Route of the Sillar
Half Day
Difficulty
Easy
Destination
Arequipa
Grup
+12
Duration
Half Day
Alt. Max
2335 m.s.n.m
Description
The Route of the Sillar is a fascinating cultural and scenic experience that reveals the origin of Arequipa’s iconic white volcanic stone, known as sillar. This unique material has shaped the city’s identity and architectural heritage for centuries, giving Arequipa its distinctive appearance and the title of “The White City.”
This tour takes visitors through impressive volcanic landscapes, including quarries formed by ancient eruptions, where sillar is still extracted using traditional techniques. Along the route, you will learn about the art of stonemasonry, observe skilled local artisans at work, and gain insight into the history and cultural significance of this remarkable stone. Combining nature, tradition, and history, the Route of the Sillar offers a deeper and more meaningful understanding of Arequipa’s past and present.
Places to visit:
- Añashuayco Quarries
- Culebrillas Canyon
- Volcanic landscapes of Arequipa
- Traditional sillar carving workshops
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- (+51 ) 996 169 857
- info@alpacatravelagency.com
Trip Details
Itinerary
- Departure from Arequipa: The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa. We travel to the outskirts of the city, leaving the urban area behind and entering a dramatic volcanic landscape formed by ancient eruptions of nearby volcanoes.
- Añashuayco Quarries: Our first stop is the Añashuayco Quarries, where sillar has been extracted for generations. Here, you will observe local stonemasons at work, using traditional techniques to cut and shape the volcanic stone. The guide will explain the importance of sillar in Arequipa’s construction and how this material has been used since colonial times.
- Journey to Culebrillas Canyon: We continue the tour toward Culebrillas Canyon, a narrow canyon carved by water erosion through volcanic rock. The walk through the canyon offers a unique experience, with tall stone walls and natural formations that contrast beautifully with the surrounding desert landscape.
- Exploration of the Canyon: As we walk through Culebrillas Canyon, the guide will explain its geological formation and historical use as a path in pre-Hispanic times. You will have time to take photographs and appreciate the silence and natural beauty of this lesser-known site.
- Return to Arequipa: After completing the visit, we return to Arequipa, arriving in the city in the early afternoon.
Includes
- Hotel pick-up from Arequipa (central area)
- Tourist transportation (shared service)
- Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish)
- Assistance throughout the tour
Does not include
- Entrance fee to Añashuayco Quarries and Culebrillas Canyon
- Meals
- Personal expenses
Recommendations
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Carry water
- Wear light clothing suitable for warm weather
- Bring cash for entrance fees