Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas

The Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas offers travellers a unique opportunity to discover Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. This engaging tour showcases the region’s impressive geological formations, including the iconic Aña-shuayco Quarry, where skilled stonemasons once extracted the renowned sillar stone. As visitors delve deeper into the experience, they’ll have the chance to explore the captivating Wari petroglyphs, unveiling the secrets of the area’s ancient inhabitants. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking vistas, this captivating adventure promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on the journey.

Key Points

1. This tour explores the Aña-shuayco Quarry and Quebrada de Culebrillas in Arequipa, Peru, showcasing ancient ashlar carvings and Wari petroglyphs.

2. The tour includes hotel pickups, guided visits to the quarry and petroglyphs, and opportunities to interact with stonemasons.

3. The tour is highly rated by travelers, with a 5.0 average from 13 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate.

4. The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly, though it is not recommended for those with back issues or pregnant women.

5. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable, durable trekking shoes and layered attire to enhance their enjoyment of the natural and cultural experiences.

Overview of the Route

The Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas, located in Arequipa, Peru, is a highly-rated tour that has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from travelers.

The 13 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor give it an average rating of 5.0, with 100% of travelers recommending the experience.

The tour highlights include visiting quarries, the Añashuayco Quarry, Quebrada de Culebrillas, and exploring petroglyphs from the Wari culture.

Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with hotel pickups in central Arequipa between 8:00 am and 8:30 am. After a 45-minute journey, guests explore the Aña-shuayco Quarry, marveling at the cliffs formed by ashlar extraction. They then engage with stonemasons and try cutting stone blocks. Next, a 30-minute drive leads to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, where a 20-minute walk brings them to ancient petroglyphs.

Activity	Duration
Explore Aña-shuayco Quarry	45 minutes
Engage with stonemasons	Variable
Travel to Quebrada de Culebrillas	30 minutes
Walk to petroglyphs	20 minutes

The tour concludes with a drop-off at the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa.

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes private transportation, a breakfast, and an entrance fee of 5 soles.

After the tour, travelers will be dropped off at the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa, the historical center of the city.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.

It’s also not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women due to the 20-minute walk in the Culebrillas Canyon.

Travelers are advised to wear good trekking shoes to fully enjoy the experience.

The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the activity.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive experiences characterize traveler reviews of the Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs tour. Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and engaging activities.

They recommend bringing good trekking shoes to fully enjoy the highlights, which include:

• Beautiful ashlar carvings
• Intriguing petroglyphs
• Friendly and attentive service
• Excellent communication and punctuality
• Breathtaking scenery in the Culebrillas Canyon

Most travelers can participate, though it’s essential to check personal fitness for the walk in Culebrillas.

With a perfect 5-star rating and 100% recommendation, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Arequipa’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can freely cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time without incurring any penalties.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures that visitors can plan their Arequipa adventure with confidence, adjusting their schedules as needed.

Whether an unexpected commitment arises or the weather forecast changes, travelers have the option to cancel their tour reservation and receive a full refund, providing peace of mind.

The Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas is designed to be accessible, but the provider recognizes that individual circumstances may change.

Accessibility Information

While the Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas is designed to be accessible, it’s important to consider one’s individual circumstances and physical abilities.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller-friendly. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant women due to the 20-minute walk in the Culebrillas Canyon.

Ensure to wear proper trekking shoes and be prepared for the following:

• Uneven terrain and cobblestone paths
• Moderate inclines and declines
• Navigating narrow trails and steps
• Exposure to the sun and weather conditions
• Potential for dust or debris on the ground

Highlights of the Tour

The tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Highlights include visiting the Aña-shuayco Quarry, where travelers can witness the impressive cliff formations created by ancient ashlar extraction techniques.

Participants can even try their hand at cutting stone blocks, gaining a newfound appreciation for the skilled stonemasons of the past.

Another major draw is the Quebrada de Culebrillas, where visitors can walk to see ancient petroglyphs left by the Wari culture.

Throughout the journey, knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary, bringing the history and significance of these sites to life.

With stunning vistas and engaging hands-on experiences, this tour offers a unique window into Arequipa’s rich cultural legacy.

Recommended Attire and Footwear

When embarking on this tour, comfortable and durable trekking shoes are a must. The terrain can be uneven, with rocky paths and occasional steep inclines.

Layered clothing is recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. Some suggested items include:

• Long pants or hiking pants
• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Insulated jacket or sweater
• Sun hat or cap
• Sunscreen and sunglasses

These essentials will ensure you remain comfortable and prepared for the varying conditions encountered throughout the tour.

With the proper attire and footwear, you can fully learn about the stunning natural surroundings and cultural experiences that this route offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Pictures of the Petroglyphs?

Yes, visitors can take pictures of the ancient petroglyphs along the route. However, it’s important to be respectful and avoid touching or damaging the fragile rock carvings. Enjoy the experience by capturing photos, but do so carefully.

Is There Any Wildlife I Might Encounter on the Tour?

While the tour focuses on quarries and petroglyphs, visitors may spot small wildlife like birds and lizards in the Culebrillas Canyon. However, large animals are unlikely to be encountered on this primarily outdoor cultural experience.

What Should I Bring for the Day Hike in Culebrillas?

For the day hike in Culebrillas, travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, sun protection, and layers of clothing. The 20-minute trek requires moderate fitness, so visitors should prepare accordingly.

Is There Any Cell Phone Coverage or Wi-Fi During the Tour?

There is limited cell phone coverage and no Wi-Fi during the tour. The remote quarry and canyon locations have sparse connectivity, so travelers should plan accordingly and bring backup power sources if needed for navigation or communication.

Can I Visit the Quarries and Petroglyphs Independently?

Travelers can visit the quarries and petroglyphs independently, though they won’t have the benefit of a guided tour. Self-guided options are available, but lack the expert insights and coordination that a tour provides.

Recap

The Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas offers a unique opportunity to explore Arequipa’s rich heritage. Visitors can marvel at the ancient Añashuayco Quarry, interact with skilled stonemasons, and discover the captivating Wari petroglyphs. With breathtaking scenery and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that showcases the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance.