Trek to the Route of the Sillar and Culebrillas in Arequipa

Planning a half-day adventure in Arequipa that combines history, geology, and local culture? This Trek to the Route of the Sillar and Culebrillas offers just that. For around $10, you’ll spend about 4.5 hours exploring the quarries where the iconic Arequipa ashlar is mined, wandering through the dramatic Culebrillas canyon, and gazing at the volcanoes that shape this landscape. Guides like Carlos make this experience lively and informative, revealing the story behind the stone that built the city’s stunning historic center.

What we particularly enjoy about this tour is its hands-on approach — you get close to working stonemasons, see ancient petroglyphs, and even try your hand at carving a stone. The visual variety is also a highlight: from the rugged canyon walls to the mystical Apachetas, every stop feels authentic and meaningful. On the flip side, the moderate walking distances and early start might be a consideration for travelers with mobility concerns or those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

This tour is ideal for those interested in local craftsmanship, geology, or archaeology. If you’re curious about how the historic city of Arequipa was built from volcanic stone or want a vivid taste of rural life and ancient culture, this adventure offers a compact but immersive experience.

Key Points

• Authentic insight into the Sillar material, a uniquely Peruvian volcanic ashlar
• Visiting active quarries, giving real insight into traditional stone masonry
• Exploring Culebrillas canyon, home to ancient petroglyphs and stunning natural formations
• Learning about local culture through Apachetas and traditional viewpoints
• Balanced mix of walking, sightseeing, and hands-on activities
• Affordable price with included guide and transport, making it great value

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sillar and Culebrillas Tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For just $10 per person, this tour covers transportation and a professional guide who will bring the experience to life. The only extra cost is a small entrance fee of 10 soles for the sites. The tour operates in a small-group setting, often with a bilingual guide in English and Spanish, which helps ensure personalized attention and clear explanations.

The meeting point is conveniently located at the tour provider’s main office, right in Arequipa, making it easy to find. The timing begins around 9:15 AM, with the afternoon shift at 2:00 PM, allowing flexibility depending on your plans.

How the Day Unfolds

The journey kicks off with a short drive to a strategic viewpoint overlooking the volcanoes and Chilina Valley. Here, you’ll get a quick, sweeping look at the landscape that has shaped Arequipa—perfect for snapping a few photos and setting the scene.

Next, you’ll arrive at the Añashuayco Quarry, still in operation and bursting with history. We loved the imposing cliffs and the giant canyon walls formed by volcanic ash extraction, which are genuinely impressive. The highlight here is witnessing the Mega carving of the Church of the Company of Jesus, a massive stone masterpiece created by local stonemasons, giving you a tangible connection to the city’s iconic architecture.

The guide often arranges for visitors to try cutting a stone themselves — a fun, if slightly messy, way to understand the work behind Arequipa’s unique buildings. We also appreciated the chance to meet local stonemasons working early mornings, which adds authenticity and a human touch to the experience.

The Culebrillas Canyon and Petroglyphs

After about 45 minutes at Añashuayco, the group moves to the Culebrillas canyon, about 30 minutes away. The walk inside this narrow, water-carved canyon lasts roughly 20 minutes and offers a chance to see walls soaring 15-20 meters high. The scenic beauty is complemented by ancient petroglyphs, carved by the Wari culture over a thousand years ago, adding a layer of historical intrigue.

We loved how the canyon’s walls gradually increase in height, creating a dramatic setting that feels almost timeless. The petroglyphs, faint yet decipherable, serve as a reminder of the area’s ancient inhabitants and their connection to nature.

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The Mystical Apachetas

Before heading back to Arequipa, the tour visits Apachetas — carefully stacked stone formations symbolizing gratitude and good luck. These are both a spiritual gesture and a cultural symbol, and we found them to be a quiet, mystical end to the exploration.

Returning to Arequipa

The return drive takes about 45 minutes, arriving back at the city center around 1:30 PM. The tour finishes near the main square, making it easy to continue exploring Arequipa afterward.

What We Like and What to Consider

Pros:

• The hands-on element at the quarry, including seeing large carvings and trying stone cutting, makes this tour memorable.
• The combination of natural scenery, ancient petroglyphs, and cultural sites offers a well-rounded experience.
• The cost is very reasonable, especially considering the included guide, transport, and site visits.

Possible Drawbacks:

• The early start and moderate walking might not suit everyone, particularly those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed pace.
• The short duration means that while it’s packed with highlights, it’s more of a taste than an in-depth archaeological or geological tour.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re interested in local craftsmanship, volcanic geology, or ancient cultures, this tour is a smart pick. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a small-group experience with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get close to working artisans. However, if you’re seeking a leisurely or deeply archaeological encounter, you might find it somewhat brisk.

Final Thoughts

This trek offers a practical glimpse into the materials used to craft Arequipa’s iconic architecture, combined with a taste of natural beauty and ancient art. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who want to understand more about the city’s foundation, both literally and culturally.

The active quarry visits and petroglyph exploration bring a genuine touch to what might otherwise be a typical sightseeing tour. The knowledgeable guides and authentic local encounters make this experience both educational and fun.

In short, if you’re after an affordable, authentic, and visually engaging half-day outing in Arequipa, this tour is a solid choice — especially for those eager to connect with the city’s volcanic origins and its enduring cultural expressions.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities should enjoy the experience, especially since it includes hands-on stone carving and exploration.

How much walking is involved?
There’s about 20 minutes of walking inside the canyon and some walking at the quarry, but it’s generally manageable for most.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Since the quarry and canyon are outdoors, dress appropriately for the weather.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes touristic transport from the meeting point to the various sites and back.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops are between 20 to 45 minutes, giving a good balance of exploration and travel time.

Can I participate if I’m not fluent in Spanish?
Yes, the tour is offered in English and Spanish, so language should not be a barrier.

What’s the main highlight?
Many visitors highlight the active quarry visit and the petroglyphs as the most memorable parts.

Are there bathroom facilities during the tour?
Facilities may be limited at the quarry and canyon, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the season; check with the provider to confirm the schedule.

How do I book?
You can reserve via the provided link, with options to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

This tour packs a lot into a half day, offering a well-balanced look at Arequipa’s volcanic origins and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, history buff, or just curious to see local craftsmanship up close, it provides real value and memorable sights for a modest price.

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