1 Day
Daily Tour
16 people
English, Espanol
The Uru people, one of the most ancient indigenous groups on Lake Titicaca, have lived on floating islands made of totora reeds since Inca times. Speaking Aymara, they rely on reed rafts for navigation, while women craft intricate textiles and embroidery. The totora provides everything—homes, boats, food, and fuel—making it essential to their way of life.
On Taquile Island, home to around 2,200 Quechua-speaking residents, weaving is a deeply rooted tradition. Men knit finely woven fabrics, a skill learned from childhood, while women spin wool and create Chumpis, the island’s colorful belts. Their use of natural plant and mineral dyes keeps this heritage alive, making Taquile famous for its exceptional textile art.
The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Puno, followed by a private transfer to the port of Puno. From there, you will embark on a boat ride to the floating islands of Uros, located about 10 km (approximately 30 minutes) from the port.
The Uru people, who inhabit these unique islands, construct them using large blocks of totora reed, an aquatic plant native to Lake Titicaca. The islands are replenished with a fresh layer of reeds every 20 days to maintain their stability and buoyancy. The porosity of the reed blocks allows them to float by releasing gases produced through decomposition. These blocks are then secured together and anchored to the lake bed with eucalyptus sticks.
As one of the most ancient ethnic groups on Lake Titicaca, the Uru have lived on the lake since the Incas expanded their territories across the plateau centuries ago. Their way of life is deeply intertwined with the totora reed, which they use to build their islands, homes, and rafts, as well as for sustenance and fuel.
After your visit to the Uros islands, you'll continue by boat to Taquile Island. Upon arrival, you'll walk along a scenic trail leading to the Plaza de Armas, enjoying the stunning views of Lake Titicaca's deep blue waters along the way. During your exploration of Taquile, you'll have the opportunity to visit local art workshops and enjoy a meal at a traditional family home.
Following lunch, you'll return by boat to the port of Puno and then be transferred back to your hotel in the city. This tour offers a comprehensive experience of the unique cultures and breathtaking landscapes of the Lake Titicaca region.
The tour includes pickup service from your hotel in Puno, private transportation to and from the Port of Puno, a motorboat ride with a toilet and comfortable seating, a professional bilingual guide, meals on Amantani and Taquile Islands, entrance fees to the Uros Floating Islands, Amantani Island, and Taquile Island, and an overnight stay in a rural homestead on Amantani Island. Additionally, snacks, drinks, and a reed boat ride on the Uros Floating Islands (for an extra fee) are included.
It is recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and warm clothing for cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings. Don’t forget any personal items you may need for an overnight stay.
No, tips and gratuities for guides and staff are not included in the tour package and are at your discretion.
The boat ride on the Uros Floating Islands lasts approximately 30 minutes. The tour includes an additional visit to 2 to 3 islands, allowing time for exploration and photos.
The guides are professional bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English, ensuring you receive comprehensive information and assistance throughout the tour.
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