Excursion to the Chullpas of Sillustani

Exploring the Chullpas of Sillustani: A Practical and Authentic Peru Experience

If you’re visiting the Cusco region of Peru and craving a look beyond Machu Picchu or Cusco’s own sights, a trip to Sillustani offers a fascinating glimpse into the funerary practices of ancient civilizations on the Altiplano. This $45 per person excursion, lasting about four hours in the late afternoon, takes you to one of the world’s largest necropolises, located just over 30 kilometers north of Puno. Your guide — a bilingual expert, often named Carlos or Ana — will lead you through history, architecture, and breathtaking scenery. Expect to see over 30 gigantic stone towers, some towering over 12 meters, standing as silent testaments to the ingenuity of the Colla and Inca cultures.

What we especially appreciated about this tour is how it balances history with scenery. First, the landscape around the Umayo Lagoon is truly stunning — quiet waters reflecting a clear sky, mountains in the background, and a sense of tranquility that complements the ancient stones. Second, the architecture of the chullpas themselves, with their large diameters and gravity-defying heights, makes for extraordinary photo opportunities and sparks curiosity about their construction. One highlight from traveler reviews is how these towers resemble the Temple of the Sun in Cusco, providing a tangible link to broader Andean architecture.

One potential drawback is the timing — beginning around 2:00 p.m., the tour falls in the late afternoon, which might limit time for exploration or additional activities in Puno. Also, there’s a modest entry fee of 20 soles to access the site, and food isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan accordingly if you’re hungry or looking for a full-day experience. That said, for those with limited time or a keen interest in ancient cultures, this tour offers a focused and rewarding visit.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate history, archaeology, and scenic landscapes without the hassle of long travel days. It’s ideal if you want a glimpse of Peru’s pre-Incan and Incan past, combined with a beautiful outdoor setting. Also, if you enjoy guided tours that provide context and storytelling, this trip from Cusco or Puno fits the bill well.

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Key Points

• Historic significance: Sillustani is one of the largest necropolises in the world, with impressive stone towers built by the Colla and Inca cultures.
• Architectural marvels: The chullpas are over 12 meters tall, defying gravity and engineering expectations.
• Scenic surroundings: The tour features stunning views of the Umayo Lagoon and surrounding mountains, perfect for photography.
• Expert guides: Bilingual guides help you understand the historical context behind these ancient structures.
• Value for money: At $45, it offers a concise, well-organized cultural experience.
• Limited time: The late afternoon schedule may restrict exploration, so plan your day accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Sillustani Tour

The Journey to Sillustani

Starting with a hotel pickup in Cusco, your transport is a round-trip journey designed to maximize comfort and convenience. The bus or van is typically spacious enough for small groups, ensuring you don’t feel lost in a crowd. As you drive north, the scenery shifts from the bustling streets of Cusco to open plains and mountain vistas, giving you a sense of the high-altitude landscape that defines this part of Peru.

Arrival at the Necropolis

Once at Sillustani, you’ll step onto a plateau that offers sweeping views of the Umayo Lagoon. The site itself is compact but packed with architectural marvels. Your guide, who may be a local expert or historian, will introduce you to the site’s significance, explaining how the Chullpas served as tombs for the noble Collas and Incas. They resemble circular stone towers, some with larger diameters at the top than at the bottom, a feature that continues to puzzle and fascinate visitors.

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Architectural Highlights

Many of the towers stretch over 12 meters high, a feat of construction and design that makes them stand out on the continent. Their construction involves precise stonework, with some towers built as funerary mausoleums for the elite, showcasing the importance of ancestral reverence. The larger-than-at-base shape adds to their visual appeal, prompting questions about how ancient builders achieved such balance without modern technology.

The Cultural Context

Your guide will likely share stories about the Colla people, who inhabited the region before the Incas, and how the site later became a significant Inca burial ground. The similarity in architectural features to the Temple of the Sun in Cusco offers insight into shared cultural symbols and religious beliefs.

Time for Photos and Reflection

The late afternoon light makes for excellent photos of the towers and lagoon. Many travelers comment on how peaceful and timeless the setting feels. Some reviews mention the site’s tranquility, offering a stark contrast to the busier tourist spots elsewhere.

Additional Expenses and Tips

Remember, you’ll need to pay an entry fee of 20 soles to access the site, which is not included in the tour price. Pack water, sunscreen, and perhaps a light snack, as food isn’t included. The tour ends around 6:00 p.m., so it’s a short but impactful visit, perfect for those wanting a taste of pre-Incan history without a lengthy commitment.

Why You Might Choose This Tour

If you’re interested in archaeology and want to see something different from the crowds at Machu Picchu, Sillustani is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy scenic drives, historical storytelling, and capturing striking landscape photos. The compact schedule makes it suitable for travelers with limited time or those combining several excursions in the region.

What Some Travelers Say

One reviewer noted, “The towers are incredible, and the landscape is just stunning — peaceful, open, and full of history.” Others appreciated the bilingual guide, who helped clarify the significance of each tower and culture, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This excursion is ideal for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts who wish to explore Peru’s ancient past beyond the more famous sites. It suits travelers who prefer shorter trips that offer deep insights into local traditions and architecture, paired with beautiful scenery. If your trip to Peru includes Puno or Cusco, this tour offers a compelling blend of history and nature, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing yet enriching afternoon activity.

For those craving adventure with a cultural twist, or simply wanting a break from the hustle of urban travel, Sillustani’s quiet, majestic towers promise a memorable experience that’s both educational and visually stunning.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco, making it easy to focus on the experience without worrying about planning the drive.

How long does the tour last?
The excursion runs from approximately 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., giving you about four hours to explore the site and enjoy the scenery.

Do I need to pay extra to enter Sillustani?
Yes, there is an entry fee of 20 soles (about $5-6), which is paid on-site and not included in the tour price.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food isn’t included, so consider bringing water or snacks if you think you might get hungry after the tour.

What language are guides available in?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, ensuring most travelers can comfortably follow the explanations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The site involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs to some towers, so it may be best suited for active children or adults in good health, but always check with your guide for specific needs.

This tour to the Chullpas of Sillustani is a quietly striking experience that combines history, architecture, and natural beauty. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a meaningful, manageable excursion that deepens their understanding of Peru’s diverse past and leaves memorable images behind.

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