Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest

Exploring the stunning Andes region of Arequipa, the Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest tour offers an unparalleled natural adventure. Travelers will witness the captivating diversity of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve before delving into the otherworldly landscapes of the Imata Stone Forest. The tour culminates at the breathtaking Pillones Waterfalls, where visitors can enjoy the serene Andean atmosphere and capture unforgettable memories. With a range of inclusions and planning considerations, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Arequipa’s natural wonders.

Key Points

• This 12-hour tour from Arequipa takes visitors to the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, Imata Stone Forest, and Pillones Waterfalls.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a snack, and a live guide, priced at $45 per person.
• Highlights of the tour include wildlife viewing, unique volcanic rock formations, and scenic waterfalls at high elevations.
• The Imata Stone Forest showcases captivating volcanic formations shaped by natural processes over millennia.
• Visitors can explore the Pillones Waterfalls, located at 4,600 meters, and enjoy birdwatching and photography opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest tour from Arequipa offers an opportunity to explore the region’s natural wonders.

Priced from $45 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, transportation, a snack, and a live guide.

Priced from $45 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, transportation, a snack, and a live guide.

Travelers will visit the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, the Imata Stone Forest, and the Pillones Waterfalls, all at high elevations.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option, this tour provides flexibility and convenience for those seeking to discover Arequipa’s stunning landscapes.

Highlights of the Itinerary

This tour offers an array of captivating highlights. The first stop is the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where travelers can spot vicunas, guanacos, and llamas in their natural habitat. The tour then ventures to the Imata Stone Forest, a breathtaking landscape of unique volcanic rock formations at an elevation of 4,300 meters. The climax of the tour is the Pillones Waterfalls, where guests can marvel at the cascading waters and photograph the Andean birds that inhabit the area.

| Highlight | Location | Elevation |

| — | — | — |

| Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve | Yura | – |

| Imata Stone Forest | Imata | 4,300 m |

| Pillones Waterfalls | Pillones | 4,600 m |

Exploring the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve

Travelers embark on their journey from Arequipa, venturing through the picturesque landscapes of the Yura region. Their destination is the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a haven for diverse Andean fauna.

As they arrive, the tour guide points out the majestic vicuñas, guanacos, and llamas grazing in the stunning vistas. The reserve’s protected status ensures the preservation of these remarkable creatures and their natural habitats.

Visitors marvel at the breathtaking scenery, with snow-capped peaks and vast open spaces. This stop provides a glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity and the importance of conserving these ecological treasures.

Discovering the Imata Stone Forest

After traversing the stunning landscapes of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, the tour continues its ascent towards the Imata Stone Forest.

At an elevation of 4,300 meters, this unique volcanic formation boasts remarkable rock structures sculpted by nature over millennia.

Visitors can explore the otherworldly terrain, marveling at the shapes and textures of the towering pillars and spires.

The Imata Stone Forest offers a captivating glimpse into the geological processes that have shaped the Andes.

It’s a mesmerizing stop that allows travelers to fully appreciate the region’s remarkable natural wonders.

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Hiking to the Pillones Waterfalls

As visitors climb higher, they reach the Pillones Waterfalls, situated at an impressive 4,600 meters above sea level. The cascading waters tumble down the rugged slopes, creating a serene and picturesque scene.

This is an opportunity to spot Andean birds and capture stunning photographs. The guided tour allows travelers to explore the area on foot, seeing the natural beauty.

With the vast Andean landscape as a backdrop, the Pillones Waterfalls offer a breathtaking experience for those seeking to connect with the region’s remarkable natural wonders.

Tour Features and Inclusions

The tour provides several key features and inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

A live guide available in both Spanish and English ensures seamless communication. Comfortable transportation is provided throughout the journey. Participants will also receive a light breakfast snack to fuel their exploration.

For safety, a first aid kit is on hand in case of any emergencies. The entry fee to the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve is payable locally, costing 8 Peruvian soles.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour offers a well-rounded and worry-free experience for visitors to discover the natural wonders of Arequipa.

Recommended Items to Bring

To make the most of the Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest tour, visitors are encouraged to bring along a few essential items.

A sturdy, comfortable pair of walking shoes is a must, as the tour involves moderate hiking at high altitudes. Plus, a warm, layered outfit is recommended to combat the changing temperatures throughout the day.

Lastly, a reusable water bottle will ensure hydration during the tour. With these items in tow, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest.

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Warm, layered clothing

• Reusable water bottle

Important Planning Considerations

When planning a trip to the Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. First, confirm availability for your preferred start time, as the tour operates on a schedule. Plus, participants should be ready in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to ensure the tour departs on time. Lastly, the reserve now & pay later option provides flexibility, allowing you to book without upfront payment.

| Consideration | Importance | Tip |

| — | — | — |

| Availability | High | Check before booking |

| Punctuality | High | Wait in lobby 10 mins early |

| Flexible Payment | Moderate | Use reserve now & pay later |

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully suitable for people with disabilities due to the high altitude, long journey, and potential uneven terrain. However, the tour operator should be consulted to discuss any accessibility needs and accommodate where possible.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour operator can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Travelers should inform the operator of any dietary needs or allergies when booking to ensure the appropriate provisions are made during the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Bad Weather?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. In case of inclement weather, travelers can cancel for a full refund or reschedule the tour at no additional cost.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Customers can request changes to the itinerary, group size, and other tour details when booking. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate the needs of private groups.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour operator follows all COVID-19 safety protocols, including requiring masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting group sizes. Vehicles are regularly sanitized, and guides ensure social distancing measures are in place throughout the excursion.

The Sum Up

The Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall and Imata Stone Forest tour offers a captivating journey through the stunning Andean landscapes. Visitors can observe wildlife, explore unique rock formations, and marvel at the breathtaking Pillones Waterfalls, all while surrounded by the serene beauty of the region. This tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Peru’s Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here: