From Puno: Half Day Tour to the Amazing Chullpas Tombs of Sillustani

Exploring the ancient chullpas of Sillustani is a captivating experience that transports visitors back in time. This half-day tour from Puno offers a chance to uncover the rich legacy of the Colla people, whose unique funerary architecture and breathtaking lakeside setting create an unforgettable adventure. With knowledgeable guides and flexible booking options, this tour promises an immersive journey into Peru’s pre-Inca history. What secrets do these remarkable tombs hold, and how did the Colla people honor their dead? Discover the answers on this captivating excursion.

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Key Points

A half-day tour from Puno to explore the ancient pre-Inca cemetery of Sillustani, known for its impressive chullpas (funeral towers).
The tour includes live guides in Spanish and English, pickup, entrance tickets, and a comprehensive look into the Colla funerary customs.
Enjoy breathtaking scenery along Lake Umayo and learn about the significance of the Colla people’s legacy in the region.
The tour is suitable for history enthusiasts and nature lovers, with a focus on the pre-Inca funerary architecture.
Flexible cancellation policy and option to reserve without upfront payment make the booking experience easy and risk-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This half-day tour from Puno takes visitors to the ancient pre-Inca cemetery of Sillustani, located by the stunning Lake Umayo.

The tour lasts 3 hours and costs from Kč 792 per person. Live guides in Spanish and English are available, and pickup is included 30 minutes before departure.

This half-day tour from Puno lasts 3 hours and costs from Kč 792 per person. Live guides in Spanish and English are available, with pickup included.

Visitors can explore the chullpas, or funeral towers, significant to the Colla people’s legacy, while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

They’ll learn about Colla culture, funerary architecture, and rituals. This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking tranquility and beauty.

Looking for more options in Puno? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Cancellation and Payment Policy

Although the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, guests have the option to reserve their spot without upfront payment.

This "reserve now & pay later" policy allows travelers to secure their place on the tour quickly and conveniently.

The cancellation policy provides flexibility, ensuring customers can make changes to their plans if needed.

Combined, these flexible payment and cancellation terms make booking the Sillustani tour an easy and risk-free experience for visitors.

Highlights and Experience

The chullpas of Sillustani, significant to the Colla people’s legacy, are the focal point of this half-day tour.

Visitors will explore these intriguing pre-Inca funeral towers, marveling at the Colla’s advanced funerary architecture and rituals.

The breathtaking scenery along Lake Umayo enhances the experience, offering tranquility and beauty.

History enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will appreciate learning about the Colla culture.

This tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the ancient site and take in the captivating traditions of the past.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who’ll lead visitors through the Sillustani site, providing valuable insights into the Colla people’s funerary customs and architectural marvels.

Entrance tickets are included, granting access to explore the impressive chullpas, or funerary towers. Ground transportation is provided, with pickup and drop-off included. Tips are also covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Whether a history enthusiast or nature lover, this tour offers a comprehensive and immersive glimpse into the Colla’s legacy, enhanced by the breathtaking scenery surrounding Lake Umayo.

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Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 11 years old or wheelchair users.

Participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain. Availability for specific dates and group sizes should be checked prior to booking.

The tour is designed for history enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking tranquility and beauty. Visitors can expect to learn about the Colla culture, their advanced funerary architecture, and rituals during this 3-hour half-day expedition from Puno to the ancient pre-Inca cemetery of Sillustani by Lake Umayo.

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Exploring the Chullpas of Sillustani

Towering over the serene shores of Lake Umayo, the chullpas of Sillustani stand as a testament to the architectural prowess and funerary traditions of the Colla people.

These pre-Inca funeral towers, dating back to the 11th century, were used to inter the remains of nobles and community leaders. Visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved structures, marveling at their meticulous construction and the stunning natural backdrop.

The chullpas offer a glimpse into the sophisticated burial practices and belief systems of the Colla, providing a captivating window into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The Colla People’s Funerary Architecture

The Colla people’s funerary architecture is a striking testament to their advanced construction techniques and intricate burial practices.

The chullpas, or funeral towers, at Sillustani were built to house the remains of Colla nobility. These massive, cylindrical structures feature precise stonework and showcase the Colla’s architectural prowess.

Visitors can marvel at the precise alignment of the chullpas and the sophisticated design that incorporated astronomical observations.

The Colla’s funerary rituals, which involved mummification and intricate burial customs, are also reflected in the chullpas’ layout and ornamentation, offering a glimpse into their reverence for the afterlife.

Enjoying the Breathtaking Scenery of Lake Umayo

Nestled amidst the Andean highlands, Lake Umayo‘s shimmering waters and dramatic landscapes captivate visitors throughout the Sillustani tour.

The tour explores the ancient pre-Inca cemetery overlooking the serene lake, offering breathtaking views. Visitors can take in the natural beauty, with the chullpas (funerary towers) standing tall against the backdrop of the tranquil waters.

The ancient pre-Inca cemetery overlooking the serene Lake Umayo offers breathtaking views of the chullpas (funerary towers) against the tranquil waters.

The scenery enhances the overall experience, providing a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere to learn about the Colla people’s legacy.

The combination of history and natural splendor makes the Sillustani tour an ideal experience for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Things To Know

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking around the Sillustani ruins. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun. Plus, bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and architectural wonders.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can take photos during the tour. The tour operator encourages capturing the stunning scenery and ancient chullpas, or funerary towers, at Sillustani. Just be mindful not to disturb the historical site or other participants.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private option. Travelers can book a private half-day tour to Sillustani, which allows for a more personalized experience with the guide. The private tour provides flexibility in scheduling and group size.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request a longer tour to explore Sillustani and the surrounding area in more depth. Additional fees may apply for an extended tour, and availability is subject to confirmation.

Are There Any Additional Activities at the Site?

The tour doesn’t offer any additional activities on-site. However, visitors can explore the ancient funerary towers, known as chullpas, and admire the stunning scenery around Lake Umayo during the 3-hour tour.

Sum Up

This half-day tour from Puno to the ancient chullpas tombs of Sillustani offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the remarkable pre-Inca funeral towers and learn about the unique funerary customs of the Colla people. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views of Lake Umayo, and hassle-free transportation, this tour is a must-do for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.