From Puno, Excursion to Lampa

In this itinerary, we shall embark on an exploration starting from Puno towards Lampa, focusing on the Jesuit Temple of Saint James (Santiago Apóstol) and its unique crypt adorned with skulls and bones.

We will depart from the agreed location in Puno at 8:00 a.m., heading north towards Lampa for a two-hour journey. Upon arrival, we shall proceed to visit the Jesuit Temple of Santiago Apóstol, an iconic symbol of the town, which houses various religious artifacts including a sculpture of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá, a leather-crafted crucifix, a silver image of the Immaculate Conception, and a replica of Michelangelo's famous Pieta.

Following our exploration of the temple, we will proceed into the church atrium, traversing through eight towering towers and entering the ancient catacombs. This awe-inspiring structure features a grand mausoleum with intricate funerary chambers adorned with skulls and bones meticulously arranged to the millimeter precision.

Upon concluding our tour of the temple, we will venture forth to explore the historic streets of Lampa, admiring its colonial architecture. Amongst the architectural wonders, we will admire the Casona Frisancho, a notable mansion constructed of pink ashlar stone. As we traverse the streets, we will also pass by the Municipal Palace, a beautifully crafted building made of pink ashlar stone, and cross the Cal y Canto Bridge, a stunning structure spanning the river that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The bridge has undergone significant restoration efforts since its previous collapse due to its precarious condition; however, it remains one of the most visually striking bridges in the region.

Returning to Puno, we will make a brief stop at a local market where visitors can purchase souvenirs of their experience. It is recommended to seek out unique items during this period, as the city markets often offer excellent deals on locally produced crafts and textiles.

Lastly, we will conclude our journey in Puno and drop off our guests at 3:00 p.m.