Things To Do
in Puno
Puno sits on the southern shore of Lake Titicaca at high altitude, offering dramatic lake views and a strong indigenous heritage. The city serves as the gateway to the floating Uros islands and the traditional island communities of Taquile. Its lively plazas, bustling markets, and sunset waterfront create a distinctly Andean atmosphere.
Visitors come for culture, scenery, and easy access to lake-based excursions that showcase Titicaca’s unique traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local specialties like 'pan de yuca' and freshly brewed coffee. Take a moment to visit the iconic Catedral de Puno, whose stunning façade showcases the city's rich history.
After lunch, wander through the bustling streets filled with artisanal shops selling handmade crafts and textiles. Visit the Casa del Corregidor, a museum that offers insights into the region's colonial past and its significance in the Andes. As you explore, keep an eye out for the vibrant murals that tell the stories of Puno's culture and traditions.
As dusk falls, head to the shores of Lake Titicaca for a serene sunset view, where the sky transforms into a palette of colors. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes such as trout from the lake or 'anticuchos' skewers. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the waterfront, taking in the peaceful ambiance and the twinkling lights of the city.
Set out early for a boat ride to the unique Floating Islands of Uros, where the locals live on islands made entirely of totora reeds. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by friendly islanders who will share their way of life and the fascinating history behind these islands. Participate in a traditional reed boat ride and learn how these remarkable structures are maintained.
Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on one of the islands, featuring local ingredients and flavors that reflect the islanders’ way of life. After lunch, engage in a craft workshop where you can create your own small reed item to take home as a souvenir. Explore the island further, gaining insights into the daily routines and customs of the Uros community.
Return to Puno in the early evening and relax at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences. Consider dining at a restaurant that offers traditional Andean cuisine, perhaps trying 'quinoa soup' or 'lomo saltado.' Spend the rest of the evening enjoying live music performances that highlight the rhythmic sounds of Andean instruments.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Coffee or drink | $2-4 |
| 🗺️Taxi short ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-90 |
| 🌯Street snack or empanada | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Incredible lake scenery and unique Titicaca cultures
- Accessible day trips to Uros and Taquile islands
- Delicious Andean and lake-forward cuisine at reasonable prices
- High altitude can cause dizziness for first-timers
- Some services are more tourist-oriented and pricier near the lake
- Weather can be variable; plan for rain or chilly nights
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está la estación de bus?" - Where is the bus station?
- "¡Gracias!" - Thank you!
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos, por favor." - I would like a table for two, please.
Places to Visit in Puno
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour reflections on Lake Titicaca, with boats and traditional reed boats lining the shore.
Photograph reed houses, handmade boats, and intricate approaches to island life from close vantage points.
Terraced hillsides, colorful traditional dress, and expansive lake panoramas ideal for wide shots.
Historic building with rooftop views over the central square and the surrounding town.
Food in Puno
Puno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled or fried trout caught from Lake Titicaca, typically served with potatoes and vegetables.
Must-Try!
Fried guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish often shared among several diners.
Quinoa soup enriched with vegetables and sometimes meat, a comforting highland staple.
Potatoes with a creamy, mildly spicy cheese sauce, common in Andean menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, local ingredients, and opportunities to sample street snacks like empanadas and quinua dishes.
Stalls offering quick bites such as hot empanadas, quinoa-based snacks, and tamales—great for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or light kiss on the cheek is common among friends; address elders with usted when appropriate and show politeness in public spaces.
Ask before photographing people, especially in rural communities or religious sites—offer a small tip if permitted.
Dress modestly in churches and traditional neighborhoods; avoid overly revealing clothing while traveling.
Safety
Tipping in Puno
Ensure a smooth experience
Generally appreciated but not mandatory. Restaurant servers routinely expect a 5–10% tip for good service; small tips for guides, drivers, and porters are common (a few soles or a couple of dollars per service).
Cash (PEN) is widely used; U.S. dollars are accepted in many tourist spots. Credit/debit cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants; ATMs are common in Puno. Carry small cash for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, cool days and chilly nights; best for outdoor activities and photography with crisp light.
Afternoon showers are common; higher humidity can affect visibility but lake colors are intensified after rains.
Puno at Night
Hiking in Puno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An easy to moderate hike near Umayo Lake to reach the famous chullpa burial towers with expansive lake views.
Short to moderate hikes around the island offering panoramic lake vistas and terraces.
Airports
How to reach Puno by plane.
Primary airport serving the Puno region; roughly a 45–60 minute drive to Puno. Domestic flights connect to Lima and other major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous populations with strong cultural and linguistic presence in the region, particularly around rural areas and the lakefront.
Mix of mestizo and urban Peruvians contributing to the city’s services, markets, and tourism industry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and informal games throughout the city.
Active on Lake Titicaca; boat races and recreational rowing are common in the area around Puno.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted with quinoa, potatoes, and vegetables; ask for vegetarian versions of soups or trout-free plates.