Weekend in Puno

Patch of green in central Puno with eucalyptus trees, benches and a bronze statue of the mestizo leader José Gabriel Condorcanqui. Locals often sit here eating ice cream or reading

Tip: Best in late afternoon when the sun softens and the trees cast long shadows. Avoid the park after dark – it’s poorly lit and can feel unsafe.

Neoclassical stone arch built in 1847 to honour the Peruvian victory over the Spanish. It stands at the top of a small hill and offers a decent view of the city and lake.

Tip: You can walk right under it for free – no tickets needed. Combine with a short stroll up to the nearby Mirador del Lago for a broader view. The steps are steep but manageable.

A 16th-century adobe church with a simple white facade and a single bell tower. Inside, the altarpiece is painted in earthy ochres and blues, with a wooden crucifix brought from Spain.

Tip: Usually unlocked from 08:00–12:00 and 15:00–18:00. The caretaker may ask for a voluntary donation of 2 or 3 soles. Don't expect a guided tour – wander quietly and take your own time.

Flat lookout point on a small knoll above the waterfront, with a clear view of the lake and the islands beyond. A simple concrete platform with a bench – nothing flashy.

Tip: Sunset is the moment to go – the light turns the water silver. It’s a 10-minute uphill walk from the Plaza de Armas. No entrance fee, but you can buy a juice or snack from the vendor who sometimes sets up there.

Small museum on the second floor of a colonial building, dedicated to the coca leaf and its cultural significance in the Andes. Exhibits include cultivation tools, textiles and historical photographs.

Tip: Entry is 5 soles (about £1). Go early to avoid the tour groups. The museum is easy to miss – look for the sign above a souvenir shop on Calle Deustua.