From Puno: Sillustani Tombs and Tourist View Point Puma

Nestled in the Peruvian highlands, a captivating 4-hour tour from Puno promises to whisk visitors away to the ancient Sillustani Tombs and the picturesque Lake Umayo viewpoint. For just $18 per person, this excursion offers a chance to explore pre-Inca history, explore Aymara burial towers, and take in the rich culture of the Collas people. With convenient hotel pickup, knowledgeable bilingual guides, and a scenic drive, this tour is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience that leaves you eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• Explore the pre-Inca Aymara burial towers and ruins at the Sillustani site, located about 50 minutes from Puno.
• Visit the traditional Atuncolla Village, home to the Collas people, to experience Andean cultural heritage.
• Enjoy scenic views of Lake Umayo while learning about the historical significance of the Sillustani site from knowledgeable bilingual guides.
• Expect a comfortable hotel pickup from Puno and a 4-hour tour that covers the key highlights of the Sillustani Tombs and Lake Umayo Viewpoint.
• Capture stunning landscapes with your camera during the scenic drive through the Andean countryside to the Sillustani site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This 4-hour tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the captivating Sillustani Tombs and marvel at the stunning views from the Lake Umayo Viewpoint.

Priced at $18 per person, the tour includes pickup from Puno hotels and a 50-minute drive to the Sillustani site.

Priced at $18 per person, the tour includes pickup from Puno hotels and a 50-minute drive to the Sillustani site.

Visitors can discover the Aymara burial towers and ruins, learning about the pre-Inca civilization’s architecture and farming techniques.

The tour also includes a visit to the traditional Atuncolla Village, home to the Collas people.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and passion, ensuring an immersive cultural experience.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from central Puno hotels, allowing visitors to settle in comfortably before the 50-minute journey to the Sillustani site.

Once there, guests explore the Aymara burial towers and ruins, learning about the pre-Inca life, including fascinating architecture and farming techniques like Waru Waru.

The visit also includes a stop at the traditional village of Atuncolla, home to the Collas people.

The highlights of this tour include:

• Discovering the unique burial towers and ruins of Sillustani

• Learning about the region’s rich history and cultural heritage

• Visiting a traditional Aymara village

• Experiencing the scenic and atmospheric site with fewer crowds

Guide and Language

Bilingual tour guides, fluent in both English and Spanish, lead the Sillustani Tombs and Lake Umayo Viewpoint tour.

Their personable nature and deep knowledge of the region’s history and culture earn consistently high praise from past participants.

Guests particularly appreciate the guides’ ability to provide insightful cultural context, whether explaining the architectural design of the ancient Aymara burial towers or sharing details about traditional farming techniques like the Waru Waru system.

The guides’ passion for sharing their heritage ensures visitors leave with a richer understanding of the Puno area’s fascinating pre-Inca heritage.

Visitor Experience and Reviews

How do past visitors describe their experience at the Sillustani Tombs and Lake Umayo Viewpoint?

Overall, visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides who bring the ancient site to life with passion and cultural insights. Many highlight the scenic and atmospheric nature of the ruins, with fewer crowds compared to other attractions.

One visitor noted the "non-pushy" visit to a traditional Colla farm, offering a genuine cultural experience. Reviewers consistently rate the tour 4.7/5, praising the well-organized itinerary and value for money.

Key highlights include:

• Captivating guide commentary on pre-Inca history and architecture

• Scenic and serene setting of the burial towers

• Opportunity to visit a local village

• Overall excellent value for the tour price

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Important Information

While the scenic beauty and cultural insights make the Sillustani Tombs and Lake Umayo Viewpoint tour a must-visit, it’s important to keep a few key details in mind.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, so visitors should ensure they can comfortably navigate the site. Be sure to bring your passport or ID, as well as weather-appropriate clothing.

The good news is the tour operates rain or shine, so you can explore the impressive Aymara burial towers and learn about the region’s history no matter the conditions.

Just don’t forget to pack your camera to capture the stunning landscape.

Getting to Sillustani

The tour begins with a 50-minute drive from central Puno, where participants are picked up from their hotels.

The scenic journey takes visitors through the Andean countryside, offering glimpses of traditional villages and sweeping vistas.

The scenic journey takes visitors through the Andean countryside, offering glimpses of traditional villages and sweeping vistas.

Upon arrival at Sillustani, guests will:

• Explore the ancient Aymara burial towers and ruins

• Learn about the region’s pre-Inca history, architecture, and farming techniques

• Visit a traditional village home to the Collas people

• Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of Lake Umayo

The guide’s expertise and passion bring the site’s rich cultural heritage to life, making this a truly immersive and memorable experience.

Exploring the Aymara Burial Towers

As visitors approach the Sillustani site, they’re immediately captivated by the towering funeral towers that dot the landscape.

These elliptical chullpas stand up to 12 meters tall, built by the Aymara people before the Inca conquest.

Guests explore the ruins, marveling at the intricate stonework and learning about the sophisticated burial practices.

The guide shares insights into the architecture, explaining how the towers were designed to protect the dead and honor their ancestors.

Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the Aymara’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring significance of these enigmatic structures.

The Stunning Viewpoint of Lake Umayo

After exploring the captivating Aymara burial towers, the tour takes visitors to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Lake Umayo.

This breathtaking panorama showcases the pristine lake surrounded by rolling hills.

Visitors can:

• Admire the serene waters of the lake, reflecting the stunning Andes in the distance

• Spot local wildlife, such as ducks and egrets, gracefully gliding across the surface

• Gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty that has drawn people to this region for centuries

• Capture postcard-worthy photos to commemorate their visit to this picturesque setting.

Things To Know

Can I Take Photos Inside the Sillustani Tombs?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Sillustani tombs. The guide may provide recommendations on where to capture the best shots and ensure visitors don’t disturb the site’s fragile structures.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available on the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the Sillustani Tombs tour. Visitors can use the bathrooms located at the entrance of the archaeological site before exploring the ancient burial towers and learning about Aymara culture.

Is There an Option to Visit the Sillustani Site Independently?

You can visit the Sillustani site independently, but it’s more convenient to go on a guided tour. The tour includes round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights about the site’s history and cultural significance.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Crafts at the Site?

Visitors can find a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs for sale by artisans at the Sillustani site. These range from traditional textiles and pottery to jewelry and figurines, offering a chance to support the local community.

Will There Be an Opportunity to Try Traditional Peruvian Cuisine?

Unfortunately, this tour doesn’t include an opportunity to try traditional Peruvian cuisine. The focus is on exploring the archaeological site and learning about the region’s history and culture. However, you may be able to find local food options in the nearby village.

Sum Up

This captivating tour from Puno offers a unique glimpse into the ancient Aymara culture and the stunning landscapes of the Andes. Explore the enigmatic Sillustani Tombs, stroll through the traditional Atuncolla Village, and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Umayo – all while guided by knowledgeable bilingual experts. It’s an enriching and memorable journey that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: