puruña Stone Forest offers a truly mesmerizing and unforgettable experience, transporting visitors to a realm that seems to defy the laws of nature.

Activity Level and Physical Challenges

Although the Adventure Day in Arequipa offers a captivating exploration of the region’s natural wonders, the descent and ascent to the Pillones Waterfall pose some physical challenges for participants.

The steep and uneven terrain requires a moderate level of fitness and agility. Visitors must navigate rocky paths and stairs, which can be slippery when wet. Those with mobility issues or a fear of heights may find the descent particularly strenuous.

It’s essential to wear proper footwear and exercise caution throughout the experience. Despite these physical demands, the breathtaking views and unique rock formations make the effort worthwhile for adventurous travelers.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour includes tourist transportation provided to and from the adventure sites. A professional guide with permanent assistance accompanies the group throughout the day.

The entrance ticket to the Salinas National Reserve and the stunning Pillones Waterfall site is included in the price, which is S/ 20.00 per person. However, meals aren’t provided, so participants are responsible for their own food and refreshments during the excursion.

Things To Know

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour overview does not explicitly mention the availability of restroom facilities during the excursion. However, it’s likely that stops will be made at appropriate locations to accommodate guest needs throughout the 10-hour duration of the adventure.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour does not include meals, so bringing your own provisions is recommended to fuel your adventure and keep you hydrated throughout the day.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be the best choice for young children. It involves moderate hiking and descending to the waterfall, which could be challenging for little ones. Parents should consider their child’s abilities and comfort level before booking this adventure.

Is Photography Allowed at All Locations?

Photography is allowed at all locations on the tour. Guests can take photos of the stunning landscapes, rock formations, and wildlife sightings throughout the day, providing ample opportunities to capture memorable moments from the adventure.

What Should I Pack for the Day’s Activities?

For the day’s activities, you’ll want to pack comfortable hiking shoes, layers of clothing, sunscreen, a hat, snacks, and water. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique rock formations at the waterfall and forest.

Sum Up

This Adventure Day in Arequipa offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural wonders of southern Peru. From the thunderous Pillones Waterfall to the captivating Puruña Stone Forest, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With a competitive price and seamless logistics, it’s an exceptional way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and witness its diverse wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here: