Routes of the Sillar

About 14 kilometers northwest of Arequipa, in the Cerro Colorado, are these enormous ashlar quarries, originated millions of years ago, where the process of obtaining, carving and carving of this stone, originated by the eruptions of the Chachani volcano, can be appreciated.

The material from which most of Arequipa’s buildings were constructed is extracted from this site. Ashlar is a volcanic stone that is very abundant in the area and is used to make blocks for construction and handicrafts.

For some it is the Petra of South America. The Sillar Route is two thousand meters long and is one of the essential sites you must visit in Arequipa to understand the architecture that characterizes the city.

What to see and do in the Rutas del Sillar?

To observe and learn the artisan work of cutting and carving ashlar. You will be able to see the whole process of extraction, cutting and carving of the ashlar. In addition, tourists are taught how to do it with their own hands. Do you dare to try it?

To admire the megatallado of the Church of the Society of Jesus. A replica of this temple will leave you open-mouthed. The level of detail in this large carving is astounding.

Walk through the Quebrada de Culebrillas. A canyon formed by the erosion of the water, where you can walk between its walls of about 20 meters high. When you reach the end you will see some millenary petroglyphs.

Appreciate beautiful landscapes. The natural environment where the quarries are located will allow you to enjoy a place with unrepeatable views.

See characteristic animals of the area. It is common during this walk to see viscachas crossing your path.

Buy handicrafts. If you wish, you can purchase a beautiful souvenir made of ashlar to remember your visit to the “White City”.

How to get to Rutas del Sillar?

The fastest way to get to Rutas del Sillar by car from downtown Arequipa is to take Avenida Parra until it connects with the Vía Expresa Variante de Uchumayo.

Once there, you will cross the Chili River over the San Isidro Bridge and follow this road until you turn right onto the Evitamiento road, continuing along the Industrial road and following the road that takes you to the Rio Seco Industrial Park. This trip takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

To go by bus you must take one on Avenida del Ejército, in the center of the city, indicating that it goes to Yura. You must get off at the Terminal Pesquero and walk or take a cab.

A cab from Arequipa’s Main Square to the Sillar Quarries will cost around 60 soles.

If you prefer, you can hire a tour from a tourist agency. They will pick you up at your lodging and drop you off at the end of the tour, in addition to providing a guide to accompany you throughout the journey.

Recommendations

What to bring? Comfortable shoes, loose clothing, hat or cap, sunglasses and sunscreen, water, snacks and insect repellent. And if you like to take pictures, of course, your camera.

Best time to visit. The weather in Arequipa is usually mild throughout the year, so there is no special month to visit this route. It is advisable to check the weather forecast as tours may be cancelled due to rain.

Schedules. The usual visiting hours are from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Entrance ticket. The price per person is about 5 soles for adults and one sol for students.

Recommended visiting time. The visit can be done in half a day. It takes about 3 or 4 hours of walking to cover the entire route.

---

If you have any questions about this tour or any other tour such as prices, hotels, itinerary and everything you need to book this tour please contact us at WhatsApp: +51 947392102 (Click Here).
Or send us an email to: contacto@condorxtreme.com and our travel experts will respond as quickly as possible, answering all your questions and / or queries of any particular tour.