Exploing Titicaca: Uros, Taquile and Luquina - 2 Days

Our Titicaca adventure begins at 07h30 when we pick you up from your hotel in Puno and head down to the port. We will then take a comfortable motorboat out to the floating islands of the Uros people. These artificial islands are located about 14 km from the port, and it takes about 30 minutes to get there, but you won’t be in any rush, as the scenery is spectacular.

When we arrive at the floating islands, you’ll probably be amazed by the scale of these floating reed constructions. The Uros originally built these islands for defensive reasons: if a threat appeared, they could move their island homes to a safer location. The islands are made from the totora reeds that grow around the lake, and each island is in a constant state of reconstruction, as old reeds are preplaced by new ones. 

Stepping onto the islands is quite an experience, as the springy reed floor feels strange beneath your feet. We’ll explore the main island, and see the houses, watchtowers and other structures, all built of reeds. One of the locals will then give a brief presentation about how the islands are made, and then you can meet one of the local families to see how they live.

Next we’ll board the boat to the wonderful Taquile Island, which is about 1.5 hours away. We’ll arrive at a secluded and picturesque section of Taquile Island, which also has a pristine sandy beach where we can stretch our legs for a while. From here,  we’ll set off to explore this stunningly beautiful island for at least four hours. We’ll go to the less touristy northern area, where we’ll have spectacular panoramic views across Lake Titicaca. After relaxing here for a while, we’ll hike along a pre-Inca trail, visiting families of weavers to learn about their textile art and the rich symbolism that decorates their textiles. After a traditional lunch in a local restaurant, of quinoa soup and grilled trout, the most authentic dishes on the menu,  we’ll walk to the main port and descend some steps to the pier. At around 14h45 we’ll board a boat and continue across to the village of Luquina.

Luquina is a small and rarely visited rural community on the peninsula of Chucuito. Here, we’ll be welcomed by the friendly inhabitants and housed in a local family home. You’ll have plenty of time here to immerse yourself in the traditional culture, and in the afternoon there is an optional hike to the top of a nearby hill for majestic views, and the sunset over Lake Titicaca. After dinner, you can enjoy a small celebration with music and traditional dances. We will spend the night at the local family home, which has basic but comfortable facilities, including good blankets and sheets (it can get quite chilly at night!), and a private bathroom with a hot shower.