Puno , Peru

Lake Titicaca (Full Day) Uros & Taquile

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(4 reviews)

12h

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About this experience

The shimmering blue waters of Lake Titicaca is home to the famous, man-made Floating Islands of Uros. These islands and their dwellings, which date back to pre-Incan time, are made completely out of totora reeds, a native bulrush plant that grows in the lake. With a guided tour, get to know the inhabitants that have formed a small community and learn how these islands stay afloat. During the afternoon, visit the island of Taquile and experience the unique culture of the locals.

Available options

Lake Titicaca (Full Day) Uros & Taquile

Pickup included

What's included

Transport

Bi-lingual tour guide (English and Spanish)

Entrance fees

Lunch

Puno hotel transfer

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will be picking you up from your hotel at 06:45 AM and have you transferred to the boar pier. After boarding the boat, we will start sailing to the iconic floating islands of Uros (25 mins journey). Once here, the locals will receive you on their respective island. Our local bi-lingual guide will talk to you about the locals, their customs, how these islands came into existence and the chief of the island will demonstrate how they build these islands using totora reeds. You will have an option of going on a fun ride on one of the boats made of totora reeds (this is optional and has an additional cost).

Stop 2

Continuing with our tour, we arrive at the island of Taquile. When we get to the port we start a gradual up hill hike that will take us to the main square in about 45 minutes. Once there, the guide will talk with you about the way of living of the locals here. You will also have an option to witness how the locals weave the textiles. This textile art which dates back to ancient Incan days and is part of the local people’s every day life, was declared as "intangible cultural heritage of mankind" by UNESCO. Along the way you will visit different touristic places. We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch at around 02:30 PM you will be boarding the boat back to Puno. At approximately 05:30 in the evening the boat will dock in Puno. We will meet you at the boat pier and have you transferred back to your hotel in Puno.

What's not included

Breakfast

Dinner

Accommodation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.