Tour to the Chullpas of Sillustani: A Practical Guide to Exploring Peru’s Highland Tombs

If you’re visiting the Puno region and want to experience a window into ancient Peruvian cultures, the Sillustani tour is a solid choice. For just $20 per person, this one-day adventure takes you to the impressive Chullpas, ancient funerary towers built by the Kolla and Inca civilizations. The tour promises scenic lake views of Umayo, the chance to observe local flora and fauna, and a glimpse into traditional highland life through a visit to a local home.

What we love about this experience is how straightforward and accessible it is—an easy half-day trip that packs in historical sights and local flavor. The viewpoints overlooking Puno provide a quick but breathtaking start, and the walk through the archaeological complex allows a closer look at these fascinating stone tombs. Also, the opportunity to see wild pigs, flamingos, and Andean wildlife makes this more than just a history lesson; it’s a chance to connect with the high-altitude environment.

The main consideration? The afternoon timing means you’re only visiting Sillustani in the late afternoon, which might limit your time to explore. Weather can also be unpredictable—rains or floods could alter or delay parts of the itinerary, so flexibility is key.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, culturally enriching experience that’s not too demanding physically, but still offers plenty of authentic sights and local interactions. If you’re short on time but eager to see a significant archaeological site and enjoy stunning landscape views, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

Affordable price provides great value for a cultural and scenic outing.
Includes transportation, entrance fees, and a professional bilingual guide.
Highlights include impressive tombs, panoramic views, and local life.
Timing is flexible within the afternoon window; weather can influence the schedule.
Ideal for those with limited time seeking an authentic experience without strenuous activity.
Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to walking or accessibility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Sillustani Tour: What Travelers Can Expect

The journey begins in the early evening with a hotel pickup around 2 p.m., followed by a roughly 40-minute drive to Sillustani. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views from a designated viewpoint, where the city of Puno unfurls beneath you—an excellent photo opportunity and a gentle introduction to the landscape.

Planning more time in Puno? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The Archaeological Complex of Sillustani

Once you arrive, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes wandering through the archaeological site, exploring the tombs of the Kolla and Inca cultures. These Chullpas, ancient stone towers built to hold the remains of high-status individuals, are often compared to the more famous Nazca Lines for their mystery and cultural significance. We loved the way the massive stone structures seem to rise out of the landscape, with some reaching heights of over 12 meters, and how their round, tapered shapes create a timeless feel amid the highland scenery.

Your guide, who speaks both English and Spanish, will help interpret the site’s history and significance, giving you a taste of the local traditions. During the walk, you’ll notice Waruwaru mounds—artificial earth formations designed to protect crops from frost and flooding—highlighting the ingenuity of ancient farmers.

Wildlife and Nature Observations

If you’re lucky, you’ll spot wild pigs from the Indies—a surprising sight—and flamingos wading in the waters of Lago Umayo. The surrounding flora and fauna add a layer of richness to the visit, offering a glimpse into high-altitude biodiversity. The serene lake in front of the archaeological site, Lago Umayo, provides a peaceful backdrop and is perfect for some reflective photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Visiting a Local Household

On the return trip, a stop at a local home enriches the experience. You’ll see how residents live, taste local foods, and perhaps even take photos with llamas and alpacas—a highlight for many travelers. This human touch makes the trip not just about ancient stones but also about understanding contemporary highland life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practicalities and Tips

The tour wraps up around 6 p.m., but keep in mind that weather conditions, such as rain or floods, could cause schedule adjustments. The tour operator emphasizes that cancellations due to weather are possible, and refunds are only available if the service is canceled entirely.

What to bring? Expect to dress in warm clothing, even if the weather seems clear—high-altitude areas can get chilly quickly. Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen are essential for the bright outdoor exposure. Also, carry water and cash for any personal expenses or tips.

While you're exploring Puno, here are other experiences we've looked into

Analyzing the Experience: Is It Worth It?

At just $20, this tour offers solid value—covering transportation, entrance fees, and expert guidance. Given the short duration and the cost, it’s an accessible way to experience a significant archaeological site without breaking the bank.

Travelers who appreciate history, nature, and local culture tend to enjoy this trip. The guided walk ensures you don’t miss important details, and the scenic views of Lake Umayo add to the appeal. The small group size and informative guides contribute to a personable experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, educational outing.

However, some travelers note that the afternoon timing means less time at the site itself, so those wanting a longer exploration may need to seek additional activities. Also, weather could impact the full experience, so a flexible mindset helps.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers or those with limited time in Puno who want a meaningful cultural and natural experience. It’s perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone eager to see highland wildlife and ancient tombs without a strenuous schedule.

If you’re traveling with family members, especially older children or teens interested in archaeology, it can be both educational and fun. However, not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to walking and accessibility considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire tour runs from around 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., including transportation, sightseeing, and the visit to the local home.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, entrance fees to Sillustani, and a professional guide speaking both Spanish and English.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Personal expenses such as souvenirs or tips are not included. Carry cash if you want to buy local foods or photos with llamas.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations due to weather or other uncontrollable events are possible, with no refund if the service is canceled mid-activity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, the walk and outdoor exposure mean to consider children’s comfort and mobility. Not suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water, and cash. Remember, weather can change quickly at high altitude.

Will I see wildlife?
Yes, with luck you might see wild pigs and flamingos around Lago Umayo, along with other highland animals and plants.

What about accessibility?
The tour involves walking on uneven ground, so it’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

To sum it up, the Sillustani tour offers a practical, culturally enriching experience for those eager to glimpse Peru’s ancient funerary architecture and enjoy scenic lake views at a very accessible price. It’s best suited for curious travelers who don’t mind a bit of outdoor walking and variable weather. With a knowledgeable guide, the opportunity to connect with local life, and striking landscapes, this trip balances history, nature, and local culture beautifully—an excellent choice for a half-day adventure in Puno.