Uncovering the Secrets of the Altiplano
Immerse yourself in the archaeological and spiritual heritage of the Lake Titicaca region. This 100% private, full-day Sillustani and Chucuito expedition from Puno bridges the gap between pre-Incan megalithic engineering and ancient Aymara and Incan agricultural and fertility rites.
Your journey begins at the peninsula of Sillustani, perched above the waters of Lake Umayo. Here, you will marvel at the Chullpas—monumental cylindrical stone funerary towers built by the Kolla nobility and later perfected by the Incas. After an intimate visit to a traditional Altiplano family home, return to Puno for lunch before driving south along the lakeshore to the colonial town of Chucuito, home to the enigmatic Inca Uyo (Temple of Fertility). Combine this land expedition with our Private Uros & Taquile Islands Navigation, our 2-Day Taquile Island Retreat, or experience Puno as part of our 12-Day Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca & Machu Picchu Package and 15-Day Ultimate Peru Grand Tour.
Expedition Highlights
The Chullpas of Sillustani
Marvel at the imposing pre-Inca and Inca funerary towers constructed from fitted volcanic stones, dramatically set above Lake Umayo.
Inca Uyo (Temple of Fertility)
Explore the archaeological enclosure in Chucuito, featuring carved stone monoliths and colonial plazas overlooking Lake Titicaca.
Altiplano Cultural Exchange
Step inside a traditional rural family home near Sillustani to learn firsthand about high-altitude agriculture, camelids, and life on the plateau.
100% Private Experience
Travel in comfort with a dedicated private vehicle, chauffeur, and English-speaking historian guide providing deep cultural context.
Detailed Sillustani & Chucuito Itinerary
From Burial Grounds to Temples of Life
Altiplano Elevation: 3,820 m / 12,532 ft · Duration: Full Day (Approx. 8 Hours)
1. Morning Private Departure from Puno
Your day begins seamlessly as your private chauffeur and historian guide pick you up directly from your hotel in Puno. Settle into your private vehicle as we drive north across the sweeping Andean Altiplano toward Lake Umayo.
2. Sillustani & The Monumental Chullpas
Arriving at the peninsula of Sillustani, explore this sacred pre-Incan and Incan necropolis. The site is famous for its Chullpas—tall, cylindrical funerary towers reaching up to 12 meters high, constructed from finely dressed stones to entomb the Kolla elite alongside their prized possessions, overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Umayo.
3. Andean Family Visit & Return to Puno for Lunch
Before departing the Sillustani countryside, visit a local Quechua/Aymara family home to see traditional turf-and-adobe dwellings, llamas, alpacas, and native potato varieties. Afterwards, we return to Puno where you will have unhurried time for lunch at a recommended local restaurant.
(Lunch is at your leisure; your private guide will recommend the finest dining options in Puno).
4. Colonial Chucuito & The Temple of Fertility (Inca Uyo)
In the afternoon, drive 18 kilometers south along the shores of Lake Titicaca to Chucuito, once the colonial royal treasury town of the Lupaca kingdom. Here, visit the Renaissance churches of Santo Domingo and La Asunción, the colonial sundial, and the walled Inca Uyo archaeological site—widely known as the Temple of Fertility for its carved stone mushroom-shaped monoliths.
5. Scenic Return to Puno
After a full day of uncovering the archaeological mysteries of the Altiplano, enjoy a relaxing drive back along the western shore of Lake Titicaca, arriving comfortably at your hotel in Puno.
Inclusions & Prices
What's Included
- Private pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Puno.
- 100% Private transportation throughout the day.
- Professional English-speaking private historian guide.
- Official entrance tickets to the Sillustani Archaeological Complex.
- Official entrance tickets to the Inca Uyo Temple in Chucuito.
- Guided cultural visit to a traditional Altiplano family home.
Not Included
- Lunch in Puno (Your guide will recommend top local restaurants).
- Personal expenses or optional craft purchases.
- Gratuities for your private guide and driver (optional).
Essential Recommendations
- High-Altitude Pacing: Puno and Sillustani sit above 3,820m (12,532 ft). Stay hydrated, drink coca or muña tea, and walk slowly up the Sillustani trail.
- Sun Protection: Altiplano UV rays are intense even on cool days. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
- Layered Clothing: Winds blowing off Lake Umayo and Lake Titicaca can be brisk. Bring a windproof jacket, fleece layer, and comfortable walking shoes.