Lake Titicaca and an Authentic Experience

Lake Titicaca is the largest high alpine lake in the world. Basically, that means the lake is over 7,000 feet (2100m). The second largest high alpine lake is located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA. However, Lake Titicaca is unique from Yellowstone Lake because there are about two thousand, five hundred people living on floating reed mats on the Peruvian side of the lake. This unique community is the main highlight when visiting Lake Titicaca. In this post, read about where to stay, places to see and things to do while you're in and around Puno.

Visit Uros

The reed islands are home to a population of people who stack reeds from the lake under their homes, fish to survive, and earn income from tourism to support their community. There are a few ways to visit the islands including a day boat tour, a night in an Airbnb, or a homestay with a family. Staying on the reed islands with a family gives a more personal experience rather than a rushed staged tour. A good host will teach guests about their methods of fishing, reed harvesting, building of rafts, and other daily activities. Due to the reeds becoming thinner from climate change, the reed rafts are requiring double the efforts to build and maintain. When visiting these islands, learn about how to support small businesses, local people, and the longevity of these reed islands.

One night in Puno

Puno is a smaller town in Peru and there's not a whole lot to do in the town limits. When going through Puno there are multiple plazas with colonial architecture, shops, food to eat and places to stay. Near the marina, there is a tiny museum that any biologist would love. Museo Naval shares information on the lake itself including: giant frogs, native fish, climate change, and overall naval history. Other activities in Puno include kayaking, shopping the market and walking along the boardwalk by the lake. It is recommended to only spend one or two nights in Puno and to spend more time on the water.

Sillustani Funerary Towers

The Sillusatani funerary towers are another really unique set of ruins to see. With perfectly carved stones stacked into large cylindrical towers, this was a burial ground for the royalty of the Qulla people. Frequently struck by lightening, some towers have collapsed, but the ones that remain standing are magnificent in size. The area with the ruins have towers with small carvings of animals, there is a large stone sundial, and Lake Umayo. For this tour, a guide is highly recommended. There is a lot of information that can be given about these towers, and still a chance to wander and explore for oneself.

Tequile Island

When visiting Tequile Island, there is a very structured tour that caters to guests visiting. The tour involves watching a dance, learning about weaving techniques, the ability to purchase handmade goods and learn about unique cultural customs. After the show, walk along lovely stone path to a restaurant. There is a chance to take a quick dip in the lake before lunch. On the island there are some ancient ruins, however, with the structure of the tour they are nearly impossible to get to. Find a private tour or ask a guide to see ruins on Tequila Island.