Exploring the Cutimbo Ruins Near Puno

Cutimbo is a sacred place located southwest of the city. It sits on a flat mesa at 4,000 meters above sea level. You will see ancient funeral towers called chullpas here. Some towers are circular, while others are square. The stone masonry is incredible and very precise. This site is part of the UNESCO-recognized Qhapaq Ñan network of ancient roads.

Visiting Cutimbo feels like stepping back in time. You will see carvings of animals on the giant stones. Look for the pumas and snakes near the tower bases. These were sacred animals for the local people. The site is rarely crowded by tourists. This makes it perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.

The views from the mesa are truly breathtaking. You can see the vast dry plains for miles. It is a great spot for photography. Always bring extra layers of clothing. The wind on the high plateau can be very cold even in summer.

11 Best Sights Near Lake Titicaca

Puno is known as the folk capital of Peru. It is surrounded by ancient ruins and natural wonders. Use this list to plan your daily trips from the city center.

1. Name: Cutimbo Archaeological Site
   Type: Archaeological site
   Why go: To see unique animal stone carvings and quiet pre-Inca burial towers.
   Best for: History lovers and hikers.
   Where: 22km south of Puno.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Approx. 15 Soles.
   Getting there: Take a colectivo or taxi from Puno.
   Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light on the carvings.
2. Name: Sillustani Burial Towers
   Type: Archaeological site
   Why go: It is one of the most famous burial sites in South America. These towers sit next to Lake Umayo. Read our Sillustani burial towers guide for more details.
   Best for: Sunset views and archaeology.
   Where: 34km northwest of Puno.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: 15 Soles.
   Getting there: Group tours depart Puno daily at 2:00 PM.
   Tip: Look for the "inverted pyramid" stone at the site.
3. Name: Aramu Muru (Portals)
   Type: Sacred site
   Why go: Known as the "Gate of the Gods," it is a giant doorway carved into red rock. Check out our Aramu Muru portal tours.
   Best for: Fans of mystery and spiritual sites.
   Where: 70km south of Puno near Juli.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: 5-10 Soles.
   Getting there: Public bus toward Desaguadero.
   Tip: Legend says you can feel energy vibration by touching the stone.
4. Name: Uros Floating Islands
   Type: Cultural experience
   Why go: These islands are made entirely of dried totora reeds. It is a unique way of living on water. Learn more about Uros floating islands visit options.
   Best for: Families and culture lovers.
   Where: In Lake Titicaca, near the harbor.
   Time: 3-4 hours.
   Cost: Tours start around 40 Soles.
   Getting there: Boat from Puno port.
   Tip: Buy a small reed boat souvenir from the locals.
5. Name: Chucuito Fertility Temple
   Type: Historic sight
   Why go: Known as "Inca Uyo," it contains dozens of stone phalluses in a walled garden. See our Chucuito fertility temple guide.
   Best for: Quirky history and gardening.
   Where: 18km south of Puno.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: 5 Soles.
   Getting there: Colectivo from Puno bus station.
   Tip: Visit the nearby colonial church for great photos.
6. Name: Pucara Archaeological Site
   Type: Ruins and museum
   Why go: Pucara was heart of an ancient civilization before the Tiwanaku. It is famous for "Toritos de Pucara" (clay bulls).
   Best for: Museum fans and art.
   Where: 100km north of Puno.
   Time: Half-day trip.
   Cost: 15 Soles for the site.
   Getting there: Tour bus or public transportation.
   Tip: Buy a small clay bull for good luck in your home.
7. Name: Lampa (The Pink City)
   Type: Cultural/Colonial day trip
   Why go: This beautiful colonial town is painted entirely in dusty pink. It has a replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta in the church.
   Best for: Photographers and art historians.
   Where: 80km northwest of Puno.
   Time: Full day trip.
   Cost: Transport and lunch costs vary.
   Getting there: Private taxi or colectivo from Juliaca.
   Tip: Visit the catacombs inside the local church.
8. Name: Huajsapata Hill
   Type: Viewpoint
   Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of Puno and Lake Titicaca for free. It is listed among the best viewpoints in Puno.
   Best for: Low-cost exercise and scenery.
   Where: 4 blocks from the main plaza.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Walk up from the city center.
   Tip: Go with a friend for safety and carry water.
9. Name: Taquile Island
   Type: Nature and textiles
   Why go: The island is famous for its knitting traditions and steep stone stairs.
   Best for: Hikers and textile enthusiasts.
   Where: Eastern side of the lake.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Part of boat tour packages.
   Getting there: Boat from Puno main port.
   Tip: Try the fresh trout (trucha) for lunch on the island.
10. Name: Amantani Island
    Type: Cultural experience
    Why go: For an overnight stay in a local home without modern electricity.
    Best for: Authentic cultural immersion.
    Where: Farther out in Lake Titicaca.
    Time: 2 days (overnight).
    Cost: Homestay tours are usually 150-200 Soles.
    Getting there: 3-hour boat ride from Puno.
    Tip: Bring warm clothes for the cold nights in the house.
11. Name: Puno Cathedral
    Type: Indoor/Architecture
    Why go: A stunning 1700s Baroque cathedral with detailed stone carvings.
    Best for: Brief sightseeing while resting.
    Where: Puno Plaza de Armas.
    Time: 30 minutes.
    Cost: Free to enter.
    Getting there: Located in the center of the city.
    Tip: Visit in the evening when the facade is lit up.

Practical Tips for Visiting Puno in 2026

Puno is very high, so you must plan correctly. The city is located at 3,827 meters above sea level. Most travelers arrive from Cusco or Arequipa. Plan to stay in Puno for at least one day before doing strenuous hikes. Drink plenty of coca tea to help with oxygen.

Sun protection is essential in the high Andes. The sun is very strong even if it feels cool. Use high-SPF sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Many local shops sell small oxygen canisters if you feel dizzy.

For transportation, 2026 will see improved road conditions to sites like Cutimbo. Taxis are affordable for short trips. Always agree on the price before you start the ride. For longer day trips, booking through a local agency is often safer and easier. They provide guides who explain the deep history of the region.