Lake Titicaca

Of an impossibly deep blue and stretching as far as the eye can see, visitors to Lake Titicaca could be forgiven for thinking that they were looking out on to an ocean. But at near 4000 feet above-sea-level between the Peruvian and Bolivian highlands - the highest navigable lake in the world - the somewhat surreal sensation of high altitude surely keeps this in check.

Bracing thin air; rugged landscape aside gentle lapping water; the fauna of the highlands - amongst them the vicuña - and lake-dwelling indigenous populations are some of the main draws; the folklore of these communities is often considered to be the richest in Peru, with many notable religious celebrations taking place throughout the year.

Practical Information

Access to the Peruvian side of the Lake can be from La Paz,  overland and by boat; by plane from Lima, Arequipa or Cuzco; overland from the Colca or Cuzco; or by train from Cuzco. To visit the Lake most people stay within the city of Puno; we rarely, however, suggest this as the town itself is not exactly the prettiest and it is better to stay outside of the city.  We do recommend one or two very nice hotels within Puno along with those places in a more favourable location outside of the city.

The majority of travellers who visit the Peruvian side of the lake only scratch only the surface. They visit only the more touristy destinations such as Uros and Taquile and to a certain extent also Amantani, before leaving. It is not that we do not like these destinations, we of course offer them too…..it is rather that there is a great deal more to encounter.

We recommend going to Suasi Island for at least 2 nights, preferably 3. To visit the community of Llachon and perhaps even kayak to Taquile from there. Travellers could also visit Anapia Island and overnight there. Another wonderful option is to visit the community of Luquina Chico which is very tranquil.

In any case we would encourage our guests to spend a total of 4 days in the region. If there is no time to overnight on the Lake, one day can be fine and overnighting in or around Puno, but we do suggest visiting those communities that will give a more authentic insight into life here.

Another addition to the circuit can be going to Hacienda Mallkini on the way to or from Cuzco, or a day trip to Pucara, Sillustani with Lunch in the lovely Fundo Chincheros.

If you reach Lake Titicaca by land from Cuzco or Arequipa, we recommend the drive through a quite spectacular section of the Andes. On the way, it is possible to stop by in the lovely village of Lampa and the attractions around it such as the Tinajani canyon, ask out travel consultants for more details.

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