RUTA DEL SILLAR (Añashuayco - Culebrillas Private tour)

Añashuayco is the place where the ashlar is extracted,  Arequipa's iconic stone; this volcanic material was used in all the colonial buildings around Arequipa. The quarries are located about 40 minutes’ drive from Arequipa.

In principle, the guide will explain the origin and the geological formation of the quarries and we will observe the extraction of ashlar. We will also learn about the importance of sillar in Arequipa buildings and culture, and why it has been used to build most of the historic city center. We will have the opportunity to talk to the builders carrying out this tough work and know their techniques and working tools. It is possible to buy some souvenirs made out of ashlar in this quarry.

After the quarries of Añashuayco will visit the natural canyon of Culebrillas, this archeological site is on the Peruvian nation's list of cultural heritage sites and is  located about 20 minutes’ drive from Añashuayco quarry, over there will hike along a winding and narrow path of ashlar for about 30 minutes.

At the path in Culebrillas canyon we'll  find  interesting petroglyphs engravings in ashlar;  footprints  of the ancient Peruvians, they show us images of south American camels, foxes, hunters, snakes, and geometric figures, among others, that represent believes, feelings, and ideas of some  pre-Hispanic cultures of Perú.

Finally, after the visit at Culebrillas canyon we’ll return to the city.

Note: This tour lasts approximately 4 hours and it is possible to do it in the morning or in the afternoon. If you have more time, we recommend you combine this excursion with the one to the stone forest, Pillones waterfall and/or Yura hot springs, for more information write to us infoperunatred@gmail.com or info@perunatred.com