Discover the Natural Beauty of Arequipa with the Pillones Waterfalls and Bosque de Piedras Tour

When you think of Arequipa, images of historic stone architecture and a vibrant city come to mind. But just outside the city, you’ll find an entirely different world—one of striking landscapes, waterfalls, and curious rock formations. This full-day tour, offered for around $40 per person, takes you on a 10-hour journey to explore the Pillones Waterfalls and the Bosque de Piedras (Stone Forest). Led by friendly and knowledgeable guides like Carlos or Maria, the experience gives you a chance to step into nature’s artwork, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Two parts stand out for us: first, the hike through the Bosque de Piedras, which offers a surreal landscape of strange, sculpted rocks—perfect for photography and imagining alien worlds. Second, the magnificent waterfalls, where you get a close-up view of powerful water rushing through narrow channels, creating a sense of primal energy. The inclusion of breakfast makes this a comfortable, well-rounded experience. One potential drawback? The walk to the waterfalls is about 20 minutes downhill, which might be tiring for some. Still, it’s perfect for travelers craving genuine nature and stunning scenery away from typical tourist spots.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventure, beautiful vistas, and learning about natural formations from engaging guides. If you’re comfortable with moderate walking but eager to see some of the most scenic spots near Arequipa, this will suit you well. It’s especially appealing for travelers looking to escape the city and dive into Peru’s striking geology and landscapes.

Key Points

Natural scenery: The tour features breathtaking waterfalls and surreal stone formations.
Expert guidance: Guides like Carlos or Maria provide insightful commentary in both Spanish and English.
All about convenience: Hotel pickup in central Arequipa and round-trip transport make it easy to relax and enjoy.
Cultural touches: Stops like Pampa de Arrieros and Patahuasi add local flavor and history to the day.
Value for money: At $40, including breakfast, it offers a practical way to explore outside the city.
Limited mobility: The walking involved might not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

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Starting Bright and Early

The tour begins between 6:00 and 6:30 in the morning, with hotel pickups in the city center. Expect to be greeted by your guide, whose friendly demeanor sets the tone for the day. This early start is perfect for avoiding crowds and making the most of daylight, especially for photography.

First Stop: Pampa de Arrieros

Your first stop is a historical village, Pampa de Arrieros, once a gateway for travelers arriving by train. Here, you’ll get a quick chance to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and learn about the area’s past. The guide’s commentary provides insight into the local history, making this more than just a quick photo op.

Patahuasi for Breakfast and Coca Tea

Next, you’ll head to Patahuasi, a small village where a traditional Mate de Coca—a tea made from coca leaves—awaits. This is a local remedy for altitude sickness, so it’s a thoughtful touch that shows how locals adapt to their environment. Breakfast is included here, offering a hearty start that fuels you for the rest of the day.

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Bosque de Piedras de Puruña: A Surreal Walk

The highlight of the morning is a 40-minute hike through the Bosque de Piedras. The landscape looks almost otherworldly: tall, slender stone columns, bizarre rock shapes, and formations sculpted by centuries of erosion. As one reviewer put it, “the rocks look like they belong to some alien planet,” making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The guide explains how these formations were shaped, turning an ordinary hike into a mini geology lesson. This stop is a must for anyone intrigued by natural sculptures and unique landscapes.

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Pillones Waterfalls: Power of Nature

After the rocks, you’ll descend about 20 minutes to reach the Pillones Waterfalls. Here, the sight of rushing water cascading through narrow channels is awe-inspiring. The guide will point out molded rocks created by the water’s erosion, offering a close-up look at nature’s artistry.

You’ll have time to snap photos, marvel at the sound of the water, and enjoy the crisp mountain air. The waterfalls are accessible via a gentle descent, making this a manageable walk for most, though some may find the downhill stretch a slight challenge.

Lunch or Patahuasi Stop

Following the scenic views, you’ll stop in Patahuasi for lunch (at your own expense). This gives travelers the chance to try local dishes or simply relax before heading back. The return trip begins mid-afternoon, with the guide sharing local stories and answering questions.

Return to Arequipa

By around 5:30 pm, you’ll arrive back near the Plaza de Armas, ending a day filled with natural wonders. The comfort of being dropped off in the city center means you can easily continue exploring or relax after the day’s adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour is the hotel pickup if your accommodation is centrally located, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and breakfast. The breakfast is a thoughtful addition, helping you start the day energized.

Extras like lunch are at your own expense, and entry fees are modest—S/.2 for the waterfalls and S/.5 for the Bosque de Piedras. These fees are reasonable, considering the natural beauty they protect. Travelers should budget a few soles for these or bring small change.

The Value and Practicalities

For $40, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the experience—transport, guide, breakfast, and access to stunning natural sites. The small group size (not specified but implied) ensures more personalized attention and easier movement at scenic spots.

The timing is designed for those eager to start early and maximize daylight hours. Given the moderate walking involved, it’s suitable for most travelers in decent health, though those with mobility challenges might find it less accessible due to the uneven terrain and downhill sections.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Our guides, like Maria, are praised for their knowledgeable insights and friendly manner. They enrich the experience by sharing details about the geology, local culture, and history. One traveler mentioned, “Carlos made the entire trip fun and educational—I could tell he genuinely loved sharing his knowledge.”

Bring your passport or ID, as it’s needed for entry fees, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over rocky terrain. A hat, sunscreen, and water are smart additions, especially on sunny days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers wanting a full day outside the city. It’s also great for photographers eager to capture unusual landscapes and waterfalls. If you want a scenic, educational, and comfortable way to explore the outskirts of Arequipa, this tour ticks all those boxes.

On the flip side, travelers with limited mobility or those looking for a less physically demanding activity might find some parts of the hike less suitable. Still, most should find the walk manageable and rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Pillones Waterfalls and Bosque de Piedras tour offers a rewarding glimpse into Peru’s natural landscapes just outside Arequipa. With expert guides, a comfortable schedule, and a focus on authentic scenery, it strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. For travelers eager to see striking geological formations and powerful waterfalls, this experience delivers both beauty and insight, all at a reasonable price.

If you’re visiting Arequipa and craving something different from the historic city streets, this tour provides a memorable escape into the wild side of Peru. It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature, learn from local guides, and leave with stunning photos and stories to tell.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins between 6:00 and 6:30 am, giving you an early start to make the most of daylight.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if your hotel is located in the city center of Arequipa, you’ll be picked up for convenience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, from pickup to return.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but lunch is at your own expense, typically in Patahuasi.

What are the entry fees?
Entry to the waterfalls costs S/.2, and the Bosque de Piedras is S/.5, payable on site.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and uneven terrain; those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a camera to capture the scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This full-day adventure to the Pillones Waterfalls and the Bosque de Piedras offers a chance to see some of Peru’s most striking natural formations, guided by friendly experts who bring the landscape to life. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a geology buff, or simply seeking a scenic escape, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Arequipa itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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