Explore the Majestic Tombs of Sillustani and the Beauty of Lake Umayo

Embark on an unforgettable experience with our group tour to Sillustani from Puno, a journey that takes you to the very heart of the Peruvian altiplano. Just 34 km and approximately 40 minutes from Puno, this half-day tour typically starts around 2:00 PM (14:00) and concludes around 6:00 PM (18:00). It invites you to explore an ancient archaeological complex linked to the pre-Inca Colla and Tiahuanaco cultures, as well as the mighty Inca Empire.

At Sillustani, you'll discover the majestic chullpas, or funerary towers – monumental cylindrical constructions reaching up to 12 meters (39 feet) in height. These were designed to house the remains of nobles and priests, along with their valuable funerary offerings. An expert local guide will accompany you throughout the tour, sharing fascinating stories about the history, architecture, and the profound mystical symbolism these east-facing towers held with the Sun god, as well as their sacred role in ancestral Andean rituals.

Beyond its rich historical and architectural value, you'll savor a stunning natural setting: Sillustani is nestled on a peninsula surrounded by the serene waters of Umayo Lagoon, offering spectacular panoramic views of the lake and the altiplano mountains. During the tour, you'll also have the chance to admire local fauna, like llamas and alpacas, and interact with a nearby rural community, gaining insight into their authentic traditional way of life.

This tour perfectly combines archaeology, nature, and genuine cultural exchange, guaranteeing an enriching and unforgettable experience in the Peruvian altiplano.

Embark on a unique journey through time and discover the mysterious Chullpas of Sillustani in Puno! These impressive funerary towers of the ancient Tiahuanaco and Inca civilizations will leave you in awe. ✨

Detailed Itinerary of the Tour to Sillustani with Hours and Activities

• (13:50 – 14:15): Hotel pickup for tourists from central Puno.
• (14:30): Departure by tourist bus towards Sillustani (approx. 45 min journey), with a panoramic stop at Puno's Puma Uta viewpoint.
• (15:30): En route, visit the Hatuncolla community to meet a local family, learn about their way of life, and traditional crafts.
• (15:45 – 16:00): Arrival at the Sillustani archaeological complex. Begin a guided walking tour of the chullpas (funerary towers) and surroundings, with free time to explore the site on your own, take photos of Umayo Lagoon and the surrounding landscape. (Duration: ~1h 45m).
• (17:30): End of Tour and Return to Puno City.
• (18:30): Arrival in Puno city and transfer back to hotels (or near Plaza de Armas).

Sillustani Tour Inclusions:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Puno (central area, around Puno's Main Square).
• Round-trip tourist transportation (bus/van) throughout the tour.
• Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish and English).
• Entrance fee to the Sillustani archaeological site.
• Guided visit through the Sillustani complex (walking tour with historical explanations).
• Visit to a local family in Hatuncolla (demonstration of customs, interaction with alpacas/llamas).

Sillustani Tour Exclusions:

• Meals (no meals or snacks included).
• Unspecified beverages (personal water and snacks – recommended to bring your own).
• Additional personal expenses (handicraft purchases, public restroom use, etc.).
• Additional payment for pickup at the following hotels: Casa Andina Premium, Posadas del Inka, Lake Titicaca Hotel, GHL.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Sillustani Tour

• What is the tour's starting point and what time should I be there?
  • The tour begins with pickup from hotels and hostels in central Puno. It's recommended to be ready for pickup by 1:45 PM (13:45); we will confirm the exact pickup time based on your hotel.
• Are restrooms available during the tour?
  • Yes, basic visitor services are available at Sillustani, including public restrooms at the complex entrance. It's advisable to use them before or after the guided tour, as you won't find additional facilities during the walk on the peninsula. Please note that these restrooms may charge a small usage fee (1 Sol), so it's a good idea to carry small change. 🚻
• Is it necessary to bring cash during the tour?
  • Yes, although entrance fees are included, it's advisable to carry cash for personal expenses, food, drinks, or tips.
• What type of clothing is recommended for this tour?
  • Due to the altitude and variable climate, it's recommended to dress in layers, including warm clothing, and to bring sun protection, a hat or cap, and sunglasses.
• Is the tour suitable for children?
  • Yes, the Sillustani tour is suitable for families and people of all ages.
• What is the physical difficulty level of the tour?
  • The tour has a low to moderate physical difficulty level.
• Is it recommended to bring water and snacks?
  • Yes. Although the tour lasts only about 3.5 hours, it's advisable to bring at least one bottle of water and some light snacks (fruit, energy bar).
• What safety measures should be considered?
  • It's important to follow your guide's instructions at all times and remain within the designated visitor areas.
• How long does the tour last?
  • The tour has an approximate duration of 3.5 hours.
• What should I bring?
  • It's recommended to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and warm clothing, as the weather can be cold and windy. 🧣☀️
• What is the climate like in Sillustani?
  • The climate in Sillustani is cold due to the high altitude (approx. 3,840 meters / 12,598 feet above sea level) and can be unpredictable, with sudden temperature changes. During the day, it's usually sunny but with a cool wind, and in the afternoon, temperatures drop quite significantly (close to 7°C / 45°F). Layered warm clothing is highly recommended.

