Sillar Route Tour

Learn about the origin of the stone that shaped the White City during this half-day excursion along the Sillar Route, a cultural experience that reveals the history, traditions, and craftsmanship that have defined Arequipa for centuries.

Sillar, a white volcanic stone extracted from ancient quarries, has been the primary material used to build the mansions, monasteries, churches, and monuments that now form Arequipa's Historic Center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the tour, you will visit the Añashuayco Quarries, where skilled stonemasons still work using traditional techniques passed down through generations. You will also explore the Culebrillas Valley, a fascinating natural landscape where ancient rock formations and petroglyphs reveal part of the region's pre-Hispanic history.

Throughout the experience, you will learn about the extraction and carving process of sillar stone, admire monumental sculptures carved directly into the volcanic rock, and discover how this material became Arequipa's most iconic architectural symbol.

This excursion combines history, culture, geology, art, and natural scenery in a unique experience that offers a deeper understanding of the identity of the White City.

Important Information

• Tour Type: Cultural, historical, and scenic.
• Ideal For: Couples, families, groups of friends, cultural travelers, photographers, and history enthusiasts.
• Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
• Start / End Point: Arequipa / Arequipa.
• Departure Times: Morning or afternoon departures depending on availability.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
• Languages: English and Spanish.
• Meals Included: No meals included.
• Season: Available year-round.
• Service Type: Small group tours or private service.

Tour Highlights

• Explore the famous Añashuayco Sillar Quarries.
• Observe traditional stonemasonry techniques.
• Learn about the extraction and carving of volcanic sillar stone.
• Admire monumental sculptures carved directly into the rock.
• Explore the stunning Culebrillas Valley.
• View ancient petroglyphs and natural rock formations.
• Discover the origin of Arequipa's White City architecture.
• Enjoy spectacular volcanic landscapes.
• Unique cultural experience in Arequipa.