We'll start with a visit to Lampa, known as the Pink City, where time seems to stand still among its colonial streets and its imposing Santiago Apóstol Parish Church, built in 1675 and declared a national landmark. There, we'll discover the enigmatic catacombs and a replica of Michelangelo's “La Pietà,” details that make this place a true historical and cultural treasure.
The journey continues to Pucará, the birthplace of one of the oldest cultures in the Altiplano. In its Lithic Museum, travellers will have the opportunity to see unique archaeological pieces that bear witness to the grandeur of the Pucará culture, also known for its famous little bulls that today symbolise prosperity and protection in Andean homes. To recharge our batteries, we'll enjoy a boxed lunch before continuing on to our final destination.
The tour ends at the breathtaking Tinajani Canyon, an underexplored natural gem. Its gigantic rock formations, sculpted by millions of years of wind, rain, and snow, rise like stone guardians in a landscape that conveys peace and grandeur. Its reddish hues and the energy that permeates this place make for a unique experience.
During the visit, we will take a leisurely hike of about 3 km (30 to 45 minutes). The trek starts at 4,010 metres above sea level, climbs to the canyon's vantage point at 4,110 metres above sea level (1.1 km), and continues to a descent to 4,130 metres above sea level (1.7 km). We will then reach the iconic Watchman's Rock at 3,990 metres above sea level (2.6 km) and finish the circuit back at 4,010 metres above sea level after covering 2.9 km. We will then head back to the city of Puno, arriving at 7:00 pm.
Detailed Itinerary:
• 7:45 AM – 8:00 AM: Hotel pickup and departure to the Pink City of Lampa.
• 10:30 am: Visit to Santiago Apóstol Parish Church, the catacombs, and the replica of “La Pietà.”
• 1:00 PM: Arrival in Pucará. Visit to the Lithic Museum and lunch.
• 3:00 pm: Hike and visit to Tinajani Canyon.
• 4:30 pm: Return to Puno. Approximate arrival at 7:00 PM.
Know before you go:
• Altitude and physical fitness: During the sightseeing tour, we will be at an altitude of around 4,000 metres (13,123 feet) above sea level, with some points slightly higher than this. Some travellers may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or headaches due to the altitude. It is recommended to acclimatise beforehand in the city of Puno or another Andean city before taking the sightseeing tour, to stay hydrated, and to walk at a leisurely pace.
• Payment methods: In some villages and tourist attractions, there is no access to ATMs, and card payments are not accepted. It is recommended to bring cash in soles to cover additional expenses such as entrance fees, souvenirs, food, or personal purchases.
