Puno: City Tour and Carlos Dreyer Museum

Puno, the captivating city on the shores of Lake Titicaca, beckons visitors to uncover its rich cultural tapestry. At the heart of this vibrant destination lies the Carlos Dreyer Museum, a treasure trove of over 1,800 artifacts that offer a glimpse into the region’s storied past. As you step through the museum’s doors, you’ll be transported to a world where ancient traditions and modern marvels coexist, leaving you eager to discover what other wonders Puno has in store.

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Key Points

The Puno city tour includes a visit to the Carlos Dreyer Museum, which houses over 1,800 artifacts from various eras.
The tour also features a stop at the Puma Uta Viewpoint for panoramic views of Puno and Lake Titicaca.
Visitors can explore the National University of the Altiplano and its impressive art and architecture during the tour.
The Yavari Ship Naval Museum, featuring a historic ship built in 1862, is another highlight of the tour.
The tour provides an opportunity to immerse in Puno’s local culture, including exploring the vibrant Jirón Lima area.

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Tour Overview and Details

This half-day city tour of Puno offers an opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Priced from $31.05 per person, the 5-hour tour includes live guides in Spanish and English, and pickup from downtown Puno hotels.

Highlights include the Carlos Dreyer Museum, Puma Uta Viewpoint, National University, Yavari Ship Naval Museum, and Esteves Island.

Explore the cultural highlights of Puno, including the Carlos Dreyer Museum, Puma Uta Viewpoint, and Yavari Ship Naval Museum.

You’ll also visit historic sites like the Deustua Arch, Pino Park, San Juan Church, and the Main Square. The tour provides a chance to learn about Puno’s vibrant atmosphere along Jirón Lima.

Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Want to see more of Puno? Here are other city tours we've reviewed

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Carlos Dreyer Museum, where guests can explore over 1,800 artifacts from pre-Inca to republican eras for 45 minutes.

Next, they’ll head to the Puma Uta Viewpoint for a 15-minute stop, taking in panoramic views of Puno and Lake Titicaca.

The group then tours the National University of the Altiplano for 20 minutes, admiring the artistic works and metal sculptures.

The final stops include the Yavari Ship Naval Museum for a 40-minute guided tour and Esteves Island for a 15-minute visit to appreciate the views and historical significance.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Along the tour, visitors can explore a variety of cultural and historical sites in Puno. The Deustua Arch, built in 1847, honors battle martyrs with its gazebos and fountains. Pino Park blends pre-Hispanic and colonial heritage, home to the San Carlos School. The San Juan Church, established in 1562, houses the Virgin of Candelaria and hosts Peru’s largest February festival. The Main Square, surrounded by historic buildings, features a modern fountain and the 17th-century Cathedral of Puno. These sites offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural and architectural legacy.

| Site | Description |

| — | — |

| Deustua Arch | Monument built in 1847 to honor battle martyrs; includes gazebos and fountains. |

| Pino Park | Historical market site blending pre-Hispanic and colonial heritage; home to San Carlos School. |

| San Juan Church | Built in 1562, houses the Virgin of Candelaria; site of Peru’s largest festival in February. |

| Main Square | Surrounded by historic buildings, featuring a modern fountain and the 17th-century Cathedral of Puno. |

| Jirón Lima | Pedestrian street with restaurants, cafes, and shops; vibrant atmosphere for local products. |

Local Experience

Along With the cultural and historical sites, the city tour provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the local experience of Puno.

Jirón Lima, a lively pedestrian street, offers a vibrant atmosphere with restaurants, cafes, and shops selling local products.

Visitors can engage with the city’s artistic talents and appreciate the blending of pre-Hispanic and colonial heritage.

The tour allows for an authentic culture, enabling travelers to connect with Puno’s unique identity and explore its rich tapestry of traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Carlos Dreyer Museum

Visitors to the Carlos Dreyer Museum can expect to be transported through Puno’s captivating history.

This impressive repository houses over 1,800 artifacts dating from pre-Inca to republican eras. Guests will marvel at the diverse collection, which includes ceramics, textiles, and metalwork, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The 45-minute visit allows ample time to explore the museum’s galleries and gain a deeper understanding of Puno’s remarkable past.

With knowledgeable guides on hand, visitors can uncover the stories behind these priceless treasures, making for an immersive and enlightening experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Puno

Puma Uta Viewpoint

A 15-minute visit to the Puma Uta Viewpoint rewards travelers with panoramic vistas of Puno and the stunning Lake Titicaca. This elevated lookout point offers a bird’s-eye view of the city, showcasing its colorful buildings, bustling streets, and the vast, shimmering lake in the distance. Visitors can admire the natural beauty of the Andes mountains that surround the area, creating a breathtaking backdrop. Take in the sights, snap photos, and appreciate the tranquility of this scenic spot before continuing the city tour.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Elevated viewpoint overlooking Puno and Lake Titicaca |

| Duration | 15-minute visit |

| Highlights | Panoramic views of the city and lake, Andean mountain backdrop |

| Accessibility | Suitable for all visitors |

National University of the Altiplano

The National University of the Altiplano provides a 20-minute guided tour showcasing its impressive artistic works and metal sculptures.

Visitors marvel at the campus’ stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. The tour highlights the university’s dedication to preserving Andean traditions through its art exhibits.

Students proudly display their creations, ranging from intricate weavings to captivating metal sculptures that capture the essence of the region.

The guided experience offers a unique glimpse into the institution’s commitment to fostering artistic expression and celebrating the vibrant cultural tapestry of Puno.

Yavari Ship Naval Museum and Esteves Island

After exploring the impressive art and architecture of the National University of the Altiplano, the tour moves on to the Yavari Ship Naval Museum and the captivating Esteves Island.

Visitors embark on a 40-minute guided tour of the historic Yavari, a ship built in 1862 that has a fascinating history.

Then, it’s off to Esteves Island for a 15-minute visit, where guests can appreciate the island’s stunning views and historical significance.

The tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Puno’s maritime heritage and natural beauty, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

The highlights of this part of the tour include:

Guided tour of the Yavari Ship Naval Museum
15-minute visit to the picturesque Esteves Island
Opportunity to learn about Puno’s maritime history and natural wonders

Things To Know

Can I Book This Tour in Advance Online?

Yes, you can book this tour in advance online. The tour offers a reserve now & pay later option, making it easy to secure your spot before your trip.

What Is the Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a specific age requirement. It’s suitable for all ages, so families with children can join. As long as you’re able to comfortably walk and explore the sites, you’re welcome to participate in this half-day city tour of Puno.

Are There Any Group Discounts Available?

The tour does not appear to offer any group discounts. The price is listed as $31.05 per person, regardless of group size. However, the tour does allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to meet your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the sites visited and duration based on your interests. Just let them know what you’d like to see and experience.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom facilities at the various sites visited, such as the Carlos Dreyer Museum and Yavari Ship Naval Museum. Participants can take breaks as needed throughout the 5-hour excursion to use the restrooms.

Sum Up

The Puno City Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant artistic scene, and captivating maritime history. Whether you’re drawn to the Carlos Dreyer Museum‘s impressive collection or the panoramic views from Puma Uta Viewpoint, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Puno’s vibrant and diverse culture.