Puno offers a chance to uncover the mysteries of the past. A 3-hour tour takes visitors to the Sillustani pre-Inca tombs, where ancient funerary towers stand tall against the backdrop of Lake Umayo. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, travelers can explore this archaeological wonder and gain insights into the Kolla culture. But the journey doesn’t end there – a visit to a local community promises an immersive experience in Aymara traditions.
Key Points
- Tour to Sillustani pre-Inca tombs from Puno, priced at $27.53 per person, with a 3-hour duration and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights include exploring around 90 funerary towers of the Kolla culture, scenic views of Lake Umayo, and a visit to a local community.
- Pickup is available from centrally located hotels in Puno, with round-trip transportation included in the tour.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to unpaved terrain, and participants must be able to walk on uneven ground.
- Inclusions cover transfers, an English/Spanish guide, entrance ticket to Sillustani, and gratuities, with proper footwear recommended for navigating the site.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour to the pre-Inca tombs of Sillustani from Puno is priced at $27.53 per person and lasts for 3 hours.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.
The tour highlights include an archaeological visit to Sillustani, the most important pre-Inca and Inca burial site in Peru, where visitors can explore approximately 90 funerary towers built by the Kolla culture.
Visitors can explore approximately 90 funerary towers built by the Kolla culture at the pre-Inca and Inca burial site of Sillustani, Peru.
The tour also includes transportation from centrally located Puno hotels, except those on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Highlights and Activities
As the core of this tour, visitors can explore the archaeological site of Sillustani, widely considered the most important pre-Inca and Inca burial site in Peru.
They’ll discover around 90 funerary towers built by the Kolla culture, an Aymara community predating the Inca Empire.
Professional guides will share insights into Aymara culture as guests admire the scenic Lake Umayo surrounding the cemetery.
The tour also includes a visit to a local community, where travelers can learn about alpaca breeding and food processing, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s traditional lifestyle.
Transportation and Pickup Information
This tour includes pickup from centrally located hotels in Puno.
However, it’s not available from hotels on Lake Titicaca shores, like José Antonio, Sonesta Posada Del Inca, Xima Hotels Puno, Casa Andina Premium, and Ghl Hotel Lake Titicaca.
The tour provides round-trip transportation, so you’ll be brought back to your hotel after the 3-hour excursion to the Sillustani pre-Inca burial site.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as it involves walking on unpaved and uneven terrain at the archaeological site.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes transfers from and to centrally located hotels in Puno, a shared English/Spanish guide, and the entrance ticket to the Sillustani archaeological site.
Plus, gratuities are covered in the price. However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Here are some important notes:
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Guests should bring their passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a jacket.
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Children 2 and younger are complimentary.
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The tour is suitable for all ages, but participants must be able to walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
Preparation and Important Notes
Guests should bring their passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a jacket when embarking on this tour. The Sillustani burial site features unpaved and uneven terrain, so proper footwear is essential. Children 2 and younger are complimentary, making this tour suitable for all ages. However, guests must be able to navigate the site’s challenging landscape.
| What to Bring | Recommended | Not Allowed |
| — | — | — |
| Passport | ✓ | – |
| Sunglasses | ✓ | – |
| Sunscreen | ✓ | – |
| Jacket | ✓ | – |
| Wheelchair | – | ✓ |
Guests should be aware that the tour is not wheelchair-accessible. Proper preparation will ensure a memorable and comfortable experience at the Sillustani pre-Inca tombs.
Exploring the Sillustani Burial Site
Visitors to the Sillustani burial site can explore approximately 90 remarkable funerary towers built by the Kolla culture, an Aymara community that predated the Inca Empire.
The towering chullpas, or burial chambers, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Highlights of the visit include:
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Marveling at the architectural sophistication of the chullpas, some standing up to 12 meters tall.
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Learning about the Aymara people’s beliefs and traditions surrounding death and the afterlife.
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Admiring the scenic backdrop of Lake Umayo, which adds to the site’s serene and contemplative atmosphere.
Discovering Aymara Culture and Traditions
Professional guides on the tour share insights into the rich Aymara culture and traditions.
Visitors learn about the Aymara’s pre-Inca heritage, including their expertise in alpaca breeding and food processing. The guides explain how the Aymara community, an Andean indigenous group, predated the Inca Empire.
Visitors learn about the Aymara’s pre-Inca heritage, including their expertise in alpaca breeding and food processing. The Aymara community predated the Inca Empire.
Travelers also get a glimpse into the Aymara’s contemporary lifestyle, observing their daily activities and practices.
Throughout the tour, the guides emphasize the Aymara’s deep connection to the land and their enduring traditions, offering a unique culture for participants.
Appreciating the Scenic Beauty of Lake Umayo
The scenic Lake Umayo surrounds the Sillustani cemetery, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the archaeological site.
Visitors can admire the tranquil lake, which is home to a variety of bird species and local flora.
Three key reasons to appreciate the beauty of Lake Umayo include:
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The serene waters reflect the towering funerary towers, creating a stunning visual contrast.
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The lake’s shoreline offers excellent vantage points to photograph the cemetery and the Andes mountains in the distance.
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Exploring the lake’s edge provides a peaceful respite from the historical site, allowing visitors to connect with the natural surroundings.
Things To Know
What Are the Health and Safety Protocols During the Tour?
The tour follows strict health and safety protocols. Masks are required, social distancing is maintained, and hand sanitizer is provided. The group size is limited to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is Photography Allowed at the Sillustani Site?
Photography is allowed at the Sillustani site. Visitors can take pictures of the impressive funerary towers and the scenic Lake Umayo surrounding the cemetery during the tour. There are no restrictions on photography at this archaeological site.
Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites in the Area?
Yes, visitors can extend the tour to visit additional sites in the area for an extra fee. Options may include stops at nearby villages, markets, or other archaeological sites. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about customizing the itinerary.
Do I Need Any Special Permits or Licenses to Visit Sillustani?
No, special permits or licenses are not required to visit Sillustani. The tour includes all necessary entrance tickets and transportation, so visitors can simply join the group and explore the pre-Inca burial site.
Are There Any Dining or Shopping Options Near the Sillustani Site?
There are no dining or shopping options directly at the Sillustani site. Visitors can find local restaurants and markets in the nearby town of Puno, which is where the tours typically depart from and return to.
Sum Up
This immersive tour offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and cultural traditions of the Kolla people. Explore the captivating Sillustani burial site, marvel at the stunning Lake Umayo, and explore the world of alpaca breeding. With knowledgeable guides, convenient transportation, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage.
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