Travel Guide to Puno

• HelloQanqo
  [kahn-koh]
• GoodbyeQanqoy
  [kahn-koy]
• YesArí
  [ah-ree]
• NoManan
  [mah-nan]
• Please/You're welcomeKuntisunchis
  [koon-tee-soon-chees]
• Thank youSulpayki
  [sool-pie-kee]
• Excuse me/SorryPakarinkama
  [pah-kah-reen-kah-mah]
• How are you?Ima kashanki?
  [ee-mah kah-shahn-kee]
• Fine. And you?Allillan. Ima kashanki?
  [ahl-lee-yahn. ee-mah kah-shahn-kee]
• Do you speak English?Inglis simikuy?
  [een-glees see-mee-kwee]
• I don't understandMana atinkuni
  [mah-nah ah-teen-koo-nee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenuytaanichikunata munanki, mana
  [meh-noo-ytah-nee-chee-koo-nah-tah moo-nahn-kee. mah-nah]
• I don't eat meatKarniriki manan
  [kahr-nee-ree-kee mah-nan]
• Cheers!Chin chin!
  [cheen cheen]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTupanichikunata munanki, mana
  [too-pah-nee-chee-koo-nah-tah moo-nahn-kee. mah-nah]

• Help!Yanapay!
  [yah-nah-pie]
• Go away!Ishu!
  [ee-shoo]
• Call the Police!Polispa llaman
  [poh-lees-pah yah-mahn]
• Call a doctor!Doctor llaman
  [dohk-tohr yah-mahn]
• I'm lostLlasankichu
  [yahn-sahn-kee-choo]
• I'm illUnquy
  [oon-kwee]

• I'd like to buy...Rikurikunata munanichi...
  [ree-koo-ree-koo-nah-tah moo-nah-nee-chee]
• I'm just lookingRikurikunata munanichisqa
  [ree-koo-ree-koo-nah-tah moo-nah-nee-chees-kah]
• How much is it?Imataq?
  [ee-mah-tahk]
• That's too expensiveAncha kʼuchu
  [ahn-chah koo-choo]
• Can you lower the price?Aswan kachkanchikuy?
  [ahs-wahn kahch-kahn-chee-kwee]

• What time is it?Imataq tinku?
  [ee-mah-tahk teen-koo]
• It's one o'clockJunka tukuy
  [hoon-kah too-koo-ee]
• Half past (10)Iskaypata tukuy
  [ees-kai-pah-tah too-koo-ee]
• MorningPukyu
  [poo-k-yoo]
• AfternoonChaski
  [chahs-kee]
• EveningTuta
  [too-tah]
• YesterdayHuk p'unchaw
  [hook poon-chow]
• TodayKunan p'unchaw
  [koo-nahn poon-chow]
• TomorrowKay p'unchaw
  [kahy poon-chow]
• 1Junka
  [hoon-kah]
• 2Iskay
  [ees-kai]
• 3Kimsa
  [keem-sah]
• 4Tawa
  [tah-wah]
• 5Phisqa
  [fees-kah]
• 6Suyu
  [soo-yoo]
• 7Qanchis
  [kahn-chees]
• 8Pusaq
  [poos-ahk]
• 9Isqun
  [ees-koon]
• 10Chunka
  [choon-kah]

• Where's a/the...?Aychata...
  [ai-chah-tah]
• What's the address?Simi tinku?
  [see-mee teen-koo]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Rikurikuytaanichikuy?
  [ree-koo-ree-kwee-tahn-ee-chee-kwee]
• When's the next (bus)?Imataq sapa (bus)?
  [ee-mah-tahk sah-pah]
• A ticket (to ....)Chakana (....)ta
  [chah-kah-nah (....)tah]

Puno's history traces back to the pre-Columbian era, where the Pukara civilization flourished around 200 BCE to 300 CE. This early culture is known for its impressive monolithic sculptures and ceramics. The Pukara people were skilled in agriculture, crafting, and irrigation, leaving behind significant archaeological sites such as the Pukara archaeological complex, which offers insights into their way of life and religious practices.

