Excursion to Sillustani

Discover the Mysteries of Sillustani: An Authentic Puno Experience

If you’re in Puno and eager to explore beyond Lake Titicaca, the Excursion to Sillustani offers a compelling mix of archaeology, natural beauty, and local history for just $40 per person. With a 4-hour itinerary, this tour takes you northwest from Puno, where you’ll visit the extraordinary funerary towers (chullpas), learn about the Colla culture, and take in panoramic views of the Umayo lagoon. Guided by friendly English-speaking guides, you’re transported in a comfortable minibus, making this a convenient and engaging half-day activity.

What we love about this tour is how it combines fascinating archaeological ruins with stunning high-altitude landscapes. The towering chullpas themselves are a marvel—many seem to defy gravity, with their larger diameters at the top, some stretching over 12 meters high. Plus, the Umayo lagoon provides a peaceful backdrop, with reflective waters against the backdrop of ancient stonework. The guide’s storytelling about the funerary rites of the Colla culture adds depth and context, transforming a simple sightseeing outing into a meaningful cultural experience.

One consideration is the 45-minute drive from Puno, which might feel long for some, especially if you prefer activities with more varied stops. Also, since the tour ends around 5:30 p.m., it’s best suited for those with flexible schedules or on a tight itinerary, as it offers a focused but scenic glimpse into the region’s past.

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and local culture, particularly those who enjoy walking around ancient sites and soaking in scenic vistas. It’s also a good choice for visitors who prefer a guided experience that simplifies logistics and enhances understanding.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-organized: At $40, it offers good value for a 4-hour guided tour.
• Cultural insight: Learn about the Colla culture and their funerary practices.
• Photogenic scenery: Marvel at the funerary towers and Umayo lagoon.
• Comfortable transport: Minibus pickup and drop-off at your Puno hotel.
• Limited duration: Focused visit, perfect for those on a tight schedule.
• Language options: Tours available in English and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Sillustani Tour Experience

The Journey from Puno to Sillustani

Starting with hotel pickup between 1:45 p.m. and 2:15 p.m., the journey to Sillustani lasts roughly 45 minutes. This drive through high-altitude plains offers a glimpse of the rural Peruvian landscape—potato fields, llamas grazing, and local villages dotting the route. The change in scenery is subtle but gives you a sense of leaving behind the bustling city of Puno for a quieter, more contemplative environment.

While the drive isn’t the main attraction, it’s a good opportunity to chat with your guide, learn about the region, or simply enjoy the anticipation of exploring an ancient site.

Exploring Sillustani: The Funerary Towers

Once you arrive, your first impression will be the magnificent chullpas—stone towers built by the Colla culture. We loved the way these structures seem to reach toward the sky, with their irregular shapes and enormous size. Many of the towers are over 12 meters tall, and their larger diameters at the top create a surprisingly gravity-defying appearance.

Your guide will take you around the site, explaining the funerary rites that involved placing important individuals inside these towers, and sometimes, including offerings. You might find it fascinating that these structures date back to pre-Inca times, offering a glimpse into a culture that thrived centuries before the Inca empire.

The Significance of the Colla Culture

Our guide, Juan, shared stories about the Colla culture, highlighting their funeral traditions and their relationship with the landscape. We learned that the chullpas were more than mere tombs—they were symbols of social status and spiritual beliefs. The fact that many towers were built with larger diameters at the top seems to symbolize something about the spiritual ascent or importance of the buried.

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Panoramic Views of Umayo Lagoon

From the hilltop where the chullpas stand, you’ll get sweeping views of Umayo lagoon, a sacred highland lake that reflects the sky and mountains. Travelers have mentioned how peaceful and inspiring the scenery is, making it a perfect spot for photos or quiet reflection. The lagoon’s tranquil waters contrast beautifully with the ancient, weathered stones, creating a scene that sticks with you long after the tour.

What to Expect During the Visit

The entire site visit lasts around two hours, giving enough time to walk around, snap photos, and listen to your guide’s insights. The terrain is mostly flat but can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are advisable. The altitude—almost 4,000 meters above sea level—means you might feel a bit breathless initially, so take it slow and stay hydrated.

Returning to Puno

After the exploration, you’ll hop back into the minibus for the return trip, arriving back in Puno around 5:30 p.m. This timing makes it a great option for those looking to incorporate other activities later in the evening or arrive in Puno with time to relax.

How Does the Tour Deliver Value?

For $40, this tour offers a compact, well-guided experience that combines history, scenic views, and cultural insights. Many travelers find the storytelling about the funerary towers enriching—knowing about the Colla culture’s beliefs and practices adds layers of meaning to the visit.

The transportation is straightforward, with hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of navigating independently. The guides are bilingual, which enhances the experience for English-speaking visitors, and the small group size tends to foster a more personal atmosphere.

However, as some reviews imply, the drive might feel somewhat lengthy if you prefer more active or varied stops along the way. Also, the limited duration means you won’t have time for an in-depth archaeological tour or additional sightseeing, but for a focused peek into a unique site, it hits the mark.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This excursion suits travelers who are interested in archaeology and ancient cultures but might not want a full-day commitment. If you enjoy scenic viewpoints and appreciate a relaxed pace, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially good for those who want the convenience of hotel pickup and a guided narrative that makes the history come alive.

It’s also an excellent option if you’re pressed for time but want a meaningful cultural experience outside Puno’s city center. The tour’s focus on prehistoric funerary structures makes it a unique alternative to typical city sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including pickup, travel, site exploration, and return.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup occurs between 1:45 p.m. and 2:15 p.m., so check availability for specific times on your preferred date.

Is transportation included?
Yes, minibus transportation is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides are available in English and Spanish.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but be aware of the high-altitude environment and uneven terrain on site.

How fit do I need to be?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as you’ll walk around the site and might experience some breathlessness due to altitude.

Do I need special clothing?
Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are advisable, especially since high-altitude weather can change quickly.

Will I get enough time to take photos?
Absolutely. The site’s scenic views and towering chullpas make for excellent photo opportunities.

In the end, the Sillustani excursion offers a chance to connect with Peru’s ancient past in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s particularly appealing to those intrigued by funerary architecture and eager to see a different side of the Puno region—one filled with stone towers and tranquil lagoons. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about local cultures, this tour provides a meaningful, affordable glimpse into the rites and rituals of long-gone civilizations, all wrapped in stunning highland scenery.

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