Puno: Aramu Muru portal tour with Inca Uyo & tombs

Summary

Step through ancient portals & stories near Lake Titicaca

You’ll wander among ancient fertility stones at Inca Uyo, touch the weathered tombs of Molloco, and stand before the mysterious Aramu Muru portal outside Puno. With stories from your local guide and time to explore each site quietly, this day trip leaves you with moments — and questions — you’ll remember long after the journey ends.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to be standing in front of a field of stone phalluses before lunch. But that’s how our day trip from Puno started — at Inca Uyo, where the air smelled faintly of earth after last night’s rain and our guide, Juan, grinned as he explained the fertility rituals. He said the stones were for honoring rain and crops, but honestly, it was hard not to laugh (Li did when I tried to say “Uyo” in Quechua — probably butchered it). The place felt old in a way that made my skin prickle a little, like you could almost hear the past humming under your feet.

After that we bumped along winding roads toward Molloco. The chullpas — those tall stone tombs — just sit out there against the hills, quiet except for wind and the odd sheep bell. Juan pointed out how each one was built by hand, no mortar, just stone stacked on stone. I ran my fingers over one; it was rough and cold even though the sun was out. There’s something about seeing where people buried their important ones centuries ago that makes you go quiet for a bit. We didn’t linger long — maybe out of respect or maybe because clouds were rolling in fast.

The main thing though was Aramu Muru itself. It’s about an hour from Puno but feels like another planet — huge red rocks everywhere and this flat “doorway” carved into a cliff. Some people call it a portal; Juan told us stories about shamans coming here for ceremonies. We took the short hike around (watch your step, some rocks wobble) and then just stood there for a while. I pressed my forehead to the stone like he suggested — not sure what I expected but I did feel weirdly calm after. Maybe it’s all in your head or maybe there really is something about this place. Either way, I still think about that silence sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Aramu Muru and Surroundings

• Visit Inca Uyo fertility temple
• Explore Chullpas de Molloco tombs
• Hike around Aramu Muru gate

Top questions

How far is Aramu Muru from Puno?

Aramu Muru is located about 80 kilometers from Puno.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels in Puno.

What sites are visited on this day trip from Puno?

The tour visits Inca Uyo in Chucuito, Molloco funerary towers (chullpas), and the Aramu Muru portal.

How long is the hike at Aramu Muru?

The walk around Aramu Muru includes a 20-minute hike to see surrounding rock formations up close.

Are guides local experts?

Yes, tours are led by local guides who share cultural context and stories at each site.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What is special about Inca Uyo?

Inca Uyo features unique stone monoliths shaped like phalluses used in ancient Andean fertility rituals.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport with hotel pickup and drop-off in Puno, guidance from a local expert throughout Inca Uyo, Molloco tombs, and Aramu Muru portal visits—so you can just focus on exploring without worrying about logistics or tickets along the way.