Puno, due to its strategic location, presence of Pre Inca, Inca and colonial cultural remains; added to its natural attractions such as the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca, rivers, lagoons, jungle, flora, fauna; as well as its magnificent archaeological sites, its colonial temples, its varied folklore, the kindness of its people, and the legend which turned it into the City of the Sacred Lake, makes it a destination that cannot be ignored.
WHAT MAKES PUNO SO SPECIAL?
NATURAL BEAUTY: The main attraction, which catches the attention of every visitor is Lake Titicaca, located at 3,810 meters above sea level (12,500 feet), considered the highest navigable lake in the world. This water mass is Natural Heritage of Perú, since it maintains the lake’s own natural resources. Here live endemic species of birds, highlighting the Titicaca grebe; on the other hand, fish and amphibians, standing out the Titicaca water frog. And 12 varieties of aquatic plants excel, being the totora (bulrush) and the llacho. It is the perfect place for those who love nature and bird watching.
HISTORY AND CUSTOMS: From time immemorial, this lake has had an impact on the worldview of the Puno population. According to legend, Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, the founders of the Inca Empire, rose from the waters of Lake Titicaca. Along this mass of water, there are islands where they still maintain the customs of their ancestors. They live in harmony with their environment, and take advantage of the resources that Mother Earth provides. That is why you should visit the Taquile Island, where they make weavings in which they express their experiences and traditions. Amantani Island, is the ideal place to stay and sleep with the ancient inhabitants of the Aymara culture, they work in agriculture, their fields are surrounded by eucalyptus trees and flowers. Uros Island, is a set of artificial floating islands, they use totora reeds to build the ground of their homes, and thus avoid the collapse of the artificial islands. The local people continue to practice fishing on totora reed boats, and also use it for medicinal purposes. There are several archaeological sites that will astonish you, you cannot miss the Archaeological Complex of Sillustani, they are circular towers made of stone, have a height of 12 meters (40 feet) high, were used as funerary mausoleums by the Inca, Colla and Tiahuanaco cultures.
CUISINE: If you are in Puno, it is a must to try its local gastronomy. Taste a fried trout, you can accompany it with rice, boiled or french fries.
