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The Sillar Route

3 reviews
4 hrs
From
31.864 ARS
The Sillar Route Day Tour offers a wonderful chance to discover the origins of sillar, the primary material used in the construction of monuments, temples, and mansions in Arequipa city, famously known as the White City.
During this tour, we will explore stunning ravines, taking in the exceptional desert landscapes, and witness firsthand how skilled artisans work with this volcanic material.
Take advantage of this unique tour experience!

Tour Description

In the morning, we'll pick you up from your centrally located hotel in the city of Arequipa to embark on a unique adventure: the Sillar Route. This half-day tour will take us through two famous quarries, where we’ll meet artisans skilled in working with sillar stone.

Our journey begins as we head towards the Cerro Colorado district, eventually reaching the Añashuayco Quarries. Nestled at the base of the Chachani Volcano and near the Chili River, this location offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. We’ll explore the area of the master stonecutters, admiring handcrafted artworks like colonial facades and intricate carvings.

One highlight is the Pink Sillar, a section of the quarries that glows with a vibrant pink hue under the sun, thanks to the unique mix of sillar, sand, and rocks.

We'll also stop by the artisan workshops to gain insight into the craft of sillar working, observing how ancestral tools are used in the process. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to purchase handmade crafts (optional).

Our adventure continues with a visit to the Culebrillas Quarry, where we’ll explore an awe-inspiring natural ravine shaped by water and wind erosion.

As we walk along these narrow passageways, we'll encounter the Culebrillas petroglyphs, which feature depictions of animals like birds, felines, and snakes, reaching heights of approximately 30 meters. These ancient drawings are attributed to the Wari culture, an Andean civilization that flourished between the 7th and 13th centuries AD.

Sillar has played a crucial role in the construction of Arequipa, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

At the conclusion of our tour, we'll return to the city center of Arequipa.


What’s included?

What’s included:

* Spanish and English professional guide * Transportation * First aid kit and covid kit * Pick up hotels

What’s NOT included:

* Tips * Food and drinks * Ticket entrances (S/ 5.00 per person, local currency) * Pay to master cutters * Drop off hotels

Frequently Asked Questions

The Sillar Route tour includes round-trip tourist transportation from downtown Arequipa, a certified Spanish-speaking tour guide, entrance to the sillar quarries, and stops at key tourist attractions along the route, such as the Añashuayco quarry and the Culebrillas area. It is recommended to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. This excursion is ideal for travelers interested in local history, geology, and culture. Visits are conducted in groups, facilitating interaction and learning about the work of the quarrymen and the sillar stone.

The Sillar Route tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the group's pace and the day's conditions. Tours generally depart in the morning, although some agencies offer afternoon departures. It is recommended to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Transportation from the main meeting point in downtown Arequipa is included, and you will return to the same location at the end of the tour. Always verify the specific schedule when booking to better plan your tour experience.

The Sillar Route tour is suitable for most travelers, including children and seniors, provided they have basic mobility. It's important to note that in some areas of the route, the terrain can be uneven due to quarries and stone paths. It is not fully accessible for people with reduced mobility or who require a wheelchair. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and it's advisable to inquire beforehand if any special assistance is needed. Overall, it's a pleasant outing for families, couples, and groups of friends interested in cultural and nature tourism.

Most tour operators offering the Sillar Route allow cancellations or modifications at least 24 to 48 hours in advance at no extra cost, although it's important to check the specific terms and conditions of the agency where you book. In many cases, if you cancel within the established timeframe, a full or partial refund is offered. Always review the refund and change policy before booking to avoid any issues. This is especially important for those traveling with flexible itineraries or who want to secure their reservation without financial risk.

The price of the Sillar Route tour varies depending on the agency, the type of service, and the season. It's generally affordable and includes transportation, a guide, and entrance fees. It's recommended to book online through reputable agencies like 'The Best Peru Tours' to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist season. To book, you'll need to complete a form with your personal and contact information and make the corresponding payment. You'll then receive a confirmation email with tour details and instructions before the day of the tour.

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The Sillar Route

3 reviews
4 hrs
From 31.864 ARS
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What they say

Reviews

¡Recomiendo totalmente la Ruta del Sillar! La experiencia fue increíble desde el principio hasta el final. El guía sabía muchísimo sobre la historia y el proceso de extracción de sillar, ¡y hasta pudimos ver a los artesanos trabajar! Las formaciones de piedra son impresionantes, perfecto para tomar miles de fotos. Aprendí un montón y me la pasé genial. Si visitas Arequipa, este tour es obligatorio. Gracias The Best Peru Tours, superaron mis expectativas.

La mejor manera de conocer el sillar y la historia de Arequipa

If you want to see something truly unique, you gotta try The Sillar Route in Arequipa! Walking through the amazing white quarries and seeing how they carve the sillar stones was so cool. The guides were super friendly and explained everything in a fun way. The views are out of this world—it seriously feels like you're on another planet. Totally worth it for the pics and the awesome experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Arequipa!

Stunning White Quarries Adventure: The Sillar Route Rocks!

Gente, eu amei a Rota do Sillar em Arequipa! O passeio foi super divertido e cheio de paisagens incríveis, as pedreiras são únicas e rendem fotos lindas. O guia explicou tudo com muita disposição e simpatia, sempre deixando a galera à vontade. Aprendi muito sobre a história das pedras de sillar e saí encantado. Recomendo demais para quem curte natureza, cultura e quer conhecer um lado diferente do Peru!

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The Sillar Route

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