Juliaca, known as the "City of the Winds", is a city located in the Peruvian highlands, in the department of Puno. It is often considered a gateway for those looking to explore Lake Titicaca or reach other major cities in Peru and Bolivia. However, Juliaca has a vibrant personality, ancient traditions, and a charm that deserves to be explored in itself. Here we present the best plans and activities to do in this fascinating city and its surroundings.
1. Explore the Historic Center of Juliaca
Juliaca’s historic center is the heart of the city, and one of the best places to start your visit. You can walk around the Plaza de Armas, which houses the Iglesia Matriz de Santa Catalina, an imposing structure of great importance to local residents. This church, built in the 17th century, stands out for its mestizo baroque style, very common in Andean colonial architecture. Here you will also find food stalls and vendors selling local crafts and products, allowing you to experience the local culture firsthand.
2. Visit the Church of La Merced
The Church of La Merced is another of Juliaca's architectural treasures. Its colonial architectural style and location in the city center make it a must-see. It is a place of spiritual and cultural importance for the inhabitants, as well as being an excellent place to appreciate the details of Peruvian religious architecture from the colonial era. During religious festivals, this place comes to life with masses, processions and cultural events that reflect the devotion of the community.
3. Visit the Túpac Amaru Market
The Túpac Amaru Market is the largest in the city and a fascinating place for lovers of local culture and traditions. It is a vibrant place where you can find everything from textiles, handicrafts, and alpaca products to typical ingredients of Peruvian cuisine. Visiting this market will allow you to experience the daily life of the people of Juliaca, learn about their customs, and try local flavors such as corn, quinoa, and other Andean products.
4. Climb the Huaynarroque Hill
For those looking for an outdoor activity and panoramic views, a hike to Cerro Huaynarroque is ideal. This hill is one of the most important natural viewpoints in the city. From the top, you can get a breathtaking view of Juliaca and its surroundings. The hike is moderate and offers you an experience of connection with nature, as well as an excellent opportunity to take photographs of the city and the vast expanse of the high plateau.
5. Boat ride on Lake Chacas
Chacas Lake, located just a few kilometers from Juliaca, is a perfect destination for those who want a quiet boat ride. This lake has a unique natural beauty and is ideal for a picnic or to spend a relaxing afternoon. You can also take the opportunity to observe local birds and enjoy the peace that this natural environment offers. Unlike Lake Titicaca, Chacas Lake is less touristy, allowing for a quieter and more authentic experience.
6. Enjoy the Local Gastronomy
The cuisine of Juliaca and the Puno region is a delicious mix of Andean ingredients and unique flavors. You can't miss dishes like chairo , a traditional soup made with meat, potatoes, and chuño (dehydrated potato); fried trucha , which comes from nearby lakes; and cuy chactado , a fried guinea pig dish that is very popular in the region. For a sweet touch, try queso helado , a kind of frozen dessert made from milk, cinnamon, and other local ingredients.
7. Participate in Local Festivities
Juliaca is known for its festivities, especially the Festivity of the Virgin of Mercedes, the patron saint of the city, which is celebrated in September. This festival brings together the inhabitants with dances, music and a wide variety of cultural events. Another important festival is the Candelaria, one of the largest celebrations in Peru, which is also held in other cities in the Puno region and includes colorful costumes and traditional dances. Participating in these festivities is an exceptional way to get to know the living culture and ancestral traditions of Juliaca.
8. Visit the Craft Workshops
Handicrafts in Juliaca are a tradition that reflects the cultural identity of the Peruvian highlands. You can visit workshops of local artisans who work with alpaca, sheep wool, and other native materials. Handicrafts in Juliaca include textiles, chullos (traditional hats), and blankets that are characterized by their vibrant colors and Andean designs. These workshops also offer the opportunity to meet the artisans and learn about the traditional techniques they use to create their products.
9. Take an Excursion to the Chullpas of Sillustani
Just an hour from Juliaca lies one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Peru: the Chullpas of Sillustani. These ancient funerary towers were built by the Qolla culture, and some of them are more than 12 meters high. The site is surrounded by the beautiful Lake Umayo, which adds a touch of serenity to the mystical atmosphere of the chullpas. This site offers a unique experience for those who want to learn about the pre-Incan history of the region and enjoy a breathtaking landscape.
10. Visit the Pucará Lithic Museum
Located an hour and a half from Juliaca, the Pucará Lithic Museum is another must-see for history and archaeology lovers. This museum houses an impressive collection of stone sculptures and archaeological pieces from the Pucará culture, one of the pre-Incan civilizations in the region. Here you can learn about stone carving techniques and the symbolism behind these impressive works, many of which depict anthropomorphic figures and sacred animals.
11. Discover the Nightlife in Juliaca
Although Juliaca is not particularly famous for its nightlife, there are some local bars and peñas where you can enjoy live music and traditional dances. Peñas are popular venues where Andean music takes center stage and traditional dances are held in a friendly atmosphere. Some bars offer Creole music , Spanish rock , and modern genres, providing options for those who want a nightlife experience in the city.
12. Shopping at the Handicraft Market in La Rinconada
While the town of La Rinconada, famous for its gold mines, can be a rough place to live, its craft market offers unique products you won't find elsewhere. It's great for buying souvenirs and supporting the trade of artisans who face harsh living conditions. This market is smaller than the one in Tupac Amaru, but it offers a special variety of crafts made from gold and other local materials.
13. Take a Tour on Lake Titicaca
Juliaca is an excellent base for a tour of Lake Titicaca, one of the highest navigable lakes in the world and a site of great cultural and natural significance. From Juliaca, you can take a tour to Puno and from there explore the floating islands of Uros, Amantaní and Taquile. These islands are known for their indigenous communities that still preserve their traditions and ancestral way of life. This tour will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience one of the most impressive landscapes in South America.
14. Visit the Water Park and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier
This park is a quiet space in Juliaca and is ideal for a family walk or relaxing in the middle of the city. The Monument to the Unknown Soldier is one of the attractions within the park, and symbolizes the bravery of Peruvian soldiers. The area also has water fountains that are illuminated at night, creating a picturesque and cozy atmosphere for an evening walk.
15. Practice Community Rural Tourism
One of the most enriching experiences in Juliaca and its surroundings is community-based rural tourism, which allows you to live with local communities and learn about their way of life. Some communities offer accommodation in rural houses, where you can participate in daily activities such as agriculture, livestock, and the preparation of traditional foods. This community-based tourism experience not only connects you with the local culture, but also supports the sustainable development of the communities.
Juliaca has much more to offer than many travelers realize, from its vibrant markets to its natural landscapes, archaeological sites, and cultural celebrations. With its authenticity, Juliaca allows visitors to get up close and personal with life in the Peruvian highlands, connect with the local culture, and explore history and nature in its purest form.