Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is one of South America's largest lakes and the world's highest navigable body of water. This is an experience you do not want to miss in Peru! The Lake Titicaca region is a mix of crumbling Inca ruins, desolate altiplano (the most extensive area of the Andes), speckled fields, rolling hills, and high mountain peaks. It is at the center of a region where thousands of small farmers live off the bounties of its nature; crops are still planted and harvested by hand! Said to be the birthplace of the Incas and the sun, it holds many legends amongst its large body of water and surrounding lands.
In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel and taken to Lake Titicaca. Your adventure begins with a boat trip on the lake's deep blue body of water. Surrounded by natural beauty, you will get to see the first sights of the breathtaking region from the lake. Venture near Puno and discover the still growing 120 self-fashioned floating Uros islands. This is where the Uros, indigenous people of Peru and Bolivia, reside. They still live according to the original culture of their ancestors, but also adapted to a lifestyle that includes living new ways for particular circumstances.
As the day progresses, you can plan the rest of your day based on your desires:
Option 1, day trip: Hop onto another boat and enjoy another short trip around Lake Titicaca. Your next stop is Taquile Island, which is still located in the Peruvian part of the lake. Experience the colorful world of the indigenous Peruvians as they proudly present their colorful, traditional dresses that they have made themselves. You can even buy a traditional dress at one of the island's cooperative shops. Immerse yourself amongst the well-known knitting men of Taquile, who are knitting and producing the authentic goods everywhere around the island. This unique experience shows you the island's simple life; a place where the inhabitants do without streets and electricity, and where slopes and agricultural terraces date back to the Inca era. Replenish your energy with a traditional lunch before returning to Puno.
Option 2, overnight stay: After visiting the Uros islands, get back on board your boat and head towards Amantani island for a traditional lunch. The island is located in the east of the Capachica mainland and north of Taquile. The island is 4,150 meters high and offers its 1100 locals perfect conditions for agriculture. The locals are known for their unique textiles and stonemasonry that has been practiced for generations. From the island's own granite, they produce practical objects they use for everyday life. You will have the opportunity to observe this process of traditional craftsmanship! Since each of the villages are known for its hospitality, in the evening the islanders will perform traditional dances and songs while you enjoy a local dinner. Stay overnight in the simple accommodations on Amantani.
The next morning, after you finish eating at the delicious breakfast buffet, it is time to say goodbye to the Amantani locals. Continue your adventure to Taquile Island, famous for its knitting men. Experience the colorful world of the indigenous Peruvians as they proudly present their colorful, traditional dresses that they have made themselves. You can even buy a traditional dress at one of the island's cooperative shops. Immerse yourself amongst the well-known knitting men of Taquile, who are knitting and producing the authentic goods everywhere around the island. This unique experience shows you the island's simple life; a place where the inhabitants do without streets and electricity, and where slopes and agricultural terraces date back to the Inca era. After an exciting morning learning more about the Taquile people, enjoy a local lunch on the island before the boat takes you back to Puno.
