Tiahuanaco Tour from Puno

Embark on a fascinating cultural journey from Puno to Tiwanaku, the spiritual and political center of one of the oldest civilizations on the continent: the Tiwanaku culture. On this day tour, you’ll cross the border into Bolivia to explore impressive pre-Incan temples, ancient monoliths, and the famous Sun Gate.

You’ll discover the grandeur of a civilization that profoundly influenced the Incas and still holds unsolved mysteries.

This archaeological tour is not only a journey into the past, but also a living connection with the origins of the Andes.

🚐 Departure from Puno – Heading to Tiwanaku

The tour begins with pickup from your hotels in downtown Puno. Aboard a comfortable tour vehicle, we’ll begin our journey south, crossing the Andean plateau with spectacular views of lagoons, agricultural fields, and rural communities.

🛂 Border Crossing – Immigration Procedures

We will make a brief stop at the Desaguadero border crossing to complete the immigration procedures between Peru and Bolivia. Our staff will assist you throughout the process to ensure a quick and safe journey.

🏘️ Arrival at the Tiwanaku Village

After crossing the border, we will arrive at the small and peaceful village of Tiwanaku, located approximately 3,850 meters above sea level, where our immersion in the legacy of an ancient civilization begins.

🏺 Visit to the Tiwanaku Lithic Museum and the Tiwanaku Ceramic Museum

Our first encounter with this culture will take place in the local museums. The Lithic Museum houses monoliths, stelae, and stone sculptures that showcase the artistic mastery and worldview of the Tiwanaku people. In the Ceramic Museum, we will see pieces that reveal how the ancient inhabitants lived, ate, and prayed.

🧭 Guided tour of the Tiwanaku Archaeological Complex

Accompanied by a specialized guide, we will thoroughly explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Key structures include:

Kalasasaya Temple: With its megalithic structure perfectly aligned with the stars, it was used for solar rituals.

Gate of the Sun: One of the most enigmatic monuments in South America. Carved from a single stone, it contains a frieze of deities and calendar symbols.

Semi-Subterranean Temple: A site with more than 150 nailed heads embedded in the walls, possibly representing different ethnic groups.

Akapana Pyramid: A stepped, cross-shaped structure associated with the Andean worldview.

Pumapunku: Considered one of the greatest mysteries of Andean archaeology. Its stone blocks, carved with mathematical precision, defy even modern technology.

🍽️ Traditional Bolivian Lunch

After the tour, we will enjoy a typical Bolivian lunch at a local restaurant, featuring highland dishes based on quinoa, llama meat, native potatoes, and other Andean ingredients.

🚌 Return to Puno or transfer to La Paz

Finally, we will begin the return trip. You can choose to return to Puno or continue to La Paz (reservation required). This concludes a deeply cultural and inspiring day.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

Pickup from your hotel in Puno
We will pick you up directly from your accommodation located in the city center so you can begin the tour without any problems.

Tourist Transportation Puno – Tiahuanaco – Puno / La Paz
Comfortable and safe transportation throughout the land journey, including assistance at the border crossing.

Assistance with immigration procedures
Our team will guide you through the Peru-Bolivia border crossing to expedite immigration procedures.

Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
A local guide specialized in Andean history and archaeology will provide detailed explanations at each point of the tour.

Admission to the Tiwanaku Lithic and Ceramic Museums
You will see original archaeological pieces that reveal the worldview, art, and science of this ancient civilization.

Entrance to the Tiwanaku archaeological complex
Includes all iconic sites: Kalasasaya Temple, Sun Gate, Underground Temple, Akapana Pyramid, and Puma Punku.

Traditional Lunch
Includes lunch at a local restaurant with typical dishes from the Bolivian Altiplano cuisine.

First Aid Kit
We provide basic medical care during the tour if needed.

Return to Puno or transfer to La Paz
You can choose to return to Puno or continue your trip to La Paz (by appointment).

❌ What’s not included?

Breakfast and Dinner
Meals other than lunch are not included. It is recommended to have breakfast before the tour.

Drinks during Lunch
Additional or alcoholic beverages during lunch are the passenger’s responsibility.

Gratuities
Gratuities for the guide and driver are voluntary and not included.

Personal Expenses
Souvenirs, snacks, and restroom use during the tour, among other personal expenses, are not included.

Travel Insurance
It is recommended to purchase medical or international travel insurance before the tour. It is not included in the service.

🌟 Recommendations

🧳 Bring your current ID
It is essential to bring your passport or original ID to cross the border between Peru and Bolivia. Check the immigration requirements for your nationality in advance.

🎒 Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing
The weather in the Altiplano can vary considerably throughout the day.

It is recommended to wear warm, layered clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a windbreaker.

🥾 Appropriate walking shoes
Wear comfortable shoes, preferably hiking shoes or sneakers, as the tour of the archaeological site covers uneven terrain.

💧 Stay hydrated
The tour takes place at over 3,800 meters above sea level. Always carry water and avoid sudden physical exertion to prevent altitude sickness.

📷 Bring a fully charged camera or cell phone.
The archaeological sites and landscape of the Altiplano offer excellent photography opportunities.

🕶️ Sunglasses and sunscreen.
The sunlight at high altitude is intense even on cloudy days. Protect yourself for a more comfortable experience.

💵 Bring cash.
If you want to buy souvenirs, drinks, or snacks, consider bringing Bolivian currency (Bs) or small dollar bills.

🕘 Respect the tour and group schedule.
The tour has set times for visits and transfers. Being punctual will help you complete the entire itinerary.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport or visa to cross the border into Bolivia?

Yes. A valid passport is required for this tour. Some countries require a visa to enter Bolivia, so it is recommended to check with the appropriate embassy or consulate.

How demanding is the tour?

It doesn’t require much physical effort, but there are hikes through archaeological sites with stone paths. It is recommended that you be in good general condition and avoid the tour if you have heart or respiratory problems.

Is lunch included? What type of food is offered?

Yes, a traditional lunch is included. It generally includes soup, a typical main course (chicken, meat, or vegetarian), and a local drink. A vegetarian or gluten-free menu can be requested in advance.

Can I stay in La Paz after the tour?

Yes. This tour offers the option to end in La Paz, provided this has been previously coordinated with the operating agency.

Can I bring my luggage on the tour?

Only a small backpack is recommended.

If you wish to continue to La Paz, you can arrange for safe transportation of your larger luggage in advance.

What should I do if I experience symptoms of altitude sickness?

The guide has a first aid kit.

It is also recommended to take coca tea or altitude sickness pills before the trip and avoid heavy meals.

Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available at the museum, the archaeological complex, and at some points along the trail.

Some restrooms may have a small additional charge.