Lake Titicaca captivates with its archaeological ruins, breathtaking landscapes, centuries-old cultures and vibrant festivals. Visit altiplano towns, rural villages and islands, spot free-roaming llama and exotic birdlife and mingle with farmers dressed in traditional clothes and bowler hats.
Lake Titicaca straddles the Peru-Bolivia border and is set high up in the Andes. It is the world’s highest navigable lake and also a place of great spiritual importance. In Andean mythology the lake is the birthplace of civilization, where the Incan god Viracocha rose from the water to create the sun, moon, stars and all living beings.
A collection of interesting towns spreads around the shores of this glistening deep blue lake. Bustling Puno is the main hub and a town famous for colonial architecture and folkloric music. Marvel at the 500-year-old chullpa temples that dominate the skyline of Sillustani. Browse the ceramic and pottery galleries of Pucará and relax amid the pink-colored cityscape of Lampa. Wander the picturesque villages of the Capachica Peninsula.
There are approximately 40 islands on the lake, which you can discover on sailing, sea kayaking and island-hopping tours. Meet Quechua-speaking people and discover pre-Incan sites on Isla Taquile. Learn about ancestral Aymara customs on Isla Amantaní. Stay at the eco-lodge on Isla Suasi, home to pretty gardens and secluded swimming spots. Don’t miss the floating Islas Uros, where locals live in cane huts, hunt for wild birds and practice age-old fishing methods.
Placid in appearance, Lake Titicaca bursts to life with raucous music and flamboyant parades during celebrations of ancient holidays. Time your visit to coincide with February’s Festival de la Virgen de la Candeleria, the pre-Lenten Carnival and November’s Puno Week.
Lake Titicaca is a 20-hour bus ride from Lima. Organized tours from Puno are the most convenient way to visit the lake’s attractions. Save some time to discover the treasures on the Bolivian side of the lake. Delve into the culinary scene in Copacabana and visit villages and temple ruins on the mystical Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna.
