Puno is the capital of the province and department of Puno, located in southern Peru, on the shores of the majestic Lake Titicaca. It borders Bolivia to the east and is known as the "Folkloric Capital of Peru" due to its vibrant festivals, featuring traditional music and dance performances.
The city sits at 3,800 meters above sea level on the Collao Plateau. Its urban structure adapts to the geography, with narrow and steep streets that offer panoramic views of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Among Puno’s economic activities, several sectors stand out, such as tourism, with interest in visiting the lake, the Uros, Amantaní, and Taquile Islands; trade, which is strengthened by exchanges between Peru and Bolivia; livestock farming, which produces alpaca and sheep fiber; agriculture, mainly cultivating quinoa, potatoes, and barley; and finally, mining, which, although on a smaller scale than in other Andean areas, also contributes to the local economy with the extraction of minerals such as gold and silver.
Puno’s Historic Center stands out for its Plaza de Armas, where the Puno Cathedral is located, a jewel of Andean baroque architecture built in the 18th century. Additionally, colonial houses with wooden balconies and cobblestone streets preserve the charm of past eras.
At the highest point of the city is the Kuntur Wasi Viewpoint, which offers a privileged view of the lake and the city. Its name in Quechua means "house of the condor" and refers to the large condor sculpture that crowns the top of the viewpoint, symbolizing the majesty of the Andes. To reach the top, visitors must climb a series of staircases, and it is recommended to do so at sunrise or sunset when the sun illuminates the waters of Titicaca with golden and orange hues, offering a spectacular view.
Puno is characterized by its cold high-altitude climate, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 15°C throughout the year. The rainy season runs from November to March, while from April to October, the weather is dry and sunny, ideal for tourism.
The Puno Bus Terminal, located at Av. Simón Bolívar 1201, is the main arrival and departure point for various bus companies. It connects the city with destinations such as Cusco, Arequipa, Juliaca, and Tacna, as well as offering international routes to Bolivia, including Copacabana, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, and La Paz. This terminal is an important transportation hub for both national and international travelers.
On kupos.pe, you can search for available routes and bus companies operating in the city of Puno. Additionally, you can download our app to enjoy a more personalized experience and gain benefits as a registered user.
On kupos.pe, you will find all the transportation options to get to and move around Puno with total comfort.
Excursions on Lake Titicaca
One of the most recommended experiences is the tour to the Uros, Amantaní, and Taquile Islands. On the Uros Islands, you will be amazed by the floating islands built with totora, a local aquatic plant, and you will meet the friendly inhabitants who keep their ancestral traditions alive. In Amantaní, you will have the opportunity to live with a local family, share their customs, and enjoy the tranquility of island life. And in Taquile, you will be surprised by the stunning landscapes, ancient agricultural terraces, and colorful textiles woven by the skilled artisans of the island. Additionally, we advise you to respect local customs and community rules. Always remember to ask before photographing the residents.
Beyond these islands, Puno offers many other options to explore Lake Titicaca. You can take a boat or canoe ride on the lake, enjoy birdwatching in nearby nature reserves, or simply relax on the shores of the lake and admire the surrounding beauty.
Local Gastronomy
Puno’s culture keeps the region’s traditions alive, enriching its gastronomy with unique flavors. Among the most delicious dishes made with typical ingredients are chairo, quinoa soup, pesque de quinua, alpaca chicharrón, sancochado puneño, and cancacho.
If you visit the city, we recommend dining at one of the restaurants by the lake for a much more rewarding experience.
Virgen de la Candelaria Festival
The best time to visit Puno is in February, as this month the city celebrates a grand festival in honor of the Virgen de la Candelaria. This festival stands out as one of the largest and most colorful in Peru. Dance troupes, dressed in elaborate costumes and masks, move to the rhythm of lively music bands, filling the atmosphere with energy and joy. Religious processions, in which the image of the Virgen de la Candelaria is carried through the streets, are moments of great fervor and devotion.
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