Visit Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is located on the border between Peru and Bolivia, in the Andes Mountains. On the Bolivian side, Titicaca extends to the Copacabana peninsula. On the Peruvian coast, the lake borders the city of Puno, the folkloric capital of southern Peru.
The highest navigable lake in the world is Lake Titicaca: it is 3,812 meters above sea level. And in addition to its extension and height, the Andean lake also features dozens of populated islands full of attractions, stories and natural beauties. Discovering one of the greatest Andean natural treasures is a trip not to be missed!
To get to Lake Titicaca from the Peruvian side, you have to go to Puno, which is on the shores of the lake. To get to the city, you can use different means: plane (from US$280), train (from US$225), or bus (from US$30), in a journey of around eight hours from Cusco.
On the Bolivian side, you can leave La Paz and head to Copacabana, which also borders Titicaca. The best way to cross the distance of approximately 140 kilometers is by bus, which leaves from the Municipal Bus Terminal and costs around 45 bolivianos ($6.50).
Whether from Copacabana or Puno, it is possible to take boats that leave every hour for the different islands that make up Lake Titicaca. Prices vary depending on the island or group of islands you wish to visit.
The largest island in Lake Titicaca is Ilha del Sol and the easiest way to reach it is via Copacabana. Part of folklore, this island is considered sacred ground by the ancient Incas and it is possible to find several indications of its religious connotation. On Isla del Sol there are several temples in ruins, tables that were used for human sacrifice, in addition to the Gold Museum, with several Inca treasures and the Fountain of Youth.
In addition to the beautiful landscapes, Lake Titica also has some unique features. Check out some interesting facts below:
The name Titicaca: the origin of the word Titicaca is in the Aymara language, a local indigenous language and means Stone of the Puma. That's because, according to legends, the lake is the representation of a cougar hunting a rabbit.
The highest navigable lake in the world: Lake Titicaca is at an altitude of 3,812 meters, making it the highest navigable lake. In addition, it occupies 8,300 square kilometers and extends over 190 kilometers, that is, in volume it is also the largest in South America.
Natural paradise: Titicaca is rich in natural resources. There are more than two thousand species of fish, in addition to attracting a large number of birds, which use the lakeside as a refuge. It is also home to a species of giant frog that can only be found there.
Cradle of the Inca civilization: mythology also permeates Lake Titicaca. Many studies indicate that the Inca civilization originated in that region. Furthermore, legends claim that the lake was chosen by the Sun God and his children as the perfect place for the development of his people.
Totora: there is a species of aquatic plant on Titica, the totora, which is used in the artisanal production of typical Peruvian boats. The plant is also used for making houses, medicines, food and even islands.
Floating islands: they are the biggest attractions of Lake Titicaca. The islands are made from totora and other materials and were built hundreds of years ago. To this day these islands are inhabited by indigenous populations.
The wonders of Lake Titicaca and its secrets guarantee an unforgettable trip, in which a little of all these curiosities can be explored.
The floating islands of Los Uros are some of Lake Titicaca's biggest attractions. They were built hundreds of years ago with totora. They are populated by indigenous communities that survive from fishing, handicrafts and tourism. Tourists are introduced to the island's indigenous culture, the productions of its residents and can even sail on a totora boat. Some islands also have accommodation services, such as Khantati, which can be a good idea for those who want to know more than one of the floating islands.
Further away from the shores of Lake Titicaca is Amantaní Island. The environment and the population are also very traditional, but the cultural insertion is a little greater: it is even possible to cook with the natives. Due to the distance, it is common for visitors to spend the night in Amantaní and it is there that they discover the best attraction on the island: the typical daily party. Every night natives and visitors dress in traditional clothes and eat and dance together!
Traveling through the islands of Lake Titicaca is an incredible insertion into the culture and life of indigenous populations who are still very connected with their ancestors. Travelers are introduced to a rich new world full of fun, knowledge and respect for differences. A trip that is very worthwhile.
Getting to know Lake Titicaca can bring many adventures and fun, but it is necessary to pay attention to some details:
Weather: the best time to visit Lake Titicaca and its islands is between April and July. That's because it's when the temperatures are at their most pleasant, without the cold of winter and without the summer storms, which punish the area.
Altitude: as the lake itself and the islands are very high, it is common for visitors to feel sick, as they are not used to it. To help, the population of the region recommends coca tea or, for those who suffer from high blood pressure, muña tea, which help to breathe more easily.
Clothing: also due to the altitude, even in the milder seasons it is still very cold on Lake Titicaca at night. It is important that you have clothes for these moments.
Currencies: depending on the island and the service you will need to hire, it is possible that you will be charged in dollars or in Bolivian. So, it is necessary to have a little bit of both currencies to avoid unforeseen circumstances during the trip.
Following these tips, your trip will be much smoother and you won't have to deal with problems along the way, just enjoy!
Have fun!
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