Travel to Peru: Puno & Lake Titicaca Tours

Why travel to Lake Titicaca

At a dramatically high altitude of 12,397 feet (3,809 meters), Puno is known mostly for being the gateway to the highest navigable lake in the world, the gorgeous Lake Titicaca and its incredible floating islands.

Ancient legend has it that from these shimmering blue depths emerged the first children of the Sun: Manco Capac, and his wife, Mama Ocllo, founders of the mighty Tihuantinsuyo Empire. Incas also held the lake in esteem as Incan legend says that the first Incas came from the lake.

Once known as the “City of Silver” – a reference to the city’s silver mining past – the high Andean town of Puno has a dense and varied history, made richer by the many waves of conquering cultures that swept through the region. Nowadays it is proudly referred to as the folkloric capital of Peru due to its rich artistic culture and more than 300 ethnic dances.

Today, the descendants of these mythical figures still live off the land and fish for abundant freshwater trout. The Aymara culture is the most dominant in the region both in terms of ancestry and indigenous language, and the culture spans the entire altiplano (high plateau), which includes Bolivia and southeastern Peru. Having inherited their forefathers’ mastery of architecture, stonework, ceramics, and textiles, there is no shortage of local treasures for a culture-loving traveler to discover. Interestingly - and unlike the rest of the Andean region - it is the men and boys who weave the fabulous textiles on the wonderful Taquile Island, one of the many islands of Lake Titicaca. A tour of Lake Titicaca gives travelers unique insight into the lives of these fascinating communities.

What to do in Lake Titicaca & Puno

The city of Puno is a former Spanish outpost and houses numerous colonial-era attractions, most notably the grand Cathedral (blending Spanish with Andean styles), constructed in the 17th century.

The most breathtaking and cherished attraction in Puno is without a doubt Lake Titicaca and its idyllic islands. The splendor of this 5,318-square-mile cobalt-colored lake reflecting the azure sky is sure to dazzle anyone. The panorama of snow-capped mountains surrounding the lake is also stunning. It is said that the lake looks like a Puma hunting a rabbit when seen from the air. Have a look and see what you think.

Uros Islands. The floating Uros Islands can easily be reached from Puno by boat. The native people have constructed these entirely-handmade islands of Totora reeds for generations. The islands are continually undergoing maintenance to restore all the reeds and to ensure that they stay afloat. The number of islands varies (reaching about 40 at a time) as they are abandoned after a while and new ones are built regularly.

Between 3 and 10 families live on each island, and these resourceful people use the reeds for nearly every aspect of their existence. Besides using the reeds for construction of the islands, their homes, and also for boats, the reeds act as firewood and even make up a small part of their diet.

Amantani Island.Visitors can also visit the island of Amantani that houses its own native Quechua population. Here you can spend the night on the island either with a host family or at a lodge, a great opportunity to appreciate the warm and hospitable people of the island.

Taquile Island. Another beautiful destination that beckons the curious traveler is Taquile Island. Vestiges of the island’s pre-Incan past are still observable here. Used as a political prison during the colonial times until the 20th century, this island became the exclusive property of its inhabitants around 1970. The intricate and brightly-colored textiles produced here reflect the inhabitants’ Andean beliefs, myths, and way of life.

When to visit Lake Titicaca

The weather in Puno & Lake Titicaca varies widely between day and night, so make sure to bring both summer clothes as well as sweaters to keep warm during the chilly nights. Although it gets warm in the daytime, temperatures plunge to nearly freezing at night.

The best time to visit the area is from May to October, when days are sunny and rain showers infrequent. The warmest days are between November and February, however this warm climate comes with a higher chances of rain showers.

In February, locals celebrate the joyful Festival Virgen de la Candelaria, when the entire city fills with parades, music, and people celebrating.

Travel Testimonials

We just wanted to thank you for such a wonderfully arranged trip for our recent honeymoon. We couldn't have imagined that our trip to Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu via the abbreviated Inca Trail, and Lake Titicaca could have been any better.

Katie and Ben Oshrine (Maryland, USA) traveled to Lake Titicaca in April 2011

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The changes were actually positive. Although our tour of Lake Titicaca was shortened it was better, in that with only Henry and us, the visit to Taquile and Uros Island were much more intimate. The trip on the Andean Explorer was marvelous. We loved it and would recommend it to anyone. What a great way to travel.

Bob & Barb Baldwin (USA) traveled to Lake Titicaca in February 2011

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Alexander, our guide from Puno, was also superb. He took us to an Uros Island further from Puno, so there were no other tours there. We really appreciated that Alexander knew how to bring us away from touristy places and closer to the people.

Verena & Bill (Ottawa, Canada)

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Top Pick Puno Hotel

Hotel Libertador Puno 5*

Isla Esteves s/n , Puno

Hotel Libertador Puno is a luxurious low-rise hotel located about 3 miles from Puno city itself and nestled right on the shores of Lake Titicaca on a private peninsula. For travelers who enjoy tranquility in a lovely setting as well as high quality services, this elegant hotel is, without a doubt, one of the area's most well-appointed lodging options. All 123 guest rooms are comfortable, tastefully decorated, and equipped with all latest modern amenities. In addition, they all boast splendid views of the shimmering Lake Titicaca and its floating islands, as does the excellent restaurant. This hotel is also known for the excellence of its expert staff.

RestaurantRoom Service Internet Laundry Service Gift Shop Gym Spa

Hotel Libertador Puno Photos & Info »

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Casa Andina Private Collection Puno 4*

Avenida Sesqui Centenario 1970 – 1972, Sector Huaje, Puno

Boasting magnificent views of Lake Titicaca, this upscale hotel in Puno, featuring an amazing gourmet restaurant, bar and terrace, will guarantee you a memorable stay. The traditional Andean architectural theme of Casa Andina Private Collection Puno can best be described as understated elegance, where obvious care has been taken to allow the spectacular surroundings to speak for themselves, rather than detract from them. Rooms are sophisticatedly furnished in a classic but elegant style, and most of them feature attractive wooden balconies from which to admire the spectacular views of Lake Titicaca. With its private dock, this hotel is the perfect launching point for the spectacular Suasi Island where the exceptional sister hotel, Casa Andina Private Collection Suasi, is located.

Internet Laundry Service Restaurant Room Service

Casa Andina Private Collection Puno Photos & Info »

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Eco Inn Puno 3*

Avenida Chulluni 195, Puno

An excellent choice right on the shores of Lake Titicaca, Eco Inn Puno is managed by Interamerican Promo Hotels, a worldwide great value and high quality chain. As expected, this modern hotel offers great comfort and excellent service at affordable prices. All rooms with their modern wooden furnishing are inviting, impeccably kept, and equipped with all modern amenities that will make your stay comfortable including internet access, cable television, telephone, safe deposit box, and more. This comfortable hotel is located on open grounds, away from the hustle of Puno's main square, and boasts spectacular views of the lake.

Gift Shop Restaurant Internet Laundry Service

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