Top Things to Do in Puno

About the City

Puno, a Peruvian Wonderland and Its Quirky Sides Imagine waking up to the breathtaking Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, cradled by the Andean mountains. Puno, the folkloric capital of Peru, is a vibrant confetti of culture and tradition. It's where the festivities never end, and the colorful costumes seem painted by the sunset itself. Amble through the cobbled streets, and you're likely to stumble upon a parade, a local playing the zampoña, or a marketplace bustling with artisanal crafts. The Uros Floating Islands are a marvel; locals weave reeds into homes, boats, and even islands that bob along the lake's crisp surface. Don't miss the chance to embrace the proud heritage of the Aymaras and Quechuas, whose ancestry embroiders the very fabric of Puno's identity. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Altitude can be a playful trickster, as some visitors may find themselves in a breathless romance with coca tea to combat the soroche (altitude sickness). The city may riot in a symphony of honks and a ballet of cars that could challenge the uninitiated in the art of crossing the street. And brace yourself for the cold; Puno's chill can sneak through layers, prompting an impromptu shopping spree for alpaca woolens. In essence, Puno is a place of contrasts, where the enchanting and the eccentric dance in a high-altitude embrace.

Things to Do in Puno

Devour Delectable Rocoto Relleno

Food & Drink

Brace your taste buds for a spicy surprise with Rocoto Relleno, a stuffed pepper sensation that's a fiesta in your mouth! These red-hot beauties are packed with meaty goodness and make for a real Peru...

Trek the Aymara Route

Outdoors

Lace up your hiking boots for an epic cultural journey on the less-traveled Aymara Route. It's got unbeatable vistas and a tapestry of traditional communities that will leave your heart — and your cam...

Master the Street Salsa Moves

The Unexpected

Get those hips movin' and groovin' with a spontaneous street salsa session! Let the rhythm take over as you join locals and fellow travelers alike in a dance that'll make your heart pump and your smil...

Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Making

The Unexpected

Chocoholics, rejoice! Step into a world of decadence by learning the secrets behind artisanal chocolate making. This sweet adventure takes you from the cocoa bean to your very own chocolate bar. 'Bean...

Spooky Night at the Cemetery

The Unexpected

Harness your inner ghostbuster and take a stroll through the cemetery after dark. Puno's graveyards are peaceful yet brimming with history; by nightfall, they become a setting for an eerie, goosebump-...

Befriend an Alpaca

The Unexpected

Imagine the ultimate fluffy friend photo op with none other than the charming alpacas of Puno! Roam the rural areas and you're bound to come across these fuzzy fellas. Remember to approach gently – th...

Picnic at Mirador Kuntur Wasi

Outdoors

Nothing says lazy outdoor fun like a good, old-fashioned picnic! Grab some local treats and enjoy them with a panoramic view of Puno and Lake Titicaca from Mirador Kuntur Wasi. Just watch out for the ...

Starlight Camping on Taquile Island

Outdoors

Why simply visit Taquile Island when you can sleep under a canopy of stars? Camp out like the old-school adventurers and wake up to the sunrise over the Sacred Lake of the Incas. It's an overnight esc...

Fish like a Local

Outdoors

Get a reel feel for life in Puno by joining local anglers casting their lines into Lake Titicaca. Whether you're a fishing newbie or an old hand, this is about more than just the catch. It's about the...

Paddle Through Time in a Totora Reed Boat

Outdoors

Embrace the feel of ancient traditions as you gently paddle across the serene waters of Lake Titicaca on a totora reed boat. Colors, water, and sky blend in this unique, tranquil experience — it's lik...

Nibble on Sweet Humintas

Food & Drink

Unwrap some corny goodness with Humintas, a sweet and savory treat that's like a warm hug from a Peruvian grandma. These steamed or baked corn cakes are a kernel of truth about Puno's delicious street...

Get Cozy with Puno's Handicraft Markets

Sights

Wanna snag some authentic souvenirs? Wrap your mitts around some of the finest knits, textiles, and crafts at Puno's local markets. Dive into the color explosion and get haggling!

Take a Peek at the Chullpas of Cutimbo

Sights

Elevate your trip literally and culturally by visiting these ancient burial towers. The views are amazing, and the vibes? Absolutely mysterious.

Feel the Spirituality at the Huajsapata Hill

Sights

Take a trek up this holy hill, where you won't just get killer views, but also can pay your respects to the great Pachacutec statue, keeping watch over Puno.

Embrace Serenity at the Yavari Iron Ship

Sights

Hop on board this historic piece of naval history, where you can imagine the waves and whispers of the past. It's a quiet spot away from the bustling streets.

Discover Puno's Past at the Carlos Dreyer Museum

Sights

Get your dose of history and culture by checking out ancient artifacts and artworks that weave the story of Puno's glorious past. Trust me, it's a no-brainer for history buffs!

Munch on Cuy Chactado

Food & Drink

Get ready to nibble on a Puno classic, Cuy Chactado! This dish is all about guinea pig, flattened and deep-fried to crispy perfection. It's a local delicacy that's tradition on a plate – gnaw on it li...

Tuck Into Cheesy Puno

Food & Drink

Get ready to melt some hearts with the cheesiest treat in town! Caserito cheese is Puno's dairy dream, enjoyed best with a side of local bread. It's an ooey-gooey experience that'll make you say 'ques...

Sample Puno's Salteñas

Food & Drink

Bite into a Bolivian-inspired, but Puno-perfected Salteña and let the stewy inside splash flavor fireworks! It's a handheld pie packed with meat, veggies, and all the saucy secrets of this high-altitu...

Kick Back in Plaza de Armas

The Unexpected

Take a chill pill and soak up the local vibe at Plaza de Armas. It's the perfect spot to give your feet a break, people-watch, or just bask in the glorious sight of Puno's central hubbub. Grab a bench...