Following the decline of the Pukara civilization, the region around Puno came under the influence of the Tiwanaku Empire. Originating from present-day Bolivia, the Tiwanaku were renowned for their sophisticated agricultural techniques, including raised fields and terracing. Their influence extended to Puno, shaping the region's cultural and agricultural landscape. Key Tiwanaku sites include the Acora and Chucuito regions, where remnants of their architecture and pottery can still be found.

In the 15th century, the Inca Empire expanded its reach into the Lake Titicaca region, incorporating Puno into its vast territory. The Incas brought with them advanced agricultural practices, administrative organization, and their unique architectural style. The sacred nature of Lake Titicaca was integrated into Incan cosmology, with the lake considered the birthplace of the founders of the Inca civilization, Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo. The city of Puno itself was strategically important as a center for trade and administration.

The Spanish conquest in the 16th century marked a significant transformation for Puno. The city was officially founded in 1668 as 'San Juan Bautista de Puno' by Viceroy Count Lemos. Under Spanish rule, Puno became an important center for silver mining, particularly in the nearby town of Laykakota. The influx of Spanish settlers and the establishment of colonial institutions led to a blend of indigenous and European cultures, evident in the city's architecture, religious practices, and festivals.

Puno played a role in Peru's struggle for independence from Spanish rule in the early 19th century. The region saw several uprisings and battles as local populations resisted colonial control. After Peru's independence in 1821, Puno continued to develop as a significant cultural and economic center. The republican era brought modernity and infrastructure improvements, including the construction of the Puno-Cusco railway in the early 20th century, which boosted trade and tourism.

Puno is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, particularly its festivals. The most famous is the Feast of the Virgen de la Candelaria, held every February. This festival, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, features traditional dances, music, and elaborate costumes, reflecting the region's rich blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. Other notable celebrations include the Diablada and Morenada dances, which are integral parts of Puno's cultural identity.

Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, is central to Puno's identity. The lake is steeped in legend and history, considered the cradle of Andean civilization. The Uros people, who live on floating reed islands on the lake, maintain a unique way of life that has persisted for centuries. Taquile and Amantani islands are also significant for their traditional weaving and agricultural practices, offering visitors a glimpse into age-old customs that are still very much alive.

Puno is located in southeastern Peru, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The nearest airport is Inca Manco Cápac International Airport in Juliaca, about 44 kilometers away. From Juliaca, you can take a taxi or a bus to Puno, which typically takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can reach Puno by train from Cusco or Arequipa, with services provided by PeruRail. Buses are also a popular and cost-effective way to get to Puno from major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.

Puno has a variety of transportation options for getting around. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. Moto-taxis are a cheaper option for short distances within the city. Public buses and minibuses (combis) operate on various routes within Puno and to nearby attractions. For a more scenic experience, consider taking a boat tour on Lake Titicaca to visit the Uros Floating Islands or Taquile Island.

The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Puno. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout the city, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas. Currency exchange services are also available in banks and exchange offices.

Puno is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Areas around the bus terminal and main market can be hotspots for pickpocketing. Always use registered taxis and avoid accepting rides from strangers. Be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas and always inform someone of your plans.

In case of emergency, dial 105 for the police or 116 for ambulance services. The local hospital, Hospital Regional Manuel Núñez Butrón, is equipped to handle medical emergencies. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Puno for over-the-counter medications. For assistance, you can also contact your country's embassy or consulate in Peru.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Religion: Do show respect when visiting churches and religious sites. Remove your hat and speak softly. Public Transport: Do have small change ready for bus fares. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a polite 'Buenos días.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like ceviche and alpaca meat. Don't drink tap water; stick to bottled or boiled water.

To experience Puno like a local, visit the lively Mercado Central where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the locals; they are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don't miss the Puno Cathedral and the Yavari, a historic ship on Lake Titicaca. For an authentic experience, consider staying with a local family on Amantani Island. Attend the Fiesta de la Candelaria in February to witness traditional dances and music.