Arequipa: The Sillar Route Day Tour

Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," is a captivating destination for architecture enthusiasts. The Sillar Route Day Tour invites visitors to explore the city’s unique pink stone, known as sillar. Carved by skilled artisans, this local material has shaped Arequipa’s iconic buildings. Explore the quarries, witness the craftsmanship, and uncover the cultural significance of this enduring architectural tradition. From the Añashuayco Quarries to the Wari heritage site, this tour promises an immersive experience that showcases Arequipa’s rich history and artistic legacy.

Key Points

• The "Sillar Route Day Tour" showcases Arequipa’s unique architectural heritage, built using the volcanic "sillar" stone quarried from nearby mountains.
• Visitors can explore the Añashuayco Quarries, the primary source of sillar, and observe the extraction and artisanal crafting processes.
• The tour highlights the "pink sillar," a unique coloration created by the blend of volcanic materials, and the creation of architectural elements and handicrafts.
• Artisan workshops demonstrate the centuries-old techniques used to transform sillar into intricate carvings, sculptures, and ornaments.
• The tour includes convenient transportation, professional guides, and covers the entrance fee, ensuring a hassle-free and informative experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of Arequipa: The White City

The city of Arequipa is often referred to as the "White City" due to the distinctive sillar stone used in its architecture. This volcanic rock, quarried from the nearby mountains, lends a unique and visually striking appearance to the buildings.

The white hue and intricate carvings create a harmonious and picturesque cityscape, earning Arequipa the nickname. Wandering the streets, visitors are captivated by the colonial-era plazas, churches, and monasteries constructed using this local material.

Arequipa’s blend of Spanish and indigenous influences, set against the dramatic Andean backdrop, make it a truly enchanting destination in Peru.

Exploring the Añashuayco Quarries

Situated at the foot of the majestic Chachani Volcano, the Añashuayco Quarries offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Arequipa’s architectural legacy.

This quarry was the primary source of the distinctive sillar stone, a white volcanic rock that defines the city’s iconic buildings. Visitors can observe skilled artisans at work, witness the extraction process, and even purchase handcrafted souvenirs.

The tour highlights include:

• Gaining insights into the cultural significance of sillar in Arequipa’s history

• Admiring the unique pink hues of the sillar, created by a blend of sand and minerals

• Exploring the ancient Culebrillas Quarry and its captivating petroglyphs

Discovering the Unique Pink Sillar

A dazzling array of pink hues greets visitors to the Añashuayco Quarries. This unique coloration, known as "pink sillar," results from a captivating blend of sillar, sand, and rocks.

Artisans eagerly share the origins of this natural wonder, explaining how the volcanic sillar, when combined with the region’s minerals, creates the stunning pink tones.

Visitors can observe the extraction process and watch skilled craftspeople transform the pink sillar into intricate architectural elements and handicrafts.

Exploring this vibrant display of nature’s artistry is a highlight of the Sillar Route Day Tour, offering a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage.

Witnessing the Artisan Workshops

As visitors meander through the Añashuayco Quarries, they’ll come across a captivating scene – artisans skillfully transforming the iconic pink sillar into intricate architectural elements and handicrafts.

These master craftspeople demonstrate the centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.

• Visitors can observe artisans meticulously carving the sillar into decorative blocks and sculptures.

• They’ll witness the intricate process of chiseling and polishing the stone to create delicate figurines and ornaments.

• Guests may even have the opportunity to purchase unique sillar handicrafts directly from the artisans.

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Unearthing the Wari Culture at Culebrillas Quarry

After exploring the vibrant sillar workshops, visitors venture deeper into the Culebrillas Quarry, where they’ll uncover the captivating legacy of the Wari culture.

At this historic site, ancient petroglyphs provide a glimpse into the civilization that flourished in the region centuries ago. Travelers can examine these remarkable rock carvings, gaining insights into the artistic and cultural practices of the Wari people.

The quarry offers a unique opportunity to connect with Arequipa’s rich past, complementing the exploration of the city’s renowned sillar architecture and artisanal traditions.

Convenient Transportation and Logistics

The Arequipa Day Tour provides convenient transportation and logistics for a seamless sightseeing experience.

Convenient transportation and logistics for a seamless Arequipa sightseeing experience.

The tour includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your day.

• Professional guides who provide expert commentary in both Spanish and English, enriching your understanding of the Sillar Route and Wari culture.

• First aid and COVID kits to ensure your safety and peace of mind throughout the tour.

With these thoughtful inclusions, you can focus on enjoying the captivating history and architecture of Arequipa’s renowned "White City."

What to Expect: Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

From the tour’s inclusions, guests can expect a comprehensive sightseeing experience led by professional guides who provide commentary in both Spanish and English.

Transportation, including hotel pickup and drop-off, is provided. First aid and COVID kits are also included for safety.

The tour entrance fee of S/ 5.00 per person is covered, but gratuities, food, and drinks are not.

Guests should bring their passport, sun protection, comfortable clothing, and cash for any optional purchases.

This tour is suitable for all ages, with children 2 and younger riding for free on their parents’ laps.

Customer Testimonials: A Memorable Experience

Guests who’ve experienced the Arequipa Day Tour rave about the memorable insights and opportunities it provides.

Reviewers highlight:

• The guide’s extensive knowledge and passion for Peruvian culture and Arequipa’s architectural heritage.

• The chance to witness the traditional sillar extraction process and see artisans at work.

• The well-organized logistics, including convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, making the most of limited time.

With its perfect 5-star rating, the Arequipa Day Tour offers an enriching and immersive glimpse into the city’s unique white stone legacy, leaving lasting impressions on travelers.

Things To Know

Can I Bring Additional Guests Not Listed in My Reservation?

You can bring additional guests, but you’ll need to pay for them separately. The tour has a per-person price, so you’ll need to add the cost for any extra guests when you arrive.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour offers an option to extend the duration. Guests can upgrade to a longer tour for an additional fee, allowing more time to explore the quarries and workshops along the Sillar Route.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the guide. The tour provides professional guides who speak both Spanish and English, so you can request the language you’re most comfortable with when booking the tour.

Do You Offer Discounts for Larger Group Bookings?

The tour operator offers group discounts for larger bookings. Customers can inquire about group rates when reserving their tour. Discounts may be available for groups of 4 or more people to make the tour more affordable.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to your preferences. The tour operator is happy to accommodate any special requests or modify the tour to better suit your interests and needs.

Sum Up

The Sillar Route Day Tour in Arequipa offers a unique opportunity to take in the city’s rich architectural heritage. Visitors can witness the extraction and crafting of the iconic pink sillar stone, gaining insights into the cultural significance and artistry behind Arequipa’s "White City" designation. This tour provides a memorable and insightful experience for those seeking a deeper understanding of Arequipa’s captivating blend of history and modern-day craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here: