Explore Arequipa’s soul through sillar stone quarries and Culebrillas Canyon’s petroglyphs. Discover hidden wonders with expert local guides.
Explore Arequipa’s soul through sillar stone quarries and Culebrillas Canyon’s petroglyphs. Discover hidden wonders with expert local guides.
- Arequipa - Begin the day with a convenient pickup from your hotel or Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas. Embark on a journey to explore the city’s iconic volcanic landscapes and rich architectural heritage.
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Yanahuara - Yanahuara District: Historic Charm & Panoramic Views
The first stop is Yanahuara, a charming colonial district just minutes from the…
- Arequipa - Begin the day with a convenient pickup from your hotel or Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas. Embark on a journey to explore the city’s iconic volcanic landscapes and rich architectural heritage.
-
Yanahuara - Yanahuara District: Historic Charm & Panoramic Views
The first stop is Yanahuara, a charming colonial district just minutes from the city center.
Wander through its delightful main square, adorned with white ashlar (sillar) arches, and visit its 17th-century church. The Yanahuara viewpoint offers stunning views of Arequipa’s skyline, framed by the three surrounding volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. The viewpoint’s stone arches are inscribed with famous quotes from Arequipa’s notable figures.
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Añaswayq’u - Añashuayco Quarry: The Living Sillar Route
Next, visit Añashuayco Quarry, located in Cerro Colorado, about 25 minutes from downtown Arequipa. This is a significant site along the Sillar Route, where the iconic white volcanic stone has been extracted for centuries.
Observe the traditional stone-cutting techniques still practiced by local master stonemasons (albañiles), using simple tools like chisels, bars, and mallets. Admire an incredible relief carving of the Compañía de Jesús Church façade, sculpted directly into the canyon wall, a true open-air masterpiece. Capture unique photos of this cultural heritage site that celebrates the artistry behind Arequipa’s white stone architecture.
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Culebrillas - Culebrillas Canyon: Nature & Ancient Petroglyphs
The final stop is the Culebrillas Gorge, approximately 30 minutes away by vehicle.
Enjoy a 20-minute guided hike through this narrow, mysterious canyon carved entirely from volcanic rock. As you walk, experience 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. -
Arequipa - Return to Arequipa
After this immersive cultural and natural experience, return to the city of Arequipa. You’ll bring back not just photos, but a deep appreciation for the art, history, and geology that define this unique region of southern Peru.

- Entrance to Añashuayco Quarry
- Entrance to Culebrillas Canyon
- Transportation: Tourist van or minibus with professional driver
- Pick up & Drop off: From your hotel or Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas
- Professional tour guide
- First aid kit
- Entrance to Añashuayco Quarry
- Entrance to Culebrillas Canyon
- Transportation: Tourist van or minibus with professional driver
- Pick up & Drop off: From your hotel or Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas
- Professional tour guide
- First aid kit
- Tips for guide or driver (optional)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide or driver (optional)
- Personal expenses
This tour provides a distinctive chance to engage with the essence of Arequipa through its renowned sillar stone. Unlike standard sightseeing trips, the Ruta del Sillar y Culebrillas Tour takes participants behind the scenes into active quarries where skilled artisans continue to hand-carve stone, maintaining a tradition that spans centuries….
This tour provides a distinctive chance to engage with the essence of Arequipa through its renowned sillar stone. Unlike standard sightseeing trips, the Ruta del Sillar y Culebrillas Tour takes participants behind the scenes into active quarries where skilled artisans continue to hand-carve stone, maintaining a tradition that spans centuries.
Participants will also journey off the usual path to discover Culebrillas Canyon, a concealed natural marvel featuring ancient petroglyphs and striking rock formations. Its easy walking trail makes it suitable for travelers of all ages, while the personalized guidance of a local expert ensures a culturally enriching experience.
Whether a history buff, nature enthusiast, or inquisitive traveler, this tour provides a genuine, immersive look into the heritage and landscapes that make Arequipa truly unique.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.