Direct answer
Puno sits on the high-altitude shores of Lake Titicaca (≈3,800 m/12,500 ft). Expect thin air, cool/dry weather, strong sun, and vibrant Andean culture. Plan for altitude acclimatization, basic health precautions, and a few logistical details to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Visa / Entry requirements
- Peru entry: Many nationalities enter visa-free for tourism (typically 90–183 days). Check Peru’s government or your embassy for current rules before travel.
- Passport: Valid for at least six months recommended.
- Visa extensions or special permits: Not usually required for Puno; domestic travel within Peru requires no extra permits.
- COVID/health: Verify any current health entry rules or vaccine requirements; they change infrequently but may apply.
Best time to visit
- Dry season (May–October): Best for weather—sunny days, cold nights, minimal rain, clearer lake views.
- Shoulder seasons (April, November): Fewer tourists, reasonable weather.
- Wet season (December–March): More rain, mud, and occasional ferry disruption; fiestas still vibrant.
Altitude & health tips
- Altitude: Lake Titicaca ~3,800 m. Symptoms: headache, breathlessness, nausea, fatigue.
- Acclimatize: Spend 1–2 days in Puno or lower-altitude city (e.g., Arequipa) before heavy activity.
- Hydrate and rest: Drink water, avoid alcohol and heavy exercise first 24–48 hours.
- Medications: Consider acetazolamide (Diamox) if you have prior issues—consult a doctor. Bring any personal meds.
- Oxygen: Many hotels, clinics and taxis offer portable oxygen; useful for severe symptoms.
Safety tips
- General safety: Puno is relatively safe for tourists but practice common-sense precautions (avoid poorly lit streets at night, watch belongings).
- Petty crime: Pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur—use a money belt, keep valuables secure.
- Scams: Beware of overly persistent guides or tuk-tuk drivers; agree fares upfront.
- Health services: Medical facilities exist but may be limited—know where your embassy/consulate and private clinics are.
Local customs & etiquette
- Respect: Indigenous Aymara and Quechua traditions are strong—ask before photographing people, especially in rural communities.
- Greetings: A simple handshake and eye contact work; learning a few words in Spanish or Quechua is appreciated.
- Bargaining: Expected at markets; do so politely.
- Festivals: Puno’s folklore festivals (e.g., Fiesta de la Candelaria in February) are major cultural events—plan and book early.
Currency & money
- Currency: Peruvian sol (PEN).
- Cash: Many small vendors, market stalls and rural islands accept only cash—carry small bills/coins.
- ATMs/cards: Available in Puno city but sometimes unreliable—carry backup cash. Credit cards accepted at hotels/restaurants in town.
Transportation
- Getting there: Puno by bus from Cusco (~6–10 hrs), Arequipa (~6–7 hrs), or overnight sleeper buses. Juliaca airport (close to Puno) has flights to Lima and Cusco.
- Local transit: Taxis and mototaxis are common—confirm fare before boarding. Shared minibuses for nearby villages/communities.
- Boats: Lake Titicaca boat tours to Uros and Taquile are the main attraction—use reputable operators and check weather/return schedules.
- Walking: Central Puno is walkable but keep exertion light due to altitude.
Must-know tips & practical advice
- Lake Titicaca tours: Book morning trips for calmer waters and clearer skies. Visit Uros floating reed islands, Taquile for textiles and hiking, and Amantani for homestays.
- Homestays: Offer cultural immersion; ask about sleeping arrangements, food, and altitude accommodations.
- Clothing: Layering is essential—warm jacket, hat, gloves for nights; sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen for daytime.
- Footwear: Comfortable, closed shoes for uneven paths and island trekking.
- Water/food safety: Drink bottled or boiled water; street food is tasty but choose busy, clean vendors.
- Connectivity: Wi‑Fi common in hotels; mobile coverage patchy on remote islands. Carry a charger and power bank.
- Tips and bargaining: Tipping for guides/boat crews appreciated (~10% or small per-person amounts). Bargain gently at markets.
Local insights
- Sunrise/sunset: Spectacular over the lake—ideal for photos and calmer winds.
- Markets: Puno’s central market is great for crafts and fresh produce—go early.
- Cultural respect: If invited to a local meal or ritual, accept—it's a meaningful exchange.
- Time to stay: 2–3 days is typical to explore Puno and Lake Titicaca islands; longer if adding homestays or hiking.
Quick checklist before you go
- Valid passport, check visa requirements
- Altitude meds/consultation if needed
- Layered clothing, sun protection
- Cash in soles and small bills
- Book reputable lake tours and transport
- Travel insurance covering altitude-related issues
Enjoy Puno’s highland culture and the serenity of Lake Titicaca—respect local communities and take it slow so your body and spirit can adapt.