Most likely, you have heard about some communities that live on floating islands. Well, inside Lake Titicaca you will have the possibility to know them. And you may be wondering where is Lake Titicaca located. The lake is located in the Andean highlands, specifically in Puno, Peru. It shares its natural and iconic beauty with the neighboring country of Bolivia. The different boat tours through the Lake offer you the possibility of navigating through waters full of history and myths. You can visit the different islands and their communities that inhabit them. Many of these communities continue to live traditionally as they did in the Inca Empire. And we have prepared an article of these highly recommended boat tours on Lake Titicaca. Machu Travel Peru wants you to know the different tour options available.
Everything you need to know about the boat tour on Lake Titicaca
- About the boat trips
- Lake Titicaca highlights
- Uros Island
- Taquile Island
- Amantani island
- Alternative activities to experience
ABOUT THE BOAT TRIPS
Lake Titicaca offers an excellent look at Peruvian tradition, history, and culture. The beautiful Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. Many have no idea how big this beautiful lake can be, but it covers more than 8,000 square kilometers. In general, what most attracts tourists to this corner of the world are the different boat tours on Lake Titicaca. The highlight of the place is the floating islands of Uros and the islands of Taquile and Amantani. Note that some islands are a few hours away by boat, so you will have to think about reserving a whole day if you want to know this place.
As for the prices, you don’t have to worry. A boat tour on Lake Titicaca is quite accessible compared to other tours in Peru. You can choose to stay and stay on some of the islands or enjoy a comprehensive tour of the islands. Both options are amazing alternatives. Not only will you be able to learn about the Lake Titicaca mystery, but also about the different myths and legends that surround the site. A fantastic place to experience!
LAKE TITICACA HIGHLIGHTS
Among the most outstanding qualities of Lake Titicaca we can find that:
- This is about 3812 meters above sea level. It has a total area of 8562 km² and has a depth of 281 meters. On a tour, you will learn these facts and the meaning of Lake Titicaca.
- Declared a Natural Reserve of Peru in 1978. All in a clear intention to conserve its wild flora and fauna as well as the beauty of its landscapes. 60 varieties of birds, 14 species of fish, and 18 species of amphibians have been found. One of the most endearing characteristic animals of Titicaca, the giant frog can weigh up to 3 kilos.
- The lake has a navigation system that keeps Peru and Bolivia in contact with boats that connect the Peruvian port of Puno with the Bolivian city of Huaqui.
- It is the cradle of a famous legend related to the birth of the Inca Empire, starring the sons of the Sun God, Manco Capac, and Mama Ocllo. They were the ones who emerged from the depths of the water.
- The population that lives around the lake is dedicated mainly to fishing and crafts. One of the characteristics of the area the reed canoes, better known as “caballitos de totora”.
- The ideal time to visit the lake is between May and October since the days are sunnier and the temperature changes are not so abrupt. The average temperature during these months is 25 ° C / 77 ° F. However, temperatures are usually below 0 ° C / 32 ° F throughout the year during the nights.
- The waters of the lake have more than 25 rivers and a total of 42 islands plus other artificial ones, being within the Peruvian territory. The largest floating islands in Lake Titicaca are Uros, Taquile, and Amantani. Many of the islands are home to ancient traditional cultures. The settlers are the ones who transmit their history and tradition through rural and experiential tourism. Within a Lake Titicaca tour, you will be able to know the different islands.
UROS ISLAND
The floating islands of Uros are probably one of the most popular boat tours on Lake Titicaca. To enjoy a boat tour like this we recommend booking in advance. The distance to reach this island is about 30 minutes from the port of the Lake. The Uros floating islands are artificial formations on the water that have about 40 interconnected islands. The greatest characteristic of these islands is that they are built entirely with reeds. All the islands rest on the crystal clear water of the lake. Here you will see houses, schools, and churches, so Uros does not have to “envy” a city. This island is inhabited by people of Aymara origin, one of the oldest Andean civilizations. This culture developed long before the Incas. This population currently sustains its economy through activities such as fishing, crafts, tourism, and barter (exchange of products).
TAQUILE ISLAND
Travelers on their boat tours on Lake Titicaca usually arrive at this point from the Uros islands. The trip lasts about 3 hours and is included in the different full-day tours. The Island of Taquile is known worldwide for its textile works recognized by UNESCO. It is inhabited by Quechuas that is characterized by the hospitality they offer to their visitors. If you don’t like the hotels in Lake Titicaca, you can enjoy other alternatives.
On this island, the so-called community, existential or rural tourism is usually carried out. Those who experience this type of tourism, spend a night in a home with a Taquileña family. Here, you can help the family cook, teach local school children, and play with them. Delight in their typical dances and their textiles, among other activities. You will witness the lifestyle of the Taquileños and learn more about the community. In addition, it is a perfect destination for adventure tourism, since this island has a staircase of 567 steps. And if you want to know the upper part of the town and appreciate a magical panorama, we recommend you go up.
AMANTANI ISLAND
From Uros Island to Amantani Island, the boat trip lasts approximately 3 hours. This island is considered the largest in all of Lake Titicaca. It is known as the “Island of Love”. Because of its majestic fields, huge eucalyptus trees, and beautiful flowers such as the Cantuta. If you are on a romantic getaway, this site will amaze you with its different landscapes. You will find a small town where locals and tourists can move from one place to another just by walking, allowing you to experience community, existential or rural tourism as on Taquile Island. One of the most incredible tours in Peru to complement the different boat tours on Lake Titicaca.
ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITIES TO EXPERIENCE
In addition to the boat tours on Lake Titicaca, you will find more activities to do in the surroundings. For example, you can practice sports such as diving, sailing, and rowing to name a few. Another fantastic activity to do is kayaking from Esteves Island to Uros Island. In addition, hiking and cycling are other hobbies that you can enjoy on the shores of this fantastic destination.
Due to its many festivals and celebrations, Puno is recognized as the folkloric city of Peru. If you arrive in the first week of November, you are going to experience the City’s Anniversary. Or during the first week of February, when the Festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria takes place, you will be able to enjoy the culture of the region in action. But also, you will find many other things to do in Puno. A city that deserves your attention without a doubt.
“TIME WASTED AT THE LAKE IS TIME WELL SPENT.”
As you will see, the boat tours on Lake Titicaca are just one of the many things you can enjoy. Within this wonderful destination, you can experience a sea of sensations and cultures. Together with Machu Travel Peru, we hope we have encouraged you a little. If you want to know more about our packages and tours on the Lake, do not hesitate to contact us! Our great team of qualified advisors can help you fulfill the trip of your dreams.
