Arequipa: Sillar Route With Hiking in Culebrillas

Arequipa’s Sillar Route is a captivating outdoor adventure that blends natural wonders and cultural heritage. From the panoramic vistas of Yanahuara to the ancient Inca Trail in the Quebrada de Culebrillas, this journey promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors can marvel at the towering white walls of the Añashuayco Quarry and uncover the mysteries of the region’s petroglyphs. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking to learn about Peru’s rich history, the Sillar Route offers a tantalizing glimpse into the heart of Arequipa.

Key Points

• The Sillar Route with Hiking in Culebrillas offers a scenic tour of Arequipa’s iconic white architecture, volcanoes, and ancient Inca trails.
• The route includes stops at the Yanahuara Scenic Overlook, Añashuayco Quarry, and Quebrada de Culebrillas, providing opportunities for photography and cultural exploration.
• Visitors can experience the unique geological formations and petroglyphs at the Añashuayco Quarry and Quebrada de Culebrillas, with entry fees required.
• The tour involves a mix of bus transportation and hiking, allowing for both sightseeing and light physical activity.
• Despite a single unsatisfactory review, the tour offers flexible booking options with free cancellation, making it accessible to a variety of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Arequipa: A City of Whitewashed Sillar

Arequipa, known as the "White City," is a remarkable destination renowned for its unique architecture constructed with sillar, a type of volcanic rock.

This durable material, quarried from nearby volcanoes, has been used for centuries to build the city’s iconic churches, monasteries, and colonial-era structures. The stark white facades reflect the intense Andean sunlight, creating a stunning visual contrast against the surrounding rugged landscape.

Visitors can explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the seamless integration of this natural resource into Arequipa’s timeless architectural identity, a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Yanahuara Scenic Overlook: Panoramic Vistas

The first stop on the Arequipa: Sillar Route with Hiking is the Yanahuara Scenic Overlook.

After a 20-minute bus ride, visitors get 20 minutes to take in the panoramic views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.

Yanahuara’s iconic white architecture and plazas provide a scenic backdrop.

This break allows travelers to stretch their legs and capture photos before continuing on to the next destination.

The Yanahuara Overlook offers a glimpse of Arequipa’s stunning volcanic landscape and sets the stage for the adventure ahead on the Sillar Route.

Unveiling the Añashuayco Quarry

Next, the bus whisks the group along for 40 minutes to the Añashuayco Quarry.

The quarry features:

• 30-meter high white walls, creating a dramatic canyon landscape

• A photo stop that allows visitors to capture the quarry’s stunning scenery

• An entry fee of S/5.00 to explore this natural wonder

After the photo stop, the group embarks on a hike within the quarry, seeing the raw, rugged beauty of this geological site.

The Añashuayco Quarry offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature in shaping the region’s iconic sillar stone.

Hiking Through the Quebrada De Culebrillas

After the photo stop at the Añashuayco Quarry, the group hops back on the bus for a 20-minute journey to the Quebrada de Culebrillas.

Here, they’ll enjoy a 30-minute break and guided tour to observe the area’s unique petroglyphs.

The 20-minute walk leads them along the ancient Inca Trail, where they’ll spot the traditional apachetas – stone cairns used as offerings.

The tour provides the chance to immerse in the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, all while exploring on foot.

An entry fee of S/5.00 is required to access the Quebrada de Culebrillas.

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Exploring the Inca Trail and Ancestral Offerings

As the group heads back towards the bus, they can take in the sight of the traditional apachetas, or stone cairns, that line the ancient Inca Trail.

These ancestral offerings were created to mark significant points along the route, serving as navigational aids and spiritual markers. The tour guide explains the importance of these structures, noting that they represent the connection between the physical and spiritual realms.

The group pauses to appreciate the cultural significance of the apachetas, reflecting on the legacy of the Inca civilization that continues to shape the landscape of Arequipa.

• Apachetas: Ancestral stone cairns along the Inca Trail

• Navigational aids and spiritual markers

• Connection between physical and spiritual realms

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes round-trip tourist transportation, a bilingual guide, and entry fees for the Culebrillas and Añashuayco Quarry sites.

Travelers should bring a camera, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Alcohol, drugs, and electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed. This activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.

Along the way, visitors will observe apachetas, which are ancestral offerings. Guests should be prepared for a 20-minute walk to see petroglyphs at the Culebrillas site.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have provided mixed feedback on this Arequipa: Sillar Route with Hiking activity.

With a disappointing overall rating of 1 out of 5 based on a single review, some areas of concern include:

• The reviewer from France found the experience unsatisfactory, likely not reflective of the typical customer experience.

• Details on the specific issues encountered are limited, making it difficult to determine if this is an isolated incident or a more widespread problem.

• Potential travelers should review any additional feedback before booking to ensure the activity aligns with their expectations and interests.

Booking Details and Flexibility

Booking this Arequipa: Sillar Route with Hiking activity offers travelers flexibility and convenience. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring their desired date is secured. The activity also features a generous cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives travelers peace of mind when planning their Arequipa adventure.

| Booking Flexibility | Cancellation Policy | Payment Options |

| — | — | — |

| Reserve now, pay later | Free cancellation up to 24 hours | Secure online payment |

| Guaranteed spot on desired date | Full refund for cancellations | Reserve now, pay later |

| Flexible scheduling | No hidden fees or penalties | Multiple payment methods accepted |

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Physical Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for travelers with physical disabilities. According to the information provided, the tour is not recommended for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.

Can We Bring Alcoholic Beverages on the Bus During the Tour?

The tour policies prohibit bringing alcoholic drinks on the vehicle. Per the important information, the only things not allowed are alcohol, drugs, and electric wheelchairs. Travelers should bring only non-alcoholic beverages and comply with the tour guidelines.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Cameras Allowed?

The tour allows guests to bring regular cameras, but prohibits electric wheelchairs and alcoholic drinks on the bus. Visitors should check the itinerary for any other restrictions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour at an Additional Cost?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional cost. Travelers can discuss this option with the tour operator when booking or on the day of the tour to accommodate their needs.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to include additional stops. Speak with the tour operator to discuss your preferences and any additional costs. They’ll work with you to create a personalized experience that meets your needs.

Sum Up

The Sillar Route in Arequipa offers an exceptional outdoor adventure, showcasing the city’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking vistas, explore ancient quarries, and discover the Inca Trail and its intriguing petroglyphs. This unforgettable experience promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this remarkable journey through Arequipa’s captivating Sillar Route.

You can check availability for your dates here: