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Offered languages
- English
- Spanish
This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the soul of Arequipa through its most iconic material, sillar stone. Unlike typical sightseeing excursions, the Ruta del Sillar y Culebrillas Tour takes you behind the scenes into active quarries where master artisans still carve stone by hand, preserving a centuries old tradition.
You’ll also venture off the beaten path to explore Culebrillas Canyon, a hidden natural wonder with ancient petroglyphs and dramatic rock formations. Its easy walking trail makes it accessible for travelers of all ages, while the personalized attention of a local guide ensures a rich cultural experience.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or curious explorer, this tour offers an authentic, immersive glimpse into the heritage and landscapes that make Arequipa truly special.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Pickup is available from hotels located in Arequipa’s historic center or from the main square. Please be ready in the lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. If your accommodation is outside the pickup zone, a meeting point will be arranged.
Itinerary
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1
Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas. From there, we’ll set off to explore the city’s iconic volcanic landscapes and rich architectural heritage.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Yanahuara District: Historic Charm & Panoramic Views Our first destination is Yanahuara, a picturesque colonial district just minutes from the city center. Stroll through its charming main square, lined with white ashlar (sillar) arches, and visit its 17th century church. The Yanahuara viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Arequipa’s skyline framed by its three surrounding volcanoes Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. The viewpoint’s stone arches are inscribed with famous quotes from Arequipa’s most notable figures.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Añashuayco Quarry: The Living Sillar Route Next, we head to Añashuayco Quarry, located in Cerro Colorado, approximately 25 minutes from downtown Arequipa. This is one of the most important sites along the Sillar Route, where this iconic white volcanic stone has been extracted for centuries. Witness the traditional stone-cutting techniques still used today by local master stonemasons (albañiles), using simple tools like chisels, bars, and mallets. Marvel at an incredible relief carving of the Compañía de Jesús Church façade, sculpted directly into the canyon wall, a true open air masterpiece. Take unique photos of this cultural heritage site that celebrates the artistry behind Arequipa’s white stone architecture.
2 hours 10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Culebrillas Canyon: Nature & Ancient Petroglyphs Our final stop is the Culebrillas Gorge, about 30 minutes away by vehicle. We’ll enjoy a 20 minute guided hike through this narrow, mysterious canyon carved entirely from volcanic rock. As we walk, you'll feel the powerful silence and majesty of this natural wonder, shaped by wind and water over millennia. At the end of the trail, discover pre Inca petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls, an archaeological treasure offering insight into the region’s ancient civilizations.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Return to Arequipa After this immersive cultural and natural experience, we return to the city of Arequipa. You'll carry back not just photos, but a deep appreciation for the art, history, and geology that define this unique region of southern Peru.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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