Excursion to the Sillar Route with Walk in Culebrillas

Exploring the White City’s Stone: A Review of the Sillar Route with Walk in Culebrillas

Arequipa’s charm isn’t just in its stunning architecture but also in its connection to the volcanic stone that gives the city its signature white hue. For those interested in a genuine encounter with local craftsmanship and natural beauty, the Excursion to the Sillar Route with Walk in Culebrillas offers a fascinating blend of culture, geology, and scenery. Priced at just $12.50 per person and lasting around 4 to 5 hours, this tour covers the core of Arequipa’s iconic sillar quarries, with a special walk inside the pink Culebrillas canyon.

What we love most about this experience are the close-up views of the extraction process and the impressive natural landscapes. It’s not just about seeing stone being carved; it’s witnessing a living craft. Plus, the final stop at the pink canyon provides a quieter, breathtaking moment away from the city streets. One thing to keep in mind: some reviews mention the shorter-than-expected visits and a rushed feel, especially if arriving late or if crowds are large.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic local craftsmanship, want a cost-effective cultural outing, and are willing to walk a bit to enjoy natural scenery. If you’re curious about how Arequipa’s famous architecture is made or love en route scenic views, this will suit you well.

Key Points

• Affordable and Accessible: At just $12.50, the tour provides good value for a half-day experience.
• In-depth Look at Sillar Extraction: Learn about how volcanic stone is quarried and carved, with the chance to see artisan ashlar cutters at work.
• Natural Beauty: The walk through the pink Culebrillas canyon offers stunning landscapes and a peaceful break from city sightseeing.
• Guided Insight: A professional guide helps you understand both the geological process and the cultural significance of the sillar stone.
• Limited Time & Group Size: With a maximum of 14 travelers, expect personalized attention but also potential for a rushed schedule.
• Basic Entrance Fee: The ticket cost (~12 soles) isn’t included, so budget for the entry to the quarry sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Sillar Route Tour

The Starting Point: Arequipa’s Heart and Volcanoes

The tour begins in a central location in Arequipa, where we gather for a brief introduction to the city’s landscape and volcanic surroundings. The guide, whose knowledge and enthusiasm we appreciated, points out the prominent volcanoes and the countryside that defines the region. This initial 20-minute stop is free and sets the scene for what’s to come. We love how this briefly frames the city’s architecture as part of a larger volcanic landscape, making the entire experience feel more connected to the natural environment.

Canteras de Sillar: The Quarries

Next, we head to Cerro Colorado, where the famous ashlar quarries are located. Here, the raw volcanic stone—called sillar—has been the backbone of Arequipa’s iconic buildings for centuries. The landscape is striking: jagged stone walls and carved-out sections reveal how artisans extract and shape the stone.

The highlight is observing how the extraction and carving process unfolds. Our guide explained the steps, from breaking the stone from the mountain to the finer carving done by skilled ashlar cutters. You get to see various carvings and mega sculptures, which demonstrate the scale and craftsmanship involved. Several reviews note that the tour of the quarry was expeditive, arriving close to closing time, but it still offered a clear picture of the stone’s extraction.

The Pink Culebrillas Canyon

From the quarries, we travel by vehicle for about 30 minutes to reach Quebrada de Culebrillas, a natural canyon formed from pink ashlar. Here, a walk of roughly 25 minutes takes you into the ravine, with spectacular pinkish hues of the stone contrasting against the blue sky. The views are genuinely impressive, and many travelers, including those who reviewed the tour, found this part to be especially memorable, describing it as “very nice to see” and a peaceful retreat.

The canyon walk allows us to appreciate the natural origins of the stone and gives you a sense of the geological processes that formed this stunning landscape. The experience is gentle but requires some careful walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The entire tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a professional guide providing commentary. The group size is capped at 14 travelers, which encourages interaction but can also make the schedule feel a little rushed at times. Entrance fees to the sites (around 12 soles) are not included, so budget accordingly.

A few reviews mention that timing can be tight, especially if arriving late or during peak hours. For example, one reviewer noted that arriving 30 minutes before the quarry’s closing time cut their visit short, highlighting the importance of punctuality. The tour’s booking window is about 14 days in advance, which makes planning easier, but it’s wise to confirm your reservation ahead of time.

What Travelers Say: Real Opinions from Recent Visitors

While most reviews are positive, some highlight the disappointed aspects. Jennie from the review series expressed dissatisfaction, citing a poor guide experience and uncomfortable transportation. She also pointed out the mismatch in expected and actual entrance fees, emphasizing the importance of being clear about costs.

Conversely, others praised the stunning scenery and simple yet enjoyable nature walk. Claudia found it to be a very affordable and pleasant experience, especially enjoying the walk through the caves.

Morgane appreciated the smooth transportation and the beautiful views but felt that the carving visit was rushed, especially arriving close to closing time. This highlights the importance of arriving early to maximize your experience.

The Practical Side: Transport, Cost, and Accessibility

Transportation is included in the tour, which makes the experience more comfortable, especially given the distance between sites. The cost of entrance tickets (~12 soles) is separate, so be prepared for that expense. The entire experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity—enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Most travelers should find this tour accessible, as it accommodates most levels of mobility, though the walk into the canyon involves some uneven terrain. The group size means you’ll likely get personalized attention, but it also means timing is important.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who value authentic local craftsmanship and want a cost-effective way to understand Arequipa’s iconic architecture. It’s perfect for those interested in geology, natural landscapes, and traditional carving techniques. If you enjoy short scenic walks and appreciate guides who can explain the process, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, if you prefer more leisurely visits or detailed exploration of each site, you might find the schedule a little tight. Be prepared for a rushed visit if arriving late or if groups are large.

Final Thoughts

The Excursion to the Sillar Route with Walk in Culebrillas offers an authentic peek into Arequipa’s signature volcanic stone and the artisans who shape it. It combines cultural insight with natural beauty, making it a good value at just over $12. If you’re curious about how the city’s iconic white buildings are made or want a peaceful walk through a pink canyon, this experience will fit your needs.

While some reviews mention slight rushes or logistical hiccups, the overall experience provides a meaningful glimpse into local craftsmanship and natural scenery. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic cultural experiences and scenic outdoor walks without a lot of fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, covering visits to the quarry, the canyon, and transportation time.

Is the entrance fee included?
No, the entry to the quarry and canyon sites costs about 12 soles, which travelers need to pay separately.

What is the group size?
The tour group is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is included for all transfers between the sites and the starting point.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the canyon walk. Also, bring sun protection and water.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the canyon walk involves uneven terrain, so some mobility limitations might be a concern.

Do I need to book well in advance?
Booking about two weeks ahead is typical, but earlier confirmation is advisable during peak travel periods.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, the guide is professional and well-informed, providing valuable insights into the extraction process and natural scenery.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of cultural craftsmanship and stunning natural landscapes makes this a well-rounded, authentic experience.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you’re interested in local artisanship, natural beauty, and a cost-effective outing, then yes—this tour offers a meaningful look into Arequipa’s unique identity.

In sum, the Sillar Route with a walk in Culebrillas is a well-rounded, affordable way to explore the heart of Arequipa’s volcanic stone heritage and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see how the city’s iconic architecture is created and to enjoy a peaceful walk into a natural pink canyon.