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The Sillar Route in Arequipa

(5)
Arequipa, Peru
Cultural ToursBus & Minivan Tours
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About this activity

Explore the volcanic quarries and artisan workshops that have supplied the iconic white sillar stone to Arequipa's colonial architecture for centuries. This 4-hour route takes you beyond the city to meet master stonemasons and witness how this distinctive material shapes the 'White City's' UNESCO heritage.


The Sillar Route Day Tour is a fantastic opportunity to know where the sillar comes from, and is the main material of monuments, temples and mansions of Arequipa city, also known as the White City. We will visit impressive streams, admiring unique desert landscapes, and we will have the opportunity to see how the expert masters process this material of volcanic nature. Do not miss the opportunity to take a different tour!

Highlights

  • ✓Visit active sillar quarries in the desert landscape surrounding Arequipa
  • ✓Watch expert craftspeople hand-cut and shape volcanic stone
  • ✓Learn how sillar became the defining material of Arequipa's monuments and mansions
  • ✓See dramatic desert scenery and geological formations
  • ✓Understand the cultural and architectural significance of this unique building material

Insider tips

  • ★Bring a camera with good zoom—the quarry work and desert vistas are photogenic from a distance
  • ★Go in the morning to avoid intense afternoon heat in the open quarry landscape
  • ★Ask artisans about specific commissions; many have worked on Arequipa's famous landmarks
  • ★Wear sturdy shoes; quarry ground is uneven and can be rocky

Good to know

  • •Tour duration is 4 hours; bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • •Operated by minivan; suitable for most mobility levels, though quarry sites involve some walking on uneven terrain
  • •Pickup and drop-off details (including hotel pickup) typically confirmed after booking
  • •Lunch not included; light snacks or water recommended

Who it's for

Architecture and heritage enthusiastsCultural explorers interested in traditional craftsPhotography-focused travellersVisitors wanting an off-the-beaten-path perspective on Arequipa

Best time to visit

Visit in the dry season (May–September) for clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Early morning departures offer the best light for photography and cooler conditions in the open quarries.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€20
per person