Arequipa not only dazzles with its colonial architecture, exquisite gastronomy, and volcanic landscapes. The region also harbors an ancestral wealth little explored by many travelers: its enigmatic petroglyphs. These rock inscriptions and engravings, scattered in various parts of the Arequipa territory, are testaments to the art and worldview of ancient cultures that inhabited the area thousands of years ago.
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Ancestral Art Amidst Valleys and Ravines
The department of Arequipa stands out for its diverse geography, with fertile valleys and desert areas that served as a canvas for these pre-Hispanic expressions. It is estimated that many of these figures were created more than 6 thousand years ago, representing hunting scenes, sacred animals, and spiritual rituals. Let’s look at the main sites where these rock treasures can be appreciated.
1. The Caves of Sumbay: Rock Art at High Altitudes
At over 4,100 meters above sea level (approx. 13,450 feet), near the route connecting Arequipa with the Colca Canyon, are the Caves of Sumbay, a natural sanctuary of Paleolithic art. These caverns house more than 500 rock paintings with scenes narrating the life of ancient hunter-gatherers of the Andean altiplano.
The drawings show animals like camelids and birds, as well as human figures participating in hunts or rituals. The most surprising aspect is their attempt to represent three-dimensionality using the irregularities of the rocks, demonstrating an early development of artistic sense.
How to get there: From Arequipa, take the highway towards Chivay. Then, a detour leads to Sumbay, where a short walk provides access to the caves.
2. Petroglifos de Toro Muerto: The Open-Air Stone Museum
Located in the district of Corire, in the province of Castilla, Toro Muerto is the most extensive petroglyph complex in Peru. It covers over 5 km² (approx. 1.9 sq miles) and contains around 2,600 engraved blocks with anthropomorphic, geometric, and mythical animal figures.
This site was a ceremonial center for pre-Inca cultures like the Wari or Chuquibamba. The techniques used range from direct percussion to scraping and polishing the volcanic rock. It is a must-stop for those interested in ancient Andean iconography.
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
General Admission: 3 soles per person.
3. Other Important Petroglifos in Arequipa
In addition to Sumbay and Toro Muerto, the region possesses other rock art sites currently being developed. Among the most prominent are:
a) Quebrada de Culebrillas
Located near the famous Sillar Route, this narrow ravine holds engravings associated with the Wari culture. It depicts hunting scenes, animal figures, and religious designs. It can be visited as part of a tour of the sillar quarry circuit.
b) Alto de la Caldera (Los Listados)
Situated in the Vítor district, this site stands out for its reddish stones that contrast with the arid landscape. Among its engravings are mythological beings, religious symbols, and daily life scenes. The solitary environment gives it a mystical air.
c) Tintín (Cerro Blanco)
Located in the Sihuas river valley, this group of petroglyphs features solar symbols, felines, snakes, and a notable ritual mask. It is presumed that the area had ceremonial purposes due to the remains of agricultural terraces and a possible cemetery.
d) Cantas, Pitis, La Mezana, and La Laja
These sites are located near Corire and share similarities with Toro Muerto. The engravings are on ignimbrite stone, with pink and white tones, and include stylized animals and human figures.
The Sillar Route and Culebrillas: History Carved in Stone
An additional route ideal to complement this experience is the Sillar Route (Ruta del Sillar), a tourist circuit that takes visitors to the ancient quarries where the emblematic white Arequipa stone is extracted. Along the way, it’s possible to reach the Quebrada de Culebrillas, a natural formation similar to a canyon, decorated with petroglyphs.
Tour cost: 45 soles (approximate).
Entrance to the Sillar Route: 10 soles.
Entry to Culebrillas: 5 soles.
Why visit the petroglyphs of Arequipa?
Exploring these archaeological sites is immersing yourself in the deepest roots of Peru. Away from conventional tourist routes, the petroglyphs of Arequipa are silent witnesses to ancient civilizations that expressed their world through stone.
Tip: It is recommended to visit these places with a specialized guide to better understand the historical and symbolic value of each figure.
