Overview
Cutimbo and Sillustani Ruins Tour Overview
The Cutimbo and Sillustani Ruins Tour from Puno offers a unique opportunity to explore two remarkable archaeological sites in the Lake Titicaca region. This full-day excursion combines ancient history, cultural traditions, and spectacular views of the Andean highlands.
Tour departure time: 9:00 a.m.
What You Will Explore
Witness South America’s fascinating past up close at Cutimbo Ruins! On this exciting excursion, you will explore ruins and discover their significance to the ancient Inca civilization.
- Sillustani burial towers (Chullpas)
- Cutimbo archaeological site
- Travel distance: From Puno to Sillustani, 34 km (21.1 miles)
- Car distance: From Puno to Cutimbo: 22 km (13.6 miles).
- Cutimbo Altitude: 4,023 meters (13,198 feet)
- Sillustani Elevation: 3,900 meters (12,795 feet).
Cutimbo and Sillustani Tour Highlights
This full-day excursion from Puno combines two remarkable archaeological destinations in the Lake Titicaca region: the impressive burial towers of Sillustani and the lesser-known but equally fascinating site of Cutimbo. Together, these places reveal the ancient funerary traditions of the Andean highlands and the engineering abilities of the cultures that once lived here.
At Sillustani, visitors explore the famous Chullpas, towering stone tombs built by the Colla people and later refined by the Incas. The towers stand on a hill overlooking Lake Umayo, creating one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Altiplano.
The journey then continues to Cutimbo, another archaeological complex known for its circular burial towers and ancient stone carvings. Unlike the more visited sites near Puno, Cutimbo offers a quieter atmosphere where travelers can experience the history of the region in a peaceful setting.
This tour is perfect for those interested in archaeology, ancient Andean cultures, and spectacular highland scenery.
Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary – Cutimbo Inca Ruins Tour
Travel back in time with a guided tour of the ancient Cutimbo ruins in Puno, Peru. Learn about the rich cultural history and admire the ruins of this great Andean civilization.
At 09:00, we will pick you up from the hotel and then travel to the Cutimbo site on the road to Moquegua. Enjoy a short walk through the Cutimbo ruins with enchanting views of the Andean plains of Puno. Guided visits to Cutimbo end with the exploration of the Chullpas of Sillustani.
Introduction to Cutimbo: Cutimbo is a famous archaeological site outside Puno, Peru. Cutimbo is one of the oldest temples in South America. Visitors to the Cutimbo Inca Site can explore the ruins and learn about the ancient culture behind them. The spectacular view from this location will also leave you breathless.
Tour through the Ruins: On your Cutimbo Tour, you will be led through an unforgettable experience as you explore and learn about this unique area. You will visit the outside and inside of the various buildings and come away with an understanding of how life may have functioned at this once-thriving settlement.
Additional Information
See the incredible Cutimbo Ruins on a guided tour with our KONDOR PATH TOURS staff. Visit this unique site and discover its fascinating history!
- The National Institute of Culture declared the Cutimbo Inca site a National Cultural Heritage of Peru.
- Our excursions are in the English language.
- Kondor vehicles used in the adventure have a periodic technical review and have a tourist operation license.
- Great photographic images of the Andes with the ruins of the Colla and Inca are incredible.
- The Hatun Colla community has been the guardian of the enigmatic Chullpas Humayo.
- The community of Cutimbo is responsible for preserving the complex for the development of its community.
Walking Distance
A light walks
Hiking Time
15 to 35 minutes
Starting Altitude
Puno City: 3,827m (12,555 ft)
Minimun Altitude
Sillustani: 3,840m (12,598 ft)
Highest Altitude
Cutimbo: 4,023m (13,198 ft)
Inclusions
What’s Included – Cutimbo Inca Ruins Tour
- Active itinerary.
- English-speaking tour guide.
- Transportation with air conditioning.
- Entrance tickets to Sillustani and Cutimbo
- Box lunch.
- All local taxes
Not Included
- Puno Hotel.
- Spending money: allow approximately US$35–50 per day to cover meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips, and extras.
