From Arequipa: Tour of the Sillar Route + Culebrillas Canyon

Arequipa’s sillar stone quarries and the stunning Culebrillas Canyon offer a captivating window into the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. This 4-hour guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s centuries-old stonemasonry traditions and the ancient petroglyphs that dot the canyon’s walls. With hotel pickup, English and Spanish-language options, and a reserve now, pay later policy, it’s an accessible way to discover the remarkable sights that lie beyond Arequipa’s historic city center.

Key Points

• Explore the sillar stone quarries in Uchumayo, learning about the traditional stonemasonry techniques used for centuries to shape iconic Arequipa buildings.
• Set out on a 30-minute hike to the Culebrillas Canyon, marveling at the towering rocky walls and ancient petroglyphs left by the Wari culture.
• The 4-hour tour is priced from $30 per person and available in small groups, with complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, led by local experts, and includes the entrance fee to Culebrillas Canyon.
• Flexibility is offered with a reserve now and pay later option, and a 24-hour cancellation policy for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sillar Route tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Arequipa, Peru.

This 4-hour tour takes guests on a journey to the sillar stone quarries and the breathtaking Culebrillas Canyon. Priced from $30 per person, the tour is available in small groups and in both Spanish and English.

Travelers can enjoy complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the flexibility of a reserve now and pay later option.

The tour highlights traditional stonemasonry, ancient petroglyphs, and the canyon’s stunning natural formations, making it an unmissable experience for visitors to Arequipa.

Itinerary

The tour begins with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa at your chosen time.

The tour begins with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa at your chosen time.

You’ll then travel to Uchumayo to visit the sillar stone quarries. A guided tour will provide insights into traditional stonemasonry techniques and the history of this local craft.

Next, you’ll hike for about 30 minutes to reach the Culebrillas Canyon. Here, you’ll explore the canyon’s rocky walls, up to 20 meters high, and discover millennia-old petroglyphs.

Finally, you’ll return to the center of Arequipa, ending near the iconic Plaza de Armas.

Highlights

One of the key highlights of this tour is the opportunity to learn about the traditional stonemasonry techniques that have been used for centuries in Arequipa.

Visitors will discover the intricate processes behind the creation of ashlar stones, a distinctive architectural style that has shaped the city’s iconic buildings.

Another highlight is the chance to explore the ancient Culebrillas Canyon, where visitors can marvel at the towering rocky walls and discover millennia-old petroglyphs left by the Wari culture.

Throughout the tour, guests will have ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the unique natural formations and historic sites.

Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pick-up and return to the center of Arequipa.

Transportation is provided by bus or minibus, depending on the group size. Guests will enjoy a guided tour in both Spanish and English, led by local experts.

The tour also includes the entrance fee to the Culebrillas Canyon, which is $5 per person.

The entrance fee to the Culebrillas Canyon is included in the tour, costing $5 per person.

With these inclusions, travelers can fully enjoy the exploration of the sillar stone quarries and the natural beauty of the Culebrillas Canyon without worrying about additional costs.

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Important Information

For last-minute reservations, travelers should confirm availability with the supplier via email. It’s also recommended to communicate via WhatsApp one or two days before the tour for pick-up details. Guests should ensure flexible travel plans by taking advantage of the reserve now & pay later option.

| Important Information | |

| ——————— | —————- |

| Reservation Inquiry | Email Supplier |

| Pickup Details | WhatsApp 1-2 Days|

| Flexible Travel | Reserve & Pay Later|

| Confirmation | Availability Check|

| Cancellation Policy | 24 Hours for Refund|

Stonemasonry Techniques and History

The tour’s first stop takes visitors to the sillar stone quarries in Uchumayo, where they’ll learn about the traditional stonemasonry techniques that have defined Arequipa’s distinctive architecture for centuries.

Skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of quarrying, shaping, and sculpting the soft volcanic sillar stone. Visitors see how the stones are precisely cut using hand tools, then carefully fitted together without mortar to create the city’s iconic whitewashed buildings.

This time-honored craft dates back to the colonial era, when Arequipa’s stonemasons developed techniques to harness the region’s natural resources and construct lasting, earthquake-resistant structures.

Petroglyphs of the Wari Culture

After exploring the sillar stone quarries, the tour then leads visitors to the Culebrillas Canyon.

Carved into the earth over millennia, the canyon’s rocky walls rise 15-20 meters high, showcasing ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture.

These captivating rock carvings, over a thousand years old, depict:

1. Geometric patterns

2. Animal figures

3. Anthropomorphic designs

4. Mystical symbols

Visitors can wander along the canyon floor, marveling at these glimpses into the past while capturing stunning photographs of the unique geological formations.

The Wari petroglyphs provide a fascinating window into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Natural Beauty of Culebrillas Canyon

As visitors descend into the Culebrillas Canyon, they’re immediately captivated by its natural beauty.

Towering rocky walls, some reaching 20 meters high, line the canyon’s path. Carved over millennia, these unique geological formations create a dramatic landscape.

Visitors can explore the canyon’s winding trails, discovering ancient petroglyphs etched into the stone. The serene, peaceful setting allows them to fully enjoy the natural wonder.

Sunlight filters through the canyon, casting shadows that accentuate the textures and contours of the rock.

It’s a truly breathtaking experience that showcases the power and beauty of nature.

Things To Know

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is offered in small groups, but the minimum group size is not specified. The tour description indicates it’s a small group experience, so the minimum group size is likely just one or two participants.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is needed for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour provider will provide any necessary equipment, such as flashlights, for exploring the canyon’s rocky walls.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private option. Travelers can book a private tour for their group, which allows for a more personalized experience. The private tour price may vary from the standard group rate.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Interests?

The tour can be customized to your interests. You can request a private tour or adjust the itinerary to focus on areas you’re most interested in, like the stonemasonry techniques or the ancient petroglyphs. The tour operator is flexible in accommodating your preferences.

How Do I Communicate With the Tour Operator Before the Tour?

The tour operator can be contacted via WhatsApp one or two days before the tour to discuss pick-up details. This allows you to communicate any preferences or questions prior to the start of the excursion.

Sum Up

Discover the natural wonders of Arequipa’s sillar stone quarries and Culebrillas Canyon on this captivating tour. Gain insights into ancient stonemasonry techniques and uncover the region’s rich cultural heritage through petroglyphs. With convenient hotel pickup and a flexible reservation policy, this immersive experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into Arequipa’s breathtaking landscapes and enduring traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: