Hi Lykkers! Ruta del Sillar is a cultural and geological attraction located in the Cerro Colorado district, about 14 km (9 miles) from downtown Arequipa. Stretching for approximately 2 km (1.2 miles), the route passes through several active quarries where sillar, a white volcanic stone formed by ancient eruptions, has been extracted for centuries.

This lightweight and durable volcanic stone earned Arequipa the nickname "The White City" because it was widely used to build many of the city's most iconic landmarks, historic monasteries, plazas, and elegant public buildings. Along the route, visitors can watch skilled local stonemasons demonstrate traditional carving techniques that have been preserved and practiced for generations.

How to Get There

The easiest way to visit Ruta del Sillar is by joining a guided tour departing from central Arequipa.

Transportation options include:

Guided half-day tour with hotel pickup: US $12–16 per person

Taxi from Arequipa (round trip): approximately US $20–35

Private driver: around US $40–60 for a half-day trip

Although public transportation is available, it usually requires multiple bus transfers followed by a long walk of about 5 km to reach the quarries. Return transportation can also be difficult, making organized tours the most convenient choice.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from May to October, offers sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, making it the ideal time to explore the quarries comfortably. Morning tours are recommended because temperatures remain cooler and lighting conditions are excellent for photography.

What to See Along the Route

Añashuayco Quarry

This is the largest and most visited quarry on the route. Visitors can observe workers cutting massive blocks of volcanic stone using traditional methods.

Opening hours: Approximately 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Entrance fee: Usually included in guided tours or around US $1–2 for independent visitors.

Virgen de Culebrillas Quarry

This quieter section features a narrow canyon with ancient petroglyphs carved into the stone walls. The peaceful surroundings make it an excellent stop for photography and learning about the region's early inhabitants.

Opening hours: Daily during daylight hours.

Entrance fee: Usually included with the tour.

Zamácola Viewpoint

Most tours stop at this scenic viewpoint, offering panoramic views of Arequipa and the surrounding volcanoes, including Chachani, Misti, and Pichu Pichu.

Entrance fee: Free.

Photography: Free.

Typical Half-Day Tour Itinerary

A standard morning tour generally follows this schedule:

8:30–9:00 AM: Hotel pickup in Arequipa.

9:00 AM: Drive toward Cerro Colorado.

10:00 AM: Stop at Zamácola Viewpoint.

10:30 AM: Explore Añashuayco Quarry with a local guide.

11:15 AM: Watch traditional stone carving demonstrations.

11:45 AM: Visit Virgen de Culebrillas Quarry.

12:30 PM: Return to Arequipa city center.

Afternoon departures are also available with a similar itinerary.

Where to Stay

Many visitors stay in central Arequipa, where hotels provide easy access to tour pickup points.

Casa Andina Select Arequipa

Average room rate: US $80–130 per night

Hotel Casona Plaza Arequipa

Average room rate: US $60–100 per night

Both hotels are conveniently located near Arequipa's historic center.

Where to Eat

After returning from the tour, enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine at one of these popular restaurants.

Zig Zag Restaurant

Average meal: US $20–35 per person

La Nueva Palomino

Average meal: US $12–20 per person

Both restaurants are well known for serving authentic regional specialties in welcoming settings.

Helpful Travel Tips

- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the quarry paths are uneven.

- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat because shade is limited.

- Carry bottled water, especially during the warmer months.

- A camera with a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the dramatic quarry landscapes.

- Morning tours generally provide cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

Ruta del Sillar offers much more than a simple sightseeing trip. It provides a fascinating look at the volcanic stone that helped shape Arequipa's remarkable architecture while allowing visitors to witness centuries-old craftsmanship still practiced today. With affordable tours, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural history, this unique attraction is well worth adding to your Arequipa itinerary.