Sillar Route Half Day in Arequipa

Arequipa’s Sillar Route Half Day Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s historic center, showcasing its unique architectural legacy. Priced at $30 per person, this 5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the Sillar Quarries and the Culebrillas gorge, where they’ll discover the cultural and historical significance of the region’s volcanic ashlar. Led by professional guides, the tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Arequipa’s rich heritage, leaving you eager to delve deeper into the city’s captivating story.

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Key Points

The 5-hour Sillar Route tour in Arequipa’s historic center highlights the city’s unique volcanic ashlar architecture, with stops at the Sillar Quarries and Culebrillas gorge.
The tour is priced from $30 per person and includes air-conditioned transportation, complimentary drinks and snacks, and live guides in both Spanish and English.
Visitors can observe the ancestral block extraction process at the Sillar Quarries and explore the petroglyphs and apachetas (ritual cairns) in the Culebrillas gorge.
The tour provides insights into the cultural significance of Arequipa’s volcanic ashlar and the region’s rich history, as shared by the knowledgeable tour guides.
The tour itinerary includes stops at the Mirador de Volcanes for panoramic views and a 20-minute walk through the Virgin Quarry of Culebrillas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Sillar Route Half Day in Arequipa is a 5-hour tour that takes visitors through the historic center of Arequipa, highlighting the city’s unique architectural heritage.

A 5-hour tour showcasing Arequipa’s historic center and its distinctive architectural heritage.

Priced from $30 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Led by live guides in Spanish and English, the tour visits the Sillar Quarries, the origin of Arequipa’s iconic white buildings, where visitors can observe the ancestral block extraction process and the enigmatic Culebrillas gorge.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a drink, and snacks.

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

Pricing and Inclusions

Priced from $30.00 per person, the Sillar Route Half Day in Arequipa tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

This 5-hour excursion includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide available in Spanish and English, and complimentary soft drinks and snacks.

Explore the historic Sillar Quarries, the origin of Arequipa’s architecture, and witness the ancient block extraction process.

Journey to the Culebrillas gorge, a sacred area with petroglyphs and apachetas.

Visitors can also take in panoramic vistas of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.

Tour Highlights

Beyond the pricing details, the Sillar Route Half Day in Arequipa offers an immersive cultural experience.

Travelers can explore the Sillar Quarries, the origin of Arequipa’s historic center, and observe the ancestral block extraction process.

The tour also takes visitors to the enigmatic Culebrillas gorge, where they can discover petroglyphs and apachetas, sacred stone cairns.

With a live guide fluent in Spanish and English, travelers can deeply engage with the region’s rich history and traditions.

The tour’s highlights provide a unique opportunity to understand Arequipa’s architectural legacy and the enduring cultural practices of its people.

Itinerary and Key Stops

The Sillar Route Half Day in Arequipa tour begins at 9:00 AM from the historic center, where participants head towards the quarries.

The first stop is the Mirador de Volcanes, offering panoramic views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.

Next, the tour continues to the Sillar Quarries, where visitors can observe the cliffs worked by hand.

The final stop is the Virgin Quarry of Culebrillas, where a 20-minute walk through a sacred area allows exploration of the enigmatic gorge and its petroglyphs and apachetas.

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The Sillar Quarries

After visiting the panoramic Mirador de Volcanes, the tour continues to the Sillar Quarries, the heart of Arequipa’s historic center.

Here, visitors observe the intricate process of extracting and carving the distinctive white volcanic rock, known as sillar, which was used to construct the city’s iconic colonial architecture.

Skilled artisans demonstrate the traditional methods, chipping away at the cliffs by hand to retrieve the massive blocks.

The quarries offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich heritage, where the timeless craft of ashlar masonry remains an integral part of the region’s identity.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

The Culebrillas Gorge

Following the tour of the Sillar Quarries, visitors then venture into the enigmatic Culebrillas gorge.

This sacred area features petroglyphs and apachetas, or stone cairns, that offer a glimpse into the region’s ancient past. Guests take a 20-minute walk through the gorge, absorbing the serene atmosphere and the striking natural formations.

The tour guide provides insights into the significance of this site, enriching the experience for participants.

This unique stop on the Sillar Route showcases the diverse cultural and geological wonders that make Arequipa such a captivating destination.

Guide and Language Options

A live tour guide, available in both Spanish and English, accompanies visitors throughout the Sillar Route half-day excursion in Arequipa.

The guide’s expertise brings the journey to life, offering:

The guide’s expertise brings the journey to life, offering vivid descriptions, captivating stories, and insightful connections.

Vivid descriptions of the quarry’s ancient carving techniques
Captivating stories of the Culebrillas gorge’s sacred history
Insights into the cultural significance of the volcanic ashlar
Connections between the region’s geological features and its architectural heritage
Engaging interactions that enhance the overall tour experience

Visitors can enjoy the local culture and traditions, guided by knowledgeable professionals in their preferred language.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The Sillar Route half-day tour in Arequipa offers flexible booking and cancellation options. Guests can book their spot without any upfront payment, allowing them to reserve now and pay later. Plus, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund if plans change. This policy offers peace of mind and flexibility for travelers. The key booking and cancellation details are outlined in the table below:

| Feature | Details |

| — | — |

| Booking | Reserve now & pay later |

| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours before |

| Refund | Full refund for cancellations |

| Availability | Check before last-minute bookings |

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Sillar Quarries?

The best time to visit the sillar quarries is typically during the dry season from April to November when the weather is mild and sunny. This allows for optimal visibility and an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Handicrafts at the Quarry Site?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs and handicrafts directly from artisans at the Sillar Quarries. These locally-made products showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and provide an opportunity to support the local community.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at the quarry site during the tour. Participants can use these facilities as needed throughout the 5-hour excursion to ensure their comfort and convenience.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?

The tour is suitable for families and children. It includes stops at viewpoints, quarries, and a short walk, making it an engaging and educational experience for all ages. The included amenities also cater to the needs of families.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Additional Activities?

The tour provider allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary or add additional activities, though exact options may vary. Travelers should inquire about possible modifications when booking to ensure the tour best fits their interests and needs.

Sum Up

The Sillar Route Half Day Tour in Arequipa offers an immersive exploration of the city’s historic architecture, showcasing its unique volcanic ashlar. Priced at $30 per person, the 5-hour tour includes visits to the Sillar Quarries and Culebrillas gorge, with insights from a professional guide in both Spanish and English. Guests enjoy air-conditioned transportation, complimentary refreshments, and a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of this remarkable region.

You can check availability for your dates here: