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 Of all of the mesmerising experiences that can be had on Lake Titicaca, perhaps verdant and natural Suasi is the most peaceful, relaxing and reflective. A 106-acre privately owned island complete with its own comfortable lodge, Suasi is near the remote northern shores of Lake Titicaca, and makes a beguiling retreat for the discerning traveller - an ideal place to relax for a few days amidst pristine nature. We feel it is an especially rewarding way for our guests to assimilate what they have learned during a trip to Peru, and suggest coming here towards the end of your visit.
Aracari has been connected with the development of Suasi as a nature reserve right from the start when our friend Martha Giraldo set out to create a unique ecological haven and lodge back in 1996. A trained sociologist and passionate about the mythical Altiplano region, she wanted to develop a cultural and ecological showcase by safeguarding native traditions, animal populations, flora and fauna.
To a certain extent, this dream has been fulfilled. Martha removed 70% of the damaging eucalyptus trees from Suasi and planted native species such as Quenuas, Mashwa and K’antu in their place; the island is now populated by endemic and exotic species of plant that have matured since she first came here. This habitat has become home for an abundance of wildlife, including vicuñas, vischachas, and very many hummingbirds.
The only inhabited place on the island - the lodge - has been operated by the Casa Andina hotel chain since 1995, and is surely the finest hotel in their Private Collection range. Martha originally built this from natural materials (adobe, stone, totora reed thatch and Ichu or wild grass) and with strict ecological guidelines, in order to provide a sustainable tourism income to preserve the island as a private nature reserve.
Today, Casa Andina’s efficient management of the property coupled with Martha’s constant and ongoing presence and input make Suasi a wonderful place for Aracari guests to visit with comfortable accommodation. The hotel chain has introduced a number of features and amenities for the comfort of their guests - who can enjoy a massage or a sauna, for example - but strictly abide by the sustainable tourism philosophy and ecological guidelines set out by the founder and owner. Most essentially, Martha to this day ensures that the gardens remain how they should be.
Despite being relatively isolated, there is no shortage of things to do on Suasi. It is perfect for those interested in drawing, sketching, photography or reading while those who like outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking will also find a welcome place here. We suggest perhaps canoeing along the lake as well as a visit to Martha's Cultural Cabin, where you can learn about the historical, geographical, and cultural importance of the region.
Access to Suasi is via a shared boat from Puno (3-4 hours) or by shared vehicle from Juliaca (3-4 hours) depending on the state of the road. During this journey, it is possible to tie in stops at a little known part of the island of Taquile.
Photo by Walter Wurst
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| We suggest you allocate 3 to 5 days for a visit of this area.
We can design tailor made itineraries to this and other destinations in Peru.
The following set itineraries cover Lake Titicaca:
Itinerary 2: (9 days) Cuzco, Machu Picchu by Luxury Train, Lake Titicaca, Lima Visit
Itinerary 3: (11 days) Rainforest, Cuzco & Machu Picchu by Luxury Train, Lake Titicaca and Lima Visit
Itinerary 4: (13 days) Arequipa & Colca, Lake Titicaca, Cuzco & Machu Picchu with overnight, Lima visit
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