Tour 10 Hours Pillones Waterfall and Puruña Stone Forest

Embark on an unforgettable 10-hour adventure in the Andes from Arequipa. This captivating tour showcases the remarkable Pillones Waterfall and mystical Puruña Stone Forest. For just $35, guests enjoy round-trip transportation, guided exploration, and all entrance fees. With opportunities to spot vicuñas and immerse in the local culture, this excursion promises stunning scenery and remarkable discoveries. Where will this Andean adventure take you?

Contents show

Key Points

A 10-hour tour from Arequipa that visits the Pillones Waterfall and Puruña Stone Forest, with round-trip transportation, English/Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees included.
The tour starts at 6 AM and includes stops at Pampa Cañahuas for vicuña viewing, Patahuasi for breakfast, and Pillones Waterfall with a 20-minute descent.
Visitors will have 45 minutes to explore the Pillones Waterfall, known for its cascading waters and lush vegetation, and then visit the Puruña Stone Forest.
The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Arequipa around 4 PM, with a free cancellation and pay-later option available.
Customer feedback suggests issues with the vehicle’s lack of air conditioning and cleanliness, as well as discomfort from dust, though the guide was praised for their helpfulness and knowledge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 10-hour tour takes visitors to the captivating Pillones Waterfall and the mesmerizing Puruña Stone Forest near Arequipa. Priced from $35 per person, it’s an all-inclusive adventure featuring round-trip transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees.

The tour starts at 6 AM, meeting at the main square or a hotel in the historic center. Along the way, guests will spot vicuñas, enjoy breakfast in Patahuasi, and explore the geological wonders of the stone forest before returning around 4 PM.

With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this tour offers incredible value.

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

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at 6:00 AM, with guests meeting at the main square or their hotel in Arequipa’s historic center.

After a 1.5-hour drive, the group stops at Pampa Cañahuas to view vicuñas against the backdrop of Misti Volcano.

Then, they reach Patahuasi for a 1-hour breakfast stop to acclimate.

The tour continues to Pillones Waterfall, a 1-hour drive followed by a 20-minute descent and 45-minute stay.

Lastly, they explore the geological formations of Puruña Stone Forest and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Arequipa around 4:00 PM.

Meeting Point and Start Time

The tour begins promptly at 6:00 AM, with guests meeting at the main square or their hotel in Arequipa’s historic center.

From there, the group will set out on their 10-hour excursion to explore the Pillones Waterfall and Puruña Stone Forest.

The drive to the first stop, Pampa de Arrieros, takes around 1.5 hours. Along the way, travelers will catch glimpses of the majestic Misti Volcano and the vicuñas grazing in the Pampa Cañahuas.

The tour includes ample time to acclimate at the Patahuasi breakfast stop before continuing on to the stunning natural wonders that await.

Stops Along the Way

After departing the historic center of Arequipa, the tour makes its first stop at Pampa de Arrieros, about 1.5 hours from the city.

Next, the group visits Pampa Cañahuas to view vicuñas against the backdrop of the Misti Volcano.

The third stop is Patahuasi, where travelers enjoy breakfast and acclimatize for 1.5 hours.

The tour then travels 1 hour to Pillones Waterfall, descends 20 minutes, and spends 45 minutes at the site.

Finally, the group explores the Puruña Stone Forest and enjoys lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Arequipa.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pillones Waterfall

Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Pillones Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its cascading waters and striking cliffs.

The waterfall’s powerful flow originates from the nearby mountains, creating a serene and picturesque scene.

Trekking down the 20-minute descent, guests can admire the waterfall up close, taking in its majesty and the surrounding lush vegetation.

Spending 45 minutes at the waterfall allows ample time for photographs and exploration, making it a highlight of the tour.

With its stunning natural beauty, Pillones Waterfall offers a truly memorable experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Puruña Stone Forest

From the captivating Pillones Waterfall, the tour heads to the Puruña Stone Forest, a geological wonder that has fascinated visitors for centuries.

This unique landscape features:

Towering rock formations sculpted by nature over millennia
Strange, otherworldly shapes and textures that invite exploration
A chance to enjoy a local lunch and learn about the area’s cultural heritage
Ample opportunities for stunning photography against the dramatic backdrop

The tour allows visitors to enjoy this captivating wonder of the natural world, leaving them with lasting memories of Arequipa’s geological treasures.

Inclusions and Prices

The tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience.

Travelers are provided air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable guide who offers commentary in both Spanish and English.

Entrance fees to the Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest are included.

Breakfast and lunch options are available at an additional cost, with breakfast priced between S/10.00 to S/15.00 and lunch starting at S/25.00.

The overall price for the 10-hour tour is $35.00 per person.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot without upfront payment, providing flexibility.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Based on the customer feedback provided, the tour seems to have received a mixed response.

While the tour guide was praised for their helpfulness, there were significant concerns about the vehicle conditions. Specifically:

Lack of air conditioning
Cleanliness issues
Discomfort due to dust from open windows
Suggestion to consider alternative providers for a better experience

These negative aspects appear to have overshadowed the positive elements of the tour, such as the scenic walk and photography opportunities at the waterfall.

Addressing these concerns could help improve the overall customer satisfaction for this excursion.

Things To Know

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated in the provided information. Typically, such tours accommodate a range of group sizes, often from small private groups to larger shared experiences, but the exact details are not specified.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Mentioned?

The tour includes all entrance fees, but there may be additional optional costs for meals and transportation that aren’t explicitly stated. Travelers should confirm any extra charges before booking to avoid surprises.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The provider offers both options, and a private tour may incur an additional fee. You’ll need to inquire about the pricing and availability of a private tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

You don’t need any special equipment or gear for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a light jacket are recommended. The tour provider will handle all the necessary transportation and entrance fees.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Include Additional Stops?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration or include additional stops. However, customers can inquire with the tour operator about customizing the itinerary to meet their specific needs and interests.

Sum Up

This unforgettable 10-hour tour offers a chance to explore the stunning Pillones Waterfall and captivating Puruña Stone Forest in the Andes. At just $35 per person, guests can enjoy round-trip transportation, guided tours, and all entrance fees included. With opportunities to spot vicuñas and immerse in the local culture, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature and photography enthusiasts alike.