From Arequipa: Sillar Route Hike

Set out on a captivating 4-hour journey from Arequipa with the "Sillar Route Hike." This excursion showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the Añashuayco Quarry, where skilled quarrymen produce the renowned sillar stone. Journey to Quebrada de Culebrillas and witness ancient Wari petroglyphs nestled within the stunning canyon walls. With transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees included, this tour provides a seamless experience. What secrets and wonders might this hidden route unveil?

Key Points

• The sillar route hike is a 4-hour excursion from Arequipa, starting at 9:15 AM and returning to the city center by 1:30 PM.
• The hike includes stops at the Añashuayco Quarry, Quebrada de Culebrillas, and Apachetas, showcasing the history and production of sillar.
• Guides are available in both Spanish and English, and the price starts from $21 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The hike involves a 30-minute journey to Quebrada de Culebrillas and a 20-minute walk to observe ancient Wari culture petroglyphs.
• The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees, with the meeting point provided via Google Maps upon booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Sillar Route Hike is a 4-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of Arequipa’s unique construction material, sillar.

Priced from $21 per person, the activity features Spanish and English-speaking guides and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants can reserve their spot and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience.

The hike showcases the Añashuayco Quarry, where visitors can interact with quarrymen and witness the stone-cutting process, and the Quebrada de Culebrillas, featuring ancient Wari culture petroglyphs.

Highlights and Itinerary

Though the starting time for the Sillar Route Hike may vary, the journey begins at 9:15 AM towards this historically rich tourist route.

The first stop is the Añashuayco Quarry, an operational quarry with ignimbrite walls where visitors can learn about the history and production of sillar. Participants will also see a mega carving of the Church of the Society of Jesus and interact with quarrymen to experience stone cutting.

An operational quarry where visitors can learn about the history and production of sillar, and witness stone carving.

Next, the group travels 30 minutes to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a 20-minute walk in a canyon to observe ancient Wari culture petroglyphs.

The final stop features apachetas, stone formations symbolizing gratitude towards nature.

Añashuayco Quarry

Añashuayco Quarry is the first stop on the Sillar Route Hike. This operational quarry offers visitors a glimpse into the production of sillar, the unique stone used in Arequipa’s historic center. Towering ignimbrite walls surround the quarry, where guests can interact with local quarrymen and experience the art of stone cutting.

| Activity | Description |

| — | — |

| Quarry Overview | Learn the history and production of sillar. |

| Mega Carving | View the impressive mega carving of the Church of the Society of Jesus. |

| Interaction | Engage with quarrymen and observe their stone cutting techniques. |

| Photo Opportunities | Capture the dramatic natural scenery of the quarry. |

| Cultural Immersion | Gain insights into the living culture and history of sillar production.

Quebrada De Culebrillas

After exploring the Añashuayco Quarry, visitors will travel for 30 minutes to reach the Quebrada de Culebrillas.

This 20-minute walk through the canyon offers stunning 15-20 meter high walls. Along the way, visitors can observe ancient Wari culture petroglyphs that are over a thousand years old.

These mysterious rock carvings provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history and heritage.

The mysterious rock carvings offer a window into the region’s captivating history and cultural heritage.

The Quebrada de Culebrillas is a must-see stop on the Sillar Route hike, offering both natural beauty and archaeological wonders for visitors to discover.

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Apachetas

As visitors continue their journey along the Sillar Route, they’ll encounter the striking stone formations known as apachetas.

These piles of stones are symbolic representations of gratitude towards nature. The apachetas mark significant points along the trail, serving as spiritual markers. Hikers often add a stone to an existing pile, an act of reverence and appreciation for the land.

The apachetas reflect the deep-rooted Andean traditions and the community’s connection to the natural world. These stone monuments offer a glimpse into the cultural significance of the Sillar Route experience.

Transportation and Logistics

The Sillar Route hike includes transportation to and from Arequipa, as well as a professional guide to accompany the group. The return trip departs Culebrillas at 12:30 PM, arriving in the Arequipa city center near the main square at 1:30 PM. The hike also includes the entrance ticket to the sites, which costs 10 soles.

| Includes | Transportation | Professional Guide | Entrance Ticket |

|——–|—————-|——————-|—————–|

| | To/From Arequipa | For the Group | 10 soles |

| | Departure: 12:30 PM | Arrival: 1:30 PM | – |

| | From Culebrillas | In Arequipa City Center | – |

Cultural Significance

The Sillar Route hike offers a unique opportunity to experience the living culture and history of Arequipa.

Sillar, a distinctive volcanic stone, was the primary material used in constructing the city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the tour, hikers interact with local quarrymen, learning about the traditional methods of sillar production. This hands-on experience provides deeper insights into Arequipa’s vibrant cultural heritage.

The hike also showcases ancient Wari petroglyphs, reminders of the region’s rich pre-Columbian past. Through these immersive cultural encounters, the Sillar Route hike invites visitors to truly connect with Arequipa’s enduring traditions.

Booking Information

How does one go about booking the Sillar Route hike?

First, check the availability and select the desired date and number of participants. The meeting point is provided via Google Maps.

Reservations can be made easily, and there’s no need to pay upfront – just book your spot and settle the payment later.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Arequipa, a professional guide, and entrance fees.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a hassle-free way to explore the historic Sillar Route and learn about Arequipa’s unique cultural heritage.

Things To Know

What Type of Hiking Gear Is Recommended for This Activity?

For this hiking activity, recommended gear includes comfortable hiking boots, lightweight layers, sun protection, water, and snacks. Hikers should be prepared for varied terrain and weather conditions during the 4-hour excursion.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the hike. Packing a picnic lunch and water is recommended to refuel during the 4-hour excursion along the Sillar Route.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Hike?

The Sillar Route Hike doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children are welcome to join, though they’ll need to be supervised by a responsible adult for the duration of the 4-hour hike through the historical and scenic sites.

How Strenuous Is the Hike, and What Is the Difficulty Level?

The hike is of moderate difficulty, covering a 4-hour duration with a 30-minute walk in a canyon. It involves some uphill sections, though the overall terrain is manageable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Are There Any Health or Physical Limitations to Consider for This Tour?

This hike involves a 30-minute walk in a canyon with 15-20 meter high walls. Visitors should be comfortable with some moderate walking and uneven terrain. Those with mobility issues or respiratory conditions may have difficulty on this tour.

Sum Up

The Sillar Route Hike offers a captivating exploration of Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage. Witness the quarrying of sillar, a unique volcanic stone, and discover ancient Wari petroglyphs within the stunning Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon. With professional guidance and seamless logistics, this tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to deeply connect with the region’s history and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: