Things To Do
in Juli
Juli is a highland town in southern Peru, set on a gentle incline above the Andean plain. It offers a window into daily Andean life, with cobbled streets, adobe houses, and a warm, welcoming community. The town serves as a gateway to nearby lakes, viewpoints, and rural hikes that reveal striking mountain scenery.
Visitors experience a relaxed pace, vibrant markets, and colorful regional culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Juli, a picturesque town nestled by the shores of Lake Titicaca. Take a moment to soak in the stunning lake views and the serene atmosphere of this lesser-traveled destination. Check into your accommodation and freshen up before exploring.
After lunch, visit the beautiful Cathedral of Juli, an architectural gem known for its intricate baroque facade. Stroll through the town's quaint streets, marked by colorful buildings and local artisan shops. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about Juli’s rich history.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional Peruvian dishes such as ceviche or alpaca steak. As night falls, take a leisurely walk along the lakefront, admiring the starry sky over Lake Titicaca. Reflect on your day's experiences, embracing the tranquility of Juli.
Set off early for a guided boat tour to the famous Uros Islands, floating islands made of totora reeds. Meet the Uros people, who live on these islands, and learn about their unique way of life. Take in the stunning views of the lake while navigating between the islands.
Continue the adventure to Taquile Island, celebrated for its weaving traditions. Enjoy a hike across the island, taking in breathtaking panoramas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Partake in a traditional lunch prepared by local families using fresh ingredients sourced from the island.
Return to Juli and unwind after a day filled with exploration. Savor a cozy meal at a family-run restaurant, engaging in conversations with locals to hear tales of their culture. As the sun sets, enjoy the serene atmosphere of the lake while reflecting on your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕One-way local transportation | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entrance | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine Andean atmosphere and welcoming locals
- Affordable costs and authentic cuisine
- Compact town center with easy walkability
- Access to scenic hikes and mountain views
- Limited nightlife and developed tourist infrastructure
- Altitude can be challenging for some travelers
- Rural areas may have limited medical facilities and connectivity
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendarme un plato local?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The bill, please.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Buen día" - Good day
- "Disculpe" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Juli
Visit one of these nice places.
The lively central square with colonial touches, ideal for morning light and street photography of daily life.
Historic church with simple adobe architecture and a quiet interior suitable for architectural shots.
A hillside viewpoint offering sweeping views of Juli and the surrounding Andean valley—great for sunset shots.
Colorful market lanes filled with local color, textures, and candid portraits of vendors.
Food in Juli
Juli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh trout grilled with lime, garlic, and local herbs, commonly served with potatoes.
Must-Try!
Quinoa soup with vegetables and herbs, a hearty Andean staple.
Crispy fried guinea pig, a traditional highland dish available at certain eateries.
Potatoes in a spicy cheese sauce, a popular accompaniment in the region.
Hearty Andean soup made with potatoes, quinoa, chuño, and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls with fresh produce, local cheeses, herbs, and ready-to-eat bites; great for sampling and people-watching.
Anticuchos, tamales, roasted corn, fresh fruit cups, and homemade juices along the market lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake or a warm greeting when meeting locals; address adults with basic courtesy and a friendly tone.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private homes or ceremonies; dress modestly in sacred places and avoid loud behavior near religious sites.
Show respect in communities and marketplaces; avoid disrupting local activities and never touch ceremonial objects without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Juli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 5–10% is common if service is good and not included. For guides and drivers, a small daily tip is customary if you’re satisfied with the service.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; many restaurants accept cards, especially in towns, but some rural spots may be cash-only. Keep small bills handy for tipping and minor purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies with lots of sunshine, cooler nights, and excellent conditions for hiking and photography. Some dusty roads in town; pack a scarf for chilly mornings.
Rains can be frequent and heavy at times, with lush green scenery and dramatic skies. Elevation means it can stay cool; bring a lightweight rain jacket and water-resistant footwear.
Mild temperatures with fewer crowds; comfortable for outdoor activities and wandering the markets.
Juli at Night
Hiking in Juli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic hike to a high point overlooking Juli and the surrounding valley, ideal for sunset photography.
A gentle trail to a small highland lake with opportunities for wildlife viewing and tranquil scenery.
Airports
How to reach Juli by plane.
Located near Juliaca, this is the main gateway for travelers visiting the Titicaca region; airport transfers to Juli are typically 40–60 minutes by road.
Cusco’s international airport; a longer overland transfer from Juli but commonly used by visitors combining Cusco with the Juli region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents maintain traditional customs, language, and dress, contributing to the area’s rich cultural tapestry.
Many residents engage in agriculture, livestock, and crafts, supplying markets with fresh produce and handmade goods.
Tourists, backpackers, and day-trippers visit Juli to experience Andean culture, cuisine, and nearby nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local matches and community leagues common on weekends.
Frequently played in schools and community centers, especially during the dry season when gatherings are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Juli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer vegetarian soups, potato and quinoa dishes, and salads; ask for vegetable-forward options and avoid animal-based broths when needed.