What exactly are chullpas?

Chullpas are pre-Incan stone funerary towers built by Aymara and Quechua peoples, typically 2–12 metres tall, where families buried multiple generations. The size and decorative stonework often reflected social status.

How many tombs or chullpas will I see?

Sillustani contains dozens of visible chullpas, ranging from fully restored examples to partial ruins. The cemetery once held remains of over 4,000 individuals across its main and secondary burial areas.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

The site involves walking on uneven, gravel terrain across open ground with limited resting spots. Wheelchair access is not practical; those with mobility concerns should confirm accessibility expectations with the operator beforehand.

Do I need altitude acclimatisation?

Yes. Sillustani sits at approximately 3,800m elevation. If you're arriving from lower elevations or have altitude sensitivity, spend at least one night in Puno (3,855m) before the tour and stay hydrated.

Can this tour be combined with my airport transfer to Juliaca?

Yes—the tour is strategically timed to fit the route between Puno and Juliaca airport. Confirm with the operator that you need a transfer connection when booking.

How long is the actual tour and what's included?

The tour is 3 hours total, including transport from Puno and guided interpretation at the site. Entry to Sillustani, a guide, and transport are typically included; lunch and personal equipment are not.

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Tour to Sillustani Pre Inca Tombs

(5)

Puno, Peru

Cultural ToursBus & Minivan Tours

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About this activity

Explore Sillustani, Peru's most significant pre-Inca burial site, where ancient stone chullpas (funerary towers) rise dramatically against the backdrop of a glacial lake near Puno. This 3-hour excursion reveals how the Aymara and Quechua civilizations honoured their dead, with over 4,000 individuals interred across this haunting archaeological landscape.

Discover the wonders of Puno visiting the mysterious funerary towers, or also known as Chullpas of Sillustani. Surrounded by funerary towers and a beautiful lake, Sillustani is the most important pre-Inca cemetery in Peru, where they buried more than 4 thousand people.

If at the end of your visit to Puno, you did not have time to know this fantastic site, you can do it by taking advantage of the way to the airport of Juliaca.

Highlights

✓Walk among dozens of restored and partially-intact stone chullpas dating back 500+ years
✓Learn about pre-Incan burial practices and social hierarchy through tower architecture and size
✓Panoramic views of Lake Umayo and the high-altitude Andean plateau
✓Guided interpretation of construction techniques and cultural significance
✓Convenient timing for airport transfers to Juliaca

Insider tips

★Arrive early or late afternoon for softer light and fewer tour groups; the site can feel crowded mid-day
★Bring sun protection and a windbreaker—the exposed plateau offers no shade and afternoon winds pick up
★Ask your guide to point out the intact royal chullpas versus commoner burials; the height and stonework differences tell a clear story

Good to know

•Elevation is approximately 3,800m; allow time to acclimatise if arriving directly from lower altitudes
•Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip; terrain includes gravel paths and uneven stone
•Tour includes transport from Puno; confirm pick-up location and time with operator the day before
•Site is largely open-air with minimal shelter; bring water and snacks

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiastsCultural travellers interested in pre-Columbian civilisationsPhotographers seeking dramatic landscapes and UNESCO-grade monumentsVisitors with limited time in Puno or connecting through Juliaca airport

Best time to visit

Visit May–September (dry season) for clear skies and stable weather. Early morning (6–8am) or late afternoon (3–5pm) minimises crowds and provides the best photography light across the towers and lake.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Will N.

May 2026

our guide Omar was nice enough, but a stop the guide added on the fly felt a bit rushed honestly, and would only really suit you if youre not fussy, came away with 200+ photos.

Lucy J.

Apr 2026

the bit at the end nobody expects ok but rushed, would only really suit you if youre not fussy, 6 stops in about 3 hours, no joke

Hugo A.

Jan 2026

loved it — guide Samir top notch, blew our Cancun one out of the water

Ruth H.

Dec 2025

loved it — guide Raj top notch, on a rainy sunday

Olivia A.

Oct 2025

our guide Raj really knew their stuff and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight, and handy if youre short on time, and came away with 200+ photos.

from€24.25€24.21/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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