Arequipa: Private Tour to The Ashlar Route

Arequipa’s architectural marvels have captivated visitors for centuries. The Ashlar Route, or Ruta del Sillar, offers an exclusive window into the region’s storied past. On this private 3-hour tour, guests will witness the extraction of the iconic white volcanic stone, sillar, and uncover its significance in shaping the city’s distinct aesthetic. With an expert guide at the helm, this immersive experience promises insights into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply seeking to uncover the city’s hidden gems, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Set out on a 3-hour private tour to explore the Ashlar Route, also known as Ruta del Sillar, in Arequipa.
• Witness the extraction process of the white volcanic stone, sillar, used in Arequipa’s iconic architecture.
• Discover the historical and cultural heritage of the Aña-shuayco Quarries, dating back over 3 million years.
• Purchase unique handcrafted artwork and souvenirs made from the distinctive white sillar stone.
• Enjoy complimentary pickup service from downtown Arequipa accommodations and a live, multilingual guide.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The private tour to the Ashlar Route, also known as the Ruta del Sillar, offers a 3-hour exploration.

Priced from £51.59 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests will enjoy the services of a live guide who can communicate in English and Spanish.

Pickup from downtown Arequipa accommodations is provided.

The tour highlights include witnessing the extraction process at the Añashuayco Quarries, learning about the historical significance of the quarry, and discovering Arequipa’s architectural heritage built from the distinctive white sillar stone.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to purchase handcrafted souvenirs made from the local stone.

Tour Highlights

As part of the private tour, guests can explore the Añashuayco Quarries, the origin of Arequipa’s distinctive white stone.

They’ll witness the extraction process demonstrated by a local interpreter, learning about the historical and natural significance of the quarry.

Visitors can view the Compañía de Jesús Church representation carved in a massive ashlar wall, discovering the architectural heritage of Arequipa, built primarily from sillar, a volcanic porous stone.

The tour also provides an opportunity to purchase handcrafted artwork and souvenirs made from white ashlar.

The tour highlights include:

1. Witnessing the stone extraction process.
2. Admiring the carved Compañía de Jesús Church.
3. Exploring Arequipa’s architectural heritage.
4. Purchasing local ashlar-based crafts.

Historical Context

Over 3 million years ago, the Aña-shuayco Quarry formed due to the region’s volcanic activity. This ancient quarry has historical significance, as it shows evidence of the Wari Civilization, with petroglyphs carved into the stone.

Today, local quarry workers carry on the ancestral techniques of stone cutting, carving, and extraction that have been passed down through generations.

The quarry’s white volcanic porous stone, called sillar, has been the primary building material for Arequipa’s distinctive architecture, creating a unique historical and cultural heritage for the city.

Pickup and Accessibility

Pickup isn’t available from private residences, such as Airbnb accommodations. Visitors must coordinate a meeting point with the tour operator.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the experience.

Some additional prohibited items include:

1. Pets
2. Oversized luggage
3. Smoking
4. Large bags, alcohol, drugs, and unaccompanied minors

The local operator may also collect sales tax from visitors staying in Peru over 60 days.

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What to Bring

Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring along warm clothing, sunglasses, a sun hat, and potentially some snacks and water.

Carrying a jacket and insect repellent is also advisable, as the weather can be variable. Cash is recommended for purchasing any handcrafted souvenirs or artwork made from the distinctive white ashlar stone.

It’s important to note that large bags and oversized luggage are prohibited on this tour. Plus, pets, smoking, alcohol, and drugs aren’t permitted.

Duration and Price

The tour duration is 3 hours, providing ample time to thoroughly explore the Aña-shuayco Quarries and learn about Arequipa’s architectural heritage.

The price starts from £51.59 per person, making this an affordable and accessible experience for travelers.

Here are four reasons why this tour is an excellent value:

1. Gain exclusive insights from a live local guide.
2. Enjoy free cancellation with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
3. Experience the extraction process and the history behind the iconic sillar stone.
4. Discover the opportunity to purchase unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can rest assured that this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. This flexible policy ensures customers can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed. The cancellation policy is outlined in the table below:

Cancellation Timeframe	Refund
24 hours or more	100%
Less than 24 hours	0%

This user-friendly approach to cancellations is just one of the many reasons this Ashlar Route tour is an excellent choice for visitors to Arequipa. The policy provides peace of mind and allows travelers to book without risk.

Additional Information

This private tour to the Ashlar Route offers an immersive experience that showcases Arequipa’s unique architectural heritage.

Along the way, visitors will enjoy several highlights, including:

1. Witnessing the awe-inspiring extraction process of the distinctive white stone, sillar, which has been used to construct Arequipa’s iconic buildings.

2. Exploring the historical and natural significance of the Aña­shuayco Quarries, where evidence of the ancient Wari Civilization can be found.

3. Discovering the opportunity to purchase handcrafted artwork and souvenirs made from the local sillar stone, a unique memento of the tour.

4. Experiencing the rich architectural heritage of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, built primarily from the porous volcanic stone.

Please note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and certain items are prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Visitors are encouraged to capture the unique quarry, extraction process, and architectural highlights along the Ashlar Route. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the tour experience.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?

There is no minimum or maximum group size specified for the tour. It is a private tour, so the group size can be tailored to the customer’s preference. Larger groups may incur additional costs per person.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Tour?

The tour has some physical requirements. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring warm clothing, as the terrain may be challenging.

Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, you can request a private tour for your group. The tour offers a private experience with a live guide available in English and Spanish, and pickup included from downtown accommodation.

Will There Be Opportunities to Interact With the Local Quarry Workers?

Yes, the tour allows visitors to witness the extraction process demonstrated by local quarry workers. Participants can learn about the historical and ancestral techniques of stone cutting, carving, and extraction from the interpreters.

Recap

Enjoy Arequipa’s architectural heritage on this private tour of the Ashlar Route. Witness the stone extraction process, learn about sillar’s historical significance, and purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs. With a live guide, English-Spanish translation, and affordable pricing, this tour offers an enriching exploration of the region’s iconic white volcanic stone.

You can check if your dates are available here: