The best things to do in Puno, Peru are:
Visit Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Puno. It is the highest navigable lake in the world and is considered to be one of the sacred lakes of the Incas. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to see the floating islands of the Uros people, who have lived on the lake for centuries. The tour also includes a visit to the island of Taquile, where you can see traditional textiles being woven by the island’s residents.
Explore Sillustani
Sillustani is an archaeological site located on the shores of Lake Umayo. The site is home to several funerary towers, also known as chullpas, which were built by the pre-Inca Colla people. The chullpas were used to bury their elite and are believed to have had a spiritual significance. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the history and culture of the Colla people.
Visit the Puno Cathedral
The Puno Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a beautiful colonial-style church located in the main square of Puno. The church was built in the 18th century and is a great example of the Baroque architecture of the time. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings and paintings that adorn the interior of the church.
Visit the Puno Regional Museum
The Puno Regional Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Puno and the surrounding region. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the different cultures that have inhabited the area over the centuries. Visitors can see traditional textiles, pottery, and other artifacts from the Inca, Colla, and other pre-Inca cultures.
Take a Day Trip to Lampa
Lampa is a small town located about an hour from Puno. The town is famous for its colonial-style church, which is decorated with beautiful frescoes. Visitors can also see traditional textiles being woven by the town’s residents. Lampa is also a good place to buy souvenirs, as there are several shops selling traditional crafts.
Attend a Folklore Show
Puno is known for its rich cultural heritage, and one of the best ways to experience it is by attending a folklore show. Visitors can see traditional dances and music performed by local artists. The shows usually take place in the evening and are a great way to end a day of sightseeing.
Take a cooking class
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by learning to cook traditional Peruvian dishes. Puno offers several cooking classes where visitors can learn to make delicious dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado and ajà de gallina. These classes are a great opportunity to learn about Peruvian ingredients and cooking techniques, as well as a chance to taste some of the local flavors.
Visit the Candelabra of the Andes
The Candelabra of the Andes, also known as the SÃmbolo de la Paz, is a large pre-Columbian geoglyph located on the slopes of Cerro Pintado, near Puno. The geoglyph is thought to have been created by the Incas and is believed to have had a religious or astronomical significance. Visitors can take a guided tour to the site and learn about the history and meaning of the Candelabra.
Visit the Puno Market
The Puno Market is a great place to see the local way of life and to find traditional crafts and souvenirs. The market is a maze of stalls selling everything from textiles, to pottery, to traditional clothing. Visitors can also find fresh fruits, vegetables, and other food items. This is a great opportunity to see and learn about Peruvian culture and way of life.
Visit the Puno Cultural Center
The Puno Cultural Center is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Puno and the surrounding region. The center offers exhibitions, workshops, and classes on various topics such as traditional textiles, pottery, and other crafts. Visitors can also take guided tours of the center and learn about the history of Puno and the surrounding region.
In conclusion, Puno is a destination that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors. From visiting ancient ruins and admiring the beauty of Lake Titicaca, to attending cultural shows, learning to cook traditional Peruvian dishes and visiting local markets, Puno has something for everyone. Take the time to explore the city and its surroundings and you’ll be rewarded with a memorable and rich cultural experience.
