Arequipa’s Sillar Route and Culebrillas Petroglyphs tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s iconic volcanic stone, its ancient carvings, and stunning natural formations. For just $19 per person, you’ll spend around four hours exploring some of the most scenic and historically rich spots outside the bustling city center. The tour includes a visit to the Yanahuara viewpoint, the Añashuayco Sillar quarry, and the serpentine Culebrillas canyon with its mysterious petroglyphs and mystical apachetas. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll get a well-rounded experience that shows off both Arequipa’s geological marvels and its cultural artistry.
What we love about this tour is the chance to walk through a volcanic stone quarry and see how the iconic sillar blocks were extracted—an essential part of Arequipa’s colonial architecture. The Culebrillas canyon offers an impressive landscape with curvilinear formations and petroglyphs etched into volcanic walls, giving a sense of ancient human expression. Also, the tour provides fantastic viewpoints of the volcanoes—Chachani, Pichu Picchu, and Misti—which make for memorable photo ops.
Interesting to see the quarry that built the city and the canyon. A pity we could not get into the church
Interesting but not exceptionnal. You will walk through a canyon carved by an ancient river. Although the guide recommended mosquito repellent, there were none during my visit. You will need a lot of imagination to make out the various animals in the petroplyphs.
Overall a worthwhile tour. The guide Mike was very informative and kind. He spoke English and Spanish very well. The bus was comfortable and it was an interesting place to visit.
One consideration is that the walk in the canyon can be bumpy and rugged, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or older travelers. Also, some reviews mention that the tour can feel rushed at times, especially during peak hours or if delays occur. Still, for curious travelers eager to understand how Arequipa’s landscape and history intertwine, this trip offers real value and authentic sights. It suits those with an appetite for outdoor exploration and cultural insights, especially if you don’t have days to spare but want a meaningful taste of the region.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: See the real quarry where Arequipa’s famous white volcanic sillar is extracted.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding volcanoes from Yanahuara.
- Cultural Insights: Observe ancient petroglyphs and learn about local traditions and geology.
- Moderate Hike: Expect a scenic, 20-minute walk through the Culebrillas canyon with some rugged terrain.
- Value for Money: At $19, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Arequipa’s natural and cultural highlights.
- Guided Expertise: Guides are generally knowledgeable and bilingual, enhancing your understanding.
A Closer Look at the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Petroglyphs Tour
Starting with Yanahuara, this charming district is a perfect opening act for the tour. The viewpoint here offers sweeping vistas of Arequipa, with its white volcanic stone buildings contrasted against the backdrop of Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Picchu volcanoes. Many reviews highlight that this is a lovely spot to snap photos and get your bearings before heading into the countryside. One traveler said, “The viewpoint provides an exceptional view of the city and the volcanoes,” making it a perfect start.
Next, the tour takes you to the Canteras de Sillar, a site that reveals how the very fabric of Arequipa’s historic architecture was built. The working quarry is more than just a pile of stones; it’s a living piece of history where artisans demonstrate their techniques and explain how volcanic sillar is carved and utilized. For history buffs and architecture lovers, this stop is a highlight—seeing the raw material that shaped the city’s colonial style is a real treat.
The Añashuayco quarry has an entrance fee of S/5, but it’s included in the tour price. Travelers often comment on how educative and visual this part is. One review described it as “a glimpse into the city’s building blocks,” emphasizing that understanding the quarry’s role helps you appreciate Arequipa’s elegant white facades even more.
Moving into the Culebrillas canyon, the third stop is where natural beauty and ancient art collide. The serpentine ravine features curvy rock formations that are both awe-inspiring and mysterious. The 20-minute walk through the canyon is scenic but rugged, with bumpy terrain that might challenge some visitors. Several reviews mention that the walk is a bit challenging—so good footwear and a sense of adventure are recommended.
Within the canyon, you’ll spot petroglyphs carved into volcanic walls, offering a window into ancient human activity. While some travelers found it hard to see the petroglyphs clearly during the midday sun, most agree that the carvings add a layer of mystique and historical depth to the experience. One reviewer said, “You need a lot of imagination to make out the animals,” but appreciated the authenticity of the site.
