Book now with:
$90
$250
1 / 3
3 days
Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Sillar Quarries – The Origin of the White City
Embark on a unique half-day cultural journey into the very foundation of Arequipa with the Sillar Route Tour. The experience begins at the Añashuayco Quarry, Arequipa's most important active source of the white volcanic stone (sillar). Here, you will witness a live demonstration by master stonemasons who utilize traditional tools to extract large blocks directly from the volcanic walls, keeping a four-century-old tradition alive. You will learn the complete extraction process and interact directly with the families who supply the iconic white stone that built the city's historical center.
The tour continues to the stunning Culebrillas Quarry, an impressive natural canyon carved by millions of years of erosion. You will explore this geological labyrinth, marveling at the ashlar walls that hold ancient secrets, including pre-Incan petroglyphs dating back over 1,000 years. Finally, the day culminates with an intimate meeting with the artisan community. Here, you can observe fine architectural pieces being crafted, and even try your hand at carving your own sillar piece under the guidance of a master craftsman, connecting the past and present of Arequipa's unique stone legacy before returning to the city.
Itinerary Sillar Quarries – The Origin of the White City
8:30 am – Pick up at your hotel
Our private tour and specialized guide will pick you up at your hotel. During the initial journey, you’ll receive an introduction to the importance of sillar in the history and culture of Arequipa, preparing you for the unique experience that awaits you.
9:00 am – Añashuayco Quarry: Where the White Stone is Born
We arrive at the most important active quarry in Arequipa, where ashlar has been extracted for over four centuries. Here you will experience an unforgettable experience:
Live Demonstration: Watch master stonemasons work stone with traditional tools (chisels, mallets, and crowbars)
Complete process: Learn how ashlar blocks are extracted from volcanic walls
Artisan Workshop: Watch rough blocks transformed into fine architectural pieces
Cultural interaction: Talk directly to the stonemasons and their families, who keep this ancient tradition alive.
Living history: Discover how these same quarries supplied the construction of the Monastery of Santa Catalina, the Cathedral and hundreds of colonial mansions.
10:30 am – Culebrillas Quarry: Mysteries and Petroglyphs
We enter an impressive natural canyon formed by millions of years of erosion, where the ashlar walls hold ancient secrets:
Ancient Petroglyphs: See rock carvings dating back over 1,000 years, created by ancient pre-Incan civilizations
Natural formations: Marvel at the geological sculptures that nature has carved into the ashlar walls
Historical interpretation: Your guide will explain the meaning of the engraved symbols and their cultural significance.
Unique Photography: Capture extraordinary images of this natural labyrinth where history and geology merge
11:30 am – Meeting with the Artisan Community
The time has come to connect with the living soul of this tradition:
Craft workshops: Visit small workshops where sculptures, ornaments and decorative pieces are created from ashlar.
Hands-on Demonstrations: Try carving your own piece under the supervision of a master craftsman
Local Shopping: Buy authentic sillar crafts directly from their creators
Cultural exchange: Share moments with the stonemasons’ families, learning about their lives and traditions.
Local tasting: Try typical local products (subject to availability)
12:30 pm – Return to Arequipa
We return to the city with a new perspective on Arequipa. Along the way, you’ll reflect on how every white wall you see in the city originates from these ancient quarries.
An Experience that Connects the Past with the Present
This tour isn’t just a visit to a quarry; it’s a journey to the very heart of Arequipa’s identity. At the end, every time you see the city’s white walls, you’ll remember the expert hands that carved each stone and the stories these ancient walls hold.
Includes Sillar Quarries – The Origin of the White City
Tourist transport
Specialized local guide
Entrances to the quarries
Safety helmet in Añashuayco
Not Included Sillar Quarries – The Origin of the White City
Feeding
Tips
Recommendations Sillar Quarries – The Origin of the White City
BEFORE THE TOUR
Preparation and Reservation
Book in advance: This tour has limited capacity due to the exclusive nature of the visits.
Confirm your pickup: Check the exact time 24 hours before
Check the weather: Weather conditions may affect the experience.
Please inform us of any allergies or medical conditions at the time of booking.
What to Pack
Original identification document (passport if you are a foreigner)
Camera or cell phone with extra battery (you’ll be taking a lot of photos!)
Essential SPF 50+ sunscreen
Hat or cap with visor
Sunglasses with real UV protection
Light jacket for the morning wind
Extra water bottle
DURING THE TOUR
Appropriate Clothing and Footwear
Closed shoes MANDATORY with non-slip soles
Hiking boots or sturdy sports shoes
Long pants (recommended for protection)
Lightweight long-sleeved shirt (sun protection)
Avoid: sandals, dresses, loose clothing that can get caught
PERSONAL SAFETY
Always follow the instructions of the guide and stonemasons
Don’t stray from the group in the quarries
Be careful with the edges of the ashlar walls
Wear a protective helmet when provided
Do not touch tools without supervision
Hydration and Energy
Drink water constantly (altitude and sun dehydrate you)
Eat a good breakfast before the tour
Bring energy snacks (dried fruits, bars, nuts)
Avoid alcohol the night before
Photo Gallery Sillar Quarries – The Origin of the White City
Frequently Asked Questions Sillar Quarries – The Origin of the White City
What is "sillar" and why is it so important to Arequipa?
Sillar is a white volcanic stone formed from the ash of volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. It is the very soul of Arequipa's identity. This lightweight yet durable stone was used to build the city's historic center—including the breathtaking Santa Catalina Monastery, the Cathedral, and countless colonial mansions—giving Arequipa its famous nickname, "The White City" (La Ciudad Blanca).
Is this an active quarry, and what will we see there?
Yes! The Añashuayco Quarry is fully active. During the tour, you won't just see a static landscape; you will watch master stonemasons (canteros) at work. You will witness them extracting massive blocks of white stone directly from the volcanic walls using the exact same traditional tools (chisels, mallets, and crowbars) and techniques that have been passed down for over four centuries.
Will I get to try carving the sillar stone myself?
Absolutely! One of the highlights of this tour is the hands-on interaction. After exploring the quarries, we meet with the local artisan community. Under the careful supervision of a master craftsman, you will have the opportunity to try your hand at carving your own piece of sillar, connecting directly with Arequipa's living heritage.
What is the Culebrillas Quarry, and how is it different from Añashuayco?
While Añashuayco is a wide, active extraction site, the Culebrillas Quarry is an impressive, narrow natural canyon formed by millions of years of water erosion. Walking through this geological labyrinth is a completely different experience. Here, you won't see active mining, but you will discover ancient pre-Incan petroglyphs (rock carvings) etched into the pristine sillar walls over 1,000 years ago.
What should I wear for the Sillar Route tour?
Because you will be visiting active quarries and walking through natural canyons, appropriate clothing is essential for your comfort and safety: Footwear: Closed, sturdy shoes with non-slip soles (like hiking boots or good sneakers) are mandatory. No sandals. Clothing: Long pants and light, long-sleeved shirts are highly recommended to protect against the sun and the rough stone. Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen are vital, as the white stone reflects the intense Andean sun.
Are the entrance fees to the quarries included in the price?
Yes, all entrance fees are fully included in your tour. This includes your admission to both the Añashuayco and Culebrillas quarries, your specialized local guide, tourist transportation from your hotel, and the safety helmets provided for the active quarry segments.
Comments:
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
For responsible and sustainable tourism
The payment for each experience is distributed responsibly and transparently with the aim of generating a real and positive impact in Peru
