Festive Puno and beautiful Lake Titicaca Peru

Puno may seem like just another small town in Peru, but a closer look will soon reveal a charming and picturesque side with its historic architecture, narrow streets, and cheerful locals, often seen in colorful traditional clothing. Founded in the late 17th century, Puno is one of the busiest trading posts in the country, so it will be hard to miss the business side of the city.

As a sign of the festive character of Puno, the town is considered the folkloric capital mainly for its festivity of the Virgen de la Candelaria, whose parades are televised live for the rest of the nation. The parades may be popular, but it’s the drinking and partying that comes with them that solidifies the city’s reputation. But if you visit Puno outside of festival hours, don’t worry, you can easily find the liveliest bars in the country in this city even without the festival. You may even experience a lively street party or two during your visit.

One of the famous places to see in Puno is its massive 18th-century Baroque-style cathedral that sits at the western end of the Plaza de Armas, within the downtown area of ​​the city. The Casa del Corregidor, which is the oldest house in the city, is also located in the main square. Here you can relax in their “cultural cafe” together with locals and tourists. Other attractions to explore include the central market, the quiet plaza of Parque Pino, and the bustling street of Jiron (Pasaje) Lima, lined with restaurants, shops, and bars.

In addition to being close to other popular tourist cities like La Paz and Cuzco, Puno is also the well-known gateway to the famous Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable body of water in the world located at an altitude of over 12,500 (at 3,830 m). feet above sea level. . Aside from its location, Titicaca is admired for the brilliant blue water that flows between the border of Peru and Bolivia. It is popular with intrepid travelers to cross the lake to get from Puno to the town of La Paz.

One activity you won’t want to miss while in Puno is taking a boat tour of the lake to visit the artificial islands populated by the indigenous Uros people. These islands are called the Floating Islands of the Uros and were built with reeds. Apart from its prominence in the field of tourism, Lake Titica is a sacred and mystical place for many Peruvians in the region.

The Uros Indians believed that they were people born from the lake, and therefore should remain in their birthplace. Nearby you will also find two natural islands, Taquille and Amantani, which are also inhabited. The tours offered to the islands can last half a day or 2 full days. If you have the time and the budget, consider spending a night on the lake’s only private island called Suasi, which is home to a very luxurious eco-lodge.

For a great view of Lake Titicaca and Puno, head up a steep hill to Mirador Kuntur Wasi and Huajsapata Park. This site is only about a 10 minute walk from the main town square. Once at the top, you will be greeted by the white statue of the founder of the Inca Empire, Manco Capac.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *