Sillustani: Chullpas De Sillustani Afternoon Half-Day Tour

The Sillustani: Chullpas De Sillustani Afternoon Half-Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization. Visitors can marvel at the impressive chullpas, towering funerary towers, and explore the on-site museum showcasing artifacts from Kolla, Tiahuanaco, and Inca cultures. With breathtaking views of Umayo Lagoon and Lake Titicaca, this tour promises a delightful mix of history and scenic beauty. For those seeking to uncover the architectural wonders and connect with the Quechua and Aymara cultures, this tour is a must-consider.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Inca cemetery of Sillustani, featuring circular stone towers (chullpas) used for funerary remains during a 6-hour afternoon excursion from Puno.
• Visit the on-site museum showcasing artifacts from Kolla, Tiahuanaco, and Inca cultures, and gain insights into the Quechua and Aymara ethnic groups.
• Witness the stunning Umayo Lagoon, known for its reflective waters and vicuña sanctuary, as well as the towering Chullpa del Lagarto, a 12-meter-high Inca-era structure.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake, and capture scenic photography opportunities amidst the natural beauty of the region.
• Benefit from a comprehensive tour experience, including hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, a professional guide, and meals, with a cancellation policy and accessibility considerations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Sillustani Afternoon Half-Day Tour offers a 6-hour excursion from Puno for $45.00 per person.

The Sillustani Afternoon Half-Day Tour offers a 6-hour excursion from Puno for $45.00 per person.

It includes pickup from hotels in the city center, with a meeting point for hotels outside the area.

The tour explores the historic Inca cemetery of Sillustani, featuring circular stone towers up to 12 meters high. Visitors can also visit the site museum and learn about the local Quechua and Aymara cultures.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with large luggage.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Visiting the historic Inca cemetery of Sillustani allows travelers to explore the circular stone towers, known as chullpas, which were used as funerary remains for ancient authorities.

These impressive structures can reach up to 12 meters in height, showcasing the unique architectural designs of the Inca civilization.

Visitors can also explore the on-site museum, which features artifacts from the Kolla, Tiahuanaco, and Inca cultures.

On top of that, the tour provides insights into the Quechua and Aymara ethnic groups that continue to inhabit the Puno region, offering a deeper understanding of the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Scenic Highlights

Although the cultural and historical significance of Sillustani is captivating, the scenic highlights of the tour are equally breathtaking.

The tour takes visitors to the Umayo lagoon, known for its reflective waters and as a sanctuary for vicuñas. The highlight of the site is the Chullpa del Lagarto, the tallest chullpa (funerary tower) built during the Inca era. Towering up to 12 meters high, these impressive stone structures offer a glimpse into the architectural prowess of ancient Andean civilizations.

Throughout the tour, visitors can marvel at the stunning landscape surrounding Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.

Tour Inclusions and Recommendations

The Sillustani Afternoon Half-Day Tour includes pickup from hotels in Puno, transport to the site, entrance fees, a professional guide, and meals.

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather. Due to the nature of the site, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with large luggage.

Visitors are encouraged to bring necessary items but avoid bringing excessive belongings.

With these inclusions and recommendations, the tour provides a comprehensive and comfortable experience exploring the historic Inca cemetery of Sillustani and its captivating cultural heritage.

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Customer Feedback and Reviews

Based on the information provided, the Sillustani Afternoon Half-Day Tour has an overall rating of 5/5 from 6 reviews.

Travelers highlight the tour’s positive attributes:

• Punctuality of the service

• Knowledgeable and engaging guides

• Enriching cultural and historical experiences

• Unique scenic highlights, like the reflective Umayo lagoon

While some concerns were raised about the impact of weather on the tour, the overall feedback suggests the Sillustani tour is a highly recommended way to expand one’s knowledge of Peruvian heritage and the Inca funerary sites.

Exploring the Inca Cemetery at Sillustani

Located just 30 kilometers from Puno, the historic Inca cemetery of Sillustani offers visitors a unique glimpse into the funerary practices of ancient Andean civilizations.

The site is known for its iconic circular stone towers, or chullpas, which were constructed as burial chambers for the remains of ancient authorities. These chullpas can reach up to 12 meters in height, showcasing the impressive architectural skills of the Inca and pre-Inca cultures.

Exploring the site’s museum provides further insight into the artifacts and traditions of the Kolla, Tiahuanaco, and Inca peoples who once inhabited this remarkable location.

Uncovering Architectural Wonders of the Chullpas

Towering up to 12 meters high, the chullpas of Sillustani showcase the remarkable architectural prowess of the Inca and pre-Inca cultures.

These funerary towers feature:

• Unique circular designs with intricate masonry work

• Varying levels of complexity, from simple single-room structures to multi-chambered designs

• Orientation toward astronomical phenomena like the solstices and equinoxes

• Utilization of stone types like andesite and granite, carefully selected for their durability

The sheer scale and precision of the chullpas leave visitors in awe, providing a glimpse into the advanced construction techniques and cosmological understandings of Andean civilizations.

Connecting With the Quechua and Aymara Cultures

As visitors explore the captivating chullpas at Sillustani, they also have the opportunity to connect with the vibrant Quechua and Aymara cultures that have long inhabited the Puno region.

These indigenous groups are known for their rich cultural traditions, including distinctive clothing, language, and artisanal crafts.

Visitors can enjoy this cultural tapestry by interacting with local artisans, observing traditional weaving techniques, and learning about the deep spiritual connection the Quechua and Aymara people maintain with the land.

This cultural exchange enhances the Sillustani experience, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.

Since You Asked

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Sillustani?

The best time to visit Sillustani is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is mild and the site’s ancient chullpas can be fully explored without disruption from heavy rains.

Can I Combine the Sillustani Tour With a Visit to Lake Titicaca?

Yes, the Sillustani tour can be combined with a visit to Lake Titicaca. The tour itinerary includes stops at Umayo lagoon and the surrounding scenic landscapes around the world’s highest navigable lake.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Considerations for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with large luggage. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, as the tour involves some walking around the archaeological site.

Can I Take Photos and Videos at the Sillustani Archaeological Site?

You’re welcome to take photos and videos throughout the Sillustani archaeological site. The tour allows ample time for visitors to capture the remarkable chullpas and scenic landscapes. Just be mindful of any signage regarding restricted areas or activities.

Is There an Option to Visit the Sillustani Site Independently Without a Guided Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore the Sillustani archaeological site independently without a guided tour. However, a tour is recommended to gain insights into the site’s cultural and historical significance from a knowledgeable guide.

The Sum Up

The Sillustani: Chullpas De Sillustani Afternoon Half-Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization. Visitors can marvel at the impressive chullpas, explore the on-site museum, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Umayo Lagoon and Lake Titicaca, all for a reasonable price of $45 per person. This tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in Andean history and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: