Sillustani Archaeological Reserve

The Sillustani Archaeological Reserve is located on the western shore of Lake Umayo in the Puno region of southern Peru. It is renowned primarily for its chullpas, which are ancient funerary towers constructed by the Qulla people prior to Inca dominance and later influenced by Inca architectural styles. These cylindrical stone towers, some reaching heights of over 12 meters, served as mausoleums to elite members of local tribes and are notable for their precise stonework and imposing presence. The geography surrounding Sillustani includes rolling grasslands and high-altitude plains characteristic of the Andean Altiplano, situated at an elevation of approximately 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). The reserve’s ecology features typical puna grasslands with a variety of high-altitude flora and fauna, including vicuñas and Andean waterfowl near the lake. Visitors to Sillustani can explore pathways that wind around the site, revealing panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding hills. The main attraction is the Chullpa de Sillustani, one of the best-preserved towers that demonstrates the skill of ancient stonemasonry. The reserve provides a unique glimpse into the funerary traditions of pre-Columbian societies in the Peruvian Andes and presents opportunities for cultural tourism, photography, and light hiking. Access to Sillustani is commonly combined with visits to Puno and Lake Titicaca, enriching the experience with regional history and natural beauty. The site’s elevated location and dry conditions allow for excellent preservation of stone structures. Overall, Sillustani offers visitors a unique blend of archeological significance, panoramic landscape views, and a window into Andean ancient civilization.