Juliaca Overview

By Ricardo Segreda

Lacking the glorious lake views and cultural fanfare of Puno, Juliaca has assumed the role of a commercial travel conduit. What it lacks in cultural attractions, however, it makes up for in convenience. Despite its unattractive appearance, Juliaca has the closest airport to Lake Titicaca and rail and highway connections to Puno, Arequipa, and Cusco. The roads originating from Juliaca are also conducive to making the trek to Bolivia along the serpentine backroads winding their way along the northern shores of Lake Titicaca. If you decide to spend the night here, the best hotels and services are located near Plaza Bolognesi, where you can also find the train station.

Culture buffs, have no fear, the town does offer a few attractions that will tide you over until you can reach your next destination. Sited in the Plaza Bolognesi is the Iglesia La Merced, and a few blocks northwest is another colonial church, the Iglesia Santa Catalina. If you happen to be in town on a Sunday, make your way to Plaza Melgar, which has a huge market where you can browse (or buy) cheap alpaca wool sweaters. A more touristy market is held daily in the plaza outside the railway station, but keep an eye on your valuables as pickpockets frequent this area.