How to Plan Your Sillar Route Tour in Arequipa

Are you planning to visit Arequipa anytime soon? One of the must-see attractions is the Sillar Route. Sillar is a naturally occurring white volcanic stone that was used in the construction of many of Arequipa’s beautiful buildings. The Sillar Route tour takes you to the quarries where the stone is extracted and gives you an opportunity to see it being used in the construction of houses and public buildings. In this blog post, we’ll explain how to plan your Sillar Route tour in Arequipa and what to expect.

Overview of the Tour

The Sillar Route tour is a half-day tour that runs from Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm and on Sunday from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm. The tour is operated by Comfort Tours Peru and includes private transportation, admission tickets, umbrellas to the sun, bottled water, lunch, and tips. The tour can accommodate up to 15 people.

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to the meeting point, which is located at C. Moral 229a, Arequipa, 04001 Peru. If you prefer, you can request pickup from your hotel. The pickup time will depend on where you’re staying, but it will be between 7:30 am and 8:30 am.

What to Expect

The Sillar Route tour takes you to the Canteras de Sillar, the quarries where the stone is extracted. You’ll have an opportunity to see how the stone is extracted and learn about the history of its use in Arequipa. You’ll also visit a house that’s being constructed using Sillar and see how the stone is cut and shaped. The tour includes a traditional lunch of Arequipa cuisine.

Canteras de Sillar

You’ll spend about an hour at the Canteras de Sillar, where you’ll see the quarries and learn about the stone’s properties and how it’s extracted. You’ll also see the various stages of the extraction process and learn about the history of the use of Sillar in Arequipa.

House Under Construction

You’ll visit a house that’s being constructed using Sillar and see how the stone is cut, shaped, and used in construction. This part of the tour is an excellent opportunity to see the finished product and the pure white beauty of the Sillar stone.

Traditional Lunch of Arequipa Cuisine

You’ll be served a traditional lunch of Arequipa cuisine in a local restaurant. This is a great opportunity to taste the local flavors and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Additional Information

Confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. It’s also not recommended for pregnant travelers. Most travelers can participate, and the tour can accommodate up to 15 people.

Pickup Details

The tour operator will pick you up from your hotel if you’ve requested it. The pickup time will depend on where you’re staying, but it will be between 7:30 am and 8:30 am.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance of the tour start time for a full refund.

Book Your Tour Now

The Sillar Route tour in Arequipa is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. The tour gives you the opportunity to learn about the history and properties of Sillar and see it being used in construction. You’ll also get to taste some delicious local food and immerse yourself in the local culture. Book the tour here and start planning your visit to Arequipa today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Arequipa

If you are planning a trip to Peru, make sure Arequipa is on your list of places to visit. This stunning city is located in the southern part of Peru and is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. If you’re looking to learn more about Arequipa, read on to find answers to some of the most common questions about this unique destination.

What is Arequipa famous for?

Arequipa is famous for a number of things. Perhaps one of the most well-known is its stunning colonial architecture, which can be seen in buildings such as the Monastery of Santa Catalina and the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa. The city is also known for its cuisine, including dishes such as rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers), chupe de camarones (shrimp chowder), and chicha (a fermented corn drink).

What is the weather like in Arequipa?

Arequipa has a dry and mild climate, with temperatures averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and cooling off at night. The city is located at a high altitude of 2,335 meters (7,661 feet), which means that it can get quite cold at night, especially in the winter months (June-August). It is important to pack warm clothes if you plan to visit during this time of year.

What are the best things to do in Arequipa?

There are plenty of things to see and do in Arequipa. Some of the top attractions include:

• Visit the Monastery of Santa Catalina
• Explore the historic city center
• Take a tour of the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa
• Visit the Yanahuara viewpoint for sweeping views of the city
• Try traditional Peruvian cuisine at one of Arequipa’s many restaurants
• Take a day trip to the Colca Canyon to see condors in the wild

Is Arequipa safe for tourists?

Like any city, Arequipa has its share of crime, but overall it is considered to be a safe destination for tourists. Visitors should take normal precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash, being aware of their surroundings, and not leaving belongings unattended. It is recommended to hire a reputable guide or tour company when traveling outside of the city.

How do I get to Arequipa?

Arequipa has its own airport, Rodríguez Ballón International Airport, which offers both domestic and international flights. The city is also well connected by bus to other destinations in Peru, including Lima, Cusco, and Puno. It is important to book transportation ahead of time, especially during high season (June-August).

What language is spoken in Arequipa?

The official language of Peru is Spanish, and this is also the most commonly spoken language in Arequipa. However, many people in the city also speak Quechua, which is an indigenous language.

What is the currency in Arequipa and can I use US dollars?

