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Explore the Sillar Route and the historic center of Arequipa on a guided tour. Visit the Añashuayco Quarry, walk through the Culebrillas Gorge, and see the Santa Catalina Monastery.

Highlights

• Discover the history and culture of the Sillar Route on a guided tour
• Visit the Añashuayco Quarry and see the work of the stonecutters
• Walk through the Culebrillas Gorge and see ancient petroglyphs
• Explore the historic center of Arequipa and its colonial architecture
• Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery and learn about its history

Description

Begin your day with a journey to the Ruta del Sillar, a route rich in history and culture. Stop at a strategic viewpoint to admire the volcanoes and the Chilina Valley. Depending on the season, you might visit another traditional viewpoint with stunning volcano views. Next, head to the Añashuayco Quarry, a working quarry where you can see an immense canyon with ignimbrite cliffs. Learn about the history of sillar, its production, and its traditional uses. Admire a mega sculpture of the Church of the Company of Jesus, carved by local quarry workers. Visit a quarry worker to learn about their daily work and try cutting a stone block yourself. Continue to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a small canyon formed by water. Take a 20-minute walk through the canyon, with walls reaching 15 to 20 meters high. At the end of the walk, see petroglyphs created by the Wari culture over a thousand years ago. Before returning to Arequipa, observe the Apachetas, stone formations that symbolize gratitude to nature and bring good luck. After lunch (not included), begin your walking tour from Arequipa’s main square. Visit the Church of the Company of Jesus and its cloisters, admiring the impressive mestizo baroque architecture. Continue to San Francisco Square, known for its colonial architecture and the daily rhythm of the neighborhood. Next, explore the traditional San Lázaro neighborhood, one of the oldest areas, predating the founding of Arequipa. Stroll through its narrow streets, transporting you to earlier times. Visit the Mundo Alpaca mini-zoo to learn about llamas and alpacas, see fiber spinning, and have the opportunity to buy garments made from this fiber. Finally, head to the enigmatic Santa Catalina Convent, one of the city’s most important attractions, offering a journey back to the origins of Arequipa’s founding.

Includes

Tourist transportation Professional guide Spanish and English speaking tour guide Entrance to Santa Catalina Monastery Entrance to the Church of the Society of Jesus

Important Information

• The tour involves walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Bring sunscreen and water for hydration. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund