Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest

Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest is a compelling way to explore some of southern Peru’s most striking natural sights. Priced at $44 per person, this 10-hour guided tour offers a mixture of scenic drives, nature walks, and photography opportunities, all arranged by Turismo Liberty Perú. Starting early in the morning, you’ll visit the Reserva Nacional de Salinas y Aguada Blanca, stop in Pampa de Arrieros, trek down to the Pillones Waterfall, and then marvel at the Imata Stone Forest.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the diverse landscape—from high-altitude plains to lush riverbanks—and the intimate, guided experience that makes navigating these natural wonders easier and more enriching. The tour also offers a chance to photograph some truly unique geological formations and scenic views that are hard to find elsewhere.

However, a note of caution: the early start and physical demands of the trek (especially the descent to the waterfall) mean you’ll want to be comfortable with walking and some careful rock scrambling. This isn’t a casual sightseeing bus ride; expect a bit of effort for the payoff.

This tour appeals most to adventurous travelers who enjoy nature and are comfortable with moderate physical activity, like hiking on uneven terrain at high altitude. If you’re looking for a meaningful day out that combines scenery, fresh air, and a touch of challenge, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Diverse natural landscapes from high plains to riverbanks and stone forests.
• Moderate physical activity involved, including a cautious descent down a rocky slope.
• All-inclusive transport and guide make logistics simple for travelers.
• Early start means a full, satisfying day but demands an early alarm.
• Authentic experience with fewer crowds, ideal for those seeking true nature.
• Price point offers great value considering the length and variety of sights.

In-Depth Review of the Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest Tour

The Journey Begins: Early Morning Pickup in Arequipa

As soon as you book this tour, you’re set for a 6:00 am pickup from your hotel, giving you the advantage of avoiding the heat and crowds later in the day. The minivan or private vehicle whisks you out of the city, heading toward Reserva Nacional de Salinas y Aguada Blanca, a protected area famed for its volcanoes and high-altitude plains. The drive takes around two hours, providing a scenic preview of the landscape you’ll explore.

Traveling with a small group (likely around 10-15 people), you’ll appreciate the more personalized attention and ability to ask questions as you go. The transport is comfortable, and the guide—though unnamed in reviews—seems knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the natural surroundings.

First Stop: Pampa de Arrieros

The first significant stop, Pampa de Arrieros, offers an atmospheric glimpse into the region’s history as a transit point for trains and travelers heading to Arequipa’s white city. Here, you can stretch your legs, take some photos, and get a sense of the area’s rustic charm. Most travelers mention this as a brief, pleasant pause before heading into the more rugged terrain.

Trek to Pillones Waterfall: Adventure and Scenic Beauty

By around 10:30 am, your group will arrive at the starting point of the trek. Here’s where the adventure kicks off. Because the elevation is quite high and the temperature can be chilly, warm clothes are recommended—especially for the descent to the waterfall.

The trek involves carefully navigating a rocky slope, which can be tricky but is well worth the effort. The guide will assist, and as you traverse the riverbank alongside natural rock formations and lush greenery, you’ll begin to hear the thunder of the Pillones Waterfall drawing nearer.

Once you reach the waterfall, expect a spectacular sight—a powerful cascade in a setting that feels almost untouched. The experience of carefully descending the rocks and standing beside such raw natural power is memorable. One reviewer, Saschamike_G, noted, “Bad communication, but nice tour,” but still appreciated the beautiful scenery and the chance to see a lesser-known waterfall.

Midday at the Imata Stone Forest

After the waterfall visit, the tour continues to the Imata Stone Forest around 1:00 pm. This geological wonder features towering stone formations that resemble a natural sculpture garden or an otherworldly landscape. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to wander and take photographs—an ideal time for those who love nature photography or just want to soak in the surreal scenery.

The Stone Forest offers a stark contrast to the lush riverbanks and high plains you’ve seen earlier, providing a wonderful variety of landscapes in one day.

Return to Arequipa

By 5:00 pm, the tour concludes with your return trip to the center of Arequipa. Expect to arrive tired but enriched by a day spent exploring Peru’s striking natural beauty.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are private transportation and a professional guide, which means you won’t have to worry about navigating or missing interesting details. The tour costs $44, which covers transportation but does not include the entrance fee to the Pillones Waterfall or lunch. You’ll want to budget extra for those costs—entrance fees are not included, and bringing a packed lunch or snacks is advisable, especially since the day involves physical activity and outdoor settings.

The Review Perspective

One review highlights some communication issues before the tour, with Saschamike_G mentioning, “had to send 3 e-Mails and 2 WhatsApp messages to get a response about pick-up,” which might cause some initial stress. Still, many find the overall experience worthwhile, especially given the value for money and the authenticity of seeing lesser-trodden natural sites.

The Physical Demands and Suitability

This tour requires moderate fitness because of the rocky descent and walking involved. Travelers should be prepared for uneven terrain and some careful footing, particularly in the cooler, higher-altitude conditions. Those with mobility issues or who prefer flat, easy walks might find this a bit challenging but still manageable with caution.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers and nature lovers who appreciate a bit of physical activity alongside breathtaking scenery. It’s perfect if you want to escape the city and see some of Peru’s less crowded natural attractions. If you’re interested in photography, the Stone Forest alone offers enough striking images to keep you busy.

The early start and active nature mean it’s best for those prepared for a long day, but the payoff—spectacular waterfalls, unique stone formations, and high-altitude landscapes—makes it worth the effort.

The Sum Up

The Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest tour provides a genuine and rewarding glimpse into Peru’s natural beauty. For $44, you gain a full day of scenic drives, nature walks, and unforgettable sights—all guided by someone who knows the area well. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who value authentic landscapes over crowded tourist spots and are ready for a bit of adventure.

While communication before the trip could be clearer, the overall experience delivers on its promise of beautiful scenery and memorable moments. The mix of waterfalls, stone formations, and high plains make this a compelling option for those seeking a day outside the bustling city, especially if you enjoy moderate physical activity and have a curiosity for geological wonders.

This tour isn’t just about viewing; it’s about feeling connected to Peru’s rugged, natural side. If that sounds appealing, this trip will serve as a highlight of your Arequipa visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some walking and descending rocky slopes, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Elderly travelers or children might find the descent challenging, but with caution, it could still be manageable.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring warm clothes for the high-altitude start, sturdy shoes for rocky terrain, and some snacks or lunch. Don’t forget your camera for capturing the stone formations and waterfalls.

Are the transportation and guide included?
Yes, private transportation and a professional guide are included in the price, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

Is there any free time during the tour?
You’ll have around 40 minutes at the Imata Stone Forest to explore and take photos, but most of the day follows the set itinerary with limited free time.

Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Yes, this tour is popular and is typically booked about 60 days ahead. Early booking guarantees your spot and helps plan your trip smoothly.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

How early does the tour start?
The pickup begins at 6:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

This detailed review should help you decide if the Pillones Waterfall and Stone Forest tour fits your travel style. It’s a chance to see some of Peru’s natural marvels with ease and guided expertise, perfect for those craving authentic scenery and a bit of adventure.