Arequipa: Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring the origins of Arequipa’s iconic sillar stone, walking through a dramatic canyon, and soaking in panoramic views of nearby volcanoes—all for just $25 per person. This 5-hour guided tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s building materials and natural beauty, with stops that are as visually impressive as they are culturally meaningful.

The tour kicks off with a pickup around 8:50 AM, whisking you from your accommodation or designated meeting point in Arequipa. Your guide, fluent in both Spanish and English, will guide you through a journey that combines history, geology, and stunning landscapes. You’ll visit the Añashuayco Quarry, where local masons carve the famous sillar stone, and then venture into the Culebrillas Canyon, known for its towering cliffs and ancient petroglyphs.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to see firsthand how sillar is extracted and carved—adding context to the beautiful architecture that characterizes Arequipa—and the spectacular views from the canyon, especially the volcanoes surrounding the city. These are authentic, memorable moments that bring the area’s natural and human history into clear focus.

One potential drawback is that you’ll need to be prepared for moderate walking, especially at the canyon, and entrance fees are not included—so budget extra if you want to explore more deeply or visit the petroglyphs or quarry on your own. This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, cultural insights, and history, especially those interested in geology or traditional stone-working techniques.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn how local masons carve sillar and see the extraction process up close.
• Stunning Scenery: Marvel at the cliffs of Añashuayco Quarry and the towering walls of Culebrillas Canyon.
• Cultural Insights: Discover petroglyphs carved into stone, offering a glimpse into ancient symbols.
• Panoramic Views: Enjoy spectacular vistas of surrounding volcanoes from a strategic viewpoint.
• Value for Money: At only $25, this tour provides a rich mix of geology, history, and scenery.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon Tour is a fantastic way to understand both the local architecture and the geological forces that shaped Arequipa. Starting with a pickup in the morning, your guide will take you along the historic Sillar Route—one of the most significant roads in Peru. This route isn’t just a scenic drive; it’s a walk through the city’s history, with volcanic stone shaping the facades of many buildings.

Your first stop is the Añashuayco Quarry, where local masons work the stone in a way that has been practiced for generations. Here, you’ll see how sillar is extracted and carved, and your guide will explain the techniques and tools used. We loved the way this stop contextualizes Arequipa’s famous white stone architecture, making it easier to appreciate the craftsmanship and effort behind the city’s stunning facades.

Next, the tour takes you to the impressive cliffs of the Añashuayco Quarry, which have been carved out for centuries. These cliffs aren’t just beautiful; they tell a story of mining and construction that built much of the city. The sheer scale of the canyon walls is awe-inspiring, and you get a real sense of the natural forces at play.

The journey continues to the Culebrillas Canyon, where the towering 20-meter-high walls create a dramatic landscape. You’ll take a 20-minute walk into the canyon, which allows you to fully absorb the scale and beauty of this natural wonder. The canyon’s walls, formed through erosion and extraction, are a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike. One traveler noted that “the canyon is more interesting,” which aligns with how striking and photogenic this place truly is.

The final stop is to view the petroglyphs, ancient figures carved into stone whose meanings remain a mystery. This adds an element of archaeological intrigue to your adventure and connects the natural landscape with human history. It’s a reminder that this area has been a site of significance for centuries.

The entire route is roughly 5 hours, including transportation, with a return to Arequipa around 1:00 PM. The tour includes a Spanish and English-speaking guide, transportation by bus or minibus, and pick-up/drop-off at the meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Practical Details and Tips

While the tour’s price is quite reasonable, remember that entrance fees to the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon are not included. If you’re particularly interested in exploring further or visiting specific sites, be prepared for additional costs. The tour involves moderate walking, so comfortable shoes and clothing are necessary.

Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water—Peru’s sun can be quite strong, even in the morning. A camera is highly recommended to capture the scale of the canyon walls and the petroglyphs. Keep in mind, the tour’s small group size (implied by the minibus transportation) ensures a more intimate experience, but it also means being punctual and prepared for the schedule.

Some travelers have expressed mixed feelings about the tour—one review mentioned that only 1-1.5 hours were spent sightseeing, with much of the time spent traveling. That said, many found the views and geological insights worth the trip. If you’re a geology enthusiast or someone looking for a quick, scenic escape from the city, this tour offers good value.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, geology buffs, and architecture enthusiasts. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a short, affordable excursion that combines natural beauty and cultural history. If you enjoy photo opportunities and outdoor walks, you’ll likely find plenty to love.

However, if you prefer longer, more in-depth visits or are seeking a tour with included entrance fees and more extensive sightseeing, you might want to explore other options. That said, for a quick, engaging introduction to Arequipa’s natural and historical landscape, this tour hits many marks.

The Sum Up

The Arequipa Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon Tour offers an affordable, engaging way to connect with the city’s volcanic roots and architectural character. You’ll learn how the famous white sillar stone is extracted and carved, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s stunning facades. The visit to Culebrillas Canyon provides a dramatic natural backdrop, with impressive cliffs and ancient petroglyphs adding layers of history and beauty.

While some travelers might find the time spent traveling a bit lengthy, most agree that the scenic vistas and geological insights make it worthwhile. It’s a tour that balances outdoor adventure, cultural education, and scenic photography, making it ideal for active, curious travelers eager to see a different side of Arequipa.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, visually striking half-day experience that combines natural geology with local craftsmanship, this tour will serve you well.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, including transportation and sightseeing stops. Check availability for specific starting times.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by bus or minibus, with pick-up and drop-off at the meeting point.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Canyon are not included. You might want to bring extra for these if you plan to visit.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended to make the most of your experience.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves moderate walking, especially in the canyon. A basic level of fitness is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making the explanations accessible for most travelers.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect to see the Añashuayco Quarry, Culebrillas Canyon, petroglyphs, and panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes.

Would this tour suit children or families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities. It’s a family-friendly way to explore natural and historical sights.

This tour balances stunning scenery with cultural insight at a wallet-friendly price, making it a worthwhile addition to your Arequipa itinerary—especially if you’re eager to see the city’s volcanic landscape and learn about its iconic building stone.

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