By Equipo PAT
Sillustani tombs are stone burial towers, called chullpas, on the shore of Lake Umayo, about 30 km from Puno. You can visit them on a full-day tour from Puno. That makes them easy to fit into a two-day plan. You can also pair them with the Aymara Route to learn more about highland culture.
What are the Sillustani tombs and why visit them?
The Sillustani tombs are a group of chullpas, built as graves for important people of the highland cultures. The towers rise on a peninsula in Lake Umayo and stand out for their height and the precision of their stonework. Some are wider at the top, which gives them a distinctive silhouette.
The setting is open and quiet, with the lake and a huge sky behind the towers. For that reason it is one of the most photogenic spots near Puno. However, do not expect a park with lots of services: the visit is simple and very peaceful.
Who built the chullpas at Sillustani?
The chullpas are linked to the highland peoples who lived around Lake Titicaca before and during the Inca expansion. Archaeological sources often mention the Colla culture, and some towers also show Inca influence. Specialists still debate the exact chronology.
The towers held people of high rank together with their offerings. According to the usual interpretations, the tall shape and the east-facing door had a symbolic link to the sun. Still, treat these details as general explanations rather than exact facts.
How long does the tour take and how much does it cost?
This table compares the two cultural day trips we offer in the area. The prices are those of our own tours.
| Tour | Duration | Altitude | Difficulty | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sillustani Chullpas | Full Day | 3,900 m | Easy | $49 |
| Aymara Route | Full Day | 3,900 m | Easy | $69 |
Both are easy. Book the Sillustani Chullpas day trip if you want one main monument. The Aymara Route Full Day, on the other hand, adds more cultural context. Check each tour page for the exact itinerary.
What is the Aymara Route?
The Aymara Route is a cultural day trip across the Puno highlands that introduces you to the Aymara world: its language, its customs and its landscape. It is a good choice if you have already seen the Uros and want something less touristy. It usually fills a whole day, so leave early and pack warm clothes.
Do not mix the two routes up, though. Sillustani centers on one archaeological site. The Aymara Route, in contrast, looks at community life. For that reason many travelers do them on different days.
How do I plan the visit with the altitude?
Sillustani sits at about 3,900 m. At this height your body needs time to adjust and the air is very dry. We recommend arriving in Puno a day or two earlier, drinking water and walking slowly. If you are unsure, read our guide on how to acclimatize to altitude.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, because the sun is intense.
- Dress in layers, since the wind by the lake is chilly.
- Wear shoes with good grip for the stone path.
- Carry water and cash in soles for handicrafts.
How can I combine Sillustani with other visits in Puno?
The easiest plan is one day for Sillustani or the Aymara Route and another day for the lake. For example, start with the Uros and visit the chullpas the next day. For a full plan, read our itinerary on what to do in Puno in 2 days.
If you want to sleep on an island, compare the options in our guide to the Lake Titicaca islands. And if you want to link Puno with Cusco and Machu Picchu in one trip, see the Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca package, from $1590.
When is the best time to visit Sillustani?
The dry season, from May to September, brings clear skies and better photos. However, nights are very cold. From December to March it rains more and the landscape turns green. Finally, the afternoon light is the prettiest for photographing the towers. You can read more about the destination on the official PromPerú portal.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Sillustani tombs?
They are stone funerary towers, the chullpas, on the shore of Lake Umayo near Puno.
How far is Sillustani from Puno?
It is about 30 km from Puno. Our day trip includes the transfer from Puno.
How much is the Sillustani tour?
Our Sillustani Chullpas Full Day tour starts from $49. The Aymara Route Full Day starts from $69.
How high is Sillustani?
It sits at about 3,900 m above sea level. Acclimatize in Puno first and walk slowly.
Is the Sillustani visit hard?
No. Our tour is rated easy, with short paths, although the altitude and wind call for warm clothes and a slow pace.
What is the difference between Sillustani and the Aymara Route?
Sillustani focuses on one archaeological site with chullpas. The Aymara Route is a broader cultural day across the highlands. Check each tour page.
