Puno
Puno is Lake Titicaca’s only major city, and most travelers will pass through here while heading towards other destinations around the lake. The city is only mildly attractive, but is surrounded by seriously spectacular scenery.
More about Puno
Puno has a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and traveler services. As such, it’s a good place to restock and refuel before traveling onward to other spots around Lake Titicaca.
Puno was originally used as a stopping point for people traveling between Arequipa and the Potosí mine, which is located in present-day Bolivia. However, a silver mine was discovered nearby in 1688 and the town was renamed as San Carlos de Puno. It was during this time that many of Puno’s churches and buildings were built.
One example is the Catedral Basílica San Carlos Borromeo, which is located in the Plaza de Armas. Built in the 17th century, the church sports an impressively carved façade but a relatively simple interior. Next door is the Casa del Corregidor, which also dates back to the 17th century and was built by Father Silvestre de Valdés, who ran the construction of the cathedral.
While here, take a stroll down Lima, Puno’s pedestrian street. This street sports the city’s best restaurants and is a good place to eat, shop, and explore. Try chairo, a local soup dish, or any number of the fresh fish options while eating at these restaurants. There are also a few shops that have weavings and clothing made from alpaca wool.
Puno has a few museums to visit, but one of the most interesting cultural attractions is just outside of town. The Yavari is an antique ship that was sent from England in 1862. Sent in pieces, it took six years for the entire ship to arrive in Puno.
Puno hosts an assortment of religious festivals throughout the year. Nearly 300 festivals take place around Lake Titicaca each year, and if you’re in this area during one of them, it’s probably worth checking out. The celebrations are colorful and fun, with lots of dancing and music. A particularly impressive dance is La Diablada, which is performed each year on February 2 during Puno’s Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria. The dance portrays a battle between angels and devils.
Aside from exploring the town and its festivals, there are a number of other activities that travelers can enjoy while staying in Puno. Explore Lake Titicaca on kayak or by motorboat—you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hillsides while you’re out on the glassy water. Other activities include biking, birding, and horseback riding.
Moments to look forward to
Amazing Peaks and Majestic Ruins
PERU! is getting there. There are several areas where, for instance plastic bottles can be reused, by hotels providing large dispensers to refill existing bottles.
We Experienced Peru's Diversity
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An Epic Peruvian Family Journey
Peru is bursting with history, interesting sites and friendly people and tourists from all parts of the world. We wished our hotels were a bit better and should have requested upgrades for a reasonably higher price. We have already recommended Peru to family and friends. Our photos and videos on Facebook have evoked several inquiries. I would certainly like to visit Peru again along with other countries of South America.
Inca, Lake, & Culture Family Adventure
We were blown away by the beauty of the country—from the highland Lake Titicaca to the cultural experiences at Arequipa. We were so impressed with the Machu Picchu experience...we have to come back and explore more of Peru!
The VIP Experience in Peru
I really could not be happier. The Anywhere Team made me feel like a VIP my entire time in Peru. The hotels were very nice & safe. The food was fantastic. Transportation was smooth, nice trains, safe airlines. I recommend Peru to all travelers!
Incredible Stays
Libertador Lake Titicaca
Libertador Lake Titicaca is located on a small private island just outside Puno. The hotel offers guests comfortable rooms with unparalleled views of the lake.
Tierra Viva Puno Plaza
Tierra Viva Puno is just a few minutes’ drive from the edge of Lake Titicaca. When you stay here you’ll be walking distance from Puno’s top attractions, including the 18th century Puno Cathedral.
Posada del Inca Lake Titicaca
Posadas del Inca Lake Titicaca is set just outside Puno. The hotel has large, comfortable rooms and a lovely lakeside setting.
Hotel Jose Antonio in Puno
Hotel Jose San Antonio is right on the shore of Lake Titicaca. During your stay here you’ll have an unparalleled view of the lake and the surrounding villages.
Belmond Andean Explorer Overnight Puno to Cusco
Puno’s scenery is breathtaking, and your sightseeing in the Andean highlands doesn’t have to stop when it’s time to leave. Take the Belmond Explorer Train to Cusco and spend your trip admiring the rivers and mountains that make the Peruvian highlands a must-see destination. This is an overnight train that departs on Wednesday and arrives in Cusco early the next morning.
Hacienda Plaza de Armas
Hotel Hacienda Plaza de Armas is located in the heart of Puno. This midrange hotel is simple and central.
Qalasaya Hotel
While you’re here, you’ll be walking distance from the town’s main square. It overlooks Lake Titicaca, where you’ll embark on tours of the ruins on the islands and the isolated culture that still lives here.
Hacienda Puno
Hotel Hacienda Puno is located one block from the main square in Puno. This hotel has basic rooms and a restaurant with views of Lake Titicaca.
It's more than just having a good time or visiting beautiful places (although that's absolutely a part of it!), it's about being part of a unique experience that stays with you.
