Things To Do
in Puno
Puno is a charming city located on the shores of Lake Titicaca in southern Peru. It is known for its vibrant culture, colorful festivals, and traditional music and dance performances. Visitors can explore the nearby floating islands of the Uros people, made entirely of reeds.
Puno is also a popular starting point for tours to the fascinating archaeological site of Sillustani.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Puno Port, where you can take in the breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking up the early morning sun.
In the afternoon, explore the bustling Plaza de Armas and visit the nearby Cathedral of Puno. Don't miss the chance to shop for traditional crafts at the local markets.
In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at a restaurant overlooking the lake. Experience traditional Peruvian music and dance performances to wrap up your day.
Early morning, take a boat trip to the famous Uros Islands, made entirely of totora reeds. Interact with the local inhabitants and learn about their unique way of life.
Enjoy a guided tour of the floating islands and witness the stunning landscape of Lake Titicaca. Have a picnic lunch on one of the islands surrounded by water.
Return to Puno and unwind with a local meal at a waterfront restaurant. Reflect on your enriching experience of the indigenous culture as the sun sets over the lake.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including traditional festivals and folklore.
- Proximity to Lake Titicaca, one of the highest navigable lakes in the world.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Vibrant local markets showcasing indigenous crafts and cuisine.
- Welcoming and friendly attitude of the local people.
- High altitude can cause altitude sickness for some visitors.
- Infrastructure may be lacking in certain areas, affecting transportation and services.
- Limited international dining options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for increased tourist crowds during peak seasons.
- Economic challenges and poverty levels in certain regions.
Best Activities in Puno
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the highest navigable lake in the world, visit the floating Uros Islands, and experience the traditional lifestyle of the local people.
Embark on a trekking adventure on Amantani Island to enjoy stunning views of Lake Titicaca and immerse in the Andean culture.
Enjoy a peaceful kayaking experience on Lake Umayo, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and ancient chullpas (funerary towers).
Tours
Uncover the best of Puno with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Puno
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Lake Titicaca and the city of Puno.
Provides stunning views of the city, the lake, and the surrounding mountains.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and traditional culture, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Puno
Puno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with a variety of Andean tubers, dried meats, and flavored with aromatic herbs. Best enjoyed at local eateries such as Mojsa Restaurant or Nativos Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught from Lake Titicaca, trucha is a local specialty usually prepared with Andean herbs and served with potatoes. Seek out establishments like Mojsa Restaurant for an authentic trucha dish.
Sliced potatoes covered in a spicy, creamy cheese sauce and garnished with boiled eggs and olives. Can be savored at markets like Mercado Central de Puno or stalls in Plaza de Armas.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Puno better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local flavors. Enjoy street food like anticuchos (grilled skewered meats) and try regional snacks such as humitas and tamales.
The central square is lined with street food vendors offering traditional treats like picarones (sweet potato and squash doughnuts) and empanadas filled with local ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puno, it is important to show respect for the Pachamama, or Mother Earth, as the local culture holds deep reverence for nature and the environment.
When greeting someone in Puno, it is customary to shake hands and maintain eye contact. Additionally, addressing people with their titles, such as 'Senor' or 'Senora,' is a sign of respect.
Participating in and respecting traditional festivals in Puno, such as the Virgen de la Candelaria festival, is a way to show appreciation for the local culture and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Puno with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Puno
Ensure a smooth experience
In Puno, Peru, it is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% at restaurants if a service charge is not included. Tipping hotel staff and tour guides is also appreciated but not mandatory.
In Puno, Peru, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and restaurants, but it's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Puno.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Puno is during the dry season, which lasts from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally mild with sunny days and cool nights. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
The rainy season in Puno runs from November to April, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring from January to March. While the landscapes are lush and green during this time, frequent rain showers can make outdoor activities more challenging. It's also a quieter time for tourism, so you may find better deals on accommodations and fewer tourists at popular sites.
Puno at Night
Hiking in Puno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An archaeological site located about 30 km from Puno, known for its ancient burial towers and beautiful views of Lake Umayo, providing a mix of history and nature.
The highest navigable lake in the world, offering various hiking opportunities around its shores, including trails that lead to traditional villages of the Uros and Taquile communities.
A scenic hiking route that connects Puno with Cusco, featuring breathtaking views of the Andes and opportunities to observe local wildlife and traditional Andean culture.
Located about 20 km from Puno, this site features prehistoric burial towers and offers hiking trails with impressive views of the surrounding landscape.
While technically farther away and requires a train ride, many visitors use Puno as a base to explore the Inca trails leading up to Machu Picchu.
A lesser-known hiking spot that offers routes through stunning Andean landscapes, secluded areas, and opportunities to encounter local fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Puno through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Puno by plane.
The nearest major airport to Puno, located approximately 45 kilometers away, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Arequipa, approximately 150 kilometers from Puno, it is the second largest airport in the southern region of Peru, serving both domestic and international destinations.
Located in Iquitos, around 600 kilometers from Puno, it serves as a major hub for flights in the Amazon region with international connections.
Peru's main international airport, located in Lima, approximately 850 kilometers from Puno, offering numerous international flights to various destinations worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest indigenous group in Puno, representing a significant portion of the population and maintaining their language and cultural practices.
Another major indigenous group in Puno, known for their distinct cultural traditions, language, and contributions to agriculture and handicrafts.
People of mixed indigenous and European descent, constituting a significant part of the urban population in Puno.
Individuals with ancestry linked to Spanish colonizers, often involved in local governance and business.
Smaller indigenous communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Puno.
The Soul of Puno
Discover the essence of Puno through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Puno, with many local teams and leagues that engage a large number of fans and participants.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women, with numerous school and community tournaments taking place throughout the region.
Basketball has a growing following in Puno, with both youth and adult leagues that promote the sport across the city.
Cycling is popular for both recreation and competition, with scenic routes attracting cyclists of all levels.
Local traditional sports, including 'tlatchin', involve indigenous games that are part of Puno's cultural heritage and are often showcased during festivals.
Swimming is popular among locals, especially during warmer months, with community pools and Lake Titicaca offering opportunities for water sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes often include meat, many restaurants in Puno offer vegetarian and vegan versions of local favorites, such as quinoa-based dishes and vegetable-stuffed empanadas.
Several establishments in Puno offer gluten-free alternatives, particularly those serving quinoa-based dishes and a variety of fresh salads made with locally sourced ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Puno with these cultural adventures.
