Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(Lima 355, 2nd fl)
Travelers and locals alike gravitate to this tiny, ultraviolet dance floor
splashed with psychedelic murals. It moves to a thumping mixture of modern beats and
old favorites, from salsa to techno trance, which can be heard several blocks away.
Shopping
Artesanías
(handicrafts, from musical instruments and jewelry to scale models of reed is-
lands), wool and alpaca sweaters, and other typical tourist goods are sold in every second
shop in the town center. For household goods and clothes, head to
Mercado Bellavista
(Av El Sol)
and watch out for pickpockets.
STAYING HEALTHY AT ALTITUDE
Ascend to nearly 4000 meters direct from the coast and you run a real risk of getting
soroche
(altitude sickness;
Click here
). Plan on spending some time in elevation stops like Arequipa (2350m) or Cuzco (3326m) first to accli-
matize, or take it very easy after arriving in Puno. Higher-end hotels (and even some buses) offer oxygen, but this is
a temporary fix; your body still needs to acclimatize at its own pace.
High altitude makes for extreme weather conditions. Nights get especially cold, so check if your hotel provides
heating. During the winter months of June to August (the tourist high season), temperatures can drop well below
freezing. Meanwhile, days are very hot and sunburn is a common problem.
Information
Dangers & Annoyances
There are scenic lookouts on the hills above town, but as assaults and robberies have been
reported (even by groups), it's not recommended to visit them unless there is a drastic im-
provement in security.
Emergency
Policía de Turismo
(Tourist Police; 35-3988; Deustua 558; 24hr)
There is also a
police officer on duty in the
terminal terrestre
(24 hours) - ask around if you need assist-
ance.
