Half-Day Tour in Arequipa: Sillar Route

Discover the captivating Sillar Route in Arequipa, Peru. This half-day tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of skilled stonemasons and the region’s breathtaking natural landscapes. From exploring the volcanic quarries to witnessing the creation of traditional architectural elements, this experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into Arequipa’s vibrant artistry. With convenient hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to explore the area’s ancient history, the Sillar Route tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the striking beauty and enduring traditions that make this Peruvian destination so remarkable.

Key Points

• A half-day Sillar Route tour in Arequipa showcases the region’s volcanic stone quarries, impressive sculptures, and ancient Wari petroglyphs over 4 hours.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided exploration, and commentary in both English and Spanish, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Highlights of the tour include visiting the AÑashuayco quarry to observe skilled stonemasons at work and exploring the Culebrillas ravine to view ancient rock carvings.
• The tour is rated 4.5/5 and offers a full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
• Essential items to bring include comfortable walking shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and cash for optional purchases, such as small figurines.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The half-day Sillar Route tour in Arequipa takes visitors on a journey through the city’s renowned quarries. Priced from S/602 per person, the 4-hour tour is available in English and Spanish.

Travelers can conveniently cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes hotel pickup, transfer to the quarries, and guided exploration of sites like the Añashuayco quarry and Farallones Canyon.

Highlights include photo stops at a volcano viewpoint and the chance to learn about and build Apachetas, traditional rock cairns. After the tour, guests return to Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas.

The tour receives a 4.5/5 rating, with reviewers praising the impressive sculptures.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from guests’ hotels in Arequipa.

After a 1-hour transfer, the group makes a photo stop at a volcano viewpoint to admire the peaks of El Misti, Chachani, and Picchu Picchu.

Next, they visit the Ańashuayco quarry, where stonemasons are actively working.

The tour then explores Farallones Canyon and sees the Mega Carving of Compañía church.

Following a short 20-minute walk through Culebrillas ravine, guests can view ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture.

The experience culminates with learning about Apachetas and building one’s own.

Inclusions

What does this tour include?

The Sillar Route half-day tour in Arequipa includes hotel pickup, tourist transport, and a professional tour guide who provides commentary in both English and Spanish.

Entrance tickets to all the sites visited are also covered. This ensures a seamless and informative experience for participants.

The tour includes stops at the Sillar quarries, a viewpoint to admire the volcanoes, the Añashuayco quarry, Farallones Canyon, the Culebrillas ravine, and the opportunity to learn about and build Apachetas.

After exploring these highlights, the tour returns participants to the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the Sillar Route half-day tour in Arequipa.

Since the tour involves visiting quarries, traversing canyons, and exploring ancient petroglyphs, sturdy footwear is a must. A camera will allow you to capture the stunning volcanic landscapes, intricate carvings, and the stonemasons at work.

Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable in the region. It’s also a good idea to bring cash for any optional purchases, such as small figurines, during the tour.

With these key items, you’ll be prepared to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the Sillar Route.

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Customer Reviews

Based on the customer reviews, a mixed picture emerges for the Sillar Route half-day tour in Arequipa.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 2 reviews, suggesting a generally positive experience. Reviewers highlighted the great sculptures and petroglyphs along the route, noting it’s a must-visit location in Arequipa.

However, some feedback indicates a limited variety of small figures available for purchase, which may disappoint those hoping to bring home souvenirs.

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, providing a convenient start to the Sillar Route experience.

Guests are whisked away to the Sillar quarries, located just an hour from Arequipa’s city center.

After exploring the quarry and admiring the skilled stonemasons at work, the tour culminates with a return to the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa’s historic city center.

This seamless transportation throughout the half-day excursion ensures participants make the most of their time, without the hassle of navigating on their own.

The convenient pickup and drop-off service enhances the overall tour experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the Sillar Route’s highlights.

Stonemasons at Work

The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the visit to the Aňashuayco quarry, where skilled stonemasons can be observed in action, meticulously carving intricate patterns into the region’s distinctive white sillar stone.

These artisans, who’ve honed their craft over generations, use traditional tools and techniques to transform the raw material into architectural masterpieces.

Visitors are captivated by the stonemasons’ dedication and precision, as they witness the creation of ornate reliefs, delicate sculptures, and the iconic facades that characterize Arequipa’s historic buildings.

This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage is a truly memorable experience for all who participate in the Sillar Route tour.

Ancient Petroglyphs

After exploring the captivating work of Arequipa’s stonemasons, the tour takes visitors on a short walk through the Culebrillas ravine to view ancient petroglyphs from the Wari culture.

These intriguing rock carvings, dating back centuries, provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history and artistic heritage.

The tour guide shares insights into the significance and symbolism of these petroglyphs, offering a deeper understanding of the indigenous communities that once inhabited the area.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate designs and decipher the ancient messages etched into the rock, providing a unique and educational experience amidst the stunning natural landscape of the Culebrillas ravine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the dry season, typically between May and September. The weather is pleasant, and the tour activities are less affected by rain or poor visibility.

Can I Book This Tour for a Group Larger Than 4 People?

Yes, you can book the Sillar Route tour for a group larger than 4 people. The tour operator accommodates groups of all sizes, so you can easily reserve spots for your entire party.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites Visited?

Photography is generally allowed at all the sites visited during the Sillar Route tour. Visitors are encouraged to capture the stunning scenery, quarry operations, and cultural attractions, though respectful behavior is expected.

Does the Tour Guide Provide Any Local Restaurant Recommendations?

The tour guide may provide local restaurant recommendations, as they are familiar with the area and can suggest options that showcase Arequipa’s cuisine. However, the tour details do not explicitly mention this service being included.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour duration for an additional fee. Customers can discuss this option with the tour guide or booking agent to add more time to the itinerary and explore the Sillar quarries and landmarks in greater depth.

Recap

The Half-Day Tour in Arequipa along the Sillar Route offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can witness the skilled craftsmanship of stonemasons, marvel at stunning quarries, and discover ancient petroglyphs, all while enjoying breathtaking volcano vistas. This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Arequipa’s unique historical artistry.

You can check if your dates are available here: