Sillustani Tombs

On the route to Juliaca overlooking Lake Umayo you see a collection of striking burial towers, which if you catch them at sunset, have a mezmerizing calm about them.

Known to be from the Kolla culture (1200-1450) these structures have left Archaeologists hypothesizeing that these were the tombs of the Aymara elite, buried in baskets that trapped them in the fetal position. The dry, desiccating desert air mummified these presumably regal corpses, surrounded with offerings such as ceramic bowls of grain, guinea pigs and gold (now displayed in Puno’s Dreyer Museum).

More recently, archaeologists discovered the bodies of 44 children around a 10m-tall (32ft) tower called Chullpa Lagarto. They were apparently sacrificed some 700 years ago, perhaps by the Colla people during some sort of conflict. A volcanic stone was placed on each of their chests and they were also surrounded with food, ceramics and other offerings.

ITINERARY:

Picking you up from your hotel we head to Sillustani. It takes about 45 minutes to get to the control point and start our walk, The guide will show you the tombs (chullpas) where we find human remains of nobles, buried with their offerings. 

You will have time to enjoy the Umayo lagoon and take photos, You should arrive back at your hotel around 6pm.

Sillustani Tombs

 Whats included :

• Transfer to and from your hotel

• Official tour guide

• Transport

Whats not included:

• Drinks

Recommendations:

• Bring comfortable clothes to walk in the city

• Bring a camera

• Money for shopping.

Additional Information:

• This visit can be done from Monday to Saturday

• The morning schedule is the best.