Puno , Peru

Cultural Tour to Uros Floating Island

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(16 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ready for something truly unique? Get off the beaten path and dive into the vibrant culture of Uros Island! You’ll step into the life of the Uros Islanders—people who’ve crafted their homes on floating reed islands for centuries.

During this hands-on experience, you’ll join the locals in cutting reeds from the lake to help maintain their islands. Want to try your hand at fishing? You'll even help set up nets along the shores! Plus, if you’re into it, you can dress like a native and blend in with the community. Along the way, keep an eye out for birds on the lake and get to know the locals as they share their crafts, showing you how they make everything from textiles to intricate jewelry. It’s the perfect mix of culture, nature, and tradition—all while getting to know a community like no other.

Available options

Cultural Tour to Uros Floating Island

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Motor boat

Cultural activities

Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that goes beyond the usual tourist spots! You’ll immerse yourself in the local culture with hands-on activities like cutting reeds from the lake, setting up fishing nets along the shore, and even dressing like a native. As you explore, you'll spot birds gliding across the water and meet friendly locals who will show you their amazing handicrafts and share how they create them. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience where you’ll connect with the community and truly feel the rhythm of island life.

Stop 2

As you travel around Lake Titicaca, get ready to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the National Reserve and discover the unique lifestyle of the Uros people. Along the way, you'll spot birds soaring over the lake and see the incredible diversity of wildlife. You’ll also have the chance to get hands-on, cutting reeds to help maintain the floating Uros Islands, just like the locals do. It’s an unforgettable experience where nature and culture come together in the most magical way!

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Important notes

• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Not recommended for participants with back problems

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Puno

Puno is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and stunning natural beauty, Puno is a must-visit destination for those exploring Peru's cultural heartland. The city is the gateway to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island, offering unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Top Attractions

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the world's highest navigable lake and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and unique islands like the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island.

Nature Full day Budget to Moderate (Boat tours range from 50-150 PEN)

Sillustani

Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.

Historical Half day Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is the heart of Puno, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, churches, and vibrant local life. It's a great place to relax and soak in the city's atmosphere.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Cathedral of Puno

The Cathedral of Puno is a beautiful colonial-era church located on the Plaza de Armas. It features a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture and houses several religious artifacts.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Puno Museum of Art and Culture

This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Puno region, featuring artifacts, textiles, and art from the Aymara and Quechua cultures, as well as pre-Inca and Inca civilizations.

Museum 1-2 hours Budget (Entrance fee around 10 PEN)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Trucha a la Plancha (Grilled Trout)

Fresh trout from Lake Titicaca, grilled and served with local potatoes and vegetables. A must-try for seafood lovers.

Main Course Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.

Chairo

A hearty soup made with lamb, potatoes, corn, and quinoa, flavored with local herbs and spices. A traditional dish of the Puno region.

Soup Contains meat and gluten.

Sopa de Quinoa (Quinoa Soup)

A nutritious and flavorful soup made with quinoa, vegetables, and sometimes meat. A staple in the Andean diet.

Soup Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat.

Pique a la Puneña

A spicy and flavorful dish made with diced beef, potatoes, onions, and aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper). A popular appetizer in Puno.

Appetizer Contains meat and gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Cultural tours Lakefront walks Spa treatments Coffee shop visits Visiting museums Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to October (Dry Season)

This is the best time to visit Puno as the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the attractions. The temperatures are cool but comfortable.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Aymara, Quechua, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Puno is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services or apps to avoid scams.
• Be cautious with street food and drink only bottled or purified water.

Getting there

By air

Puno International Airport (JUL) • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center

By train

Puno Station

By bus

Puno Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Puno. They cover most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Alto de la Alameda El Mirador

Day trips

Uros Floating Islands

1-2 hours by boat • Half day to full day

The Uros Floating Islands are a unique attraction in Lake Titicaca, made entirely of totora reeds by the Uros people. Visitors can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.

Taquile Island

3-4 hours by boat • Full day to overnight

Taquile Island is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional textiles, and unique culture. The island is home to a close-knit community that preserves its ancient customs and way of life.

Sillustani

35 km (22 miles) from Puno • Half day

Sillustani is an archaeological site featuring ancient burial towers called 'chullpas.' These towers were built by the Colla people and offer a glimpse into pre-Inca history.

Festivals

Festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria • February Puno Week • November 5-12 Carnaval de Puno • February or March (depending on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Acclimate to the high altitude by taking it easy for the first day or two.
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season and festivals.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures throughout the day.
Try local dishes and support local businesses to get an authentic experience.