Route of the Sillar | Quarries of Añashuaycos | Half Day

Arequipa, the stunning city nestled in the Andes, boasts a rich cultural heritage reflected in its unique architecture. At the heart of this tradition lies the "Route of the Sillar," a captivating tour that invites visitors to explore the quarries of Añashuaycos. This half-day adventure promises to transport travelers back in time, revealing the intricate process of stone carving that has shaped the city’s iconic structures. With breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into Arequipa’s artisanal past, this tour offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to take in the region’s enduring legacy.

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Key Points

A 5-hour tour that takes visitors to the Sillar Route and Añashuayco Quarry, including hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees.
The tour offers breathtaking views of surrounding volcanoes and the opportunity to observe the stone carving process.
A 20-minute scenic walk through the Quebrada de Culebrillas is included in the itinerary.
The tour is available in both English and Spanish, with a professional bilingual guide providing cultural insights.
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are mandatory for the hiking portion of the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Route of the Sillar, also known as the Quarries of Añashuaycos, offers a captivating 5-hour tour that immerses visitors in the rich history and stunning natural beauty of Arequipa.

For $20 per person, guests can explore the region in English or Spanish with a professional bilingual guide. The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees.

Highlights include a viewpoint to observe volcanoes, the stone carving process at Añashuayco Quarry, and a scenic 20-minute walk through the Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and immersive experience.

Looking for more options in Arequipa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary

After being picked up from hotels near the historical center at 8:50 a.m., the tour begins with a visit to a viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of the two surrounding volcanoes.

Next, the group arrives at the Añashuayco Quarry to witness the stone carving process firsthand. They then travel to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, where they embark on a 20-minute walk through the water canyon with its 20-meter high walls.

Amidst this natural wonder, the tour explores ancient petroglyphs. The excursion wraps up around 1:00 p.m. with the return to Arequipa.

Inclusions

The tour package includes hotel pick-up near or within the historical center of Arequipa.

Hotel pick-up near or within the historical center of Arequipa is included in the tour package.

Travelers will have tourist transportation throughout the day. A professional bilingual guide accompanies the group, providing insights into the local culture and history.

Entrance fees to the Sillar Route ($5.00) and Culebrillas Canyon ($5.00) are covered. However, meals and travel insurance aren’t included.

This half-day excursion offers a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to explore the quarries, witness stone carving, and discover the natural wonders of the Culebrillas Canyon, all while being supported by the tour’s inclusions.

Recommendations and Requirements

To get the most out of this tour, visitors are encouraged to bring a few essential items. A passport is required for entry, and sun protection like a hat and sunscreen can help beat the Arequipa heat. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for the canyon hike. Insect repellent is recommended to ward off any pesky bugs. And some cash on hand is advised for incidentals or souvenirs.

| What to Bring | Importance |

| — | — |

| Passport | Required |

| Sun Hat | Highly Recommended |

| Sunscreen | Highly Recommended |

| Comfortable Shoes | Mandatory |

| Insect Repellent | Recommended |

| Cash | Recommended |

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, the visually impaired, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. Guests should be prepared for a moderate hike and some uneven terrain.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have overall rated the "Route of the Sillar" tour 4 out of 5 based on 20 reviews.

The transportation aspect received 4/5, while value for money scored 3.7/5.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the visually impaired, or those with medical conditions.

Reviewers praised the organized and informative guide, Cristina, and noted the timed stops were appropriate for the temperatures.

Visitors enjoyed the unique route and stunning scenery, describing it as a positive experience.

Although not perfect, the tour offers an engaging exploration of Arequipa’s sillar quarries and natural wonders for those able to participate.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Departure and Return

As the tour begins, guests are picked up from their hotels near the historical center of Arequipa at 8:50 a.m.

After a brief drive, the group arrives at a viewpoint offering stunning vistas of two surrounding volcanoes.

The group arrives at a viewpoint affording breathtaking vistas of two majestic surrounding volcanoes.

Next, they head to the Añashuayco Quarry, where they witness the intricate process of stone carving.

The tour then ventures to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a water canyon with 20-meter high walls.

Here, guests explore the captivating petroglyphs before returning to Arequipa by 1:00 p.m., ending this immersive half-day excursion.

What to Expect

What can guests expect on this immersive tour of the Sillar Quarries? An up-close look at the stone carving process at the Añashuayco Quarry, a scenic 20-minute walk through the dramatic Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon, and the chance to explore ancient petroglyphs within the canyon walls.

The tour also includes:

Panoramic views of two surrounding volcanoes from a scenic viewpoint.
Transportation to and from the pick-up location near the historical center.
An experienced, bilingual guide to provide commentary throughout the tour.
Entrance fees to the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon.

Booking and Payment

Booking this immersive tour of the Sillar Quarries is simple and straightforward. You can reserve your spot online without any upfront payment.

Booking this immersive tour of the Sillar Quarries is simple and straightforward. You can reserve your spot online without any upfront payment.

Just select your preferred date and pay when you arrive. The tour’s price starts at $20 per person, and it’s available in both English and Spanish.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring you can adjust your plans if needed.

With a convenient hotel pickup near the historical center, you can sit back and enjoy the journey without worrying about transportation.

Secure your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable exploration of Arequipa’s impressive stone quarries.

Things To Know

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t specify a maximum group size, but based on the itinerary and inclusions, it’s likely a small to medium-sized group, perhaps around 10-15 participants, to ensure a personalized experience and easy transportation.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

There aren’t any specific discounts for seniors or children on this tour. However, the tour operator may be willing to negotiate the price for larger groups or families on a case-by-case basis. It’s best to inquire directly with them.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator offers customizable itineraries. Customers can discuss their interests and adjust the stops to create a personalized experience. However, the standard tour route and duration cannot be substantially modified.

Can We Make Stops for Restrooms or Refreshments During the Tour?

The tour allows for stops along the way for restrooms and to purchase refreshments. Guests can use the facilities and grab snacks or drinks as needed to stay hydrated and comfortable throughout the half-day excursion.

How Far in Advance Should We Book This Tour to Guarantee Availability?

To guarantee availability, it’s best to book this tour at least 3-5 days in advance. Tour spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and time slot.

Sum Up

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage surrounding Arequipa. From witnessing the stone carving process at the Añashuayco Quarry to taking a scenic walk through the Quebrada de Culebrillas, it’s a captivating adventure that provides a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich history and traditions. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and an affordable price, it’s a must-do experience for anyone visiting Arequipa.

You can check availability for your dates here: