Sillustani: Pre-Inca Cemetery

Sillustani, a remarkable pre-Inca cemetery near Puno, Peru, captivates visitors with its towering funerary towers and hydraulic engineering marvels. These chullpas, standing up to 12 meters tall, served as the final resting places for the elite, showcasing the advanced burial practices of the region’s historical inhabitants. Beneath the surface, the Waruwaru system demonstrates the ingenuity of ancient civilizations in water management, leaving observers eager to uncover more about this intriguing archaeological site.

Good To Know

• Sillustani is a pre-Inca necropolis featuring funerary towers called chullpas, some reaching up to 12 meters in height.
• The necropolis offers insights into the burial practices and cultural heritage of past inhabitants of the region.
• Sillustani includes the Waruwaru, a pre-Hispanic hydraulic system showcasing advanced engineering in water management.
• Visiting Sillustani is accessible to a wide range of visitors due to its affordable pricing and flexible booking policies.
• The guided tour at Sillustani provides an opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of the necropolis.

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Overview of Sillustani

Sillustani is one of the largest necropolises globally, situated in a stunning landscape with historical significance. This pre-Inca cemetery dates back centuries, showcasing the engineering prowess of ancient civilizations.

The site features funerary towers called chullpas, some reaching up to 12 meters in height and built in an inverted cone shape. Visitors can also explore the Waruwaru, a pre-Hispanic hydraulic system, and appreciate the diverse flora, fauna, and the picturesque Umayo lagoon.

Sillustani offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and burial practices of the region’s past inhabitants.

Pricing and Booking

Visiting Sillustani comes at a price of $69.00 per person.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible booking policy allows visitors to plan their trip without upfront payment, accommodating any changes in their travel plans.

Visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, with the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The pre-Inca cemetery is a must-see destination, and the affordable pricing and convenient booking options make it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Sillustani offers an opportunity to explore a remarkable archaeological site.

Tour Details

A live tour guide is available to accompany visitors in both Spanish and English during the Sillustani excursion.

The tour departs from hotels in Puno around 2 pm, with a travel time of approximately 40 minutes to reach the pre-Inca cemetery.

Upon arrival, visitors will have the opportunity to observe the stunning landscape and the city of Puno from a designated viewpoint.

The guided tour ensures that guests can fully enjoy the rich history and cultural significance of the Sillustani necropolis, a true highlight of the Puno region.

Exploring the Funerary Tombs

Upon entering the pre-Inca cemetery, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the towering funerary tombs that dot the landscape. These unique structures, known as chullpas, stand up to 12 meters high and feature an inverted cone shape. Exploring the chullpas provides a glimpse into the burial practices of the Inca and pre-Inca cultures. Some key features of the funerary tombs include:

| Characteristic | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | Built with stone blocks and mortar |

| Orientation | Facing outward from the center of the necropolis |

| Interment | Housed the remains of important individuals |

| Symbolism | Represented the social status and power of the deceased |

| Preservation | Many chullpas have survived the passage of time remarkably well |

Visitors can wander among these impressive monuments, marveling at the engineering and artistry of the ancient civilizations.

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Chullpas: Unique Architectural Features

Although the chullpas at Sillustani are immediately eye-catching, their unique architectural features warrant closer inspection.

These funerary towers, some reaching up to 12 meters in height, are constructed in an inverted cone shape. This distinctive design is believed to symbolize the Inca’s reverence for the natural world and their cosmological beliefs.

Interestingly, the chullpas weren’t merely tombs but also served as a means of preserving the remains of the deceased, who were placed within the structures.

The chullpas were not just tombs, but also served to preserve the remains of the deceased within their structures.

Visitors can marvel at the impressive craftsmanship and cultural significance of these remarkable pre-Inca structures.

The Waruwaru: Pre-Hispanic Hydraulic System

One of the most intriguing features of the Sillustani site is the Waruwaru, a pre-Hispanic hydraulic system that has captured the fascination of visitors and historians alike. This ancient engineering marvel was designed to harvest, distribute, and store water, showcasing the advanced knowledge of the region’s inhabitants. The Waruwaru comprises a series of interconnected canals, reservoirs, and aqueducts, all constructed with precision and efficiency. The system’s functionality and longevity are a testament to the ingenuity of the pre-Inca civilizations that once thrived in this remarkable landscape.

| Feature | Description | Significance |

| — | — | — |

| Canals | Intricate network of channels | Efficient water distribution |

| Reservoirs | Strategically placed storage areas | Reliable water supply |

| Aqueducts | Elevated structures for water transport | Overcoming topographical challenges |

| Construction | Meticulously engineered | Advanced pre-Hispanic engineering |

Appreciating the Natural Surroundings

Beyond the captivating tombs and hydraulic marvels, Sillustani offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural splendor of the region.

The site’s lush flora and fauna create a serene ambiance, with vibrant wildflowers and diverse bird species dotting the landscape.

The nearby Umayo Lagoon is a tranquil oasis, its mirrored surface reflecting the chullpas and surrounding mountains.

Visitors can appreciate the harmony between the site’s archaeological wonders and its natural beauty, creating a truly captivating experience.

This picturesque setting further enhances the majesty of the Sillustani necropolis.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The tour package includes the services of an official tour guide, entrance ticket, and transportation to and from the site.

Attractions not mentioned in the itinerary are excluded from the package. Visitors can also opt to purchase gifts and souvenirs or provide tips for the service.

Snacks and drinks are provided during the tour. While the inclusions cover the essential elements, anything not explicitly stated, such as additional meals or activities, isn’t part of the package.

Travelers should familiarize themselves with the details to ensure the tour aligns with their expectations and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Take Photos Inside the Funerary Tombs?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the funerary tombs at Sillustani, provided they follow the tour guide’s instructions and avoid disrupting the site’s preservation. However, flash photography may be restricted to protect the ancient structures.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the Sillustani tour. Visitors can wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Avoiding overly casual or revealing attire is recommended to maintain a respectful atmosphere during the visit to the historical site.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Sillustani tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, and children are welcome to join. Participants can enjoy the historical site and its stunning landscape regardless of their age.

Can We Explore the Site Independently Without a Guide?

Visitors can explore the Sillustani site independently without a guide, but it’s recommended to join a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance and insights provided by the expert guide.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Sillustani?

The best time to visit Sillustani is in the afternoon, as the tour starts around 2 PM and allows visitors to explore the site during the golden hour with stunning views of the Umayo lagoon.

The Sum Up

Sillustani is a remarkable pre-Inca cemetery that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of ancient civilizations in Peru. The site’s impressive funerary towers, known as chullpas, and its advanced pre-Hispanic hydraulic system, the Waruwaru, provide valuable insights into the ingenuity and burial practices of its historical inhabitants. Visiting Sillustani allows travelers to appreciate the site’s natural surroundings and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s captivating past.

You can check availability for your dates here: