Sillar Route In Arequipa + Viewpoint of the Volcanoes

Discover the Sillar Route and Volcano Viewpoints in Arequipa

Arequipa, often called the “White City,” is famous for its stunning white volcanic stone—sillar—which has shaped its charming architecture. This tour takes you into the heart of this unique material, visiting the quarries of Añashuayco and walking along the Culebrillas Canyon. For around $11, in about four hours, you’ll get a chance to see where the city’s iconic buildings originate and enjoy breathtaking views of the nearby volcanoes.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural landscapes with craftsmanship—you’ll see the raw sillar, observe how it’s carved into art and architecture, and enjoy the panoramic volcano vistas that frame Arequipa. The guides, when they provide explanations, tend to be knowledgeable about local geology and history, adding depth to your visit. Plus, the small group size (max two travelers) means it can feel more personal and flexible.

A possible downside is that some parts of the trip involve bumpy roads and lack of air conditioning, which can be uncomfortable, especially during hot weather. Also, the entrance tickets—costing 5 soles each for the quarries and Culebrillas—are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. This tour is most suitable for travelers who enjoy hands-on cultural experiences and are prepared for a little outdoor walking and sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a short, affordable way to connect with Arequipa’s geology and local craftsmanship, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into the city’s foundation and natural surroundings. It’s a good pick for curious travelers eager to learn about local stonework and volcano views without spending a full day on the road.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $11 per person, offering good value for the experience
• Focus on local craftsmanship and natural landscapes that define Arequipa
• Small group size enhances a personalized experience and flexibility
• Includes transportation in a van, guided by a professional who explains the sites
• Entrance fees for sites are extra and should be budgeted separately
• Weather considerations: tours can involve bumpy roads and outdoor exposure

In-Depth Review of the Sillar Route and Volcano Viewpoints Tour

Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins at the Plaza de Armas, the bustling heart of Arequipa, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a van. The journey lasts around four hours and is designed to give you a comprehensive look into the origins of the city’s most famous building material, sillar.

Your first stop is the Añashuayco quarries, where the white volcanic stone is extracted. Here, you’ll witness the workings of local stonemasons and get a sense of the granular process behind the city’s iconic facades. While some reviews mention lack of detailed explanations on this part, others appreciate the chance to see raw materials and understand their significance.

Next, the tour takes you through the Culebrillas Canyon, a pink sillar canyon called “Culebrillas,” which translates to “little snakes,” owing to its winding shape. This part of the walk is especially popular for photo opportunities—many visitors praise the picturesque views and colorful rocks. The area is also called a virgin zone, implying a relatively untouched natural environment where carvings and artworks by local artisans are evident. One reviewer noted, “Linda locaciones para tomar fotos,” emphasizing how this spot is perfect for capturing memories.

Finally, the tour offers viewpoints of the surrounding volcanoes, such as Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu—imposing peaks that create a stunning backdrop for Arequipa. The views are spectacular, especially for those who appreciate geology or mountain scenery.

Transportation and Guide Experience

The transportation provided is a van, which is convenient for short distances and ensures you’re moving efficiently between sites. However, some travelers have expressed frustrations about lack of air conditioning and dirty vehicles, so packing a hat, sunscreen, and water is advisable.

Your guide will speak English and Spanish, providing valuable insights into the geology, history, and craftsmanship involved in working with sillar. While some reviews mention that the guide didn’t give much explanation, others recall a knowledgeable guide who enhanced their understanding of the sites.

Site Access and Entrance Fees

Entrance to the Añashuayco quarries and Culebrillas costs 5 soles each, adding a small expense to your total. These are paid on-site, so keep some soles handy. It’s worth noting that the tour price does not include these tickets, so budget accordingly.

What Travelers Say

Reviews offer a balanced picture. Some have praised the “fascinating history” and the “interesting experience” of seeing how the sillar is worked into art and architecture. One reviewer shared, “It was fascinating to learn about the history behind the buildings in Arequipa,” highlighting the educational value.

On the other hand, a few travelers have expressed disappointment about poor vehicle conditions or poor explanations during the visit. One comment pointed out, “The guide, although nice, did not tell much,” indicating that some guides might not delve deeply into the sites.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Weather can be hot, and the roads may be bumpy, so dress appropriately, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen.
• Small groups mean a more tailored experience, but the tour’s limited capacity might mean you need to book in advance.
• The timing is flexible, with options for either 9:00 AM or 2:00 PM start, fitting well into most travel plans.
• Remember that site entry fees are additional; plan your budget accordingly.
• Bring coins for tips or small payments, as some reviews mention giving coins at sites.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, photographers, and culture lovers who want an authentic look at how Arequipa’s famous sillar is extracted and used. It’s ideal if you’re interested in local craftsmanship, volcano scenery, and less touristy spots.

If you seek comprehensive guided explanations or luxurious transportation, you might find this tour a bit basic. But for those eager to see real working quarries and enjoy panoramic views, it offers genuine value.

Final Thoughts

The Sillar Route and Volcano Viewpoints tour in Arequipa offers a unique glimpse into the city’s architectural roots and natural beauty at an affordable price. The combination of raw quarry views, colorful canyons, and mountain scenery creates a well-rounded experience for curious travelers. While the experience might lack some polish—such as vehicle comfort or detailed guiding—it compensates with authenticity and a chance to see Arequipa’s defining material up close.

This tour is perfect if you’re on a budget but still want a meaningful cultural adventure. It suits those who enjoy outdoor exploration and want to learn about local geology and craftsmanship. If you’re prepared for bumpy rides and some weather exposure, you’ll find it a rewarding experience that highlights some of Arequipa’s most distinctive features.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation and site visits.

What is the price?
It costs around $11 per person, not including entrance fees to the sites.

Are transportation and guides included?
Yes, the tour includes van transportation and a professional guide who speaks English and Spanish.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and cash for entrance tickets and tips. Prepare for bumpy roads and outdoor walking.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but consider physical ability for walking and outdoor activity.

What are the site entry costs?
Entrance fees are 5 soles each for the Añashuayco quarries and Culebrillas, payable on-site.

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely, many reviews highlight the photo-worthy scenery at Culebrillas and the volcano viewpoints.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I customize the tour timing?
The tour starts at 9:00 AM or 2:00 PM, so you can choose the time that best fits your schedule.

In all, this tour offers an insightful, authentic window into Arequipa’s stone-making traditions and stunning volcano vistas, making it a worthwhile stop for those wanting a balanced mix of nature and culture.