Explore Añashuayco’s pale sillar quarries and a short canyon walk to Wari-era petroglyphs at Culebrillas. This half-day tour mixes hands-on stonecutting, geology, and a 20‑minute gorge walk beneath 15–20 m walls.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light in Arequipa hits the white stone first — the city’s facades reflect a volcanic clarity that began here, where quarrymen still cut sillar from the earth. You’ll be collected in the centro and driven roughly 45 minutes across high plains to Añashuayco, where an open-cut canyon unfolds in layers of pale ignimbrite. The quarry walls rise in stepped faces; dust and the rhythm of tools mark a craft practiced for generations.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–4.5 hours (including transfers)
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in regular physical condition; involves short, easy walks and some standing while learning at quarry sites.
Wildlife
History
Sillar — compacted volcanic ash — was quarried for colonial architecture in Arequipa; local stonemasonry skills have been passed down for generations.
Conservation
Stay on paths, avoid touching petroglyphs, and carry out trash; the area is fragile both archaeologically and geologically, so low-impact visitation is important.
Reserve your spot on the Route of the Sillar and Petroglyphs of Culebrillas today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails include loose gravel and uneven rock in the quarry and canyon — closed-toe hiking shoes with grip are recommended.
Protect against sun and altitude
High UV and thin air mean sunscreen, a hat and paced walking; bring extra water to avoid headaches from altitude.
Respect active work areas
If stonemasons are working, follow your guide’s instructions and keep a safe distance from tools and freshly cut blocks.
Bring small local currency
Stonemasons may offer small demonstrations or sell carved souvenirs — cash (soles) is useful in remote spots.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Protect ankles and provide traction on loose ignimbrite and canyon gravel.
Sun protection (hat + sunscreen)
High-altitude sun is intense on the pale stone and open plains.
summer
Water bottle (1–2 L)
Bring enough water for the half-day tour to stay hydrated at altitude.
Light windproof layer
Wind and temperature swings between morning and midday are common.
winter