On the Shores of the Lake Titicaca
Perched at a breathtaking 3,800 meters (12,400 ft.) above sea level,
Puno and the surrounding countryside are the cradle of the Aymara civilization
and the legendary birthplace of the founders of the Inca empire. Puno
lies on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake,
from whose waters the Inca believed Manco Capac, their cultural founder,
emerged. Many ethnic groups like the Uros still depend on the resources
of the lake for their living. The Uros themselves dwell on the floating
islands they build with the lake's reed vegetation. Near Puno, overlooking
Lake Umayo, are chullpas, or burial towers, that once served as the tombs
of high-ranking Aymara Lords.
Three and a half hours from Puno by boat lies the Island of Taquile,
where life has remained unchanged from centuries and weavers still craft
traditional textiles. North of Taquile is the Island of Amantani, famed
for its woven straw baskets. An overnight stay on one of this islands
is an unforgettable experience and highly recommended. Surrounding the
lake, dozens of colonial settlements and their ornate churches bear witness
to the lake's importance during colonial times. Puno is famed as the folklore
capital of Peru. Be sure to take in at least one of the innumerable folk
festivals that punctuate Puno's festival calendar. The Virgen de la Candelaria,
held in February, its a three-day spectacle rich in traditional folklore.
Programs:
3 DAYS / 2 NIGTHS
THE BEST OF PUNO
- DAY 1: PUNO
Upon arrival reception, assistance and transfer to the hotel.
- DAY 2: UROS - SILLUSTANI
Morning excursion on Lake Titicaca to the remarking floating reed island
- built on layers of totora reeds - home to the Uros indians, who still
live as their ancestors did a thousand years ago. In the afternoon,
visit the "Chullpas" of Sillustani, the burial towers made
of stone, 28 km. (17 miles) from Puno.
- DAY 3
Departure transfer. (B)
* Daily
F/D TAQUILE ISLAND
- Three and a half hours by boat from Puno, this remote island is a remarkable
community where Quechua, the language of the Incas, is kept alive by the
islanders. The outstanding highlight of its inhabitants is their handicraft
derived from techniques developed over centuries. Box lunch included.
* Daily.
* Optional overnight with full board.
F/D AMANTANI ISLAND
- A three and a half hour boat ride on Lake Titicaca takes us to Amantani
Island, 3,812 meters (12,500 ft.) above sea level and home to impressive
archeological sites. Passenger can meet the Yatiri indians, the "Shamans"
of Lake Titicaca who read the future in coca leaves. Box lunch included.
* Daily.
F/D SUN ISLAND
- Combine a land and boat excursion to visit and enigmatic lake spot and
enjoy the Inca remains and spectacular views of the lake and surrounding
mountains. Lunch in Copacabana and proceed back to Puno via important
religious sites around the lake.
* Daily.
* SIB available with tour restrictions.
Remarks:
- When visiting Taquile or Amantani, we can arrange a brief stop at Uros
floating island upon request. See rates.
One can reach Puno from Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and La Paz.
The World's Highest Navigable Lake
Programs:
F/D PUNO / LA PAZ BY HYDROFOIL
- Drive to Copacabana, visiting the remote towns of Juli and Pomata on
the way. Then, board the hydrofoil for departure towards the Sun Island
where, according to legend, the first Inca appeared. After exploring the
island's Inca remains and majestic views of Lake Titicaca and surrounding
andean mountains, continue on the Huatajata for a brief stop before the
final drive to La Paz and your hotel. (L)
* Daily except Mondays - Minimum 2 passengers.
* On Mondays minimum 8 passengers.
F/D PUNO / LA PAZ BY CATAMARAN
- Early land transfer to Copacabana Santuary, board the Catamaran Cruise
Ship, lunch while sailing to Sun Island, the legendary birth place of
the Inca Empire. Visit the Inca Garden, steps and fountain then the Inti
Wata Cultural Complex including the Ekako Underground Museum, the traditional
medicine and the Titikaka Reed Shipbuilders display centers, the Pachamama
agricultural Inca terraces, a handicraft center, the Intica lounge and
at the Manco Capac Look out the largest variety of Andean cameloids.
Also, the Inti Wata Complex at Sun Island includes a unique sailing experience
aboard a huge Titikaka traditional vessel visiting the Pikokaina Inca
Palace.
Catamaran Cruise Ship to Chua harvor, land transfer to la Paz city.
F/D PUNO / LA PAZ VIA TIAHUANACO BY ROAD
- Early morning drive South along the western shore of Lake Titicaca, passing
the picturesque towns of Chucuito and Juli. The drives continues until
Desaguadero, a village in the Bolivian border where you will check on
immigration. You still stop to visit the millenary Tiahuanaco ruins, the
main archeological center of Bolivia, before going through a pass with
a fabulous view of the Highlands and the Royal Andes Range. Box lunch
included.
* Daily.
F/D PUNO / LA PAZ BALSA "C"
- Early morning departure through the towns of Pomata and Juli before arriving
in Copacabana. Brief visit of the church and chapel of The Dark Virgin
of the Lake. After lunch, overland again on a narrow road to the straight
of Tiquina to begin the cruise to Suriqui Island for a most exciting view
of Lake Titicaca, the island and the andean mountain range. Arrival in
Puerto Perez for final drive to La Paz. (L)
* Daily minimum 2 passengers.
Remarks:
- We can offer these crosses with overnight on board or at the shores
of Lake Titicaca.
- All this options also available for La Paz - Puno Lake Crossing.
