This tour follows the Aymara Route through Puno's southern highlands, connecting ancient sites with colonial landmarks along Lake Titicaca's shore.
Your first stop is Inca Uyo in Chucuito, an Incan fertility temple marked by dozens of stone phallus sculptures arranged in a ceremonial courtyard. From there, you'll head to the Chullpas de Molloco—circular stone towers that once served as above-ground tombs for the pre-Incan elite.
You'll also visit the Waru Warus, raised agricultural platforms that reveal how ancient communities managed farming in harsh, frost-prone conditions. At Aramu Muru, you'll find a carved doorway in solid rock—locals call it the "Gate of the Gods" and believe it holds energetic significance.
The tour continues to Juli, once known as "Little Rome of the Americas" for its concentration of colonial churches. You'll visit its Main Church, an impressive example of Andean Baroque architecture. Afterward, there's time to walk along Juli's small sandy beach. Join now!
Pickup included
In Chucuito, you'll explore the Temple of Fertility (Inca Uyo), an Incan ceremonial site featuring dozens of carved stone phalluses arranged in a walled courtyard—their original purpose is still debated, though fertility rituals are the most common theory.
At the main square, you'll see a 1610 alabaster sundial, still standing from the colonial period. The town centers around two plazas, both lined with 17th-century churches that show the layers of Chucuito's colonial past.
The stop combines Incan and Spanish colonial architecture against the backdrop of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding highlands.
At Molloco, you'll visit a group of chullpas—pre-Incan burial towers that rise up to 7 meters above the altiplano. These cylindrical stone structures were built to house the remains of nobility and community leaders, their bodies placed in a fetal position facing east.
The towers show the stonework techniques used before the Inca empire, with some still bearing traces of the original mortar. Walking through the site, you'll see how these communities approached death and ancestor veneration—the towers were designed to keep the deceased visible and present in daily life, rather than hidden underground.
The site offers a perspective on burial practices that predate the more widely known Incan traditions.
Aramu Muru is a doorway carved into a rock face in the high desert near Lake Titicaca. Locals call it the "Gate of the Gods" and have stories about its origins—the most popular tells of an Incan priest named Aramu Muru who supposedly fled here during the Spanish conquest with a golden disk, placed it in the carving, and disappeared through the stone.
The site draws visitors interested in its energetic qualities. Many come to meditate at the doorway or place their hands on the carved stone. The surrounding area has naturally eroded rock formations that, depending on the angle, can look like faces or animals.
Whether you're drawn to the legend or just curious about the geology and local beliefs, the site offers a different kind of stop—one that blends pre-Columbian stories with the stark landscape of the altiplano.
At the Waru Waru Camellones, you'll see a pre-Columbian agricultural system still visible across the altiplano. The raised earthen platforms are separated by water channels that served three purposes: the water absorbed heat during the day and released it at night to prevent frost damage, the channels provided irrigation during dry periods, and the nutrient-rich sediment from the water improved soil quality.
This farming technique allowed communities to cultivate potatoes, quinoa, and other crops at nearly 4,000 meters above sea level, where temperatures can drop below freezing even during growing season. Some of these field systems are hundreds of years old.
Agricultural researchers have studied the Waru Waru to understand how raised-bed farming can work in frost-prone regions, and a few communities have revived the technique in recent decades.
In Juli, you'll visit the Plaza de Armas and the Main Church, which dominates one side of the square. The town earned the nickname "Little Rome of the Andes" in colonial times for its concentration of Catholic churches—Jesuits established Juli as a regional religious center in the 16th century.
The Main Church's stone facade shows the Andean Baroque style that developed here: European architectural forms mixed with indigenous stoneworking traditions. The bell towers and carved entrance are among the best-preserved examples from this period in the Lake Titicaca region.
After the plaza, you'll stop at Juli's beach, one of the few sandy stretches along the lake's shore. Most of the shoreline is rocky or reed-covered, so this spot is unusual. You'll have time to walk along the sand and look out over the water before returning back
Meeting point is at the steps of the Cathedral in the frontdoor
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fresh trout from Lake Titicaca, grilled and served with local potatoes and vegetables. A must-try for seafood lovers.
A hearty soup made with lamb, potatoes, corn, and quinoa, flavored with local herbs and spices. A traditional dish of the Puno region.
A nutritious and flavorful soup made with quinoa, vegetables, and sometimes meat. A staple in the Andean diet.
A spicy and flavorful dish made with diced beef, potatoes, onions, and aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper). A popular appetizer in Puno.
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.
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
GMT-5
220VV, 50HzHz
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.
Puno Station
Puno Bus Terminal
Public buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Puno. They cover most of the city and surrounding areas.
Available • Apps: Beat, Local taxi apps
Car, Bike, Scooter
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 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 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.
Price varies by option