Private Tour to The Sillar Route and Historical Center of Arequipa

Arequipa, the "White City" of Peru, beckons travelers with its captivating mix of colonial architecture and natural wonders. This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the historic center and the renowned Sillar Route, showcasing the city’s remarkable heritage. From the iconic Plaza de Armas to the artisanal quarries, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into Arequipa’s vibrant culture. With personalized transportation and flexible itineraries, visitors can embark on a journey that unveils the city’s hidden gems and leaves them eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• Explore Arequipa’s historic center and visit significant landmarks, including the Cathedral and Church of the Company of Jesus, with a personalized small-group tour.
• Discover the Anashuayco Quarries, the source of the white volcanic rock sillar, and learn about the traditional quarrying process and stonemasons.
• Venture along the Sillar Route to observe picturesque canyons and traditional workshops, understanding the historical significance of sillar in Arequipa’s architecture.
• Immerse in the natural wonders of the Uchumayo canyons, admiring the vibrant colors and rugged landscapes shaped by the Uchumayo River.
• Experience a private tour with flexible customization, personalized transportation, and convenient pricing starting from $58.00 per person.

Exploring the Historic Center of Arequipa

After being picked up at the meeting point near the Plaza de Armas, the private tour begins by exploring the historic center of Arequipa.

The guide leads the group to the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city. Here, they admire the stunning colonial architecture, including the Cathedral of Arequipa, a magnificent example of the city’s distinctive white sillar stone.

Next, they visit the Church of the Company of Jesus, known for its intricate Baroque facade.

The Church of the Company of Jesus, renowned for its ornate Baroque facade, is a captivating stop on the tour.

The tour then moves to the Tristan del Pozo artworks, where the guide provides insights into the cultural significance of these pieces.

Discovering the Tristan Del Pozo Artwork

The tour then moves to the Tristan del Pozo artworks, where the guide provides insights into the cultural significance of these pieces.

Tristan del Pozo was a renowned 19th-century Arequipeño artist known for his vibrant depictions of local life and landscapes. The guide explains how his works capture the essence of Arequipa’s history and traditions.

Visitors marvel at the intricate details and rich colors that bring the city’s heritage to life. The guide encourages participants to observe the artworks closely, noting the skilled techniques and the artists’ unique perspectives on Arequipeño culture.

The Anashuayco Quarries and Sillar Route

As the tour progresses, the guide leads visitors to the Anashuayco quarries, where the distinctive white volcanic rock known as sillar was harvested to construct many of Arequipa’s iconic buildings.

The guide provides insights into the quarrying process and the skilled stonemasons who carved the sillar into intricate architectural elements. Visitors can observe the massive rock formations and imagine the arduous labor required to extract and shape this valuable material.

The tour then continues along the Sillar Route, showcasing:

• Picturesque canyons and ravines carved by the Chili River

• Traditional workshops where sillar is still carved by hand

• Sweeping views of the surrounding Andes mountains

• The historical significance of the quarries in Arequipa’s architectural heritage

Experiencing the Uchumayo Canyons

Why does the tour then continue on to the Uchumayo canyons?

After visiting the storied Anashuayco quarries, the tour moves on to explore the natural wonders of the Uchumayo canyons. This geological marvel features striking rock formations carved by the Uchumayo River over centuries.

The guide shares insights about the region’s unique geography and the history of the canyons. Visitors can admire the vibrant colors and rugged landscapes, gaining a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s natural beauty beyond the city center.

This leg of the tour provides a chance to immerse in the area’s captivating geology and scenery.

Private Transport and Personalized Experience

A key draw of this private tour is the personalized nature of the experience. Rather than being herded around in a large group, you’ll travel in the comfort of a private vehicle with just your small group and guide. This allows for a more intimate and tailored exploration of Arequipa’s highlights.

Some key benefits of the private transport include:

• Maximize your limited vacation time by avoiding the hassle of public transportation

• Customize the itinerary to your interests and pace

• Receive enriching commentary and insights from the knowledgeable guide

• Access lesser-known natural attractions off the beaten path

Inclusions and Additional Information

The tour includes private transportation, a professional guide, and an entrance ticket to one of the attractions.

Guests have the flexibility to either go directly to the meeting point or request pickup near the Historic Center or Plaza de Armas. The tour starts at the main door of the Cathedral in Plaza de Armas.

Guests should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

It’s a private tour/activity for the group only. Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.

Pricing and Reviews

The tour is priced from $58.00 per person.

Customers have the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour.

Reviews for this private tour have been mixed, with a 3.0 rating based on 1 review.

Feedback notes:

• Guide’s limited English proficiency

• Lack of a memorable experience

• Some natural attractions weren’t as impressive as expected

Sum Up

This private tour of Arequipa blends the city’s historic landmarks with its stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can marvel at the colonial architecture, witness the artistry of stonemasons, and enjoy the region’s rich culture. With personalized transportation and flexible itineraries, this experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Arequipa’s captivating heritage and breathtaking scenery.