From Arequipa: Sillar Route and Hike in Culebrillas
Location: Arequipa Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 3.5/5 (based on 4 reviews)
Price: $19 per person
Supplier: Chullos Travel Peru
Duration: Around 4 hours (check specific starting times)
A quick snapshot of this tour:
For just $19, we get a 4-hour journey that takes us from the bustling streets of Arequipa to a quarry of sillar, the volcanic stone so famously used in historic buildings around the city, then on to a small canyon in Culebrillas for a gentle 20-minute walk, finishing with the chance to see some ancient petroglyphs.
What we love about this experience is the behind-the-scenes look at sillar extraction, which gives insight into how Arequipa’s famous white stone has shaped its architecture. Plus, the scenic walk through Culebrillas creek offers a peaceful break amid natural erosion formations.
A potential drawback is the mixed reviews about tour organization and group size, which might affect your comfort and safety, especially if the group becomes too large or the guide’s stops are too frequent.
This tour is best suited for travelers who are curious about local craftsmanship, enjoy light outdoor activities, and are comfortable with small group tours that focus on cultural and natural highlights.
Key Points
- Affordable and accessible: Right around $19, it offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s construction material and natural scenery.
- Educational: Learn about sillar extraction and see petroglyphs, adding depth to your understanding of local history.
- Scenic walk: Culebrillas creek provides a peaceful, natural environment for a simple walk and photo opportunities.
- Transport and guides: Includes tourist transport and a bilingual guide, making logistics easier.
- Limited group size: Small groups (max 10) aim to ensure personalized attention, though some reviews hint at potential overcrowding or safety issues.
- Extra costs: Entrance tickets to Cantera and Culebrillas are not included, adding about 10 soles ($2.50) in total.
In-Depth Review: Exploring Arequipa’s Sillar and Culebrillas
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What Does the Tour Cover?
When we hear “Sillar Route and Hike in Culebrillas,” we’re imagining a compact but revealing trip into the heart of Arequipa’s building heritage and surrounding natural beauty. The tour kicks off with pickup at your hotel, which is a relief, especially after a long travel day. Once onboard, the vehicle zips us out of the city toward the Añashuayco quarry, where the real magic begins.
The guide’s explanations about how sillar is mined and shaped are particularly interesting because this stone is the backbone of Arequipa’s architecture. Most buildings, including the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, are crafted from this volcanic rock, so understanding its extraction helps us appreciate the craftsmanship and effort behind the city’s distinctive look.
After the quarry visit, the tour takes us to Culebrillas creek, a small canyon carved by water erosion. Here, you’ll get around 20 minutes to walk along the canyon, admire the erosion formations, and snap photographs of the natural landscape. For many visitors, this is a peaceful interlude—a chance to breathe in fresh air and see how water can shape the land over centuries.
The final stop features petroglyphs, ancient carvings etched into stone, offering a tangible connection to the region’s long history. Seeing these petroglyphs and photographing them adds an archaeological dimension that enriches the overall experience.
What to Expect During the Tour
The transportation is typically provided, making it easy to focus on the sights rather than logistics. The guide will be bilingual, explaining the process of sillar extraction, the geology behind the canyon, and pointing out petroglyphs, which are often subtle but fascinating features.
The group size is limited—ideally no more than 10 participants—to foster a more intimate experience, but some reviews suggest that larger groups can sometimes lead to safety concerns if guides are stopping frequently or if the capacity is exceeded. A traveler’s comment noted, “We also had 22 people when the van said the capacity was 19,” which could impact comfort and safety.
The tour lasts about four hours, which makes it a manageable half-day activity. You will need to bring passport or ID, wear comfortable clothing, and be prepared for some walking in the canyon. We recommend bringing water, sunscreen, and camera gear if you’d like to capture the scenery.
The Value of This Tour
At $19, this experience is quite affordable, but it’s important to remember that entrance fees to Cantera and Culebrillas are not included, adding roughly 10 soles ($2.50). When considering value, think about what you’re gaining: insight into local stonework, a scenic nature walk, and a chance to see petroglyphs—all within a few hours.
One aspect to consider is the quality of the organization. The only critical review we found was quite negative, calling the tour a “tourist trap” and highlighting safety concerns with overcrowding and frequent stops. That’s a reminder to do some quick checks or ask about group size when booking, especially if safety or comfort is a priority.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthenticity and Unique Experiences
What makes this tour stand out, despite some mixed reviews, is its focus on local craftsmanship—the sillar quarry is central to Arequipa’s identity, and seeing the extraction process up close provides a genuine perspective that you won’t find in most city tours. The walk through Culebrillas adds a touch of nature’s artistry, showcasing erosion formations that are surprisingly striking.
Seeing petroglyphs also connects you with the ancient peoples who inhabited this land, giving a layered experience that mixes geology, archaeology, and local art.
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Practical Tips for Travelers
- Arrive early or confirm your pickup time to avoid missing out.
- Be prepared for some walking and bring comfortable shoes.
- Carry cash for entrance fees and any souvenirs or extra snacks.
- Confirm whether the tour size is appropriate for your comfort level, especially if safety is a concern.
- Review the cancellation policy if your plans change unexpectedly.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for curious travelers who want a quick yet meaningful peek into Arequipa’s architectural and natural landscape. It’s suitable for those interested in historical craftsmanship, geology, or simply looking for a scenic outdoor activity.
However, if safety or group size are major concerns for you—and you prefer more polished, professionally organized tours with glowing reviews—you might want to explore other options. The tour’s price and scope make it appealing, but be prepared for some variability in quality based on the experience of the guide and the organization.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This Sillar and Culebrillas tour offers a straightforward way to see Arequipa’s defining stone, walk through a peaceful canyon, and glimpse ancient petroglyphs—all in a few hours. It’s a budget-friendly option that can add a cultural and natural layer to your visit, especially if you’re intrigued by local building materials and volcanic landscapes.
On the flip side, some travelers have found the organization lacking, and safety concerns have been raised. If you’re comfortable with small groups, flexible plans, and a bit of adventure, you’ll likely enjoy the authentic feel of this tour. It’s less about luxury and more about gaining a deeper understanding of Arequipa’s heritage through tangible sights and stories.
Overall, it’s a good choice for adventurous, budget-minded visitors willing to navigate the occasional logistical hiccup in exchange for a glimpse of local artisanship and natural beauty.
FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers who are comfortable walking and in good health, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with vertigo, or recent surgeries due to the walking involved and natural terrain.
How long does each part of the tour last?
The entire tour takes about four hours, with visits to the quarry, a 20-minute canyon walk, and a short visit to see petroglyphs.
Are transportation and guides included?
Yes, the tour includes tourist transport and a bilingual (Spanish and English) guide. However, entrance fees to Cantera and Culebrillas are paid separately.
What should I bring with me?
Bring passport or ID, wear comfortable clothes, and pack water, sunscreen, and camera gear.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is this tour available daily?
Availability depends on the day, so check ahead to confirm specific starting times and days of operation.
To sum it up, the From Arequipa: Sillar Route and Hike in Culebrillas offers a practical way to explore the city’s famous stone, enjoy a peaceful canyon walk, and connect with local history—all at a very accessible price. While it’s not without its organizational quirks, it’s a solid pick for travelers eager to see beyond the city streets and into the natural and cultural fabric of Arequipa.
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