Excursion to the Chullpas of Sillustani: Mysterious Cemetery

Venture into the captivating world of Sillustani, an ancient cemetery that holds the key to unraveling the mysteries of the Kolla and Inca civilizations. Towering chullpas, or funerary towers, stand as a testament to the architectural prowess of these cultures, reaching heights of up to 12 meters. Beyond the impressive mausoleums, the excursion promises an immersive experience, unveiling insights into the Waruwaru hydraulic system, the sacred shores of Umayo Lake, and the vibrant local lifestyle. Prepare to be transported back in time as you embark on this captivating journey through the heart of Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

Key Points

• Discover the pre-Inca and Inca burial mounds, known as chullpas, featuring towering mausoleums up to 12 meters high.
• Explore the Waruwaru, an intricate hydraulic system that enabled ancient civilizations to thrive in the high-altitude environment.
• Visit a local house to immerse in the community’s customs, traditions, and daily routines for a deeper cultural understanding.
• Learn about the engineering prowess and burial practices of the Kolla and Inca civilizations through the archaeological complex.
• Enjoy a scenic 40-minute journey to the Puno viewpoint and observe the natural beauty of Umayo Lake.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Excursion to the Chullpas of Sillustani offers visitors a chance to explore the mysterious cemetery located north of Puno.

Priced at $25.00 per person, the 5-hour tour includes a visit to the ancient mausoleums of the pre-Inca and Inca cultures.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now and pay later option is available.

The tour provides hotel pickup, transportation to and from the site, entrance to the archaeological complex, and a professional bilingual guide to share the cultural significance of this important historical site.

Sillustani’s Cultural Significance

Why is Sillustani considered an important archaeological site?

Sillustani is a sacred place that holds pre-Inca and Inca burial mounds, known as chullpas. These mysterious tombs, shaped like inverted cones up to 12 meters high, were built to house the remains of Kolla authorities.

Sillustani highlights the rich cultural heritage of the region, showcasing the engineering prowess and burial practices of the Kolla and Inca civilizations.

The site also features impressive hydraulic systems of pre-Hispanic agricultural fields, known as Waruwaru.

Sillustani’s cultural significance lies in its ability to provide insights into the lives and beliefs of these ancient Andean societies.

Itinerary and Activities

After being picked up from their hotels at approximately 2:00 p.m., guests embark on a 40-minute journey to a viewpoint overlooking the city of Puno.

The itinerary then includes:

1. Walking through Sillustani to observe the Waruwaru, a pre-Hispanic hydraulic system used for agricultural fields.

2. Observing the local flora, fauna, and Umayo Lake.

3. Visiting a local house to learn about the lifestyle of the people.

4. Exploring the archaeological complex of Sillustani, a sacred place that highlights the Kolla and Inca cultures.

The tour provides a comprehensive understanding of the site’s cultural significance and its historical importance.

Transportation and Inclusions

The excursion includes hotel pickup and transportation to and from the Sillustani archaeological site. This ensures a hassle-free experience for participants.

The tour also includes entrance fees to the complex, allowing visitors to fully explore the ancient mausoleums and learn about the Kolla and Inca cultures.

A professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish) accompanies the group, providing insightful commentary and answering any questions.

All transportation is provided, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy the scenic 40-minute journey to the viewpoint of Puno city.

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and informative excursion to the mysterious Chullpas of Sillustani.

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Tour Policies and Requirements

It’s important to note the tour’s policies and requirements.

The excursion to the Chullpas of Sillustani isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users. Guests are required to bring their passport or ID card.

The tour is subject to weather conditions and will only take place in sunny weather or as the weather permits.

Plus, the tour offers a reserve now and pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

1. Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users
2. Bring passport or ID card
3. Tour subject to weather conditions; will take place in sunny weather or as weather permits
4. Reserve now & pay later option available; free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Exploring the Chullpas

Towering above the tranquil Umayo Lake, the chullpas of Sillustani stand as silent sentinels, their enigmatic silhouettes bearing witness to the rich cultural legacy of the Kolla and Inca civilizations.

These remarkable pre-Inca and Inca mausoleums, up to 12 meters high, were constructed as tombs for the Kolla authorities.

Visitors can marvel at the architectural ingenuity of these inverted cone-shaped structures, showcasing the advanced engineering and craftsmanship of the region’s indigenous peoples.

The site offers a unique opportunity to explore the customs and beliefs that shaped these ancient funerary monuments, providing a tangible link to the past and a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage.

Waruwaru and Umayo Lake

Wandering through the archaeological site, visitors will encounter the remarkable Waruwaru, a complex system of hydraulic channels and aqueducts that once irrigated the pre-Hispanic agricultural fields surrounding Umayo Lake.

This ingenious system allowed the Kolla and Inca civilizations to thrive in the high-altitude environment.

The tour includes:

1. Observing the intricate design and engineering of the Waruwaru channels.
2. Exploring the shores of Umayo Lake, which was a vital water source for the ancient inhabitants.
3. Spotting local flora and fauna, including unique plant species adapted to the Andean climate.
4. Learning about the Kolla and Inca cultures and their agricultural practices in this sacred landscape.

Taking in Local Lifestyle

After exploring the remarkable Waruwaru and Umayo Lake, the tour culminates with a visit to a local house.

Here, visitors get a chance to enjoy the lifestyle of the local people. They’ll learn about the community’s customs, traditions, and daily routines.

Guests may even have the opportunity to try their hand at traditional handicrafts or sample local cuisine.

This intimate encounter allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the vibrant culture that has thrived in this region for centuries.

It’s an authentic and enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who partake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour company does not currently offer any discounts for students or seniors. The pricing is a flat rate of $25.00 per person, with no special discounts available.

Can We Take Pictures or Videos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can take pictures and videos during the tour. The tour provider encourages participants to capture the stunning archaeological site and cultural experiences. Photography and videography are permitted throughout the excursion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The excursion is 5 hours long, and the company doesn’t offer any extensions. Guests can take pictures and videos during the tour, but the duration remains fixed at 5 hours.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Excursion?

The tour’s maximum group size is not explicitly stated, but it’s likely a small group tour with personalized attention. Specific group size may depend on availability and demand at the time of booking.

Is There a Recommended Time of Year to Visit Sillustani?

The best time to visit Sillustani is during the dry season from May to September when the weather’s mild and sunny, making for optimal conditions to explore the ancient archaeological site.

Recap

The excursion to the Chullpas of Sillustani offers a captivating journey through a mysterious cemetery that showcases the ancient burial practices of the Kolla and Inca civilizations. Visitors can explore towering mausoleums, learn about the Waruwaru hydraulic system, and enjoy the vibrant local lifestyle, providing a deep appreciation for the region’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: