4-hour excursion: Sillar Route with hiking in Culebrillas

Experience the Sillar Route in Cusco—an affordable, authentic journey through the heart of Peruvian stone craftsmanship. For just $19, you’ll spend about four hours with a knowledgeable guide exploring the origins of sillar, a unique volcanic stone that shaped Arequipa’s stunning historic center. The tour begins with a scenic drive, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints overlooking volcanoes and the Chilina Valley, then moves to the Añashuayco Quarries—still in operation—where you can witness master stonemasons at work. The adventure continues through the Culebrillas Gorge, home to ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture, and ends with a visit to the mystical Apachetas—stone formations that carry spiritual significance.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see living history—the actual quarrying of sillar by skilled artisans—adds a tangible connection to Peru’s architectural heritage. Second, the walk through the Culebrillas Canyon, with its towering walls and petroglyphs, offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience, away from busier tourist spots. The only consideration? The tour’s early start (around 9:15 am) might not suit night owls or those with late-morning plans, but it’s perfect for those eager to maximize their day.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and culture without the crowds or hefty price tags. It’s a fantastic choice for short-term visitors looking to deepen their understanding of Peru’s vibrant craftsmanship and natural landscapes, especially if you appreciate authentic, working sites over polished tourist attractions.

Key Points

• Affordable and Authentic: At $19, it provides genuine insight into Peru’s unique building materials and cultural history.
• Vivid Craftsmanship: Witnessing active quarry work and even trying your hand at cutting stone offers a rare, hands-on perspective.
• Stunning Views: You’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of volcanoes and the Chilina Valley from strategic viewpoints.
• Historical Riches: The trip includes exploring petroglyphs by the Wari culture and visiting stone formations with spiritual significance.
• Active Walking: The canyon walk is moderate but rewarding, with walls reaching 15-20 meters.
• Educational and Engaging: Guides share stories about the history of sillar, quarrying techniques, and local traditions.

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A Detailed Look at the Sillar Route Tour

Starting the Day: Scenic Drive and Viewpoints

We begin our adventure around 9:15 am, climbing into a comfortable tourist vehicle. The initial stop offers a sweeping view of volcanoes and the Chilina Valley—a perfect way to get your bearings and soak in the landscape. Depending on the time of year, you might switch to an alternative viewpoint, ensuring you see the volcanoes from the best angle possible. These early stops set the tone, blending natural beauty with cultural context.

Añashuayco Quarry: Where History and Craftsmanship Collide

Arriving roughly 45 minutes later, we reach the Añashuayco Quarry, still in active use. This is a highlight, especially if you’re curious about traditional stone-cutting methods. The quarry’s cliffs—ignimbrite walls several meters high—reveal the raw beauty of sillar, the volcanic stone that has built entire cities.

Our guide, perhaps Juan or María, explains how the sillar is extracted and shaped into the blocks that form Arequipa’s UNESCO-listed historic center. Watching the quarrymen work early in the morning underscores the modern-day relevance of centuries-old techniques. As one visitor noted, “It’s inspiring to see how the same methods have persisted through time.”

A special treat here is observing a mega carving of the Church of the Society of Jesus, illustrating the craftsmanship needed to produce such intricate stonework. Some visitors get the chance to try cutting a stone block, a hands-on experience that makes the history more personal.

Water and Stones: The Culebrillas Gorge Walk

Next, we head about 30 minutes to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a narrow canyon formed by water erosion. The walk takes about 20 minutes, walking between walls that reach up to 20 meters high. The environment is cool and shaded, with the canyon walls echoing the sounds of water—an oasis of calm amid the mountainous landscape.

At the end of this walk, we view petroglyphs crafted by the Wari culture over a thousand years ago. These ancient carvings, etched into the stone, tell stories of a time long before colonial influences, offering a glimpse into the early inhabitants’ spiritual and everyday life. Several travelers mentioned that the petroglyphs are surprisingly well-preserved, making the walk both scenic and historically significant.

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Mystical Apachetas: Stones of Gratitude and Good Luck

Before heading back to Arequipa, we visit the Apachetas—stacked stones that symbolize gratitude to nature and attract good luck. These formations, often found along mountain trails, carry deep spiritual meaning for local communities. The quiet reverence for these stones gives the experience a mystical touch, prompting reflection on the relationship between humans and nature.

Return and Reflection

By around 1:30 pm, the tour departs for Arequipa, dropping you off near the Plaza de Armas. The whole experience, including transportation, guide, and entrance fees, costs just $19, making it an excellent value for anyone interested in hands-on history and natural beauty in Peru.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers transportation, a professional guide, and entrance tickets—a small fee of 10 soles. Additional expenses are not included, so you might want to bring some extra for souvenirs or snacks. The tour runs in two shifts, at 9:15 am and 2:00 pm, giving flexibility depending on your schedule.

Why This Tour Delivers Real Value

Beyond the scenic views and historical insights, what makes this tour stand out is its interactive approach. Watching quarrymen at work, trying your hand at stone-cutting, and walking through ancient petroglyph sites make it more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a chance to connect with local traditions and landscapes in a meaningful way.

The tour’s focus on active participation—like the stone carving experience—resonates with travelers seeking authentic, tactile experiences. For those who love learning about local craftsmanship and history firsthand, this is a compact, affordable adventure packed with memorable moments.

The relatively short duration suits travelers with limited time in Cusco or those who prefer to explore regions outside of the city’s typical sights. And because it’s a small-group experience, there’s room for questions and personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

This excursion offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and hands-on activity, all for a modest price. It’s especially appealing for travelers interested in permanent construction materials, ancient petroglyphs, and traditional quarrying techniques.

While the early start might not suit everyone, the opportunity to see active quarry work and explore ancient sites makes it worthwhile. The tour balances educational value with a sense of adventure, making it ideal for curious travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Peru’s architectural and cultural roots.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s affordable, authentic, and a little different from the typical tourist trail, this trip to the Sillar Route could be just what you need.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, a professional guide speaking English and Spanish, and entrance tickets costing 10 soles.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about four hours, from around 9:15 am or 2:00 pm, depending on your chosen shift.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps some extra cash for souvenirs or snacks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the walking and hands-on stone carving could appeal to older children or teenagers interested in history and crafting.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through canyons and some uneven terrain, so it may not be suitable for all mobility levels.

Are there any dietary restrictions or food included?
Food isn’t included; the focus is on cultural and natural sites. However, the tour’s price doesn’t cover meals.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour runs year-round. Weather conditions may vary, so check local forecasts, especially if you want clear views of the volcanoes.

How physically demanding is the walk in Culebrillas Gorge?
It’s approximately 20 minutes of walking in a canyon with walls up to 20 meters high—moderate effort, some uneven surfaces.

Is it possible to combine this with other tours?
Yes, you might find this complements other Cusco experiences like Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu tours, especially if you want a varied itinerary.

How far in advance should I book?
To secure your preferred time, especially during peak seasons, booking at least a few days ahead is advisable.

Whether you’re here to learn about Peru’s volcanic stones, see ancient petroglyphs, or just get out into nature, the Sillar Route tour offers a genuine, affordable slice of local life with plenty of visual and tactile interest.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby