Embark on a walking city tour in Puno and discover the historic landmarks and cultural highlights of this vibrant city. Join our knowledgeable guides for an unforgettable experience!
Embark on a walking city tour in Puno and discover the historic landmarks and cultural highlights of this vibrant city. Join our knowledgeable guides for an unforgettable experience!
- Catedral de Puno - Begin at the Plaza de Armas to admire the Cathedral’s Andean-Baroque façade up close. The guide will point out carved sirens “playing” the charango, native flowers, and faces—symbols that merge Catholic imagery with high-Andean beliefs. Discover how this 18th-century temple was crafted in stone by the indigenous master builder…
- Catedral de Puno - Begin at the Plaza de Armas to admire the Cathedral’s Andean-Baroque façade up close. The guide will point out carved sirens “playing” the charango, native flowers, and faces—symbols that merge Catholic imagery with high-Andean beliefs. Discover how this 18th-century temple was crafted in stone by the indigenous master builder Simón de Asto, with the support of local miners. Then, step back to capture wide shots of the twin towers and the vibrant square life. It offers a concise lesson in Puno’s mestizo baroque, setting the tone for the rest of the tour.
- Museo Municipal Carlos Dreyer - Located just off the main square, this intimate museum weaves together Puno’s history. With the guide, explore pre-Inca and Inca ceramics and stonework, funerary objects, and mummies from the Altiplano, along with a colonial/republican art gallery—including pieces collected by the German artist Carlos Dreyer. You’ll also find models of chullpas (ancient funerary towers), textiles, and metalwork that provide context for what you’ll see around Lake Titicaca. Compact and well-curated, it offers deep insights without haste.
- Cerrito Huajsapata - A gentle ascent leads to Huajsapata Hill, topped by a statue of Manco Cápac, the legendary founder of the Inca Empire. From this vantage point, the city unfolds below and Lake Titicaca extends to the horizon—ideal for panoramic views and a brief rest.
- Mercado Laykakota - Encounter herbalists and ritual-goods vendors at the Laykacota “Witches’ Market,” where shelves are filled with muña and coca, amulets, and offerings used in Andean folk healing and devotion. This is a respectful, open-eyed look at living traditions: discussions include how ‘despachos’ to Pachamama are integrated into daily life and festivities, when to ask before taking photos, and how to ethically purchase small items if desired—always supporting local families.
- Arco Deustua - Stroll to the elegant stone arch of Arco Deustua, constructed in 1847 to honor the heroes of Peru’s independence after the battles of Junín and Ayacucho. It’s a picturesque pause point where inscriptions and decorative details are decoded before continuing along Jirón Lima back toward the center—connecting 19th-century memories with today’s street life.
- Parque Pino - At the north end of pedestrian Jirón Lima, Parque Pino serves as Puno’s social hub. Beneath trimmed trees stands the monument to Dr. Manuel Pino—a local hero of the War of the Pacific—unveiled in 1901. Take a moment to observe the people, discuss nearby landmarks (such as San Juan church and classic facades), and see how this square intertwines civic life, history, and devotion.
- Iglesia de San Juan Bautista - Across from Parque Pino, this church—sanctuary of the Virgen de la Candelaria—features an unusual French-ogival façade with a modest interior housing the city’s most cherished image. Learn how her devotion began in the 18th century and how February processions fill these streets with music and dance. When the doors are open, enter quietly to appreciate the altars and observe local worship.

- Local guide
- Local guide
- Carlos Dreyer Museum Tickets - (Cash Only 15 soles p/p)
- Entrance fees
- Carlos Dreyer Museum Tickets - (Cash Only 15 soles p/p)
- Entrance fees
This walk is crafted with a focus on culture and rich storytelling, tailored to Puno’s unique altitude and pace. It seamlessly weaves together architecture, museum exhibits, scenic viewpoints, bustling markets, and local devotion into a cohesive narrative. The carvings on the Cathedral are contextualized at the museum, the panoramic view from the…
This walk is crafted with a focus on culture and rich storytelling, tailored to Puno’s unique altitude and pace. It seamlessly weaves together architecture, museum exhibits, scenic viewpoints, bustling markets, and local devotion into a cohesive narrative. The carvings on the Cathedral are contextualized at the museum, the panoramic view from the hilltop offers a new perspective of the city, and the market’s traditions shed light on the Candelaria story. The experience is personal and leisurely, allowing ample time for photography, inquiries, and genuine interactions, all while maintaining respect for worship practices and vendors. Discover the true essence of Puno—its art, spirituality, and daily life—through this unforgettable walk.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.