The chullpas of Sillustani in Puno, Peru are a remarkable testament to the ancient Colla culture. These towering, circular funerary towers stand over 12 meters tall, their intricate stonework a testament to the ingenuity of their builders. Situated against the backdrop of the sacred Umayo lagoon, the necropolis invites visitors to unravel the fascinating history and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. What secrets do these structures hold, and what can they reveal about the beliefs and practices of the altiplano people? Join a guided tour to discover the mysteries that lie within.
Key Points
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Explore the towering chullpas, ancient funerary towers built by the Colla culture, reaching over 12 meters in height and showcasing impressive stonework.
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Visit the sacred Umayo lagoon, a focal point for the spiritual traditions and ceremonies of the altiplano people, offering tranquil views and wildlife observation.
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Learn about the rich funeral practices of the Colla culture, where the deceased were placed in seated positions with personal belongings and offerings.
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Gain insights into the Colla’s reverence for the dead and their beliefs about death and the afterlife, as reflected in the construction details of the chullpas.
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Enjoy the scenic views and cultural insights during the 45-minute minibus transportation from Puno to the Sillustani archaeological site.
Activity Overview
Visitors can discover the chullpas of Sillustani, one of the largest necropolises in the world, on this 5-hour activity. Priced from $20.00 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also reserve now and pay later.
The activity includes hotel pickup and transportation by minibus, lasting approximately 45 minutes to reach Sillustani. Participants will explore the archaeological site, marvel at the chullpas that can exceed 12 meters in height, and visit the sacred Umayo lagoon.
The tour concludes by 5:30 p.m., allowing visitors to enjoy the best views in Puno and learn about the ancient Colla culture‘s funeral rites.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puno Region.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from hotels in central Puno between 13:45 and 14:15 hours.
The travel time to Sillustani is approximately 45 minutes.
At the archaeological site, visitors can explore the chullpas, the towering funeral towers that can exceed 12 meters in height.
The tour also includes a visit to the sacred Umayo lagoon, an important site for the altiplano people.
The tour wraps up by 5:30 p.m. with the return to Puno.
Along the way, guests can enjoy the best views in the region and learn about the ancient Colla culture and their funeral practices.
Highlights of the Tour
The largest lake in the region beckons visitors to experience its serene waters.
Among the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to discover the architectural marvels of the chullpas, towering burial structures that can exceed 12 meters in height.
Visitors can also enjoy the best views in Puno and learn about the ancient Colla culture and their intricate funeral rites.
The tour offers:
- Experience the largest lake in the region
- Discover the architectural marvels of the chullpas
- Enjoy the best views in Puno
- Learn about the ancient Colla culture and their funeral rites
- Explore the sacred Umayo lagoon, significant to the altiplano people.
Inclusions and Logistics
This tour includes hotel pickup and transportation by minibus.
A guided tour is available in both English and Spanish. While meals aren’t included, you will have the opportunity to explore the archaeological site and visit the sacred Umayo lagoon.
However, travel insurance isn’t provided, so visitors are advised to arrange their own coverage.
It’s important to note that drones aren’t permitted on the tour. Participants should come prepared with a passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, binoculars, and insect repellent.
Before booking, visitors should check availability and select the date that works best for them.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information for Participants
Visitors should bring their passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, binoculars, and insect repellent when participating in the Chullpas of Sillustani tour.
Drones aren’t allowed on the site. Participants should check availability and select the desired tour date. The tour includes guided services in English and Spanish. Meals aren’t included, and travel insurance isn’t provided.
Visitors should be prepared for the following:
- Bring passport or ID
- Use biodegradable sunscreen
- Pack binoculars
- Bring insect repellent
- Drones aren’t permitted
- From Puno || Kayak Tour to the Uros Islands || Full Day ||
- From Puno: Puno City Tour, Yavari Boat Museum
- From Puno || 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour Ending in Arequipa ||
- From Puno || Excursion to Sillustani, Pucará and Tinajani ||
- From Puno || Excursion to Lampa – Quechua Route- Half Day ||
- From Puno || Excursion to Cutimbo – Half Day ||
Exploring the Chullpas
Towering above the serene Umayo lagoon, the chullpas of Sillustani stand as enigmatic architectural marvels that captivate visitors. These circular funerary towers, built by the ancient Colla culture, can reach heights exceeding 12 meters. Each chullpa showcases impressive stonework, with intricate carvings and precise masonry.
| Chullpa Features | |
|---|---|
| Construction | Stone masonry |
| Height | Up to 12 meters |
| Purpose | Funeral towers |
| Culture | Colla |
Exploring the chullpas offers a glimpse into the beliefs and customs of the altiplano people, shedding light on their sophisticated funeral rites and reverence for the dead. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of these structures leave visitors in awe of the architectural prowess of the Colla civilization.
Significance of Umayo Lagoon
Nestled adjacent to the chullpas, the sacred Umayo lagoon holds deep significance for the altiplano people.
This tranquil body of water serves as a focal point for their spiritual traditions and ceremonies. The lagoon’s serene beauty is complemented by its symbolic importance, reflecting the deep connection between the people and their ancestral land.
Visitors can expect to:
- Witness the lagoon’s serene waters, reflecting the surrounding landscapes
- Understand the cultural and religious significance of this sacred site
- Observe the local wildlife, including various bird species
- Learn about the ancient Colla people and their reverence for the natural world
- Appreciate the stunning vistas that encompass both the chullpas and the lagoon.
Ancient Colla Culture and Funeral Rites
The ancient Colla culture, who inhabited the Puno region, had a rich tradition of elaborate funeral practices that are exemplified in the chullpas of Sillustani. These striking stone towers served as mausoleums, standing as impressive testaments to the Colla’s reverence for the dead. Within the chullpas, the Colla placed their deceased in a seated position, alongside personal belongings and offerings to aid them in the afterlife. The intricate construction and attention to detail reflect the Colla’s deep respect for their ancestors and their beliefs surrounding death and the transition to the next world.
| Colla Funeral Practices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Chullpas as Mausoleums | Seated Burials | Grave Offerings |
| Impressive Stone Towers | Deceased Positioned Upright | Personal Items, Food, Etc. |
| Testaments to Reverence for Dead | Beliefs About Afterlife | Aiding Transition |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Site?
Participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the Sillustani site. However, meals are not included in the tour price, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
There’s no minimum group size requirement for the tour. Participants can book the tour individually or as part of a group. The tour operates with a flexible schedule to accommodate different group sizes.
Do We Have the Opportunity to Interact With the Local Community?
The tour doesn’t explicitly include interactions with the local community. However, visitors may have opportunities for informal interactions as they explore the Sillustani archaeological site and nearby Umayo lagoon, which hold significance for the altiplano people.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?
The price listed includes all necessary costs, with no additional fees or taxes. Participants should expect to pay only the stated per-person rate with no hidden charges.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Chullpas?
Photography is allowed inside the chullpas, but the use of drones is prohibited. Participants should follow the tour guide’s instructions and refrain from touching or damaging the ancient structures.
Recap
The Chullpas of Sillustani in Puno, Peru offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Colla culture. These imposing funerary towers, set against the serene Umayo Lagoon, reflect the intricate funeral rites and beliefs of the altiplano people. Through a guided tour, visitors can unravel the mysteries and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site, which provides a captivating window into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
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