Excursion to the chullpas of Sillustani: Mysterious cemetery

Exploration of the Chullpas of Sillustani: A Mysterious Cemetery

A visit to the Chullpas of Sillustani offers a fascinating glimpse into Peru’s distant past, just a short drive north of Puno. For around $25, you can spend about five hours enjoying the mysteries of pre-Inca and Inca burial sites, all with the guidance of a bilingual expert. This tour is ideal if you’re curious about ancient cultures, love scenic views, and want an authentic taste of local life.

What we really appreciated about this experience was how accessible and well-rounded it is. First, the impressive tomb structures, some reaching 12 meters tall, are a visual highlight—shaped like inverted cones, these chullpas are quite unlike anything else. Second, the opportunity to see the hydraulic systems of old cultivation fields and observe the flora and fauna of the area adds layers of insight to the visit.

A potential drawback? The tour does involve a fair bit of walking—about a 40-minute drive, plus some light strolling—so it might not suit travelers with mobility issues. Still, the focus on history, landscape, and local life makes it a rewarding choice for history buffs, culture seekers, or those who simply want a meaningful excursion away from the busy city.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a blend of archaeology, nature, and local culture. If you’re seeking an enriching, affordable outing that opens a window into Peru’s ancient past while enjoying scenic vistas, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Accessible archaeological site with towering chullpas and ancient hydraulic systems
• Affordable at $25, offering good value for a 5-hour guided experience
• Includes local interaction with a stop at a traditional house, enriching the cultural perspective
• Bilingual guides ensure clear explanations in English or Spanish
• Scenic views of Lake Umayo and the surrounding landscape
• Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to walking requirements

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Mysterious Chullpas of Sillustani

When we think of Peru, images of Machu Picchu often come to mind, but just outside Puno lies a lesser-known treasure—the Chullpas of Sillustani. These huge, cone-shaped tombs are remnants of ancient burial practices for the region’s Kolla and Inca elites. Visiting Sillustani combines archaeological intrigue with natural beauty, making it a well-rounded half-day adventure.

How the Tour Unfolds

The journey begins with a hotel pickup around 2:00 p.m., allowing us to comfortably avoid the morning rush and enjoy the cooler part of the day. After a roughly 40-minute drive, we arrive at a viewpoint overlooking Puno—a perfect spot to take in the city’s layout and the expansive Lake Titicaca nearby. This initial stop sets the scene, giving you a sense of the landscape that these ancient people once navigated.

From there, we descend towards the Sillustani archaeological complex, walking along paths that lead us past the towering chullpas. What’s striking here is the size and shape of the tombs—some reach up to 12 meters and have an inverted cone shape, a design believed to symbolize a mountain or a sacred space. Our guide, a bilingual expert, provided clear explanations about their purpose and construction, highlighting their significance for the Kolla and Inca cultures.

The Hydraulic Systems and Old Fields

One of the tour’s unique aspects is the visit to the Waruwaru—advanced pre-Hispanic hydraulic systems that supported cultivation. Observing these ancient irrigation channels reveals how sophisticated their agricultural practices were, despite the limited technology of their time. We loved the way the guide explained how these systems operated, illustrating the ingenuity of early Peruvian civilizations.

Nature and Local Culture

The journey isn’t just about ruins. We also got a chance to observe the flora and fauna around the lake, adding a natural dimension to the experience. Lake Umayo provides a peaceful backdrop, and we saw waterfowl and local plant life that have persisted for centuries.

On the return trip, we made a stop at a local household, where we learned about daily life and customs of the people living in this high-altitude region. This authentic interaction is often the highlight for travelers craving a connection beyond the archaeological sites.

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What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a professional bilingual guide—all bundled into the $25 price. The guide’s insights added depth and context, helping us understand the significance of everything we saw. Since extra expenses aren’t included, it’s wise to bring some cash for tips or souvenirs.

Remember to bring your passport or ID, as it’s necessary for entry, and wear comfortable shoes for walking. The tour happens during sunny weather, so sun protection and hydration are recommended.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re interested in Peru’s lesser-known archaeological sites and want to escape the crowds. The combination of ancient tombs, hydraulic systems, and local culture makes it a well-balanced experience. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about pre-Inca civilizations or enjoy scenic, tranquil landscapes.

If you’re a history enthusiast, the imposing chullpas alone will make this worth your while. For nature lovers, the views over Lake Umayo and the chance to see local flora and fauna are added bonuses. However, if you’re mobility-challenged or prefer indoor attractions, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Sillustani tour offers an accessible, reasonably priced window into ancient Peruvian civilization with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. It balances archaeological marvels with natural beauty and local authenticity, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

The experience’s highlight is the imposing, cone-shaped tombs that evoke a sense of mystery and wonder—this is a place where history feels tangible. The visit to the hydraulic systems and the local house adds richness, making the trip more than just a stroll among ruins.

While it’s not the longest or most intense tour, it delivers a satisfying glimpse into Peru’s past—perfect for history buffs, culture explorers, or anyone seeking a meaningful escape from city life. It’s a solid choice for those who want to combine history, nature, and local life in a single, affordable outing.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and the local visit.

What is the starting time?
Tours typically start around 2:00 p.m., but it’s best to check availability for specific days.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from your hotel and a return trip after the visit.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the entrance to the archaeological complex is included in the price.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but since there’s walking involved, younger children should be able to handle some light trekking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This Sillustani tour provides a balanced mix of archaeology, culture, and scenery, making it a worthwhile option to deepen your understanding of Peru’s ancient civilizations while enjoying a peaceful, scenic landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby