Sillar Route and Culebrillas Tour Culture and Nature in Arequipa

Sillar Route and Culebrillas Tour Culture and Nature in Arequipa

By Intiperu Travel

Free cancellation available

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Features

Free cancellation available
6h
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation
Selective hotel pickup
Multiple languages

Overview

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 track to explore Culebrillas Canyon, a hidden natural wonder with ancient petroglyphs and dramatic rock formations. Its easy walking trail makes it accessible for travellers of all ages, while the personalised 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.

Activity location

Arequipa
- Arequipa, Peru

Meeting/Redemption Point

Arequipa
- Arequipa, Peru

Check availability

Sillar Route and Culebrillas Tour Culture and Nature in Arequipa

6h
English

Pickup included

Travellers

Languages available

Starting time

Price details

€17.52 x 1 Adult€17.52

Total

What's included, what's not

Entrance to Añashuayco Quarry
Transport: Tourist van or minibus with professional driver
Pick up & Drop off: From your hotel or Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas
Entrance to Culebrillas Canyon
First aid kit
Professional tour guide
Tips for guide or driver (optional)
Personal expenses

Know before you book

Suitable for all physical fitness levels
In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, activities services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. Supplier cancellation policy will apply.

Activity itinerary

Arequipa

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.

Yanahuara

Yanahuara District: Historic Charm & Panoramic Views Our first destination is Yanahuara, a picturesque colonial district just minutes from the city centre. 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.

Añaswayq'u

2h 10m

Añashuayco Quarry: The Living Sillar Route Next, we head to Añashuayco Quarry, located in Cerro Colorado, approximately 25 minutes from city centre 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.

Culebrillas

1h 30m

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 civilisations.

Arequipa

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.

Location

Activity location

Arequipa
- Arequipa, Peru

Meeting/Redemption Point

Arequipa
- Arequipa, Peru

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