Arequipa Sillar Route Tour: Añashuayco Quarries & Culebrillas Canyon
Explore the geological soul of Arequipa on our Sillar Route Tour, a half-day journey to the birthplace of the city’s unique architecture. Arequipa is famous worldwide as the "White City" due to its stunning colonial buildings made of sillar—a white volcanic stone. On this tour, you will witness the live extraction process and meet the master stonemasons who keep this ancient craft alive.
We will visit the monumental Añashuayco Quarries, where massive white stone walls feature impressive carvings and reliefs. We also venture into Quebrada de Culebrillas, a pristine natural canyon formed by water erosion, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into the region’s pre-Hispanic past. This is a perfect excursion for photography lovers, history buffs, and travelers looking for a light outdoor activity.
Arequipa Sillar Route Tour: Añashuayco Quarries & Culebrillas Canyon
Half day
ITINERARY
The journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel to head towards the Cerro Colorado district. Around 08:30 a.m. (or 02:00 p.m. for the afternoon shift), we will make our first stop at the Cerro Colorado Volcano Lookout. From here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the three volcanoes guarding the city: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. We then drive down into the Añashuayco Quarry, the main site of the Sillar Route, where you can observe the "cortadores" (stone cutters) at work and admire the mega-carvings on the canyon walls, including a replica of the Jesuit Church facade.
Around 10:30 a.m., we leave the active quarry area behind to explore the hidden Quebrada de Culebrillas. This involves a light 20-minute walk through a narrow, winding canyon made of ashlar stone. At the end of the path, we will find the Culebrillas Petroglyphs, ancient carvings attributed to the Wari culture, depicting mystical animals and geometric shapes. After taking plenty of photos of this unique desert landscape, we will begin our return to Arequipa's city center, arriving at approximately 01:00 p.m.
SERVICE DETAILS
What is Included?
- Round-trip tourist transportation.
- Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish).
- Visit to Añashuayco and Culebrilla Canyon.
- Live stone carving demonstration.
- First aid kit.
Not Included
- Meals and drinks.
- Tips.
TRAVELER GUIDE
Packing List
Travel Tips
- Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses (the white stone reflects high UV rays).
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are essential for the canyon walk.
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
- A light windbreaker jacket is recommended for the afternoon breeze.
RATES & BOOKING
If you would like to know the latest price for this tour, please contact us. Our team will provide the rates and availability for your preferred travel dates.
Have questions? Email us at info@perutopexpeditions.com or contact us via WhatsApp for assistance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
It is a half-day tour lasting approximately 4 hours, with morning and afternoon departures.
Not at all. It is a very easy 20-minute walk on flat, sandy ground, suitable for all ages.
The morning tour offers the best light for photography, while the afternoon is usually cooler.
Yes, local artisans sell small, hand-carved sillar sculptures at very affordable prices.
Why Choose Us?
Photo Gallery
Start your photographic journey and document your arrival at the iconic emblem of the White City.
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