Full Day by Speedboat to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile
Our Uros and Taquile tour sails Lake Titicaca by speedboat to discover the reed floating islands of the Uros and Taquile Island, famous for its textile art recognized by UNESCO.
Traditions floating on the world's highest lake
Summary
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is home to cultures that have kept their traditions alive for centuries. This Uros and Taquile tour by speedboat lets you meet two of its most iconic communities in one day.
First, you visit the Uros floating islands, built by their inhabitants with layers of totora, an aquatic reed from the lake. Meanwhile, you learn how they build their islands, houses and boats, as well as their way of life on the water.
Then you sail to Taquile Island, where the community keeps a traditional social organization and a textile art recognized by UNESCO, woven by both women and men. Finally, you have lunch overlooking the lake and walk along its stone paths. If you want to stay longer, our homestay on Amantaní Island includes a night with a local family; also, Sillustani is an excellent complement.
Highlights
Itinerary
06:30 - 07:00
Hotel pickup
We pick you up at your hotel in Puno before the boat trip.
Our team picks you up at your hotel and then takes you to the port of Puno, where you board the speedboat.
07:00 - 07:30
Boat ride to the Uros
Through the Bay of Puno while you sail among reed beds.
We sail across the Bay of Puno, among extensive reed beds, until we reach the Uros floating islands.
07:30 - 08:30
Uros floating islands
Life on islands built of reeds.
The islanders explain how they build their islands with layers of totora reeds, how they live and what they eat. Then you can walk around the island and, optionally, ride a traditional reed boat.
08:30 - 10:00
Boat ride to Taquile
Speedboat across Lake Titicaca.
Later, we continue by speedboat to Taquile Island, while we enjoy the lake landscapes and Bolivia’s Cordillera Real on the horizon.
10:00 - 12:00
Taquile Island
Walk, textile art and community organization.
Then we walk along Taquile’s stone paths to its main square, where you learn about the island’s textile art and the meaning of its traditional dress.
12:00 - 13:30
Lunch in Taquile
Local food overlooking the lake.
Then we enjoy a lunch prepared by the community, with quinoa soup and lake trout, at a restaurant overlooking Titicaca.
13:30 - 16:00
Return to Puno
Walk down to the dock, then the boat ride back.
Finally, we walk down to the dock and board the boat back to Puno, where we transfer you to your hotel.
Include
What does it include?
- Pickup from hotels in central Puno
- Speedboat trip
- Professional guide in English or Spanish
- Entrance to the Uros islands and Taquile
- Lunch in Taquile
- Permanent assistance during the tour
What's not included?
- Reed boat ride at the Uros
- Drinks and snacks
- Handicraft purchases
- Tips for the guide
- Travel insurance
Important information
What to bring
Warm layered clothing, beanie and gloves
Windbreaker jacket for the boat trip
Comfortable sneakers
Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
Water and snacks
Cash in soles for purchases and community contributions
Passport or identification document
Altitude
Puno and Lake Titicaca are at 3,812 meters above sea level. Therefore, we recommend arriving from Cusco or Arequipa to acclimatize gradually, walking slowly and drinking plenty of water or coca tea.
Best season
The tour operates all year. From May to October days are drier and clearer; in contrast, from December to March afternoon rain is more frequent.
Recommendations
In Taquile you walk uphill at almost 4,000 meters, so take it at your own pace. Also, buying textiles directly from the community is an excellent way to support its economy.
Gallery
FAQ
What is the advantage of the speedboat?
On the Uros and Taquile tour, the speedboat cuts the sailing time to Taquile in half compared with traditional boats; as a result, you have more time to enjoy the islands.
How are the Uros islands built?
They are built with blocks of totora roots and layers of dry reeds that the islanders constantly renew, because the lower part decomposes in the water.
What is special about Taquile's textile art?
It is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. In Taquile, both women and men weave, while the garments indicate the wearer’s marital status and social position.
How much walking is there in Taquile?
On the Uros and Taquile tour, the walk on Taquile takes about an hour in total, including uphill sections and stone steps at almost 4,000 meters above sea level.
Is there a vegetarian option for lunch?
Yes. Let us know when booking, and then a quinoa and vegetable option is prepared instead of trout.
Can I spend the night on the islands?
Yes. We recommend the homestay program with an overnight stay on Amantaní Island, especially if you want to share daily life with a local family.
You might also be interested in