Recommendations for the Sillustani Tour

• Best time to visit: The dry season, from May to October, is highly recommended for visiting Sillustani, as there is hardly any rain, and days are usually sunny and clear. During these months, nights/early mornings are cold, but you'll have dry paths and clear views. During the rainy season (November to March), afternoons may experience precipitation, so if you take the tour in those months, bring a poncho or waterproof jacket and consider doing it in the morning. 🌧️
• Altitude and health: Sillustani is located at almost 3,840 meters (12,598 feet) above sea level, a considerable altitude. To prevent altitude sickness (soroche), plan to arrive in Puno at least one day prior and get sufficient rest.
• Sun protection: Even if it's cold, solar radiation in the altiplano is intense. Use high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect yourself.
• Appropriate clothing: Dress in layers. In the afternoon, it can be warm under the sun while walking, but the wind can be cold, and temperatures drop quickly at dusk.
• Cash and extra expenses: Carry cash in Peruvian Soles (PEN); you might want to buy some handicrafts sold by locals in Hatuncolla or leave a tip. Public restrooms also require coins, so have small change handy. There are no ATMs along the route. 💰

Tour Suitability

This tour is designed for most travelers; however, it is not recommended for certain individuals due to terrain conditions and altitude:

• People with very limited mobility or in wheelchairs: The paths in Sillustani are uneven, made of dirt and rock, with ascents and descents. There are no ramps or adapted accesses.
• People with severe heart or respiratory conditions: The altitude of almost 4,000 meters can aggravate conditions such as severe heart problems, uncontrolled hypertension, or COPD.
• Pregnant women (third trimester): As a precaution, those in advanced stages of pregnancy should avoid strenuous activities at high altitude without medical approval. 🩺

Private Tour Chullpas of Sillustani

The Private Tour to Sillustani offers a comfortable and exclusive way to discover one of the most outstanding archaeological sites in the Peruvian Altiplano. Your journey begins with a personalized pickup directly from your hotel in Puno, where you'll be greeted by our expert local guide. From there, you'll embark on a comfortable private vehicle for an approximate 30-minute drive, admiring the stunning regional landscapes, including impressive panoramic views of Lake Titicaca.

Upon arrival at Sillustani, you'll step into an ancient world dominated by the famous Chullpas – awe-inspiring funerary towers built by the Colla and Inca cultures. These cylindrical structures, some reaching up to 12 meters (39 feet) in height, stand as a testament to remarkable architectural skill and profound spirituality. Your private guide will meticulously explain the history, the symbolic meaning of the Chullpas, and the Andean cosmovision that envelops this sacred archaeological site.

During the tour, you'll have ample time to explore the site at your own pace, capture stunning photographs, and soak in the mystical atmosphere. This private tour offers complete time flexibility, with departure options from as early as 5:30 AM until as late as 3:30 PM (15:30), perfectly adapting to your preferences and personal rhythm.

Following your exploration, you'll visit the local community of Hatuncolla, where you'll have the unique opportunity to interact directly with local families, learning about their ancestral traditions and typical Altiplano handicrafts.

At the end of your enriching day, you'll return comfortably to your hotel in Puno, carrying unforgettable memories of an authentic and exclusive experience.

Discover the majesty and mystery of the Chullpas of Sillustani on an unforgettable Private Tour from Puno! Located on the shores of the beautiful Lake Titicaca, this astonishing archaeological site will transport you to a mysterious and fascinating past. With our private excursion, you'll enjoy a personalized and exclusive experience, accompanied by an expert guide.

Detailed Itinerary:

• Flexible Time: Hotel pickup (between 5:30 AM and 3:30 PM / 15:30).
• Departure: Private transportation to Sillustani (approx. 45 min drive).
• Arrival at the Archaeological Complex: Guided walking tour (approx. 1 hour visit).
• Free Time: For photos and individual exploration of the natural surroundings and the funerary towers.
• Return to Puno: With a stop in the traditional community of Hatuncolla for a cultural interaction.
• Final Arrival: Back at your hotel (approx. 4 hours after the start of the tour).

INCLUDED

• Transfers from downtown hotels – port and return.
• Entrances fees.
• Professional Spanish/English speaking guide.

DON'T INCLUDED

• Extra expenses

Benefits of Taking a Private Tour:

• Personalized Attention: You'll have private transport and a guide exclusively for you.
• Flexible Itinerary: We'll have the flexibility to adjust schedules to your convenience and preferences. It's your own pace, your own travel plan. It's like traveling solo, but with the added benefit of a dedicated professional guide.
• Deeper Understanding of Visited Places: Opting for a private service allows you to gain a much better and deeper understanding of the tourist destinations you choose.

Why Visit the Chullpas of Sillustani?

