Walk through the ashlar quarries surrounding Arequipa on a four-hour guided tour of La Ruta del Sillar. See hand-carved cliffs, canyon walls, and panoramic volcano views while learning the geological and cultural story of sillar.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of Arequipa's white-stone hush and into a landscape carved by hands and fire: sun-bleached ashlar cliffs rise, fluted and scored where masons pried blocks from volcanic rock. The air here has a dry, mineral bite; in the distance the volcanic trio—Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu—loom like slow, watchful giants.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect light walking with short uneven sections and modest elevation effects.
Wildlife
History
Sillar has been quarried since pre-colonial times and became central to Arequipa’s colonial architecture; many buildings in the city are constructed from this volcanic tuff.
Conservation
The route is sensitive to erosion—stay on established paths, avoid removing stones, and follow guide instructions to limit impact on fragile canyon walls.
Reserve your spot on the 4-hour activity to discover La Ruta del Sillar today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend a day in Arequipa or take it easy on arrival—altitude (~2,300 m) can make even easy walking feel harder.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
Trails include compacted ash, loose scree and a short canyon walk—good traction matters.
Sun protection is crucial
Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses; UV is strong on exposed ashlar faces.
Carry water and snacks
Plan for 1–1.5 L of water and light snacks—there’s little shade in parts of the route.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on loose scree and stability on narrow canyon paths.
Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
Protects against strong UV on exposed sillar faces.
summer
Water bottle (1–1.5 L)
Hydration for the four-hour outing in dry, high-altitude air.
Light wind/water-resistant jacket
Useful for morning chill or wind in exposed viewpoints.
spring