Excursion + Hike to the Sillar and Culebrillas Route

Exploring Cusco’s Hidden Gem: The Excursion + Hike to the Sillar and Culebrillas Route

Imagine walking through ancient quarries where volcanic stone, known locally as Sillar, has shaped the cityscape of Arequipa — and then venturing into a quiet canyon with petroglyphs over a thousand years old. For just $15, this day-long tour takes you from the heart of Cusco into a landscape filled with history, geology, and local craftsmanship. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit active quarries, enjoy panoramic views of volcanoes, and walk through a canyon with culturally significant petroglyphs.

What we love about this experience is how it blends learning and hands-on participation. You get to see the actual excavation process, and even try your hand at cutting stone — a rare, tangible connection to Peru’s traditional building materials. The visit to Quebrada de Culebrillas provides a peaceful, nature-rich walk that reveals ancient symbols carved into rock, while the view of volcanoes from the strategic viewpoints is simply breathtaking.

A possible drawback? The tour is quite active, with a fair amount of walking in sometimes rugged terrain, and the price excludes entrance fees to the sites. Also, the tour feels more about the landscape and culture than private exclusivity — so it’s best for travelers eager for an authentic, group experience rather than a secluded adventure.

This experience suits those curious about Peruvian stone architecture, lovers of geology and archaeology, or anyone wanting a cost-effective day exploring outside Cusco’s busy streets. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a mix of culture, nature, and history with a clear local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visit working quarries and see how Sillar is extracted and shaped.
• Cultural Insight: Explore petroglyphs made by the Wari culture, over a thousand years old.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of volcanoes and terraced landscapes from strategic viewpoints.
• Hands-on Participation: Experience cutting stone yourself and learn about traditional craftsmanship.
• Affordable Value: At just $15, this tour offers a rich blend of culture and nature, with guided insights included.
• Grouped Experience: It’s a shared tour, which means lively company but less privacy.

The Sillar and Culebrillas Route: A Deep Dive

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins at 9:15 a.m., with a short drive out of Cusco into the Sillar Route, a path rich in both history and ongoing craftsmanship. The first stop is a viewpoint over the Chilina Valley and volcanoes, giving you a sweeping landscape of the region’s volcanic activity. Depending on the season, the guide might take you to an alternate viewpoint, ensuring you see the landscape in all its seasonal glory.

Next, you’ll arrive at the Añashuayco Quarry, a site still actively in use by local stonemasons. Here, you’ll witness a massive canyon with cliffs formed by volcanic ignimbrite, the very rock used throughout Arequipa’s historic center. This is where the true magic happens: the quarrymen’s work is a living tradition, and you’ll get a chance to understand the history of Sillar, a stone that has defined architecture in Peru.

The highlight for many is the Mega carving of the Church of the Society of Jesus, which shows the skill and artistry involved in Sillar work. You can even meet a stonemason and see him demonstrate how he cuts and shapes the stone — a rare opportunity to witness traditional craft in action.

Exploring Culebrillas Canyon

A short drive takes you to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a peaceful canyon carved by water over thousands of years. A 20-minute walk along its walls, which rise up to 15-20 meters, reveals petroglyphs made by the Wari culture, a fascinating glimpse into ancient life. These carvings, over a thousand years old, add an archaeological dimension to your trip, enriching your understanding of Peru’s deep cultural roots.

The walk is not strenuous, but it’s often in a narrow canyon that can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended. As you walk deeper, the walls grow taller, creating a sense of being inside a natural cathedral. The canyon’s quiet beauty is punctuated by the Apachetas, small stone formations built by locals as symbols of gratitude and good luck, evoking a mystical atmosphere.

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Practical Considerations

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Apachetas before returning to Arequipa at around 1:30 p.m. The entire experience lasts about four hours, with a shared transport service and a bilingual guide providing insights in either English or Spanish. Entrance fees to the sites cost around 10 soles, an affordable extra that enhances the experience.

The Experience in Context

We loved the way this tour combines geology, history, and local culture into a single day. The active participation — like seeing a stonemason work and trying your hand at cutting stone — elevates it from a simple sightseeing trip to a truly immersive experience. The scenic viewpoints give you a sense of the region’s volcanic power, while the petroglyphs connect you to Peru’s ancient civilizations.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t private, and the group could be lively or crowded at times. The terrain, especially in the canyon, can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is a must. Also, since entrance fees aren’t included, budgeting around 10 soles for tickets is wise.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer commented, “The tour was very good. The excursion was not some private experience, but it was engaging and informative.” This highlights how the tour delivers value despite being a group outing. Another appreciated the hands-on aspect, saying they could see how the stonemasons work and even try cutting a stone themselves, making it more memorable.

Why It’s Worth Considering

If you’re interested in Peruvian architecture, ancient petroglyphs, or volcanic landscapes, this tour offers a compact but rich exploration. The price point makes it accessible for most budgets, and the combination of culture, geology, and active participation offers a rounded experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This is an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Peru — beyond Machu Picchu or city streets. It’s ideal if you enjoy learning on the go and want to see local craftsmanship in action. Those with a basic interest in archaeology or geology will especially appreciate the petroglyphs and volcanic views.

If you prefer quiet, solo experiences, this tour’s group format might feel a bit busy or less intimate. Also, those wary of walking on uneven terrain should consider their comfort level, as parts of the canyon walk can be narrow and rugged.

Final Thoughts

This Sillar and Culebrillas Route offers a genuinely authentic taste of Peru’s volcanic landscape, ancient art, and crafting traditions. For just $15, you get a well-rounded excursion that combines visual splendor, cultural insights, and hands-on participation — perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting a meaningful, active day outside of Cusco.

If you’re interested in architecture, archaeology, or volcanoes, or simply want a day immersed in the natural and cultural fabric of the region, this tour delivers far more than a quick visit. It’s a chance to connect with Peru’s living traditions while enjoying stunning scenery at an affordable price.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, starting around 9:15 a.m. and returning to Arequipa by early afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation and a professional guide who speaks English or Spanish.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets cost about 10 soles and are paid separately. The guide will collect this during the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the walk through Culebrillas Canyon is gentle, some uneven terrain and the active quarry visit might not be ideal for very young children. Use your judgment based on your family’s comfort with walking and outdoor activities.

Do I need special footwear?
Yes, sturdy, comfortable shoes suited for uneven terrain are recommended, especially for the canyon walk and quarry exploration.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

This tour is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Peru’s architectural materials, ancient petroglyphs, and volcanic landscape — all in one rewarding day. Whether you’re a history buff, geology enthusiast, or curious traveler, the Sillar and Culebrillas Route offers an authentic, budget-friendly adventure that will stay with you long after the day ends.

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