From Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest Day Trip

From Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest Day Trip
Location: Arequipa Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.4 (15 reviews)
Price: $55 per person
Supplier: PVTravel
Duration: 12 hours (check availability for starting times)

A day to marvel at nature’s artistry, with a side of history and local wildlife
This tour from Arequipa packs a surprising amount of natural beauty and local flavor into a single day. Starting early, you’ll visit the historic Pampa de Arrieros train station, a relic of the old rail lines that once linked remote parts of Peru. From there, the journey takes you through Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you might catch glimpses of vicuñas grazing in their high-altitude habitat — a real highlight for animal lovers. The trip culminates with a hike through the Stone Forest of Imata, a surreal landscape of oddly shaped rocks, and finally, the spectacular Pillones Waterfall, cascading about 15 meters high.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is its blend of adventure and tranquility. The walk through the stone forest offers a chance to stretch your legs while marveling at formations that seem almost alien, perfect for photography or sparking your imagination. The waterfall itself is a stunning display of erosion’s artistry, with rocks carved into shapes that seem almost crafted by hand.

However, a word of caution: the full-day itinerary involves quite a bit of driving and walking, so it might not suit travelers looking for a relaxed, easy day. The timing can also be tight, with around 45 minutes to an hour allocated for exploring the stone formations, so be prepared for an active day.

This tour is ideal for those who love scenery, geology, and a taste of local life, especially travelers eager to see lesser-visited natural spots with guidance and convenience.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: The tour showcases some of Arequipa’s most beautiful natural features, including waterfalls and rock formations.
• Wildlife Observation: You’ll have the chance to see vicuñas in their natural habitat, a rare treat for animal enthusiasts.
• Cultural Stops: Visiting the old train station offers a glimpse into Peru’s transportation history.
• Hiking Adventure: The walk through the stone forest provides a fun and engaging way to connect with nature.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of time to capture the surreal landscape and cascading falls.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, guide, and hotel pickup make this a seamless day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Pampa de Arrieros and the Old Train Station

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Arequipa’s city center, easing the logistics of your day. The historic train station in Pampa de Arrieros offers a glimpse into the past, with the station’s vintage architecture giving you a sense of Peru’s rail history. While not the main focus, this stop adds a nostalgic touch and a chance to appreciate the area’s development over time.

Visiting Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve

Next, we head into the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a high-altitude protected area famous for its wild vicuñas. Many reviews highlight the thrill of spotting these slender, wild camelids grazing peacefully. The landscape here is expansive, with volcanic peaks and open plains creating a dramatic backdrop. The guide often provides interesting insights about the region’s ecology and conservation efforts, making this stop both scenic and educational.

Patahuasi and Coca Tea Break

A short stop in Patahuasi offers a chance to taste coca tea, a local tradition believed to help with altitude sickness and energy. Many travelers find this moment both relaxing and culturally enriching, as they learn about local customs from the guide.

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The Stone Forest of Imata

The highlight for many is the hike through the Stone Forest. Starting with a walk of about 45 minutes to an hour, the terrain is natural, with an array of strange rock formations and stone columns that seem to defy gravity. The landscape ignites the imagination — some rocks resemble animals, others look like sculptures, and many are just bizarre shapes.

Guests often mention that the photo opportunities are plentiful and that the guide is attentive to giving everyone enough time to take pictures. One reviewer wrote, “You’ll love the views and the unusual shapes — it’s like walking through a natural art installation.”

Pillones Waterfall: The Grand Finale

The final leg of the trip takes you to the town of Pillones, home to the waterfall. Reaching the falls, you’ll see the rocks shaped and carved over centuries by water erosion. Once there, you’re free to walk closer to the cascade, enjoy the sound of falling water, and capture photos of the stunning scenery. Several reviews mention how breathtaking and peaceful the waterfall is, especially after a day on the move.

Returning to Arequipa

After soaking in the views and snapping your pictures, the group heads back to the city, usually arriving in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the pace and stops.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup in Arequipa, transportation to all the sites, and a bilingual guide who speaks both English and Spanish. This makes it accessible for international travelers who want to understand the stories behind what they see.

Meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something along the way. Drop-off at your accommodation isn’t included either, but the pickup service makes the entire experience straightforward, especially if you’re staying in the city center.

Cost and Value

At $55 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and guiding. It’s worth noting that the price is competitive given the multiple stops and the personalized experience of having a bilingual guide. For those interested in geology, wildlife, or just stunning scenery, it’s a reasonable investment for a memorable day away from the city.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a blend of nature, culture, and light adventure. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a full day of driving and walking, enjoy scenic landscapes, and like the idea of discovering lesser-known natural spots. Families with older children, nature lovers, and those interested in photography will especially appreciate the variety of sights.

It’s not suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace or minimal physical activity, as there’s quite a bit of walking involved. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the terrain of the stone forest and waterfall areas.

The Sum Up

This Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest day trip from Arequipa offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the region’s most captivating natural features. The blend of scenic landscapes, wildlife sightings, and cultural stops makes for a rewarding experience, especially for those eager to see something off the beaten path. The value is clear when you consider the cost of transportation, guiding, and access to sites you might not find on your own.

Travelers who crave stunning views, photo opportunities, and a sense of adventure will find plenty here. While it’s a long day, the diverse scenery and the chance to escape into nature make it worthwhile — just bring your camera, some comfortable shoes, and a sense of curiosity.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from accommodations in Arequipa’s city center is included, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, so it’s a full day adventure with plenty of time to explore each stop.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. Snacks are not included, so consider bringing some or planning to buy food during the day.

Is there time to take photos?
Absolutely. The guide provides enough time at each stop for photos, especially at the stone forest and waterfall, which are highly photogenic.

Can children participate?
Yes, older children who can handle a day of walking and outdoor activity will enjoy this trip.

What language is the guide?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, ensuring a clear understanding of the sites and stories.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.

This tour is a fantastic way to spend a day exploring some of Arequipa’s hidden natural treasures — a perfect choice for travelers who want more than just city sights.

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