Arequipa | Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest

Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, offers an enticing day trip to the Pillones Waterfalls and Imata Stone Forest. Just 2.5 hours from the city, this adventure combines the serene beauty of a cascading waterfall with the otherworldly charm of unique rock formations. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this excursion promises to captivate your senses and leave you eager to uncover more of Arequipa’s remarkable landscapes.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Arequipa to the Pillones Waterfalls and the Imata Stone Forest, located approximately 2.5 hours from the city.
• The itinerary includes a 1 km walk to the Pillones waterfall, where visitors can observe local flora and fauna in a tranquil setting.
• The tour also includes a 30-minute guided walk through the dramatic rock formations of the Imata Stone Forest, offering stunning photographic opportunities.
• Round-trip transportation, lunch, and snacks are provided, with an early morning pickup from hotels in Arequipa.
• The excursion is suitable for couples, groups, solo travelers, and families, providing a memorable exploration of Arequipa’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Location and Duration

The Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest are located in the Arequipa region of Peru, approximately 2.5 hours from the city of Arequipa.

This full-day excursion takes visitors on a journey to explore these natural wonders. The tour lasts around 1 day, with pickup from hotels in Arequipa between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m.

Travelers will have the opportunity to walk 1 km to the Pillones waterfall, take in the sights and sounds of the falling water, and venture through the unique rock formations of the Imata Stone Forest.

The experience is suitable for a variety of travelers, including couples, groups, solo travelers, and families.

Itinerary Overview

After being picked up from their hotels in Arequipa between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m., travelers embark on a 2.5-hour journey to San Antonio de Chuca along the Arequipa – Puno Highway, Km. 154.

Upon arrival, they’ll embark on a 1 km walk to the Pillones waterfall, observing the local fauna and flora. Travelers can take photos, enjoy the warm climate, and experience the soothing sound of the falling water.

The tour then visits the Imata Stone Forest, where a 30-minute guided walk showcases the unique rock formations.

Transportation and Meals

The tour includes round-trip transportation to and from the various locations.

Lunch is provided on the return trip, though breakfast isn’t included. During the tour, snacks and drinks are offered to participants.

• Travelers are picked up from their hotels in Arequipa between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m.

• The drive to the starting point at San Antonio de Chuca takes approximately 2.5 hours along the Arequipa-Puno Highway.

• After the activities, the group stops for a lunch break on the return journey to Arequipa.

Pillones Waterfalls

Upon arriving at the starting point, travelers embark on a 1 km walk to the Pillones waterfall.

Along the way, they observe the local fauna and flora. The sound of the cascading water grows louder as they approach the waterfall.

At the Pillones waterfall, travelers can take photos and enjoy the warm climate. The soothing sound of the falling water creates a tranquil atmosphere.

At the Pillones waterfall, travelers can take photos and enjoy the warm climate. The soothing sound of the falling water creates a tranquil atmosphere.

The waterfall’s lush surroundings provide a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy nature. This natural wonder offers a rejuvenating experience amidst the stunning Arequipa landscape.

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Stone Forest of Imata

Following the visit to the Pillones waterfall, travelers venture to the Stone Forest of Imata.

This unique geological wonder features:

• Towering rock formations sculpted by the elements over centuries

• A 30-minute guided walk through the dramatic landscape

• The opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the otherworldly scenery

Guests marvel at the surreal, sculptural beauty of the Stone Forest, shaped by the forces of nature.

This captivating stop provides a memorable contrast to the flowing waters of the Pillones waterfall, offering a well-rounded exploration of Arequipa’s natural wonders.

Wildlife and Nature Highlights

Visitors can observe vizcachas, small rabbit-like mammals, scurrying among the rocks. These unique rodents are native to the Andes and are commonly seen in the Stone Forest of Imata.

Travelers may also spot South American camelids, such as llamas and alpacas, grazing in the area.

The lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls of Pillones provide a picturesque backdrop for wildlife viewing and nature appreciation. Guests can enjoy the serene environment, listen to the soothing sounds of the falls, and capture stunning photographs of the diverse flora and fauna found in this remarkable setting.

Customer Feedback

The tour of the Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest in Arequipa has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors.

The tour of the Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest in Arequipa has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors.

With a perfect 5/5 rating based on a single review, the tour is praised for its:

• Captivating natural scenery, including the cascading Pillones waterfalls and the unique rock formations of Imata’s Stone Forest

• Immersive exploration of the local flora and fauna, spotting vizcachas and South American camelids

• Seamless organization, from the convenient hotel pick-ups to the delicious lunch stop on the return trip

Suitable for all types of travelers, this adventure offers an unforgettable experience in Peru’s stunning natural landscapes.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the Pillones Waterfalls and Rock Forest tour is straightforward. Customers can reserve their spot and pay nothing today. This flexible policy allows travelers to secure their place without a financial commitment upfront.

Should plans change, they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This hassle-free cancellation ensures peace of mind.

The tour operator offers convenient pickup from hotels in Arequipa, making it easy for visitors to join the excursion. The booking process is simple and accommodating, allowing travelers to focus on anticipating the natural wonders that await them.

Since You Asked

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, from couples and groups to solo adventurers and families. Children can participate in the activities as well.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

While guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and water, the tour includes lunch during the return trip as well as complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the day.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom stops along the way, providing travelers with access to facilities during the excursion. Participants can use the restrooms at the starting point, the waterfall site, and the Stone Forest location.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour does not appear to be wheelchair accessible based on the provided itinerary. The 1 km walk to the Pillones waterfall and the 30-minute guided walk through the Stone Forest may present accessibility challenges for those with mobility constraints.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour if Needed?

The tour duration can typically be extended, though this may incur additional costs. It’s best to discuss any requests for extensions directly with the tour operator, as they can provide the most up-to-date information and accommodate any changes to the itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Pillones Waterfalls and Imata Stone Forest excursion from Arequipa offers a unique opportunity to take in Peru’s breathtaking natural wonders. With a scenic 1 km hike to the Pillones waterfall and a guided exploration of the Imata rock formations, this day trip provides an unforgettable experience amidst Arequipa’s remarkable landscapes. Visitors can observe local flora and fauna, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to connect with nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: