Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas

The "Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas" offers a captivating journey through Arequipa’s cultural tapestry. Visitors can witness the age-old craft of stonecutting, explore ancient Wari petroglyphs, and discover the spiritual significance of the Apachetas. This immersive experience promises to transport travelers back in time, unveiling the region’s geological wonders and rich Andean traditions. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s remarkable heritage.

Key Points

• This tour explores the historic Añashuayco Quarry, where local stonecutters extract sillar, a distinctive white volcanic stone used in Arequipa’s architecture.
• Visitors can witness the quarrying process and even try their hand at cutting stone, gaining insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• The tour travels to the Quebrada De Culebrillas canyon, where ancient Wari petroglyphs are on display, providing a window into the area’s indigenous past.
• Iconic Apachetas, or sacred stone formations, are observed, and the cultural significance of these enduring Andean traditions is discussed.
• The tour offers a comprehensive understanding of Arequipa’s unique geological and cultural landscapes, with a mix of hands-on experiences and informative insights.

Tour Overview

The "Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas" is a well-reviewed tour in Arequipa, Peru, with a 100% recommendation rate from 14 reviews.

Rated 4.9 out of 5, it costs $20 per person and accommodates up to 6 travelers.

The tour includes pickup, visits to an active quarry and a canyon with ancient petroglyphs, and opportunities to interact with local stonecutters.

Lasting about 4 hours, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and the lowest price is guaranteed.

Itinerary

Pickup begins between 8:00 am and 8:30 am from hotels in central Arequipa, after which the journey starts at 8:30 am towards the Sillar Route.

The first stop is Añashuayco Quarry, an active quarry where stonecutters work. Visitors can view the canyon walls formed by ignimbrita and learn about the history and use of ashlar, even trying their hand at cutting stone.

The next stop is Quebrada de Culebrillas, a 20-minute walk in a canyon with 15-20 meter high walls, where visitors can see petroglyphs from the Wari culture over a thousand years old.

Departure from Culebrillas is at 11:30 am, arriving in Arequipa by 12:30 pm.

First Stop: Añashuayco Quarry

After departing Arequipa, the group arrives at the Añashuayco Quarry, an active site where local stonecutters toil to extract the prized sillar, a type of volcanic rock.

Visitors observe the stonecutters at work and learn about the history and uses of ashlar. The guide explains the geological formation of the canyon walls, made of ignimbrite.

Travelers have the chance to interact with the stonecutters and even try their hand at cutting stone.

This stop provides a fascinating glimpse into the long-standing tradition of sillar extraction in the Arequipa region.

Second Stop: Quebrada De Culebrillas

Next, the group travels 30 minutes from the quarry to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a canyon with walls reaching 15 to 20 meters high.

They embark on a 20-minute walk through the canyon, where they’ll view petroglyphs from the Wari culture that are over a thousand years old.

These ancient rock carvings provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and indigenous heritage.

After exploring the canyon and its well-preserved petroglyphs, the tour moves on to the final observation of the Apachetas, the iconic stone formations symbolizing gratitude and good luck.

Final Observation: Apachetas

The tour concludes with the observation of the Apachetas, the iconic stone formations symbolizing gratitude and good luck.

These stone cairns are piled high along the route, created over centuries by local people as a sign of appreciation for the land. Visitors can add their own stone to an Apacheta, continuing the tradition.

The guide explains the cultural significance of these sacred structures, providing insight into the region’s rich history and traditions.

With this final stop, the tour offers a unique glimpse into the enduring practices and beliefs of the Andean people.

Return Journey

Departing from the captivating Quebrada de Culebrillas, the tour group boards the vehicle for the return journey to Arequipa.

They’re energized by the morning’s experiences, discussing the intricate petroglyphs and the skilled stonecutters.

The drive back takes about 30 minutes, allowing time to reflect on the cultural significance of the Wari artifacts and the enduring traditions of the region.

Upon arrival in Arequipa’s central Plaza de Armas, the tour concludes, leaving the travelers with a deeper appreciation for the unique blend of natural and human history that defines this remarkable destination.

Additional Information

Several key details round out the tour’s additional information.

The tour is private transportation, with breakfast included. Accessibility is limited, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers can be accommodated, and infants must sit on laps.

Health recommendations advise against booking this tour for travelers with back problems or who are pregnant. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Travelers can reserve now with the option to pay later, and a lowest price guarantee is provided. Availability should be checked before booking to ensure the desired date and time are open.

• Private transportation

• Breakfast included

• Limited accessibility

• Not recommended for certain health conditions

The Sum Up

The "Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas" offers a captivating glimpse into Arequipa’s rich heritage. Visitors can witness the local quarry in action, explore ancient Wari petroglyphs, and connect with Andean traditions through the sacred Apachetas. This immersive experience allows travelers to appreciate the cultural and geological wonders that make Arequipa a truly remarkable destination.