Private Tour to The Sillar Route and Historical Center of Arequipa

A Personal Look at the Private Tour to The Sillar Route and Historic Center of Arequipa

If you’re visiting Arequipa, this private tour offers a chance to explore both the city’s iconic historical sites and some lesser-known natural wonders. Priced at $58 per person and lasting about three to four hours, it’s a compact journey that balances cultural insight with a dash of adventure. Expect to visit Plaza de Armas, the Church of Compania de Jesus, and the Tristan del Pozo art gallery—all free to enter —plus a trip out to the quarries of Anashuayco and the pink canyons of Uchumayo. The tour is led by a professional guide in a private vehicle, making it ideal for those who prefer a tailored experience over a crowded group.

Two features stand out: first, the personalized attention you get, allowing you to ask questions and get detailed explanations, especially about the city’s colonial architecture and the fascinating techniques behind the local sillar stone. Second, the visit to the quarries and pink canyons—a natural highlight most travelers overlook—offers a very different perspective on Arequipa’s history and landscape.

However, there is a notable consideration. The reviews suggest that language barriers might pose a challenge, with some travelers noting that their guide spoke limited English. This could impact how much you learn about the sites if language is a concern. Also, the tour’s value depends on your interest in geology and local stonework—if that’s not your thing, the experience might feel less memorable.

This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, flexible itinerary that combines city sightseeing with a touch of natural exploration. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a more intimate, less hurried pace and are eager to see parts of Arequipa that aren’t crowded with travelers.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, it offers tailored attention and flexibility.
• Focus on Local Architecture: Highlights include colonial-era sillar buildings and artistic sites.
• Natural Wonders: The quarry visit and pink canyons offer unique landscapes rarely included in standard city tours.
• Cultural Insight: The guide provides commentary on Arequipa’s history, architecture, and traditional stone-cutting techniques.
• Limited Language Support: Some travelers report guides did not speak much English, which could affect the learning experience.
• Value for Money: At $58, the tour’s price reflects a combination of city and natural sights with private transport and a guide.

A Detailed Look at What This Tour Offers

Starting in the Heart of Arequipa: Plaza de Armas

The tour begins at Plaza de Armas, the lively main square flanked by colonial architecture and the impressive cathedral. A quick 10-minute stop allows you to get a sense of the city’s foundational layout and history. You’ll hear about the Arequipa Foundation, the cathedral’s construction, and its facades—an excellent way to orient yourself before heading into more detailed sights.

Exploring Colonial Art and Architecture

Next, your guide takes you to the Church of Compania de Jesus, where cloisters and sillar-based constructions showcase colonial artistry. Here, you’ll be able to admire artistic carvings and the traditional use of volcanic stone, which is a signature material in Arequipa’s architecture. The 10-minute stop is brief but insightful, providing a window into the city’s architectural heritage.

Then, at Tristan del Pozo’s exhibition gallery, you’ll find more examples of sillar craftsmanship combined with colonial art. This spot offers a taste of local artistic expression and helps connect the city’s history with its building materials.

Venturing into the Natural Side: Canteras de Sillar Añashuayco

The highlight for many is the visit to añashuayco’s quarries, a site where sillar stone is still extracted using traditional techniques. You’ll get about 45 minutes to observe how blocks are cut and transported, and to see some carvings made by the workers. It’s a working quarry, so expect an authentic glimpse into the local stone industry. Keep in mind, entry costs 5 soles, so budget accordingly.

Discovering the Pink Canyons of Uchumayo

From there, you’ll travel to Uchumayo, where virgin pink sillar rock has formed stunning canyons. This natural landscape is a contrast to the urban sites, with a snake-shaped road called Culebrillas, which hints at the geological history of the area. This stop offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to understand how the quarrying shaped the region’s landscape.

Practical Details and Travel Experience

The entire journey is conducted in a private vehicle, adding comfort and convenience. Since the tour is booked privately, your guide can adjust timing within the approximate 3–4 hours, and you’ll avoid the crowds typical of larger group tours. The tour includes pickup from central Arequipa and ends back at the meeting point, making logistics simple.

The cost covers transportation and a guide but not entrance tickets to the sites—an additional 10 soles or about $4 USD is required. Tips are optional but appreciated, especially for the guide and sillar workers.

Authenticity and Real Traveler Feedback

The only review available describes the experience as “not memorable,” mainly because the guide’s limited English made it hard to learn about the sites. This highlights an important aspect to consider—if language support is limited, some of the educational value might be lost, especially for non-Spanish speakers.

On the other hand, the opportunity to see the actual quarries and natural formations is a rare offering that adds authenticity to the experience. For geology enthusiasts or those interested in traditional construction methods, this can be a rewarding side of Arequipa that few tours touch upon.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience and are interested in the architectural and natural features of Arequipa. It’s particularly appealing to those who appreciate detailed explanations (even if limited by language) and want to see less-visited sites like the quarries and pink canyons.

If your main interest is in urban sightseeing or detailed historical narratives, you might find the experience a bit too brief or superficial. Conversely, if you’re eager to explore the quarries, natural formations, and colonial architecture with a knowledgeable guide at your own pace, this tour fits perfectly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

At $58, this private tour offers a compact, personalized way to see a mix of Arequipa’s historic and natural attractions. While some travelers may find the language barrier challenging, the chance to visit sites most travelers miss can make it worthwhile for those eager for an authentic experience.

The tour’s real strength lies in the combination of city landmarks and natural landscapes—it’s a good way to get a well-rounded impression of what makes Arequipa unique. For travelers with a keen interest in architecture, geology, or local craftsmanship, this experience provides a valuable glimpse into the city’s soul.

However, if you prefer more in-depth historical storytelling or fluent guide interaction, you might want to consider other options or prepare with some basic Spanish phrases. Regardless, this tour stands out as a flexible, private exploration that can fit into a broader itinerary of Arequipa.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on how long you wish to spend at each stop.

Does the price include entrance fees?
No, entrance tickets to the sites are not included, typically costing about 10 soles ($4 USD). The tour price covers transportation and guiding services.

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included from your hotel or a designated meeting point in Arequipa.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility and language preferences, especially since some sites involve walking around quarry areas.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and possibly a camera. If you want to learn more about the sites, some basic Spanish knowledge might help.

Are there any specific language requirements?
Guides may have limited English proficiency, so if language is a concern, clarify this beforehand.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

What makes this tour different from others in Arequipa?
The focus on sillar stone, visiting active quarries, and natural pink canyons sets it apart from traditional city sightseeing tours.

Is the tour value for money?
Considering transportation, guide, and access to sites less visited by travelers, many will find it offers good value—especially for a private experience.

Whether you’re keen to learn about Arequipa’s colonial architecture or want to explore unique natural landscapes, this private tour offers a balanced glimpse of both. Be prepared for some language limitations, but enjoy the intimacy and authenticity that a private guide provides. It’s a good choice for those looking for a more genuine, tailored exploration of this beautiful city.