- Meals.
- Tips: Tour Guide and Driver
What to Bring for the Cutimbo Ruins Tour
- A good daypack is the Eagle Creek Afar Backpack or an appropriate pack to carry your personal belongings!
- One rain jacket, “even if we are in the dry season.” The rainy season runs from December through April.
- One warm winter jacket or glove, a scarf—necessary: “Changing weather all the time.”
- Bring some meds! Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness
- Sun protection cream (SPF 45 or higher is recommended)
- A reusable container for your water.
- Extra money.
Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Cutimbo is an archaeological site in the Puno region of Peru, known for its impressive Chullpas, or funerary towers.
The Cutimbo Chullpas are ancient towers made of stone and mud, built by the pre-Columbian people of the region as tombs for their elite members.
Yes, tours include a visit to Cutimbo, such as the private tour to the Chullpas of Cutimbo or the Puno Tour Cutimbo.
The Cutimbo Private Tour is recommended for those who want a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide and the flexibility to customize their itinerary.
The Sillustani Half-Day Tour from Puno usually only includes a visit to Sillustani, so it may not be the best option for those who want to visit Cutimbo.
The Tour of Cutimbo Inca Ruins usually takes 3–4 hours, depending on the group’s itinerary and pace.
Yes, booking a private tour to the Chullpas of Cutimbo is recommended in advance to ensure availability and a personalized experience.
Cutimbo’s rich history dates back to the pre-Columbian era, when it was an important center of trade and culture for the Aymara people.
The Cutimbo Chullpas were constructed using a combination of stone and mud, with intricate designs and carvings on their exteriors.
Visitors should respect the site and its significance, and they are usually not allowed to touch or remove any artifacts or stones from the site.
There is usually a small fee to enter Cutimbo, which goes towards the maintenance and preservation of the site.
There are usually restrooms and small souvenir shops at Cutimbo, but visitors should not expect extensive amenities.
The best time to visit Cutimbo is usually in the morning or late afternoon when the light is softer, and the temperature is more relaxed.
Yes, the Puno region has a rainy season, which can make the site muddy and slippery, so visitors should wear appropriate footwear.
Visitors should wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring food and drinks to Cutimbo, but they should be mindful of the waste they produce and take their trash with them when they leave.
Yes, photography is allowed at Cutimbo, but visitors should respect other visitors and not use flash photography or tripods.
There is usually limited public transportation to Cutimbo, so hiring a private tour or taxi to visit the site is recommended.
What is the history of Cutimbo? Cutimbo was a sacred site for the Aymara people long before the Inca civilization. The Incas later used it for religious and military purposes.
“Chullpas” is a Quechua word that refers to the funerary towers or tombs built by the indigenous peoples of the Andes.
There are no restrictions on visiting Cutimbo. However, visitors are advised to respect the site and its historical significance.
A private tour of Cutimbo usually takes around 2–3 hours.
You can visit Cutimbo alone, but hiring a guide is recommended for a more informative experience.
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as it can get chilly at the site.
Yes, there is a small fee to enter Cutimbo. The cost goes towards maintaining the site.
Yes, it is safe to visit Cutimbo. However, visitors should take the necessary precautions, such as not wandering off the designated paths.
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos at Cutimbo. However, asking for permission before taking pictures of the locals is recommended.
Near Cutimbo, visitors can also visit the town of Juliaca, the Umayo Lake, and the Puno Cathedral.
Pricing
Cutimbo Ruins Tour Price
Season 2026
| Persons | Price (p/p) | |
| 1 | $ 244.00 USD |
| 2 | $ 165.00 USD |
| 3 | $ 126.00 USD |
| 4 | $ 117.00 USD |
| 5 | $ 110.00 USD |
| 6 | $ 96.00 USD |
| 7 | $ 92.00 USD |
| 8 | $ 90.00 USD |
| 9 | $ 83.00 USD |
Inquire
Book the Cutimbo Inca Ruins Tour
Join our guided tour from Puno and explore the ancient Cutimbo ruins and the impressive burial towers of Sillustani.
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