From Arequipa: Sillar Route Excursion | Half Day |

The "From Arequipa: Sillar Route Excursion" offers travelers an immersive cultural experience in Peru’s Arequipa region. Priced at a reasonable KS579 per person, this half-day tour immerses participants in the rich heritage of traditional stone carving, stunning volcanic landscapes, and ancient petroglyphs. With a professional guide leading the way, this 6.5-hour journey promises to be a captivating adventure for those eager to discover the unique facets of the Sillar Route. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious to explore the diverse cultural tapestry of Arequipa, this excursion may just be the perfect way to…

Key Points

• This 6.5-hour tour from Arequipa offers an immersive cultural experience, featuring the observation of traditional stone carving at the Añashuayco Quarry.
• The tour includes a panoramic viewpoint showcasing the surrounding volcanoes and a 20-minute trek through the Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon to explore ancient petroglyphs.
• The tour is priced at K¢579 per person, with a flexible cancellation policy allowing for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Nation, highlighting the architectural and artisanal significance of Arequipa’s ashlar stone heritage.
• With an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on customer reviews, the tour provides a comprehensive and enriching way to explore Arequipa’s cultural legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Sillar Route excursion offers a captivating 6.5-hour tour priced at K₵579 per person, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve their spot without immediate payment, allowing them to secure their place today and pay later.

This guided tour departs from Arequipa, providing a unique opportunity to explore the city’s cultural heritage and observe the traditional stone carving process at the Añashuayco Quarry.

With panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes and the chance to discover petroglyphs in the Quebrada de Culebrillas, this excursion promises an enriching and memorable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the Sillar Route excursion, visitors are picked up from their accommodation in Arequipa at 8:50 a.m.

The first stop is the Aña-shuayco Quarry, where guests observe local masons skillfully carving ashlar stone.

Next, a viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding volcanoes.

Exploring the Quebrada de Culebrillas, participants embark on a 20-minute walk amidst the canyon’s 20-meter high walls.

Lastly, the group discovers ancient petroglyphs hidden within the canyon.

The tour concludes with a return to Arequipa at 1:00 p.m.

The itinerary highlights include:

1. Observing local stone carving at Aña-shuayco Quarry
2. Taking in views of volcanoes from a scenic overlook
3. Trekking through the Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon
4. Discovering pre-Columbian petroglyphs

Cultural Significance

The Sillar Route is recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Nation, highlighting its deep cultural significance. Arequipa, aptly nicknamed "The White City", is renowned for its architecture made from the distinctive ashlar stone. This local stone, known as sillar, has been integral to the city’s development and identity for centuries.

Sillar Stone	Cultural Significance
Unique volcanic rock	Quintessential building material for Arequipa’s landmarks
Carved by skilled masons	Represents Arequipa’s rich artisanal heritage
Used in colonial-era architecture	Contributes to the city’s distinctive white aesthetic

The preservation of the Sillar Route ensures the continued recognition and appreciation of this invaluable cultural legacy.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The Sillar Route Excursion includes a selection of core services, with additional fees for select experiences. The tour includes hotel pickup, tourist transport, and a professional guide.

Entrance tickets to the Ruta del Sillar and Cañón de Culebrillas cost $5 per person each. Travelers should also budget for any extra expenses not covered, such as:

1. Meals and snacks
2. Gratuities for the guide
3. Optional activities or souvenirs
4. Personal items

While the base tour price is competitive, these additional costs should be factored in when planning the overall budget for the Sillar Route Excursion experience.

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Important Information

Pickup for the Sillar Route Excursion takes place at the traveler’s accommodation near Arequipa’s main square.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, a camera, cash for any additional expenses, and personal medication if needed.

Weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour.

Reservations must be made at least one day in advance, and travelers should have the emergency contact information on hand after booking.

The Sillar Route Excursion has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, providing a reliable and enjoyable cultural experience for visitors to Arequipa.

Pickup and Return Times

Pickup for the Sillar Route Excursion occurs at 8:50 a.m. from the traveler’s accommodation near Arequipa’s main square.

The tour then returns to Arequipa at approximately 1:00 p.m., providing ample time to explore the city further.

The excursion’s duration is 6.5 hours, allowing participants to:

1. Observe local masons and the ashlar stone carving process at the Añashuayco Quarry.
2. Take in panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes during a viewpoint stop.
3. Explore the 20-meter high walls of the Quebrada de Culebrillas canyon.
4. Discover the intriguing petroglyphs hidden within the canyon.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Travelers can cancel their Sillar Route Excursion reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy provides peace of mind, allowing guests to book with confidence. Should plans change, they can receive a 100% refund by notifying the tour operator within the specified timeframe.

Cancellation Policy	Refund Amount
24+ hours in advance	100%
Less than 24 hours	0%
No-show	0%
Partial cancellation	Prorated refund

The reserve now, pay later option also makes booking the tour convenient. With this hassle-free approach, travelers can secure their spot without an upfront payment.

Customer Reviews

The Sillar Route Excursion has garnered positive reviews from satisfied customers. According to the 4.3/5 overall rating, customers seem to have greatly enjoyed this culture experience.

Some key highlights from the reviews include:

1. The expert guide’s deep knowledge of the local culture and history.
2. The breathtaking viewpoints and opportunities to see traditional stone carving.
3. The well-organized itinerary that maximized the experience within the 6.5-hour duration.
4. The hassle-free logistics, including hotel pickup and easy scheduling.

Travelers appear to appreciate the excursion’s unique cultural significance and recommend it as an enriching way to discover Arequipa’s architectural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour isn’t specified in the details provided. However, it’s common for small-group tours to have a maximum of 8-12 participants to ensure an intimate and personalized experience.

Are Children and Infants Allowed on This Tour?

Yes, children and infants are allowed on this tour. The tour operator does not specify any age restrictions, so families with young children can participate in the Sillar Route excursion.

Is This Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly stated to be wheelchair accessible. Some portions, like the 20-minute walk in the Quebrada de Culebrillas, may be challenging for wheelchair users. It’s best to contact the tour operator for more details on accessibility.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, additional meals and refreshments are not included in the tour price, and there may not be opportunities to purchase them during the excursion.

Do I Need to Purchase Any Additional Permits or Licenses?

No, additional permits or licenses are not required. The tour includes entrance tickets to the Ruta del Sillar and Cañón de Culebrillas sites. You’ll just need to bring your passport/ID and any necessary personal items.

Recap

The "From Arequipa: Sillar Route Excursion" offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Participants can explore traditional stone carving, witness stunning natural landscapes, and discover ancient petroglyphs, all while benefiting from the expertise of a professional guide. This half-day tour is priced at K₵579 per person and provides a unique opportunity to take in the fascinating history and traditions of Arequipa.

You can check if your dates are available here: