Route of the Sillar & Culebrillas

Learn more about Arequipa

Explore the captivating and photogenic Sillar Route where you will learn about the use of this emblematic volcanic stone from Arequipa. Observe the carving done by artisans and the sculptures they form. Walk through a picturesque canyon with unique rock formations.

Ruta del Sillar & Culebrillas

Colonial Arequipa

3,500 m.s.n.m

Landscapes, history, and culture.

Easy​

Group tour

English & Spanish

4 hrs

Cerro Colorado, Yura, Añashuayco Quarries & Culebrillas Ravine.

We will start our tour with a transfer to the districts of Cerro Colorado and Yura. Along the way, we will make a stop at one of the many viewpoints that Arequipa offers, to appreciate valleys and views of the volcanoes. We will arrive at the Añashuayco quarries, a place that houses the Sillar route. Dive into the past as you learn about the massive and artisanal use of this volcanic stone, which began after the 1687 earthquake and gave rise to Arequipa's nickname: The White City.

During the tour, we will visit different stone artisans on foot and learn about the ancestral technique of extracting sillar. They will show us their carvings and how they create beautiful sculptures. Continuing with our tour, we will visit the Pedrera Virgen De Culebrillas, where we will take a fascinating walk along a small canyon. Additionally, we will be able to observe the fascinating petroglyphs that will transport us to the life and beliefs of the ancient inhabitants. Finally, we will return to the city center. This is a fun and relaxed half-day tour, where you can capture fabulous photos and videos from different angles while admiring beautiful works that evoke memories of Petra."

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Why to book this tour with What a Trip?

  • Pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa.
  • A bilingual professional guide will accompany you during the tour.
  • You will learn about the extraction and sculpting of Sillar.
  • You'll have free time to showcase your photographic skills.
  • Explore a canyon and discover petroglyphs.
  • We will transport you in a clean and comfortable vehicle.
  • Pick-up from your hotel in downtown Arequipa.
  • You will meet the professional guide who will accompany you on this adventure.
  • Transfer to the Añashuayco quarries (40min.), where history and geology converge in a stunning landscape. On the way, we will make a brief stop at a Zamácola viewpoint to admire the Arequipa mountain range.
  • We will learn about the exploitation of the sillar.
  • Appreciation of different and beautiful carvings, from geometric figures to floral and animal motifs.
  • Hike through the Culebrillas ravine (40min approx.), along a tranquil path with some ups and downs.
  • Observation of the enigmatic petroglyphs.
  • Learn from the guide about the apachetas, piles of stacked stones with important symbolic and cultural significance for local communities.
  • We will arrive at a viewpoint with panoramic views of the landscape.
  • Return to Arequipa, arriving at sunset.

Map of the Tour

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