Exploring Arequipa’s Sillar Route: A Half-Day Journey into Quarrying, Culture, and Natural Beauty

If you’re visiting Arequipa and want to step beyond the city’s charming streets and colonial architecture, the Sillar Route Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the stone that shapes the city’s identity. For just $20 per person, this half-day adventure takes you to explore the famous quarries that supplied the white volcanic stone, sillar, used extensively in Arequipa’s stunning buildings. Led by knowledgeable guides (who speak both English and Spanish), the tour lasts about five hours, making it a perfect morning activity that balances history, nature, and authentic local craftsmanship.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see how the sillar stone is extracted and carved — it’s a hands-on look at a craft that’s been part of the local economy for generations. The other highlight is the water canyon of Culebrillas, with its towering 20-meter high walls, which gives a real sense of adventure and awe. However, a potential consideration is the entrance fee of $5 for both the quarry and the canyon, which isn’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly. This tour suits travelers interested in geology, local crafts, and outdoor exploration, especially those eager for genuine, off-the-beaten-path experiences close to Arequipa.

Key Points

Affordable and accessible: At only $20, this tour offers great value for a mix of culture, nature, and history.
Authentic craft experience: Watching local masons work the sillar stone provides insight into traditional building techniques.
Stunning natural scenery: The Culebrillas water canyon offers impressive views and a short walk through a dramatic landscape.
Cultural significance: The petroglyphs carved into canyon walls add an element of mystery and ancient artistry.
Small-group intimacy: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more engaging experience.
Flexible scheduling: Check availability for the starting times, making it adaptable to your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Sillar Route Tour

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Starting Out: Easy Pick-up and Scenic Drive

The tour begins with a hassle-free hotel pickup in Arequipa around 8:50 a.m., so you can leave the city behind without worrying about transportation. From there, we head out of town in a comfortable bus or minibus, and the drive itself is part of the charm, offering glimpses of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Viewpoint of the Volcanoes

Our first stop is a viewpoint overlooking the volcanoes surrounding Arequipa. This is a moment to breathe in the crisp highland air, snap photos of the snow-capped peaks, and get a sense of the sweeping landscape that has shaped the city’s architecture. It’s an ideal photo op and a chance to orient yourself geographically.

The Añashuayco Quarry: Where the Magic Begins

Next, we arrive at the Añashuayco Quarry, the heart of the tour. Here, we see how local masons work with the sillar stone, observing the carving process firsthand. It’s a real treat for anyone curious about traditional craftsmanship — you’ll see stones being cut, shaped, and prepared for building projects. Learning about the extraction process and the canyon of cliffs resulting from quarrying gives a deeper understanding of how this material has shaped Arequipa’s architecture and urban feel.

One reviewer notes, “Watching the local workers at Añashuayco was fascinating — you realize just how much skill and patience goes into shaping this beautiful stone.” It’s a tactile, authentic slice of local life that you won’t get from a museum.

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Water Canyon of Culebrillas: Nature’s Artistry

Leaving the quarry, we drive about 30 minutes to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a water canyon with walls soaring up to 20 meters high. Walking through it offers a refreshing break, and the landscape is unlike anything you’ll see in the city. As you stroll along a well-marked trail, you’ll enjoy the sound of rushing water and the sight of intricate rock formations.

This part of the tour is especially praised for its spectacular views. One traveler shared, “The canyon was breathtaking — I’ve seen canyons before, but this one had a special charm, especially with the towering walls and lush greenery around.”

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Petroglyphs: A Touch of the Ancient

Our last stop uncovers petroglyphs carved into the canyon walls. Their meaning remains a mystery, but the fact that these ancient figures are preserved here adds a layer of intrigue. Exploring the carvings gives us a tangible connection to the past, as we speculate about the people who left their marks thousands of years ago.

Return to Arequipa

By around 1:00 p.m., we’re back in the city, having experienced a well-rounded mix of geology, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. The small group setting allows for personalized questions and a more relaxed pace — ideal for those who prefer an intimate tour.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Transport and Group Size

Transportation is provided in a comfortable bus or minibus, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery. The tour is limited to 10 participants, which enhances interaction with the guide and ensures you’re not just another face in a large crowd.

Cost Breakdown and Value

At $20, the tour itself is quite affordable, considering the expert guidance, transportation, and the experience of visiting working quarries and natural landscapes. However, note that entrance fees of $5 each for the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon are not included; these are paid directly at the sites. This means a total cost of around $30 if you want to fully access all areas.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are hotel pickup, transportation, and the services of a bilingual guide**. Not included are the entrance fees, travel insurance, or any extra expenses like snacks or souvenirs. It’s a good idea to carry cash for the entrance fees and possibly a bottle of water.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour runs at different times, so check availability to find a start time that works for your schedule. It’s a morning activity, so plan to have the rest of your day free afterward. The five-hour duration strikes a balance, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

This experience is ideal for travelers who love authentic, hands-on encounters with local crafts and natural landscapes. If you’re intrigued by geology, traditional masonry, or ancient carvings, you’ll find plenty to admire here. It’s also great for those who enjoy small-group settings and want a more personalized experience.

Keep in mind, this tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. If you’re after a deep dive into Arequipa’s history or cultural sites, this might be a side adventure rather than a main event. But for a balanced morning of exploration, it’s hard to beat.

The Sum Up: Is the Sillar Route Tour Worth It?

For a modest price, you get a unique glimpse into Arequipa’s geological and cultural heritage, combined with stunning natural scenery. The opportunity to see local masons at work, walk through a dramatic water canyon, and ponder ancient petroglyphs makes this tour a well-rounded choice for curious travelers. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, authentic craftsmanship, and scenic views.

While it’s not a comprehensive historical tour of the city, this experience complements other visits to Arequipa by showcasing the materials and natural forces that shaped its architecture and landscape. If you’re looking for a half-day adventure that’s both informative and visually rewarding, this tour offers excellent value.

The Sillar Route Tour is a fun, educational, and picturesque outing that reveals a different side of Arequipa — one filled with stone, water, and stories from the past.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a bus or minibus from your hotel and back.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about five hours, starting around 8:50 a.m.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making the explanations accessible to a wide audience.

What is the cost of the entrance fees?
Entrance to the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon is $5 per person each, paid on-site.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, consider the walking involved and outdoor conditions. Children comfortable with short hikes will enjoy it.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with weather-appropriate clothing — layers for sun and wind.

Can I join spontaneously or do I need to reserve?
It’s best to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons, but check availability for flexible start times.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The walking involved in the canyon might be challenging for some; inquire beforehand if mobility is a concern.

In summary, the From Arequipa: Sillar Route Tour offers a delightful blend of local craftsmanship, geological wonders, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the city’s iconic building stone while enjoying a relaxed outdoor adventure. If you’re after a meaningful, well-priced half-day experience that goes beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour is definitely worth considering.