• 1 Attraction on TripAdvisor in Puno and Lake Titicaca: Over 200 travelers highly recommend it! ⭐
• Beautiful Landscapes: The landscapes where these Inca cemeteries are located are truly stunning, especially the Umayo Lagoon, which provides a magical backdrop to the site. 🏞️
• Well-Preserved Ruins: The ruins are in perfect condition, allowing visitors to understand how, why, and when they were built.
• Andean Life: On the return journey, you can visit a rural home (depending on the group), where we'll observe the life of the Andean people and see llamas, alpacas, guanacos, guinea pigs, etc. 🐑
• Andean Duality and Magnetism: The site is full of magnetism, with stones that make compasses go wild! Furthermore, during full moons, you can observe both the sun and moon in opposite positions from this spot in the afternoon hours. 🌕☀️
• Representative of Puno: Along with the Uros Islands, Sillustani is one of the most emblematic tourist attractions in Puno, which is why there's a commemorative coin dedicated to Sillustani. 

Experience the convenience of our Private Transfer: Airport + Sillustani en route + Puno. This flexible option allows you to visit the incredible Sillustani archaeological complex whether you're traveling from Puno to the Airport or from the Airport to Puno.

The Airport Tour visiting Sillustani en route to Puno is truly the best way to maximize your precious time. As soon as you land at Juliaca's Inca Manco Cápac International Airport, our friendly guide will warmly greet you. They'll then accompany you on a comfortable, private journey towards the vibrant city of Puno, with a captivating stop at the awe-inspiring Sillustani archaeological site along the way.

At Sillustani, you'll delve into history as you encounter the emblematic Chullpas – ancient, cylindrical funerary towers crafted by the sophisticated Colla and Inca civilizations. These structures stand out with their unique architecture. Your dedicated private guide will passionately share the fascinating history and profound Andean spiritual symbolism embedded within these imposing constructions.

Beyond the rich historical and archaeological significance, you'll be treated to an exceptional, breathtaking view of Umayo Lagoon – a truly perfect spot to capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories. After our insightful visit, we'll continue our journey to the charming local community of Hatuncolla. Here, you'll enjoy a brief, authentic interaction with local families who proudly preserve ancestral traditions and intricate handicrafts.

The tour culminates with your comfortable and safe arrival at your hotel in Puno, ensuring you've made incredibly efficient use of your time from the very moment your flight touched down

Tour Schedule

• Airport arrival: tailored to your flight schedule
• Visit to Sillustani: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes of exploration
• Stop in Hatuncolla: a delightful 20-30 minute interaction
• Arrival at hotel in Puno: approximately 3 hours after your airport arrival

Inclusions:

• Direct and convenient pick-up at Juliaca Airport.
• Exclusive private transportation: Airport – Sillustani – Puno.
• Expert bilingual private guide (English/Spanish)
• All entrance fees to the Sillustani archaeological complex.
• Engaging guided visit within Sillustani.
• Heartfelt stop in the local community (Hatuncolla)
• Seamless transfer directly to your hotel in Puno.

Exclusions:

• Food and drinks.
• Extra personal expenses (such as handicrafts or snacks).

The Airport – Lampa – Sillustani – Puno Tour seamlessly blends history, culture, and nature into a single, comprehensive journey right from your arrival at Juliaca Airport. It offers a rich experience as you make your way to the city of Puno.

Upon landing in Juliaca, you’ll be warmly greeted by our private guide. They'll first take you to the enchanting colonial town of Lampa, affectionately known as the "Pink City" due to the distinctive color of its historic buildings. Here, you'll explore the exquisite colonial church of Santiago Apóstol, renowned for its impressive architecture and the intriguing catacombs that house a replica of Michelangelo's "La Pietà."

Next, your journey continues to the breathtaking Sillustani archaeological site. This incredible location is famous for its Chullpas – ancient, cylindrical funerary towers constructed by the pre-Inca Colla and Inca cultures, truly standing out for their remarkable design.

Afterward, you’ll make a brief, insightful cultural stop in the community of Hatuncolla. Here, you'll have the chance to interact with local families, gaining a quick glimpse into their preserved traditions and ancestral handicrafts.

Finally, you’ll be comfortably transferred directly to your hotel in the city of Puno, concluding your enriching tour.

This service includes a dedicated guide who will lead you through the city of Lampa, the Santiago Apóstol church, and finally the Sillustani archaeological complex, all before your comfortable arrival in Puno.

This service can also be provided in reverse, perfect for when your flight departs from Juliaca.

• Airport Arrival: Flexible, tailored to your flight schedule ✈️
• Visit to Lampa: Approximately 1 hour of discovery.
• Visit to Sillustani: Around 1 hour 30 minutes of exploration.
• Stop in Hatuncolla: A brief, engaging 20 minutes.
• Arrival at Hotel in Puno: Approximately 5 hours after your airport arrival.

INCLUDES:

• Private transportation: Airport – Lampa – Sillustani – Puno.
• Expert bilingual guide (Spanish/English).
• All entrance fees to Sillustani.
• Convenient Box Lunch.

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• Other personal expenses.

This tour is only available for the following flights:

• Any flight arriving in Juliaca before 2:00 PM (14:00).
• Any flight departing from Juliaca after 10:00 AM (10:00).

Are restrooms available during the tour?

• Yes, restrooms are available in Lampa and at the entrance to Sillustani. 🚻