Umayo Lagoon Peru
A serene high-altitude lagoon in Puno, Peru, adjacent to the ancient Sillustani burial towers, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer skies
Umayo Lagoon Peru
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene high-altitude lagoon in Puno, Peru, adjacent to the ancient Sillustani burial towers, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape.
"Impressive place with good energy ideal for meditation and breathing fresh air."
🤝 Hire a Private Car
Easier than public transport. Negotiate rates for a round trip from Puno, including waiting time.
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
It gets cold! Bring a scarf, hat, and gloves. The weather can change rapidly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Umayo Lagoon's Serene Waters
Umayo Lagoon
A breathtaking high-altitude lake offering tranquility and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for quiet contemplation.
Sillustani Chullpas
Adjacent to Umayo Lagoon
Ancient funerary towers (chullpas) standing sentinel over the lagoon, offering a glimpse into pre-Hispanic history.
Artisan Craft Stalls
Near the lagoon entrance
Browse unique local handicrafts and souvenirs at affordable prices from friendly vendors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Awareness is Key
Getting There & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Hire a Private Car
Easier than public transport. Negotiate rates for a round trip from Puno, including waiting time.
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
It gets cold! Bring a scarf, hat, and gloves. The weather can change rapidly.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Altitude sickness is real. Drink plenty of water and consider coca candies.
☀️ Bring Sunglasses
The sun is intense at this altitude, even on cloudy days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Hire a Private Car
Easier than public transport. Negotiate rates for a round trip from Puno, including waiting time.
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
It gets cold! Bring a scarf, hat, and gloves. The weather can change rapidly.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Altitude sickness is real. Drink plenty of water and consider coca candies.
☀️ Bring Sunglasses
The sun is intense at this altitude, even on cloudy days.
📸 Capture the Views
The lagoon and chullpas offer incredible photo opportunities. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Umayo Lagoon for its impressive natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and the unique historical significance of the adjacent Sillustani Chullpas. The modest entrance fee and the opportunity to purchase local crafts are also highlighted positively. However, the high altitude requires careful preparation to avoid soroche, and transportation can be a challenge for independent travelers.
"Impressive place with good energy ideal for meditation and breathing fresh air. Admission costs 15 soles, there are also craft shops, bathrooms and a place to drink coffee."
Enrique Loayza
"The Umayo Lagoon, located in Puno, right next to the Sillustani Chullpas, is a wonderful place that requires a modest entrance fee of 5 soles. Upon entering, you can see small artisan vendors selling small items at affordable prices. They also offer food and restrooms if you need them. To climb the chullpas you must walk approximately 30 minutes however being at such a height (approx 4000 meters above sea level) can cause soroche (altitude sickness), so it is advisable to bring water, lemon candies and pills for headaches like gravol. At the top you will see the chullpas but you will also see the beautiful lagoon, a clear sky and a dream landscape like the photo that accompanies my description. To get to this place it is advisable to take a private car since it is difficult to take a bus that passes through the area. It cost us 100 soles from Puno to Juliaca (which is where we would take the plane), where the driver waited for us and we were able to enjoy this beautiful place. I recommend going early in the morning since there are not many people and enjoy the scenery, also you should bring warm clothing because otherwise you will die of cold, a scarf and sunglasses are always a good option."
Kerly Mantilla Díaz
"A beautiful lake next to Sillustani. It just started raining so it's cloudy. I went with a tour."
Rocio Cardenas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Umayo Lagoon from Puno is by hiring a private car or joining a guided tour. Public transport is limited and can be difficult to navigate. A private car can cost around 100 soles for a round trip, including waiting time.
While technically possible, taking a bus is not recommended due to infrequent services and difficulty in finding routes that pass directly by the lagoon. Tours or private transport are far more reliable.
Umayo Lagoon is located approximately 20-30 kilometers (12-18 miles) from Puno, but the travel time can be longer due to road conditions and altitude.
Yes, Umayo Lagoon is located right next to the Sillustani Chullpas, making it very easy to visit both sites in one trip. Many tours and private car hires will include both.
For the best photographic opportunities, consider a private car that allows you to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way and spend ample time at the lagoon and chullpas. Early morning light is particularly beautiful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Umayo Lagoon is modest, typically around 5 soles. There may be separate fees for the Sillustani Chullpas if you plan to climb them.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Sillustani Chullpas, which allows you to explore the ancient funerary towers. The exact cost can vary but is generally affordable.
No, tickets for Umayo Lagoon are usually purchased on-site. It's not a high-demand attraction that requires advance booking.
