Tour of the Sillar y Cañón de Culebrillas Arequipa

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5 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

This tour is different because it focuses on the cultural and geological origin of Arequipa itself, rather than only visiting scenic viewpoints. Instead of a conventional sightseeing route, you explore active quarry areas and natural formations that explain how the city of Arequipa was built from volcanic stone.

A key highlight is the visit to the Cantera de Añashuayco, where you can see local artisans still carving sillar by hand, giving you a direct connection to traditional craftsmanship. This is complemented by the walk through the Cañón de Culebrillas, a hidden volcanic canyon that adds a more natural and adventurous touch to the experience.

Overall, it’s a short but very educational tour that combines culture, geology, and living tradition—ideal for understanding the “white city” from its true origin.

What's Included

Assistance and safety
Professional tour guide
Transportation and logistics
Entrance fees | Paid directly
Food and drinks
Personal and additional expenses,

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Wait in the lobby of your hotel; the guide will contact you in a few minutes.

OR
Meeting point
Plaza de Armas Arequipa

Please wait near the fountain in the plaza; the guide will contact you a few minutes before the tour begins.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Ruta Del Sillar

    Morning: Sillar Route & Añashuayco Quarry 08:30 – 09:00 a.m. | Departure: Hotel pickup in Arequipa and departure toward the Sillar Route, enjoying views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes along the way. Añashuayco Quarry: Visit the active quarry to observe master stonemasons at work and learn about the ancestral craft of carving the white volcanic stone (sillar). Photos & Souvenirs: Enjoy free time to photograph the massive stone sculptures and browse artisan workshops for volcanic stone souvenirs. Midday: Culebrillas Canyon & Return Culebrillas Canyon Exploration: Transfer to the canyon for a 40-minute guided hike inside its narrow, winding stone walls and unique geological formations. Craftsman Workshop Stop: Make a brief final stop at the artisan workshops to view more intricate sillar sculptures. 01:00 p.m. | Return to Arequipa: Head back to the city center, taking in final views of the Añashuayco valley and surrounding volcanic landscapes to conclude the tour.

    3 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Machupicchu Tours Peru

Tags

Extreme Sports
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Adventure Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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