Full Day Tour to Tinajani, Lampa and Pukara from Puno
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11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Want to see the real Peru beyond the lake? This trip takes you off the tourist track. You'll start in Lampa, the "Pink City," where you'll wander cobblestone streets and step inside a stone church hiding a replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta and eerie catacombs.
Next, you’ll head to the Pukara Lithic Museum. You’ll get up close to ancient monoliths and zoomorphic pottery that tell stories older than the Incas.
The day ends at Tinajani Canyon. Picture towering red rock spires and narrow corridors that look like a stone forest. It’s a peaceful, otherworldly spot perfect for photos. You’ll get history, art, and nature all in one go. No crowds, just cool vibes and great sights. Bring your walking shoes
Available options
Full Day Tour to Tinajani, Lampa and Pukara from Puno
Pickup included
What's included
Traditional Lamb Meal
Driver/guide
Transport by private vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off (select hotels only)
Detailed itinerary
1
The first stop is Lampa, known as the "Pink City" for its distinctive pink stone streets and colonial walls. The main attraction here is the Santiago Apostol Church—step inside and you'll find a Renaissance-style interior built entirely of stone. Among its treasures is a replica of Michelangelo's Pieta carved from Carrara marble, one of the few in the world. Below the church, the catacombs hold centuries-old bone arrangements that add an unexpectedly eerie layer to an otherwise artistic and historical visit.
2
From Lampa, the route continues to the Pukara Lithic Museum, where one of the oldest Andean civilizations comes into focus. Inside this modern building, stone monoliths and carved zoomorphic sculptures line the halls alongside intricate ceramics—including the famous "Pukara Toritos," a symbol of prosperity still crafted by local artisans today. The collection traces the rituals and daily life of a people who thrived here long before the Incas, and the detail in the carvings makes for some excellent photos
3
You’ll make a delicious pit stop in the town of Ayaviri, a place known for its rich culinary traditions. Here, you’ll sit down at a local restaurant to try Kankacho, the regional specialty. This dish features roast lamb, slow-cooked to perfection with tender meat and crispy skin. It’s typically served with sides of chuño (freeze-dried potatoes), and boiled potatoes. It’s a hearty, authentic meal that gives you a real taste of the Altiplano. You’ll spend about 1 hour enjoying the food and the lively local atmosphere.
4
The final stop is the stunning Tinajani Canyon. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet as you walk among towering red rock formations carved by wind and time. These sandstone structures create narrow, maze-like corridors and towering pillars that resemble a stone forest. It’s a peaceful spot to hike, climb the rocks for a vantage point, and simply enjoy the silence of the high Andes. The colors shift beautifully with the sunlight, making it a photographer’s dream. You’ll have about 1 hour to explore the trails and marvel at this surreal landscape.
What's not included
Breakfast, Dinner
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Important notes
• Not recommended for pregnant women
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
About Puno
Puno is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and stunning natural beauty, Puno is a must-visit destination for those exploring Peru's cultural heartland. The city is the gateway to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island, offering unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
Top Attractions
Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is the world's highest navigable lake and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and unique islands like the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island.
Nature
Full day
Budget to Moderate (Boat tours range from 50-150 PEN)
Sillustani
Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.
Historical
Half day
Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)
Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is the heart of Puno, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, churches, and vibrant local life. It's a great place to relax and soak in the city's atmosphere.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Cathedral of Puno
The Cathedral of Puno is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Plaza de Armas. It features a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture and houses several religious artifacts.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Puno Museum of Art and Culture
This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Puno region, featuring artifacts, textiles, and art from the Aymara and Quechua cultures, as well as pre-Inca and Inca civilizations.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Trucha a la Plancha (Grilled Trout)
Fresh trout from Lake Titicaca, grilled and served with local potatoes and vegetables. A must-try for seafood lovers.
Main Course
Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.
Chairo
A hearty soup made with lamb, potatoes, corn, and quinoa, flavored with local herbs and spices. A traditional dish of the Puno region.
Soup
Contains meat and gluten.
Sopa de Quinoa (Quinoa Soup)
A nutritious and flavorful soup made with quinoa, vegetables, and sometimes meat. A staple in the Andean diet.
Soup
Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat.
Pique a la Puneña
A spicy and flavorful dish made with diced beef, potatoes, onions, and aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper). A popular appetizer in Puno.
Appetizer
Contains meat and gluten.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Cultural tours
Lakefront walks
Spa treatments
Coffee shop visits
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
May to October (Dry Season)
This is the best time to visit Puno as the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the attractions. The temperatures are cool but comfortable.
5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
41°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Aymara, Quechua, English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Puno is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable taxi services or apps to avoid scams.
- • Be cautious with street food and drink only bottled or purified water.
Getting there
By air
- Puno International Airport (JUL) • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center
By train
Puno Station
By bus
Puno Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Puno. They cover most of the city and surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Alto de la Alameda
El Mirador
Day trips
Uros Floating Islands
1-2 hours by boat • Half day to full day
The Uros Floating Islands are a unique attraction in Lake Titicaca, made entirely of totora reeds by the Uros people. Visitors can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.
Taquile Island
3-4 hours by boat • Full day to overnight
Taquile Island is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional textiles, and unique culture. The island is home to a close-knit community that preserves its ancient customs and way of life.
Sillustani
35 km (22 miles) from Puno • Half day
Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.
Festivals
Festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria • February
Puno Week • November 5-12
Carnaval de Puno • February or March (depending on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Acclimate to the high altitude by taking it easy for the first day or two.
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season and festivals.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures throughout the day.
- Try local dishes and support local businesses to get an authentic experience.
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per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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