What to Expect in Chucuito, Peru

Chucuito was once a major administrative center for the Lupaqa culture. Later, the Incas expanded the town before the Spanish arrived. Today, it feels like a village frozen in time. The atmosphere is very relaxed and traditional.

The main attraction is the archeological site of Inca Uyo. Many locals believe this site was used for fertility rituals. You will see dozens of stone phalluses arranged in a walled courtyard. Scholars still debate if these stones were moved there later for tourism.

Beyond the ruins, the town itself is beautiful and historic. The streets are paved with cobblestones. Many buildings feature traditional Adobe and red tile roofs. It provides a authentic glimpse into high-altitude rural life in the Andes.

10 Best Things to See Near Chucuito

Planning a trip to Chucuito requires looking at both local sights and nearby day trips. Here are the top experiences to include in your itinerary. Use this list to prioritize your limited time in the region.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall: Inca Uyo (The Fertility Temple).
• Quick Pick: Best for Families: The Chucuito Trout Farm.
• Quick Pick: Best Viewpoint: Lupaca Viewpoint (San Cristobal).
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity: Plaza de Armas stroll.

1. Name: Inca Uyo
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is the famous "Fertility Temple" with many ancient phallic stones.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: One block from the main plaza.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Approx. 5-10 Soles.
   Tip: Hire a local guide at the gate for the best stories.
2. Name: Santo Domingo Church
   Type: sight
   Why go: It is one of the oldest colonial churches in the region.
   Best for: Architecture lovers.
   Where: Main square of Chucuito.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Free (donations welcome).
   Tip: Look at the intricate carvings on the stone portals.
3. Name: The Colonial Sundial
   Type: sight
   Why go: A rare stone sundial from the Spanish era still sits in the plaza.
   Best for: Quick photo stop.
   Where: Central Plaza de Armas.
   Time: 5 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Tip: Visit at noon to see how it tracks the sun.
4. Name: Chucuito Trout Farm
   Type: activity
   Why go: See thousands of trout in different stages of growth.
   Best for: Families and kids.
   Where: 10-minute walk from the plaza.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Very low fee.
   Tip: Try the fresh trout at a nearby restaurant afterward.
5. Name: Asunción Church
   Type: sight
   Why go: This church features a large courtyard and impressive stone arches.
   Best for: Photographers.
   Where: Upper part of the village.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Tip: The view of the lake from here is spectacular.
6. Name: Lupaca Viewpoint
   Type: experience
   Why go: It offers the most panoramic views of Lake Titicaca in Chucuito.
   Best for: Early morning hikers.
   Where: Top of the hill behind the village.
   Time: 1 hour hike.
   Cost: Free.
   Tip: Bring water as the altitude can make the climb difficult.
7. Name: Sillustani Burial Towers
   Type: day trip
   Why go: These ancient funerary towers sit on a stunning peninsula.
   Best for: Archeology fans.
   Where: 45 minutes from Puno.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: Entry fee applies.
   Tip: Read a Sillustani burial towers guide before going.
8. Name: Aramu Muru Portal
   Type: day trip
   Why go: A massive rock carving believed to be a multidimensional portal.
   Best for: Mystery seekers.
   Where: On the road toward Desaguadero.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Small entrance fee.
   Tip: Many Aramu Muru portal tours stop in Chucuito first.
9. Name: Cutimbo Ruins
   Type: day trip
   Why go: Less crowded than Sillustani with impressive pre-Inca stone work.
   Best for: Off-the-beaten-path travelers.
   Where: South of Puno.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Entry fee applies.
   Tip: Visit the Cutimbo ruins near Puno for a quieter experience.
10. Name: Lake Titicaca Boat Ride
    Type: experience
    Why go: You cannot visit Puno without getting on the water.
    Best for: Everyone.
    Where: Puno Harbor.
    Time: Half-day or full-day.
    Cost: Varies.
    Tip: Check the options for Lake Titicaca boat tours which often combine islands.

Chucuito Fertility Temple Guide for Visitors

Getting to Chucuito is very easy from Puno. You can take a "combi" or shared van from the terminal. The ride takes about 20 to 30 minutes. These vans run frequently throughout the daylight hours.

Alternatively, you can take a private taxi for more comfort. This allows you to stop for photos along the lake road. Most visitors spend about two hours in the village. This is enough time for the temple and the plaza.

Wait to visit until you are acclimatized to the altitude. Puno sits at over 3,800 meters above sea level. Drink plenty of coca tea to help with any headaches. Wear a hat and sunscreen because the Andean sun is very strong. Check the Peru Travel site for current entry requirements.