AREQUIPA: PILLONES WATERFALL AND STONE FOREST

Arequipa’s natural wonders await adventurous travelers on this captivating tour. Discover the breathtaking Pillones Waterfall and the otherworldly Puruña Stone Forest, where erosion has sculpted unique rock formations. Along the way, explore a ghost town and observe the vicuñas of the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca. This 11-hour journey promises to showcase the region’s geological marvels and leave you wanting more.

Key Points

• The tour explores the natural wonders of Arequipa, including the Pillones Waterfall and the Puruña Stone Forest.
• The 11-hour itinerary includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, and entrance tickets, starting at $44 per person.
• The Puruña Stone Forest, located about 150 km from Arequipa, offers a 1-hour walk through unique rock formations formed by erosion.
• The tour includes stops at the ghost town of Pampa de Arrieros, the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca, and a break at Patahuasi.
• Comfortable clothing, proper walking shoes, sunscreen, and water/snacks are recommended for the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a chance to explore the natural wonders of Arequipa, featuring the captivating Pillones Waterfall and the enigmatic Puruña Stone Forest.

Located in the stunning Andes, the tour covers these highlights at a price from $44 per person.

The 11-hour itinerary includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, and entrance tickets.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s a reserve now, pay later option.

With free cancellation and flexible booking, this tour provides an exciting and convenient way to discover Arequipa’s natural treasures.

Itinerary Details

The tour departs from hotels between 6:00 and 6:20 AM or directly from Plaza de Armas, setting out via the Yura road with captivating views of the surrounding volcanoes.

The first stop is the ghost town of Pampa de Arrieros and its old train station.

The ghost town of Pampa de Arrieros and its old train station await the adventurous traveler.

Next, the tour visits the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca, where participants can observe vicuñas in their natural habitat.

The group then breaks at Patahuasi for Inca mate and acclimatization before continuing the journey.

Puruña Stone Forest

After visiting the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca, the tour heads northeast of Arequipa to the Puruña Stone Forest, located about 150 km away via the Arequipa highway.

This 1-hour walk takes visitors through unique rock formations resembling a petrified forest. The stone columns were formed from ignimbrite material through erosion, creating abstract art of nature that simulates prehistoric animal silhouettes.

The Puruña Stone Forest is a fascinating natural wonder that offers a glimpse into the region’s geological history and the power of erosion to shape the landscape.

Included Services

The tour package includes several services to ensure a comprehensive and convenient experience. Visitors will receive tourist transportation, a professional tour guide, and entrance tickets to the Stone Forest and Pillones Waterfall. Plus, meals are provided during the tour.

| Included Services | Detailed Information |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Tourist transportation |

| Guide | Professional tour guide |

| Admissions | Entrance tickets to Stone Forest and Pillones Waterfall |

| Meals | Meals included |

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Recommendations

What should visitors bring on this tour? Comfortable clothes and proper walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a 1-hour hike through the Stone Forest.

Comfortable clothes and proper walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a 1-hour hike through the Stone Forest.

Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to protect against the strong Arequipa sun. Bringing water and snacks is also advisable, as the tour lasts 11 hours.

It’s crucial to check availability for the desired date and number of participants before booking.

The meeting point is conveniently located at the Plaza de Armas, which can be easily found on Google Maps.

Ghost Town of Pampa De Arrieros

The tour departs via the Yura road, offering captivating views of the surrounding volcanoes. The first stop is the ghost town of Pampa de Arrieros, where an old train station stands as a remnant of the past. This abandoned settlement was once a thriving hub, serving as a stopover for travelers and cargo trains. Visitors can explore the eerie stillness and imagine the bustling activity that once filled the air.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | 150 km northeast of Arequipa |

| History | Former stopover for travelers and cargo trains |

| Atmosphere | Eerie, abandoned feel |

National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca

After departing Pampa de Arrieros, the tour proceeds to the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca.

This protected area is home to vicuñas, a relative of the llama. Visitors have the opportunity to observe these majestic wild camelids in their natural habitat.

The reserve features a diverse landscape of salt flats, wetlands, and snow-capped volcanoes. During the stop, the group enjoys a break at Patahuasi to acclimate and sip on traditional Inca tea.

This scenic interlude offers a chance to appreciate the region’s rich natural heritage before continuing the journey to the Stone Forest.

Break at Patahuasi

Following the stop at the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca, the tour group enjoys a break at Patahuasi.

This is an opportunity to rest, rehydrate, and acclimatize to the high altitude. Patahuasi offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to sample traditional Inca mate tea.

The break allows participants to catch their breath and prepare for the next leg of the journey. It’s a welcome respite before continuing on to explore the unique Puruña Stone Forest.

Since You Asked

What Types of Payment Are Accepted for This Tour?

This tour accepts various payment options, including a reserve now & pay later option. Customers can also pay in full when booking or upon arrival for the tour.

Is There a Discounted Rate for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there is a discounted rate for children and seniors. The tour price is $44.00 per person, but children under 12 and seniors over 65 receive a 10% discount.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Meet My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to meet your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility in the itinerary, allowing you to adjust the schedule and activities to suit your interests and needs.

Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements for This Tour?

This tour doesn’t have any age or physical fitness requirements. However, it’s recommended for participants who can handle a 1-hour walk through the Stone Forest. The tour includes stops for acclimatization and breaks.

Does the Tour Guide Speak Multiple Languages?

The tour guide speaks multiple languages, allowing them to accommodate participants from various backgrounds. This ensures clear communication and an engaging experience throughout the tour’s duration.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour showcases Arequipa’s natural wonders, from the majestic Pillones Waterfall to the mesmerizing Puruña Stone Forest. Witness the geological history etched in the unique rock formations, and spot vicuñas at the National Reserve Salinas and Aguada Blanca. With a visit to the ghost town of Pampa de Arrieros, this adventure offers a well-rounded exploration of Arequipa’s breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: