Overview
High on Peru's altiplano at over 3,800 metres above sea level, Juliaca is the gateway to Lake Titicaca and the vibrant Puno region. It's a bustling commercial city in its own right, but most UK travellers use it as the springboard to the floating Uros Islands, Taquile Island and the ancient funerary towers of Sillustani. Flights to Juliaca (airport code JUL) are the fastest way in, saving a long overland journey from Lima or Cusco.
Best time to fly to Juliaca
The dry season, roughly May to October, is the best time to fly to Juliaca. Days are bright and clear with cold nights, ideal for exploring the lake and altiplano without the rain that falls between November and April. Given the altitude, pack warm layers whatever the season, as temperatures drop sharply after sunset year-round.
Airlines and routes
There are no direct flights to Juliaca from the UK. Travellers typically fly from London or another major UK airport to Lima via a European hub such as Amsterdam, Madrid or Paris, then take a connecting domestic flight from Lima to Juliaca operated by carriers including LATAM Peru, Sky Airline or JetSmart. The domestic leg takes around 1 hour 40 minutes, with the full journey from the UK usually taking 18–24 hours including connections. Check the price charts on this page for the latest fares across these routings.
Things to do in Juliaca
Juliaca and its surrounding area offer some genuinely memorable experiences:
- Uros Floating Islands: Visit the hand-built reed islands on Lake Titicaca and meet the communities who still live on them.
- Taquile Island: Explore this traditional island community, renowned for its hand-woven textiles and relaxed pace of life.
- Sillustani: See the striking pre-Inca funerary towers overlooking Lake Umayo, a short drive from the city.
- Puno: Just under an hour away, this lakeside city is the cultural heart of the region and a good base for boat trips.
- Juliaca markets: Wander the city's lively street markets for local textiles, alpaca wool and everyday Andean life.
At Inca Manco Cápac International Airport (JUL)
Juliaca's airport sits close to the city, with the centre around 15–20 minutes away by taxi or pre-booked transfer. It's also the most convenient airport for reaching Puno and Lake Titicaca, roughly a 45-minute to one-hour drive south. Taxis and shuttle transfers are readily available outside arrivals; agreeing a fare before you set off is standard practice.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Juliaca
- Book your international leg to Lima several months ahead, then add the domestic Lima–Juliaca connection for the best combined fare.
- Flying midweek or during the shoulder months either side of the dry season often works out cheaper than peak July–August departures.
- Keep your dates flexible where possible and use the when to book chart above to spot the best-value departure windows.
- Compare fares across the different UK-to-Lima hub options, as the connecting European or US airport can make a noticeable difference to the total price.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders do not need a visa for tourist visits to Peru, though your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. The local currency is the Peruvian Sol; carry some cash, as card acceptance can be limited outside larger towns. Given Juliaca's altitude, allow time to acclimatise, drink plenty of water and take it easy on your first day.