Travelers seeking a day away from the city’s hustle and bustle will find this tour to be a perfect escape into nature’s quieter corners. For $65 per person, you’ll spend roughly 9 hours exploring some of Arequipa’s most captivating landscapes, including the Aguada Blanca Salt Flats National Reserve, the Stone Forest, and, of course, the breathtaking Pillones Waterfall. The tour is led by friendly guides, with pickup from your hotel, making it a hassle-free way to experience these natural wonders.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see Vicuñas, Alpacas, and wild flora in their natural habitat offers a genuine touch of local wildlife. Second, the Stone Forest walk is a playful, eye-catching landscape that ignites the imagination — perfect for those who enjoy surreal scenery. A possible drawback? The altitude (starting at 4,000 meters) can be challenging, especially if you’re sensitive to high elevations or have health concerns.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, adventurous travelers, and anyone interested in seeing some of the less-visited but stunning corners of the Arequipa region. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy moderate hikes and want a full-day experience that combines wildlife, geology, and waterfalls.

Key Points

Comprehensive 9-hour experience that includes transportation, wildlife, and scenic stops
Visit the Aguada Blanca Salt Flats to see Vicuñas, Alpacas, and native flora
Walk through the whimsical Stone Forest, a landscape of unusual rock formations
Get close to the Pillones Waterfall, with options to descend and take photos
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the city’s historic center
Price reflects good value for a full-day outdoor adventure with diverse sights

A Closer Look at the Pillones Waterfall Tour

If you’re in Arequipa and craving a day immersed in nature, this tour offers an excellent balance of scenery, wildlife, and light adventure. The journey begins early, with pickup around 6:30 am, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the entire day. We found that the two-hour drive to the Salt Flats reserves sets a relaxed tone, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the changing landscape.

Planning more time in Arequipa? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The Route and Stops

Once you arrive at the Aguada Blanca Salt Flats, you’ll get your first taste of high-altitude scenery. It’s a chance to see Vicuñas, the wild relatives of llamas, along with Alpacas and native plants. We loved the quiet, expansive vistas — a reminder of how pristine and untouched this area still is. Guides often point out flora and fauna, adding educational value.

Later, you’ll arrive at Patahuasi, sitting at about 4,000 meters above sea level. Here, a quick stop for coca tea helps settle your stomach and ease altitude effects, a thoughtful touch that many travelers appreciate. We found this break crucial, especially if you’re not used to high elevations.

Exploring the Stone Forest

Next comes the highlight for many — the Stone Forest. This 30-minute walk (classified as basic level) takes you through a landscape of bizarre, whimsical rocks that look like sculptures or figures. It’s an ideal spot for stretching your legs and letting your imagination run wild. As one reviewer noted, “The landscape has no comparison; your imagination and fun will have no limits,” which captures the playful spirit of this part of the tour.

The Pillones Waterfall

The main event, the Pillones Waterfall, arrives around 11 am. This 20-meter high waterfall is a real showstopper. We loved the way the water flows gently over the stone bed, creating a calming yet captivating scene. The option to descend toward the waterfall allows for close-up photos and a chance to feel the spray of the rushing water. It’s a natural spectacle that’s both impressive and peaceful.

Lunch and Return

After spending about two hours at the waterfall, the tour concludes with a lunch break (lunch not included), giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s sights before heading back to Arequipa. Expect to arrive back in the city around 5 pm. The drop-off is conveniently located in the historic center, just a block from the main square.

While you're exploring Arequipa, here are other experiences we've looked into

What We Loved About This Tour

The balance of diverse scenery was a real highlight. The wildlife viewing at Salt Flats was delightful — spotting Vicuñas was a special treat because they are so shy and elegant. The Stone Forest offers both fun and surreal photo opportunities, perfect for travelers who enjoy a bit of whimsical geology.

We also appreciated the small-group size (up to 15 travelers), which made for a more personal and flexible experience. The included transportation was comfortable, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly, making the long day feel engaging rather than exhausting.

Considerations for Travelers

One thing to keep in mind is the altitude. Starting at 4,000 meters, some travelers may experience mild altitude sickness or fatigue. The coca tea stop helps, but it’s wise to be prepared with water, snacks, and possibly medication if needed. Also, lunch is not included, so packing some snacks or planning to buy a meal in town might be a good idea.

The tour does not include admission fees to specific sites, but they tend to be minimal and are usually covered in the guide’s commentary. Weather can vary, so bring layers, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for walking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a full day of exploring natural landscapes without strenuous trekking. It’s great for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a scenic adventure that balances wildlife, geology, and waterfalls. If you enjoy a bit of whimsy in your landscapes and are curious about the high-altitude environment of Arequipa, this tour should not be missed.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel and return to the city’s historic center.

What is the start time?
The tour begins around 6:00 am with pickup, so be ready early for a full day.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for variable weather, sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the altitude and walking involved if traveling with young children.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be time to purchase food during the day.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded day out, combining wildlife viewing, whimsical rock formations, and a stunning waterfall in a high-altitude environment. The value for money is solid, given the inclusiveness of transportation and the diversity of sights. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want an authentic, nature-focused experience outside the city, with enough flexibility to explore and take photos. If you’re ready for a scenic adventure that’s not overly strenuous, this Pillones Waterfall tour could be just your ticket to a memorable day in the Peruvian highlands.