The currency in Peru is the Sol, and it is recommended to exchange money at banks or exchange houses in order to get the best exchange rate. US dollars are widely accepted in Arequipa, but it is important to have small bills as larger denominations may not be accepted. Credit cards are also accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops in the city.

When is the best time to visit Arequipa?

The best time to visit Arequipa is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This is also the peak tourist season, so it’s important to book accommodations and transportation well in advance. The shoulder seasons of April and October can also be good times to visit as there are fewer crowds, but the weather can be more unpredictable.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Arequipa

Arequipa, the second-largest city in Peru, is one of the most attractive places to visit in South America. With breathtaking views of the Andes mountains, the city boasts a rich history, culture, and tradition. If you’re planning to visit, it’s essential to carve out enough time for you to experience everything this beautiful city has to offer. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Arequipa.

1. Explore the Historic City Center

Start your tour by exploring the historic city center, also known as the “White City” due to the white sillar volcanic rock used in most of the buildings’ construction. This area is home to some of the most remarkable colonial architecture, including Santa Catalina Monastery, Plaza de Armas, and the Jesuit church of La Compañía.

How to Get There

The easiest way to get to the historic city center is on foot. If you’re staying in a hotel outside the area, you can take a taxi or Uber.

What to Do

• Take a guided tour of Santa Catalina Monastery. The convent displays a wealth of architectural styles and paintings that highlight the city’s rich past. Make sure you experience the tranquility of the chapels and gardens inside the monastery. • Visit the Plaza de Armas, the largest square in Arequipa. Here, you can watch local activities such as fountain and light shows, music performances, and cultural celebrations. • Explore the Jesuit church of La Compañía, known for its intricate façade, high altar, and hand-painted murals.

2. Visit the Museums in Arequipa

Arequipa has some of the most outstanding museums in South America, highlighting the city’s historical and cultural development. Here are two you shouldn’t miss during your stay.

The Museo Santuarios Andinos

The Museo Santuarios Andinos is known for displaying the preserved remains of “Juanita,” a young Inca girl discovered frozen in the Andes mountains. The museum provides an insightful view into Inca culture, the rituals that took place on mountain tops, and the history of the Andes mountain range.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo

If you’re an art lover, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo has a collection of contemporary and modern art pieces by some of Peru’s top artists. It’s the perfect place to learn about the different art movements that have shaped the world of Peruvian art.

3. Experience the Unique Cuisine of Arequipa

Peruvian cuisine is globally recognized, and Arequipa is no exception. The city is renowned for its spicy and generous portions of food. Here are some of the dishes you must try.

Rocoto Relleno

Rocoto Relleno is a popular dish native to Arequipa made from juicy peppers. The dish is filled with ground beef, garlic, vegetables, olives, eggs, and cheese, then baked in a clay pot. It’s delicious but very spicy, so beware!

Adobo

Adobo is a Peruvian staple made with pork, chilies, vinegar, garlic, and other spices. It’s often served with potatoes, rice, and bread.

Chupe de Camarones

This hearty soup is a delicious mixture of shrimp, potatoes, cheese, corn, and fresh spices. It’s a popular dish in Arequipa, and you’ll find it on most restaurant menus.

4. Hike the Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons globally, located about 100 miles northwest of Arequipa. It’s twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and offers spectacular views of the Andes mountain range. Hiking the Colca Canyon is a popular activity among tourists visiting the area.

How to Get There

To get to the Colca Canyon, take a bus or hire a cab/tour company from Arequipa. It takes around 3-4 hours depending on the traffic.

What to Do

• Trek the Colca Canyon; there are various hiking trails you can take, depending on your fitness level. The trails range from a few hours to multi-day hikes, so choose one that best suits you. • Watch the condors fly; the Colca Canyon is home to the Andean condor, one of the largest birds in the world. You can watch them fly from the Cruz del Condor, located near Chivay town.

5. Relax and Unwind at Thermal Baths

After a long day of exploring, relax and unwind at one of the many thermal baths in the area. Arequipa is endowed with hot springs, thanks to its location near several volcanoes.

How to Get There

Most thermal baths are located outside the city, so you need to hire a taxi or take a tour to get there.

What to Do

• La Calera hot springs; located 30 minutes from Arequipa, these hot springs are a popular destination for tourists. • You can also visit La Gruta thermal bath, located in the outskirts of the city. The facility has swimming pools, hot tubs, and a spa.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, Arequipa is a must-visit destination for tourists traveling to South America. With a rich history, culture, and tradition, there’s plenty to see and do. Explore the historic city center, visit the museums, try the local cuisine, hike the Colca Canyon, and relax at one of the many hot springs. With this guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable stay in Arequipa.