Tour of the Sillar y Cañón de Culebrillas Arequipa

4 hours Free cancellation

Tour of the Sillar y Cañón de Culebrillas Arequipa, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This tour is different because it focuses on the cultural and geological origin of Arequipa itself, rather than only visiting scenic viewpoints. Instead of a conventional sightseeing route, you explore active quarry areas and natural formations that explain how the city of Arequipa was built from volcanic stone.

A key highlight is the visit to the Cantera de Añashuayco, where you can see local artisans still carving sillar by hand, giving you a direct connection to traditional craftsmanship. This is complemented by the walk through the Cañón de Culebrillas, a hidden volcanic canyon that adds a more natural and adventurous touch to the experience.

Overall, it’s a short but very educational tour that combines culture, geology, and living tradition—ideal for understanding the “white city” from its true origin.

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At a glance

Duration: 4 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Machupicchu Tours Peru

Ages: Adults (5–50 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Assistance and safety
Included: Professional tour guide
Included: Transportation and logistics

Not included

Not included: Entrance fees | Paid directly
Not included: Food and drinks
Not included: Personal and additional expenses,

Itinerary

Ruta Del Sillar

3 hours

Morning: Sillar Route & Añashuayco Quarry

08:30 – 09:00 a.m. | Departure: Hotel pickup in Arequipa and departure toward the Sillar Route, enjoying views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes along the way.

Añashuayco Quarry: Visit the active quarry to observe master stonemasons at work and learn about the ancestral craft of carving the white volcanic stone (sillar).

Photos & Souvenirs: Enjoy free time to photograph the massive stone sculptures and browse artisan workshops for volcanic stone souvenirs.

Midday: Culebrillas Canyon & Return

Culebrillas Canyon Exploration: Transfer to the canyon for a 40-minute guided hike inside its narrow, winding stone walls and unique geological formations.

Craftsman Workshop Stop: Make a brief final stop at the artisan workshops to view more intricate sillar sculptures.

01:00 p.m. | Return to Arequipa: Head back to the city center, taking in final views of the Añashuayco valley and surrounding volcanic landscapes to conclude the tour.