The entrance fee typically grants access to the lagoon area and the surrounding grounds. You'll also find small artisan vendors selling crafts.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth asking at the entrance if you qualify for any student or senior rates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Umayo Lagoon, you can enjoy the serene natural landscape, take photos of the chullpas and the lake, browse local crafts, and experience the peaceful atmosphere. It's ideal for meditation and enjoying fresh air.
Yes, many visitors find Umayo Lagoon to be an impressive place with good energy, making it ideal for meditation and breathing fresh air due to its tranquil environment.
The Sillustani Chullpas are ancient, cylindrical funerary towers built by pre-Hispanic cultures. They are located on a peninsula overlooking Umayo Lagoon and are a significant archaeological site.
A visit to Umayo Lagoon and the Sillustani Chullpas can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the chullpas, taking photos, and browsing the crafts.
Wear warm, layered clothing, including a hat, scarf, and gloves, as the altitude makes it feel cold. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, especially if you plan to climb the chullpas.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While there aren't formal restaurants, you can find small stalls near the lagoon entrance offering food and drinks, including coffee.
Yes, small artisan vendors often sell snacks and drinks, including coffee, at Umayo Lagoon.
Expect simple offerings like coffee and possibly some local snacks. For a full meal, it's best to eat in Puno before or after your visit.
It's generally recommended to eat your main meals in Puno. The food options at the lagoon are limited to snacks and beverages.
Yes, bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring the area.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are along the lagoon's edge with the chullpas in the background, and from the top of the Sillustani Chullpas for panoramic views. The reflections on the water can also be stunning.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
The main challenge at high altitude is your own comfort. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and be mindful of your camera's battery, which can drain faster in the cold.
Drone regulations can be strict in Peru, especially near archaeological sites. It's best to check local regulations or avoid flying drones to prevent issues.
Expect stunning landscape shots of the lagoon, the unique Sillustani Chullpas, and the vast Andean scenery. You can also capture cultural elements from the artisan stalls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as options at the lagoon are limited. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Consider a private car for flexibility, allowing you to make stops as needed. While the artisan stalls offer souvenirs, keep an eye on children to ensure they don't wander off. The peaceful atmosphere can be a nice change of pace, but the altitude requires careful management for younger visitors.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save money on food purchases at the site. If you're on a very tight budget, research local bus routes, but be prepared for longer travel times and potential inconvenience. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and historical significance, which are free once you've paid the entrance fee.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Meditators
Consider hiring a private car for flexibility, allowing you to spend as much time as you need at the lagoon and chullpas. Bring a journal or sketchbook to capture your thoughts and observations. The tranquility of the location, combined with the historical depth of Sillustani, offers a profound experience for those looking to connect with themselves and the ancient Andean landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Altitude: Soroche Survival Guide
When you visit Umayo Lagoon, continue to prioritize hydration and listen to your body. Avoid strenuous activity immediately upon arrival. If you feel unwell, rest and take it easy. The views from the Sillustani Chullpas are rewarding, but the climb can be challenging at this altitude, so take your time. Bringing lemon candies can also help combat nausea. Remember that the sun is also much stronger at this altitude, so wear sunscreen and sunglasses even if it's cloudy.
Key Takeaways for Altitude:
* Acclimatize: Spend time in Puno before visiting.
* Hydrate: Drink water constantly.
* Consider aids: Coca leaves/tea, headache medication.
* Pace yourself: Avoid overexertion.
* Protect yourself: Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential.
The Mystique of Sillustani: Ancient Towers and Legends
Visiting Sillustani offers a unique opportunity to step back in time. As you walk among the chullpas, you can imagine the rituals and beliefs of these ancient cultures. The panoramic views from the top of the peninsula, encompassing Umayo Lagoon and the surrounding Andean landscape, are breathtaking and provide a sense of the strategic importance of this location. Many visitors describe the energy of the place as impressive and conducive to reflection.
Exploring Sillustani:
* Discover Chullpas: Admire the unique funerary towers.
* Enjoy Views: Take in the stunning vistas of Umayo Lagoon.
* Learn History: Understand the significance of pre-Inca and Inca cultures.
* Respect the Site: Treat the ancient structures with reverence.
Capturing the Essence: Photography at Umayo Lagoon
+1Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the Sillustani Chullpas themselves. Their unique cylindrical shape and their placement on the peninsula make for dramatic and iconic images. Experiment with different angles and perspectives, perhaps framing the chullpas against the backdrop of the lagoon or the expansive Andean sky. The artisan stalls also provide opportunities for capturing cultural details and vibrant colors. Remember to protect your gear from the elements, as the high altitude can bring sudden weather changes.
Photography Tips:
* Golden Hours: Shoot during sunrise or sunset for best light.
* Composition: Frame chullpas with the lagoon or sky.
* Details: Capture vibrant crafts from local vendors.
* Weather Prep: Be ready for sun, wind, and potential rain.
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