There was some confusion about our pick up, but the amazing guide more than made up for it. The tour was well structured, with enough time despite the long commute times. The guide was warm, patient and very informative. We communicated with the guide about the change of our next tour location, and…
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The canteras de sillar felt extremely touristy and superficial. There felt as if there was no history or cultural significance of anything during the tour. Or at least it was not explained during the tour. The second stop in the serpentine pass was fun with interesting views and some history of the…
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Very good quick half a day trip to explore outside the city, great AC van and tour guide, recommended this
The Apachetas, stone mounds of spiritual significance, are the final feature at this stop. They serve as mystical markers representing local traditions, and many visitors find them curiously enchanting. The walk back to the vehicle takes about five minutes, and the journey back to Arequipa’s city center lasts around 40 minutes.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Arequipa.
Transportation, Guide, and Group Size
Transportation is via a comfortable minibus that seats up to 18 travelers, making for a relatively intimate experience. The guides, including Mike and Alexandra, are praised for their bilingual abilities and knowledge. Many reviews mention that guides are friendly, informative, and able to share insights in both English and Spanish.
Group sizes tend to be small, which is ideal for personalized attention and easier movement through the sites. The pickup process is generally smooth, though a few reviews mention delays or minor logistical hiccups—something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight schedule.
The Good and the Not-So-Good
Price-wise, at $19, this tour is very affordable considering the sites visited. The entry fees for the quarry and petroglyphs are included, and the guide’s commentary adds value to the experience. Several travelers described it as "excellent value for money" and appreciated the well-paced itinerary.
However, some reviews highlight the potential for feeling rushed, especially if delays happen or if the group size increases unexpectedly. One traveler noted that the tour could be more relaxed, suggesting that more time at each stop would enhance the experience. The rugged terrain and the possibility of dust (especially in the quarry) mean packing good shoes, water, and perhaps a dust mask if you’re sensitive.
A less favorable review pointed out poor organization and unsafe driving in a full van with a non-functioning AC, which highlights the importance of choosing reputable operators and being prepared for some discomfort.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven, bumpy terrain.
- Bring water and sun protection, especially during midday visits.
- Use mosquito repellent if you’re sensitive, although reviews suggest it’s not always necessary.
- Arrive early for the pickup to avoid delays and maximize your time.
- Prepare to listen carefully and, if possible, ask questions to get the full story from your guide.
- Photograph the viewpoints early in the day to avoid harsh midday sunlight making petroglyphs harder to see.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect if you’re curious about Arequipa’s volcanic stone architecture and want to see where it all begins. It's also ideal for outdoor lovers willing to trek rugged terrain and for those interested in local petroglyphs and ancient traditions. Budget travelers will find it a great value, while those wanting a short, scenic escape from the city will appreciate the well-organized itinerary.
Travelers looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration might find some parts a little rushed, but most will leave with memorable views, cultural insights, and a greater appreciation of Arequipa’s natural environment.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, walking, and sightseeing.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for older adults due to the rugged terrain in the canyon. The walk can be bumpy and challenging.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, a certified bilingual guide, and entry to the quarry and petroglyph sites. Entrance fees for the quarry and Culebrillas are included.
How crowded does it get?
The tour is limited to 18 travelers maximum, keeping groups fairly small and manageable.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention a comfortable minibus with some noting that air conditioning might not always work well, so dress accordingly.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll want to capture the volcano views, petroglyphs, and rock formations—just be mindful of the midday sun and rugged terrain.
Whether you're a curious history buff or an outdoor explorer, the Sillar Route and Culebrillas Petroglyphs tour offers a snapshot of Arequipa’s volcanic roots and cultural heritage. With expert guides and breathtaking scenery, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Peruvian adventure—just be prepared for some rugged walking and a bit of a rush, but those are small trade-offs for such an authentic experience.
