Sillar Adventure: 4-Hour Hiking Journey in Culebrillas

Arequipa is often called the “White City” thanks to its buildings crafted from Sillar, a volcanic stone that gives the city its distinctive glow. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into that heritage, taking you from the working quarries to ancient petroglyphs and a picturesque canyon walk. For $39 per person, you get about four and a half hours of captivating sights, engaging stories, and some light physical activity — perfect for curious travelers eager to learn about the stone that built Arequipa.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it combines hands-on insight into the stone-cutting process with scenic outdoor moments. Watching stonemasons carve the mega-sized sculpture of the Church of the Company of Jesus is impressive — you can even try your hand at cutting a stone yourself if you’re feeling brave. Another highlight is the walk inside a small canyon where you can see petroglyphs made by the Wari culture over a thousand years ago; it’s a quiet, almost mystical experience that connects you with the land’s ancient past.

A potential drawback is the need for a moderate level of physical activity; the canyon walk, while short, involves uneven terrain and some climbing. Travelers with mobility issues might want to consider this before booking. That said, this tour suits those interested in local culture, ancient history, and geology, especially if they enjoy a mix of educational commentary and scenic exploration.

Who is this tour best for?

If you’re fascinated by architecture and history, or simply curious about how local materials shape a city’s identity, this experience offers a balanced look. It’s also great for those who enjoy outdoor walks and want to see a more traditional, less touristy side of Arequipa’s surroundings.

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Key Points

• Authentic insight into Sillar’s role in Arequipa’s architecture and history
• Visit active quarries, where stone is still being extracted and shaped
• Explore petroglyphs by the Wari culture, over a thousand years old
• Enjoy a scenic canyon walk with impressive walls and ancient carvings
• Experience local craftsmanship by seeing stonemasons at work
• Includes transportation and guide, making logistics easy and informative

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Journey: Scenic Viewpoints and the Volcanoes

We begin early, around 9:15 am, heading from the city toward the Sillar Route — a corridor of history and craftsmanship. Your guide will take you to a strategic point where you can admire the Chilina Valley and volcanoes in the distance. Depending on the season, this first stop might give you a different view, but either way, it’s a perfect introduction to the landscape that shaped the city.

Añashuayco Quarry: The Heart of Sillar Production

Next, it’s about 45 minutes to Añashuayco Quarry, still actively used by local stonemasons. Here, you’ll see cliffs of ignimbrite walls, where the volcanic ash (or ashlar) is extracted to be shaped into building blocks. This quarry is special because it’s not just a viewing spot — it’s a working site, with artisans still chiseling stones to this day.

One of the most striking sights is the mega carving of the Church of the Company of Jesus, created by the very masons you see working. You’ll find this impressive sculpture makes clear how deeply Sillar is woven into Arequipa’s identity. For those interested in hands-on experiences, there’s an opportunity to try cutting a stone, giving a sense of the skill and effort involved in traditional stonework.

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Inside the Culebrillas Gorge

After about 30 minutes’ drive, your group arrives at Quebrada de Culebrillas, a narrow canyon carved by water over centuries. The walk into this canyon takes roughly 20 minutes, and it’s an easy but eye-opening experience. Walls reaching 15 to 20 meters give you a real sense of scale. As you go deeper, the canyon’s walls grow taller, creating a dramatic contrast with the skies above.

Along the way, you’ll spot petroglyphs carved by the Wari culture. These ancient symbols are over a millennium old and provide a tangible connection to Peru’s early inhabitants. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection, and the carvings remind us how long humans have been shaping their environment and leaving their mark.

Apachetas and Cultural Significance

Before heading back, we stop to observe Apachetas, stone piles built by locals as offerings to nature and symbols of luck. These structures are both spiritual and cultural, giving you a glimpse of local beliefs and traditions that persist today.

Return to Arequipa

Around 12:30 pm, the group begins the return trip, arriving back near the main square by 1:30 pm. The tour’s timing makes it easy to continue exploring the city afterward or grab a bite of local cuisine.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews mention the balance of education and outdoor activity. One guest appreciated the opportunity to see artisans at work, noting, “It was fascinating to watch the stonemasons sculpt the mega carving, and trying to cut stone myself was a real highlight.” Others loved the petroglyphs and canyon walk, describing it as “serene and awe-inspiring, a perfect way to connect with ancient Peru.”

Some travelers mention the small group size and guide’s friendly, informative style, which adds a personal touch. A few caution that the walk can be a little challenging for those with mobility issues, but overall, the consensus is that this tour provides excellent value for those interested in both the cultural and natural history of Arequipa.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At $39 per person, this tour offers good value considering the transportation, guide, and the opportunity to see active quarries and ancient petroglyphs. The entrance fee (10 soles) isn’t included, which is a small additional cost, but the guided experience enhances understanding and safety. Compared to other excursions, this one is relatively affordable and packed with hands-on, memorable experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration, cultural history, and local craftsmanship. It suits those looking for a half-day adventure that’s both active and educational, with enough depth to satisfy curious minds. If you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate a mix of scenic walks, ancient art, and learning about local materials, this tour fits perfectly.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For a modest price, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Sillar’s role in Arequipa’s architecture, witness traditional stone-cutting, and explore a quiet canyon with ancient carvings. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s most iconic building material and a chance to step into a landscape shaped by water and volcanoes.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves authentic experiences, enjoys connecting with local artisans, and appreciates the beauty of natural landscapes, this tour will satisfy and inspire. It’s a hands-on, scenic, and culturally enriching adventure that offers genuine insight into the heart of Arequipa’s identity.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers transportation and a professional guide. You’ll also get an up-close look at active quarries and a scenic canyon walk.

How long is the walk inside the canyon?
The canyon walk lasts approximately 20 minutes, and while not physically demanding, it involves walking on uneven terrain and some climbing.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a small entrance fee of 10 soles, which is not included in the ticket price.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, cash for the entrance fee, and some water — the walk can be warm and sunny.

Is there a different start time available?
Yes, besides the 09:15 am shift, a 2:00 pm afternoon tour is also offered, providing flexibility for your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Generally yes, but consider the walking involved if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
It’s recommended to check availability by email for last-minute bookings, especially during busy periods, since spots are limited.

This tour offers a compelling peek into Arequipa’s core—its volcanic stone, its ancient symbols, and its ongoing craftsmanship. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just curious about what makes this city so distinctive, the Sillar Adventure will enrich your visit with authentic sights and stories.

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