Añashuayco Sillar Quarry
Explore the Ruta del Sillar, a quarry transformed into an open-air art gallery with intricate sculptures carved from volcanic sillar stone.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Añashuayco Sillar Quarry
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the Ruta del Sillar, a quarry transformed into an open-air art gallery with intricate sculptures carved from volcanic sillar stone.
"The stonework is pretty impressive and it was not expensive, so it's worth the entrance fee."
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring a hat and sunblock, especially in July. Stay hydrated!
🚗 Tour vs. Public Transport
Tours offer convenience to see multiple sites. Public transport is an option but takes longer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sculpture Park Wonders
Main quarry area
Marvel at intricate sculptures carved from volcanic rock and ash by local artisans.
Ruta del Sillar Monuments
Throughout the quarry
Explore unique man-made monuments set against the natural beauty of the quarry.
Quebrada de Culebrillas
Nearby attraction
Discover this natural wonder, often visited alongside the sillar quarries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Sillar Quarry
Getting to the Sillar Quarry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring a hat and sunblock, especially in July. Stay hydrated!
🚗 Tour vs. Public Transport
Tours offer convenience to see multiple sites. Public transport is an option but takes longer.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Enjoy taking pictures with the unique monuments and surrounding landscape.
💰 Entrance Fee Value
The entrance fee is reasonable, and the sculpture work is impressive.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring a hat and sunblock, especially in July. Stay hydrated!
🚗 Tour vs. Public Transport
Tours offer convenience to see multiple sites. Public transport is an option but takes longer.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Enjoy taking pictures with the unique monuments and surrounding landscape.
💰 Entrance Fee Value
The entrance fee is reasonable, and the sculpture work is impressive.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
You can find some nice souvenirs at the quarry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ruta del Sillar for its impressive stonework and unique sculptures carved from volcanic rock. The reasonable entrance fee and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs add to the positive experience. However, some find the quarry itself to be a bit small if visited as a standalone destination, and recommend combining it with other nearby attractions.
"I recommend buying a tour so they show you this and other places of interest around Arequipa. The stonework is pretty impressive. And restrooms are nice. You can get some souvenirs as well"
Alex Gomez
"The sculpture work is nice. It was not expensive, so it's worth the entrance fee."
David Rumptz
"Ruta del Sillar is a natural outdoor wonder in Arequipa, Peru. Here, you will find the most amazing man-made monuments created by the region's quarry workers or artisans. The material used comes from the volcanic rocks and ashes that have naturally formed in the area. Enjoy taking pics with all the monuments and the surrounding area. Make sure to bring a hat and sunblock, if you come in July. Drink plenty of water as well."
Jackie E
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sillar Quarry, also known as Ruta del Sillar, is located about 40 minutes from Arequipa's city center. Many visitors opt for organized tours that depart from Arequipa and often include visits to other nearby attractions like Quebrada de Culebrillas. If you prefer public transport, you can find local buses heading towards Cerro Colorado, but this may require more navigation.
Yes, numerous tours are available from Arequipa. These tours typically range from 30 soles and can take you to both the sillar quarries and Quebrada de Culebrillas.
It's approximately a 40-minute journey from the center of Arequipa to the Sillar Quarry.
While it's possible to visit independently, many find tours more convenient for seeing multiple sites. Some visitors feel the quarry itself is small if not part of a larger tour.
For a hassle-free experience and to see multiple attractions, tours are highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is generally not expensive and is considered worth it for the unique sculptures and experience. Some sections may require an additional fee to access up close.
Tickets can usually be purchased on-site or as part of a tour package. Booking in advance is generally not necessary unless you are part of a large group.
The quarry is typically open during daylight hours, aligning with tour schedules. It's best to confirm specific hours with your tour operator or check local listings if visiting independently.
While the main entrance fee is reasonable, be aware that some specific areas or closer access points might incur an additional charge.
Most visitors find the entrance fee to be a good value, especially considering the impressive stonework and unique sculptures.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire quarry offers fantastic photo opportunities with its unique sculptures and natural rock formations. Look for areas with interesting light and shadow play, and don't miss the chance to capture the intricate details of the carvings.
Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed. If you plan for professional shoots, it's advisable to check with the quarry management for any specific regulations or permits.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the sculptures and the quarry landscape.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to inquire locally or with your tour operator before flying a drone over the quarry.
The morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. captures the active nature of the area due to rain.
🎫 💧 Weather & What to Bring
The weather can be warm, especially during midday. It's an outdoor attraction, so be prepared for sun exposure. Heavy rains can also occur, potentially affecting the nearby Quebrada de Añasuayco.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be exploring the quarry. Wear light clothing suitable for warm weather.
Bring a hat and sunblock to protect yourself from the sun. Plenty of water is also crucial to stay hydrated.
While the quarry itself is generally safe, heavy rains can lead to increased activity in nearby quebradas (ravines) like Añasuayco. It's wise to check local weather advisories.
Yes, restrooms are available at the quarry, and they are generally reported to be nice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly tour that includes the Sillar Quarry, as these often handle transportation and provide a guided narrative that can keep children entertained. While the quarry itself might not be vast, combining it with other nearby natural attractions on a tour can make for a more complete and exciting day trip for the whole family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While a standard camera or smartphone will suffice, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the monuments and the vastness of the quarry. Be mindful of the sun and bring appropriate gear to protect your equipment. If you're interested in capturing the surrounding natural beauty, the nearby Quebrada de Culebrillas also presents photographic opportunities.
🚶 Budget Travelers
If you opt for independent travel, research local public transport options to reach the quarry area. While this might require more effort, it can significantly reduce costs. The entrance fee itself is also noted as being inexpensive, adding to its appeal for budget-conscious visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Sillar: From Quarry to Sculpture
At the Ruta del Sillar, this raw material is transformed into incredible sculptures and monuments. Local artisans, often quarry workers themselves, carve intricate designs directly into the quarry walls and extracted blocks. These creations range from abstract forms to more representational figures, turning the quarry into an open-air art gallery. The process highlights the skill and creativity involved in working with sillar, showcasing its versatility beyond mere construction.
Visitors can explore different sections of the quarry, some of which may require an additional fee for closer access. The experience is not just about viewing the art but also understanding the history and the labor behind it. It's a unique blend of natural landscape and human ingenuity, making it a must-see for those interested in local crafts and geology.
Navigating the Ruta del Sillar: Tours and Independent Travel
However, some visitors have noted that the quarry itself can feel a bit small if it's the sole focus of a trip. If you prefer more control over your itinerary or have specific interests, independent travel is also an option. You can reach the area via public transport, though this may involve more transfers and a longer journey. For those who choose to go independently, it's essential to factor in travel time and potentially arrange for local transport within the quarry area if needed.
Regardless of your chosen method, remember that the Ruta del Sillar is an outdoor attraction. Planning your visit during the cooler parts of the day and bringing essentials like water, a hat, and sunblock is crucial for an enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit