From Arequipa: Sillar Route Tour || Half Day ||

Arequipa’s Sillar Route Tour is a captivating half-day adventure that promises to immerse you in the region’s rich cultural heritage. Exploring the Añashuayco Quarry and the Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon, you’ll witness the skilled craftsmanship of local masons carving the distinctive white sillar stone and uncover ancient petroglyphs that tell the story of this remarkable landscape. With convenient pickup and travel insurance included, this intimate tour offers an opportunity to discover Arequipa’s hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of the area’s significance.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Sillar Route, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage site, on a 5-hour half-day tour from Arequipa.
• Witness local masons carving distinctive white sillar stone at the Añashuayco Quarry and venture into the captivating Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon.
• Discover ancient petroglyphs along the route and learn about the cultural significance of the sillar masonry techniques.
• Enjoy pick-up from your accommodation, inclusive travel insurance, and a small group size limited to 10 participants.
• Experience the stunning natural beauty of Arequipa, known as "The White City," and its intangible cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sillar Route Tour in Arequipa, Peru offers a unique 5-hour adventure into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Arequipa, Peru on a 5-hour Sillar Route Tour adventure.

Priced from €18.39 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) showcases the historic Sillar Route, known for its cultural significance and adventure.

Explore the Añashuayco Quarry, where local masons work with the iconic sillar stone, and wander through the stunning Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon.

Along the way, you’ll discover ancient petroglyphs carved in stone.

Available in English and Spanish, the tour includes round-trip transportation and travel insurance, with extra fees for site entrances.

Booking Details

How does one go about booking the Sillar Route Tour? The process couldn’t be simpler. Reservations are available through an online platform, allowing travelers to secure their spot with no upfront payment required.

The tour includes convenient pick-up from your accommodation in Arequipa, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure. Additionally:

• Travel insurance is covered, providing peace of mind during the excursion.

• Entrance fees to the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon are extra, totaling $10 per person.

• Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, offering flexibility.

• Group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Pickup and Itinerary

Promptly at 8:50 a.m., the tour guide will arrive at your accommodation in Arequipa to kick off the Sillar Route adventure.

From there, you’ll explore one of Peru’s historic roads, known for its cultural significance and adventure. At the Añashuayco Quarry, observe local masons sculpting the iconic sillar stone.

Then, venture into the dramatic Quebrada de Culebrillas, a water canyon with 20-meter high walls. Along the way, discover ancient petroglyphs – mysterious figures carved into stone.

Finally, the tour concludes around 1:00 p.m. with a drop-off back at your accommodation, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s living heritage.

Exploring the Sillar Route

Winding through the heart of Arequipa, the historic Sillar Route beckons travelers to discover the city’s living heritage.

Explore this remarkable pathway, where local masons skillfully carve the distinctive white sillar stone into architectural wonders.

Along the way, you’ll:

• Witness the meticulous process of sillar extraction and shaping at the Añashuayco Quarry.

• Venture into the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a captivating water canyon with towering 20-meter walls.

• Uncover the enigmatic petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings whose meanings have been lost to time.

• Gain a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s enduring cultural traditions, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Nation.

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Añashuayco Quarry Experience

As the Sillar Route winds through Arequipa, one of its must-see destinations is the Añashuayco Quarry.

Here, visitors can observe skilled local masons at work, chiseling away at the iconic white sillar stone. They’ll learn about the intricate process of extracting and carving this material, which has been used to construct Arequipa’s stunning colonial architecture.

The quarry itself is an impressive sight, with a dramatic canyon formed by centuries of material extraction.

The dramatic canyon of the Añashuayco Quarry bears witness to centuries of stone extraction that has shaped Arequipa’s architectural identity.

It’s a chance to witness the living cultural heritage that has shaped the city’s distinct "White City" identity, an unforgettable experience along the Sillar Route.

Quebrada De Culebrillas Hike

After marveling at the intricate sillar stone carvings, the tour continues to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a captivating water canyon with towering 20-meter-high walls.

Guests embark on a 20-minute walk through the canyon, surrounded by the dramatic natural scenery.

Along the way, they:

• Discover ancient petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls, their meanings long lost to time.

• Admire the vibrant colors of the rock formations, painted by millennia of erosion.

• Hear the soothing sounds of the flowing stream, a testament to the canyon’s enduring power.

• Feel a deep connection to the land and its rich cultural heritage.

Petroglyphs Discovery

Etched into the canyon walls, ancient petroglyphs capture the imagination of visitors to the Quebrada de Culebrillas.

These mysterious carvings, dating back centuries, depict geometric shapes, animals, and even human figures.

The guides on the Sillar Route Tour provide insights into the possible meanings and origins of these enigmatic symbols.

As you explore the canyon, you’ll be transported back in time, wondering about the hands that crafted these intriguing designs.

The petroglyphs serve as a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage that permeates the Arequipa region, waiting to be discovered by curious travelers.

Cultural Significance

The Sillar Route showcases the living culture and history that contribute to Arequipa’s identity as "The White City."

This historic road has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Nation, highlighting its profound significance.

This tour offers a window into Arequipa’s rich heritage:

• Witness local masons skillfully carving the iconic sillar stone, a testament to centuries-old masonry techniques.

• Explore the Añashuayco Quarry, where this prized stone has been extracted for generations.

• Discover ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock, holding mysteries of past civilizations.

• Enjoy the natural beauty of the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a stunning water canyon.

Things To Know

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather is typically sunny and mild during the Sillar Route tour. Temperatures range from around 15-22°C (59-72°F), making it an enjoyable outdoor experience. Visitors should prepare for some cool breezes, especially in the canyon areas.

Can We Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Participants are welcome to take photos and videos throughout the tour. The guides encourage capturing the unique quarry, canyon, and petroglyphs along the route to document the cultural heritage of the Sillar Route. Just be mindful not to disturb the local masons at work.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be the best fit for those with mobility challenges. The hike through the Culebrillas Canyon and observing stone carving involves some uneven terrain. The tour provider can discuss accommodation options to determine if it’s suitable for an individual’s needs.

What Type of Clothing and Footwear Should We Wear?

For the Sillar Route Tour, comfort and practicality are key. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes that can handle uneven terrain, and dress in layers to adapt to changing weather. Bring sun protection and be prepared for some light hiking and exploring.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The Sillar Route Tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the adventure, though parents should consider if the hike is suitable for younger children. The tour’s group size is limited to 10 people.

Sum Up

This captivating Sillar Route Tour offers a unique glimpse into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage. From witnessing skilled masons carving the distinctive white sillar stone to discovering ancient petroglyphs, this half-day adventure immerses you in the region’s fascinating history. With convenient pick-up, travel insurance, and an intimate group size, it’s the perfect way to explore the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Arequipa.

You can check availability for your dates here: