A full-day loop from Arequipa that pairs the Puruña stone forest with dramatic waterfalls and high-Andean puna. Expect dusty dirt roads, short walks on uneven volcanic terrain, and close views of vicuñas on the plains.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the van into cold, clear air and the high plain spreads away like a rough sea of stone. Wind whistles across volcanic spires, carving the Puruña rock forest into shapes that look almost deliberate—birds, faces, odd columns—each silhouette telling the story of long abrasion. The falls arrive as a sudden green cut through the puna: water forcing its way down terraces of lava and loose rock, dozens of small cascades scattering light and mist.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — comfortable being on your feet for short hikes, able to tolerate long vehicle transfers and high altitude.
Wildlife
History
The area sits on volcanic deposits from Pliocene–Quaternary eruptions; pastoralism has shaped the puna for centuries with colonial-era corrals still visible.
Conservation
The puna is ecologically fragile—stay on informal paths when possible, don’t feed wildlife, and respect grazing areas to limit disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Arequipa Falls Adventure and Rock Forest today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize first
Spend a day or two in Arequipa (2,300 m) before the tour to reduce altitude effects when ascending toward 4,000 m.
Bring 2–3 liters of water
High altitude increases dehydration; carry more water than you think and sip steadily.
Wear ankle-support shoes
Trails around the rock forest and waterfall are uneven and can be slippery; sturdy shoes reduce injury risk.
Sun and wind protection
High puna sunlight is intense and wind can be cold—use SPF, sunglasses and a windproof layer.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on loose volcanic rock and protect ankles on uneven descents.
2–3 L water reservoir or bottles
Necessary to stay hydrated at high elevation and during long vehicle transfers.
Layered clothing (windproof jacket + warm mid-layer)
Temperatures swing quickly between sun, wind and shade on the puna.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+)
High-altitude UV is strong—protect skin and eyes during the day.