Arequipa: Catara De Pillones and Stone Forest Hike

Arequipa’s Cataract of Pillones and Stone Forest offer an unforgettable Andean adventure. This two-hour hike takes visitors through dramatic landscapes at over 4,000 meters, showcasing a 150-meter waterfall and unique limestone formations. With opportunities to spot local wildlife and immerse in the crisp mountain air, the experience provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and Andean culture. For those seeking an extraordinary trek, this excursion promises an awe-inspiring journey.

Key Points

• The tour offers a 2-hour adventure visiting the Cataract of Pillones waterfall and the Stone Forest, located over 4,000 meters above sea level near Arequipa.
• Highlights include trekking along a rocky path, witnessing the impressive 150-meter Pillones Waterfall, and exploring the unique geological formations of the Stone Forest.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, breakfast, and entry fees, but is not suitable for those over 70 years old due to the high altitude and challenging terrain.
• Visitors can expect to see herds of alpacas and llamas, traditional Andean architecture, and stunning mountain vistas during the Pampa de Arrieros and Pampa Cañahuas segments of the tour.
• Proper acclimatization and appropriate attire, such as comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, are essential for this high-altitude adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Arequipa: Catara de Pillones and Stone Forest Hike" is a 2-hour activity priced from $45.00 per person.

Pickup is between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM from city center hotels, with the tour ending around 5:30 PM. A live guide is available in Spanish and English for small groups.

The tour reaches over 4,000 meters above sea level, with a short trek along a rocky path typical of the Peruvian Andes.

Included are hotel pickup, tourist transportation, breakfast, and entry fees.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, but the tour isn’t suitable for people over 70 years old.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour allows visitors to explore several notable landmarks in the Peruvian Andes. The itinerary includes visits to Pampa de Arrieros, Pampa Cañahuas, Patahuasi, the Cataract of Pillones, and the Stone Forest. The Pillones Waterfall, located 150 km from Arequipa, is one of the highlights, reaching over 4,000 meters above sea level. The tour involves a short trek along a rocky path typical of the region.

| Destination | Duration | Altitude | Activity |

|————-|———-|———-|———-|

| Pampa de Arrieros | – | – | – |

| Pampa Cañahuas | – | – | – |

| Patahuasi | – | – | – |

| Cataract of Pillones | – | Over 4,000m | Waterfall |

| Stone Forest | – | – | Hiking |

Visiting Pampa De Arrieros

Pampa de Arrieros, the first stop on the itinerary, is a vast, open expanse nestled within the Peruvian Andes.

Travelers will:

• Admire the stunning mountain vistas that stretch out before them

• Spot herds of alpacas and llamas grazing peacefully on the lush, grassy plains

• Gain insight into the traditional way of life of the local Andean communities

• Snap photos of the iconic thatched-roof adobe houses that dot the landscape

• Breathe in the crisp, thin mountain air and feel a sense of adventure and wonder.

Exploring Pampa Cañahuas

As the tour continues, travelers move on to Pampa Cañahuas, a vast expanse of rolling hills and grasslands.

This remote area is known for its stunning natural beauty, with sweeping vistas of the Andes Mountains in the distance. The guide points out the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this high-altitude environment, including hardy grasses and wildflowers.

Visitors have the opportunity to take in the serene landscape, stopping to observe the grazing alpacas and llamas that dot the horizon.

This tranquil setting provides a peaceful respite before the next stop on the hike.

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Discovering Patahuasi

After traversing the expansive Pampa Cañahuas, the tour group arrives at Patahuasi, a high-altitude plateau nestled amidst the Andes. Here, they:

• Marvel at the serene landscape, where rolling grasslands stretch out under the clear, crisp sky.

• Spot herds of alpacas and llamas grazing peacefully, a quintessential Andean sight.

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast, refueling for the next leg of the journey.

• Observe the rugged, volcanic terrain, a stark contrast to the lush pastures.

• Learn about the cultural significance of Patahuasi from the knowledgeable guide.

The group sets off again, ready to discover the next captivating destination on the itinerary.

Experiencing the Cataract of Pillones

Leaving the tranquil Patahuasi behind, the tour group embarks on the final leg of their journey, heading towards the captivating Cataract of Pillones.

After a 2.5-hour drive, they arrive at the impressive waterfall, plunging 150 meters down the rugged mountainside. The thunderous roar and mist-filled air create a mesmerizing sight. Visitors can safely approach the base of the falls, taking in the scale and power of this natural wonder.

The tour also includes exploring the nearby Stone Forest, a geological formation of towering rock pillars sculpted by wind and water over centuries.

An unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.

Trekking Through the Stone Forest

Following the awe-inspiring Cataract of Pillones, the tour group ventures into the mystical Stone Forest.

The rocky path winds through towering limestone formations, carved by wind and water over millennia. Hikers are captivated by the bizarre, otherworldly shapes and textures:

• Towering spires and pinnacles rise up from the earth

• Smooth, rounded boulders sit precariously atop one another

• Intricate patterns and grooves cover the surfaces of the stones

• Sunlight filters through the crevices, casting dramatic shadows

• The eerie silence adds to the sense of wonder and isolation

The Stone Forest offers a truly unique and unforgettable hiking experience.

Essential Information and Preparation

Although the Cataract of Pillones and Stone Forest hike offers a remarkable trekking experience, visitors must prepare adequately to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

The Cataract of Pillones and Stone Forest hike promises a remarkable trekking experience, but visitors must prepare adequately for a safe and enjoyable journey.

The tour reaches altitudes over 4,000 meters, so proper acclimatization is crucial. Travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes.

Bringing essential items like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a daypack is recommended. An optional safety briefing is available for an additional fee.

Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, but the tour isn’t suitable for those over 70 years old.

Careful planning ensures a memorable Andean adventure.

Since You Asked

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for people over 70 years old, but there is no stated minimum age requirement. Younger participants should be able to handle the moderate hiking involved at high altitudes.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Private tours allow more flexibility in group size, itinerary, and start times. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about private tour options and pricing.

Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any special dietary accommodations, but the company may be able to accommodate certain dietary needs if requested in advance. Travelers should inquire about this when booking the tour.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration for More Time in the Stone Forest?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but there’s an option to spend more time in the Stone Forest. Guests should inquire about this with the tour operator, as it may incur an additional fee.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?

There don’t appear to be any discounts or packages available for this tour. However, the tour operator may offer special deals or promotions from time to time. It’s best to check with them directly for any current offers.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Arequipa, exploring the breathtaking Cataract of Pillones and the enchanting Stone Forest. This two-hour hike offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and Andean culture, with opportunities to witness a majestic waterfall, marvel at unique limestone formations, and spot local wildlife amidst the crisp mountain air. Prepare for an unforgettable experience at over 4,000 meters above sea level.

You can check availability for your dates here: