Puno, a captivating city nestled along the shores of Lake Titicaca, offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Qulla funerary towers of Sillustani. This half-day tour whisks travelers away on a journey through the Andean landscape, where they’ll discover the intricate history and cultural significance of these enigmatic structures. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees included, the tour promises a seamless and immersive experience. But the real draw lies in the tranquil Umayo Lagoon, a serene natural wonder that complements the tour’s blend of history and natural beauty. What mysteries and insights await those who embark on this captivating excursion?
Key Points
- A 3-hour half-day tour from Puno that includes a visit to the Sillustani archaeological site and Umayo Lagoon.
- Offers round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees, with a cancellation policy allowing full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes a 1-hour guided tour of the Qulla funerary towers (chullpas) at Sillustani and a visit to the serene Umayo Lagoon.
- Provides opportunities for breathtaking landscape photography and engagement with local communities and Andean traditions.
- Tour not suitable for individuals prone to altitude sickness, and essential items to bring include sunglasses, sun hat, and camera.
Tour Overview
The half-day tour to Sillustani from Puno offers an immersive journey into the ancient Andean landscape. Lasting 3 hours, the tour takes visitors on a van ride to the Sillustani archaeological site, where they’ll explore the iconic Qulla funerary towers and the serene Umayo Lagoon.
Priced from K£725 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a pay-later option is available.
The tour showcases the region’s mystic history, breathtaking vistas, and living Andean traditions, making it an enriching experience for adventurous travelers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puno.
Itinerary & Experience
Beginning from Puno, the tour commences with a van pickup from either the Puno Cathedral or Plaza Mayor.
After a 1-hour drive, the group arrives at the ancient site of Sillustani. During the 1-hour guided tour, visitors explore the Qulla funerary towers, known as chullpas, and enjoy photo opportunities.
The tour also includes a visit to the serene Umayo Lagoon, a highland oasis.
The return trip by van takes another hour, dropping off the group back at the Puno Cathedral or Plaza Mayor.
Throughout the journey, the tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to engage with local communities and witness the blend of mystic history and natural beauty in the Andean plateau.
Highlights
Explore ancient Qulla funerary towers, known as chullpas, during the guided tour at Sillustani.
Experience the tranquility of Umayo Lagoon, a highland oasis nestled amidst the Andean plateau.
Capture breathtaking landscapes as you witness the blend of mystic history and nature.
Engage with local communities and learn about living Andean traditions.
This half-day tour from Puno offers a unique opportunity to explore the archaeological wonders of Sillustani and appreciate the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Marvel at the architectural marvels and natural beauty that make this destination a must-visit for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Peru’s captivating history and landscape.
Inclusions
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the Puno city center, ensuring convenient transportation.
A professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) leads the tour, providing in-depth insights into the ancient Qulla funerary towers, known as chullpas.
Round-trip transportation from Puno and entrance fees to the Sillustani archaeological site are also included.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the tranquil Umayo Lagoon, a highland oasis.
However, meals and beverages aren’t part of the package.
Travelers should come prepared with recommended items like sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera, and are reminded not to litter during the tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
The tour to Sillustani isn’t suitable for those susceptible to altitude sickness, as the archaeological site sits at an elevation of over 12,500 feet (3,800 meters) above sea level.
Visitors are advised to bring essential items like sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera to enhance their experience.
Plus, it’s recommended to have some cash on hand, as meals and beverages aren’t included in the tour.
Lastly, it’s crucial to refrain from littering during the visit to preserve the pristine environment of the Andean plateau.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour’s pickup and drop-off locations are the Puno Cathedral or Plaza Mayor.
From there, guests will be transported by van to the Sillustani archaeological site, which is located about an hour’s drive away.
After the guided tour of Sillustani, including the chance to explore the ancient Qulla funerary towers and photograph the tranquil Umayo Lagoon, the van will return guests to the original pickup location in Puno.
This convenient arrangement allows visitors to easily access the tour from central points in the city, making the logistics of the excursion straightforward and hassle-free.
Tranquil Umayo Lagoon
As part of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to witness the tranquil Umayo Lagoon, a highland oasis nestled amidst the breathtaking Andean plateau.
This serene body of water offers a peaceful respite from the day’s exploration. Surrounded by the towering Sillustani chullpas, the lagoon’s calm surface reflects the stunning natural landscape.
Visitors can take in the tranquility and capture the beauty of this highland paradise. The visit to Umayo Lagoon allows travelers to experience a blend of nature’s serenity and the region’s rich cultural heritage, providing a truly memorable addition to the Sillustani tour.
Blend of History and Nature
The Sillustani tour offers visitors a captivating blend of mystical history and breathtaking natural landscapes. Travelers will explore the ancient Qulla funerary towers, known as chullpas, which stand as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. The tranquil Umayo Lagoon, a highland oasis, provides a serene backdrop for this unique experience.
History | Nature | Community |
---|---|---|
Ancient chullpas | Umayo Lagoon | Engage with locals |
Qulla civilization | Andean plateau | Living Andean traditions |
Mystical past | Breathtaking vistas | Blend of past and present |
The tour allows guests to witness this harmonious fusion of the past and present, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the region’s captivating blend of history and nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit Other Archaeological Sites Nearby?
Yes, visitors can explore other nearby archaeological sites during the tour. The tour provides the opportunity to visit the ancient Qulla funerary towers at Sillustani, but it doesn’t restrict access to other sites in the area.
How Physically Demanding Is the Tour?
The tour involves some light walking and moderate elevation changes, but it’s generally not physically demanding. Travelers should be reasonably fit and able to handle the Andean altitude to fully enjoy the experience.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the tour is casual and comfortable. Visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes, lightweight clothing, and bring sun protection like sunglasses and a hat. Layering is recommended due to the changing temperatures in the Andean region.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?
The tour does not include any meals or beverages, so participants should bring their own water and snacks. It’s recommended to pack a reusable water bottle and any desired snacks for the excursion.
Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention group discounts, but travelers may inquire about any available deals or special rates when booking. Inquiring about group pricing could potentially lead to savings, depending on the tour operator’s policies.
Recap
The Half Day Tour to Sillustani from Puno offers a captivating blend of history and nature. Explore the ancient Qulla funerary towers, marvel at the serene Umayo Lagoon, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Andean region. With round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees included, this tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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