The Sillar Route

If you’re after a mix of history, natural beauty, and authentic craftsmanship, the Sillar Route offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient art of ashlar carving and the timeless landscapes surrounding Cusco. For $92 per person, this 6-hour tour led by knowledgeable guides takes you through historic quarries, stunning canyons, and a charming colonial church. It’s a well-balanced experience that combines cultural insights with outdoor adventure.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances educational stops with breathtaking scenery. Visiting the active Añashuayco Quarry gives you a real sense of the scale and skill involved in traditional stoneworking—something you won’t get just by wandering through Cusco. Plus, the walk through Quebrada de Culebrillas is a highlight, offering a peaceful 20-minute trek through a canyon adorned with ancient petroglyphs. On the downside, it’s worth noting that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget a few soles for the quarry and hot springs. This tour suits travelers who enjoy learning about local craftsmanship, exploring scenic natural spots, and want a manageable half-day adventure without the hassle of independent planning.

Key Points

• Authentic insights into ashlar carving and local stonemasonry.
• Scenic canyon walk through Quebrada de Culebrillas with petroglyphs.
• Visit to Yura’s colonial church, showcasing pink ashlar construction.
• Flexible scheduling with pickup times, live bilingual guides.
• Affordable extras like quarry and hot springs entries not included.
• Ideal for curious travelers interested in culture, nature, and craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sillar Route Experience

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $92, this tour covers transportation, a professional guide in both English and Spanish, and multiple stops that highlight Cusco’s historic and natural treasures. The transport is comfortable and reliable, ensuring you don’t have to worry about navigating local roads or logistics. Guides are experienced, sharing insights in two languages, which makes the experience accessible whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor.

While the price is reasonable given the length and variety of stops, two optional entrance fees are not included: S/. 5.00 for the quarries and S/. 5.00 to S/. 10.00 for the Yura hot springs, depending on the day. We think this is fair, as it gives you the flexibility to skip or indulge depending on your interests and budget.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

Morning Pickup and Departure

The tour begins early, with pickup between 8:00 am and 8:30 am. Early mornings are often the best time to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler air—perfect for your scenic drive out of Cusco. This flexibility in pickup times is handy, helping you plan your day without feeling rushed.

Añashuayco Quarry: Seeing Ancient Skills in Action

The first stop is Añashuayco Quarry, about a 45-minute drive from Cusco. This active quarry is a window into the traditional craft of ashlar stonework, where towering ignimbrite cliffs reveal the raw materials used in many local buildings. What makes this particularly interesting is that it’s still operational, giving you a front-row seat to stone extraction and craftsmanship.

Your guide, possibly sharing details about the history of ashlar carving, explains how local stonemasons cut and shape these blocks. You might even get to witness a Megacarving of the Church of the Society of Jesus, a spectacular example of how the stone blocks fit perfectly together without mortar. Some travelers report that “seeing the workers cut stone by hand really brought the history to life,” making this stop a memorable highlight.

Quebrada de Culebrillas: Walking Through Ancient Art

Next, a 20-minute drive takes you to Quebrada de Culebrillas. It’s a manageable 20-minute walk through a narrow canyon with walls soaring 15 to 20 meters high. The cool, shaded environment offers a peaceful retreat from the busier city. Here, ancient Wari petroglyphs— carvings over a thousand years old— adorn the rocks, providing a tangible link to Peru’s early peoples.

One review describes the canyon as “a quiet, almost mystical place where you can imagine what this landscape looked like centuries ago.” The petroglyphs are a bonus for anyone interested in archaeology or ancient symbolism, and guides often point out different carvings, adding depth to this walk.

Apachetas and Local Mysticism

Before heading to Yura, you’ll see Apachetas— carefully stacked stones built as offerings, symbolizing gratitude to nature and believed to carry spiritual significance. This small but meaningful feature adds a contemplative note to your journey, connecting you with local traditions.

Yura: Colonial Charm and Panoramas

The final leg takes about 40 minutes south to Yura, a town famed for its pink ashlar church. The Church of Yura is a stunning example of colonial architecture, built entirely from this distinctive stone. Walking around, you’ll notice how the pink hue of the ashlar gives the building a warm glow—something you might not see in newer constructions.

Nearby, a viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of terraced landscapes and the surrounding countryside—a perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the scenery. If time permits, you can relax at the hot springs—admission costs S/. 5.00 or S/. 10.00 depending on the day—adding a soothing end to your morning or early afternoon.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers mention that the entire experience is well-paced and offers a good mix of outdoor walking and cultural insights. One notes, “the guides were very informative, and I loved seeing the actual quarry workers in action,” emphasizing the authenticity. Another highlights the scenic canyon walk as a peaceful contrast to the busy city, describing it as “a calm walk through ancient carvings, with plenty of time to absorb the surroundings.”

A few cautions include remembering the entrance fees aren’t included, so carry a few soles. Also, the hot springs, while optional, are not part of the core tour and require additional payment.

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The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

• Duration: 6 hours, starting around 8 am, with flexible pickup times.
• Price: $92 per person, good value considering the transport, guides, and multiple stops.
• Included: Transport, bilingual guides, multiple tourist stops.
• Extras: Entrance fees for the quarries and hot springs are paid separately.
• Comfort: Expect comfortable vans, and moderate walking—wear good shoes.
• Best for: History buffs, those interested in local craftsmanship, outdoor lovers, and travelers seeking a manageable half-day adventure.

Who Should Consider the Sillar Route?

If you appreciate learning about local stonework, exploring scenic canyons, and visiting historic churches, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suited for those with limited time wanting a taste of Cusco’s surroundings without the long hikes or high-altitude challenges of other excursions. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in authentic craftsmanship and archaeological sites, rather than large-scale tourist attractions.

While not a deep archaeological tour, it provides a meaningful glimpse into traditional techniques and local culture. Plus, the scenic drive and peaceful canyon walk make it a relaxing yet educational outing—perfect for small groups or curious travelers eager to see a different side of Peru.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, typically starting between 8:00 am and 8:30 am, with pickup and drop-off included.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides comfortable tourist transport for all stops along the route.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations regardless of your language preference.

What’s the cost?
The main price is $92 per person, but remember that entrance fees for the quarries and hot springs are extra.

Can I skip the hot springs?
Yes, visiting the hot springs is optional, and you can choose whether to indulge at your own expense.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Given the moderate walking involved, it’s suitable for most ages, but consider individual mobility and health.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, and some soles for optional entrance fees are advisable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

In summary, the Sillar Route offers a thoughtful mix of history, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship that makes for a memorable day outside Cusco. It balances scenic walks, cultural insights, and striking architecture—a good choice for those wanting a relaxed but enriching experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of scenic landscapes, or simply curious about local traditions, this tour has something to offer.

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