On the way to Sillustani, we stop at Puma Uta, a hilltop viewpoint just north of Puno. From up here, the city spreads out below and Lake Titicaca stretches toward the horizon — on clear days, you can even spot the distant islands. It's a great moment to take it all in, feel the highland breeze, and grab some wide-angle photos before heading deeper into the altiplano. The viewpoint takes its name from the large puma sculpture at the summit, honoring one of the most powerful symbols in Andean tradition: strength, protection, and connection to the earth.

Before reaching Sillustani, we stop at the community of Atuncolla, home to descendants of the ancient Qolla culture. You'll step into a traditional family home where guinea pigs scurry around the kitchen — as they have for centuries — and llamas and alpacas graze just outside. The family will show you how they weave alpaca fiber by hand, walk you through the different varieties of quinoa and Andean grains they harvest, and point out the medicinal plants they still rely on daily. It's an unhurried, genuine glimpse into highland life that most visitors don't expect to find just 30 minutes from Puno.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Sillustani tombs, set against the stunning Umayo Lagoon. These ancient towers, known as chullpas, were first built by the Kolla people and later adapted by the Incas for use as tombs for chiefs and priests. Some towers stand as tall as 10 meters! You’ll begin with a 30-minute walk to the top, where you’ll get up close to these impressive structures. Along the way, you’ll spot the differences between pre-Inca and Inca burial towers, learning how each culture left its mark on the site. Once at the top, your guide will lead you through the main burial site, explaining the historical and cultural significance of the tombs. The views are incredible—take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, including Lake Umayo, as you explore this ancient and peaceful place. It’s a perfect blend of history, nature, and local culture.