Exploring the stunning Lake Titicaca from Puno is a must-do for any traveler. This full-day tour offers a chance to witness the captivating Uros floating islands and take in the rich culture of Taquile Island. With a fast boat ride and a knowledgeable guide, the tour promises an unforgettable experience at an affordable price. What makes this tour truly unique is the opportunity to discover the fascinating way of life…
Key Points
- A full-day tour from Puno to Uros floating islands and Taquile Island, priced from $35 per person, with hotel pickup and 15-20 minute fast boat ride to Uros.
- Includes exploration of the main Uros island and 2-3 additional islands, with 1 hour spent on each, and 3 hours on Taquile Island for lunch and cultural exploration.
- Opportunity to learn about the unique floating community of Uros and their use of totora reeds, as well as experience the traditional Andean culture and way of life on Taquile Island.
- Includes entrance fees, guide services, and assistance throughout the tour, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old, and does not include pickup from hotels outside the city.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour takes visitors from Puno to explore the iconic Uros floating islands and Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca.
Priced from $35 per person, the tour lasts one day and includes hotel pickup. Offered in English and Spanish, it has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary covers a 15-20 minute fast boat ride to the Uros islands, followed by 3 hours on Taquile Island for a trout-based lunch and culture.
The tour includes entrance fees, guide services, and assistance throughout the day.
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Itinerary
The tour begins with a 07:15 AM pickup from the visitor’s accommodation in Puno’s historic center.
After a brief 15-20 minute boat ride, travelers will:
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Visit the main Uros island and 2-3 additional islands, spending about 1 hour on each.
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Experience the unique culture of the Uros people, renowned for their traditional reed islands.
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Travel approximately 1.5 hours to reach Taquile Island.
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Spend 3 hours exploring the island, including lunch at a local restaurant featuring a trout-based meal, and free time to interact with locals and learn about their textiles.
The tour returns to Puno by 3:40 PM.
Uros Islands
Visitors will first head to the Uros Islands, a unique floating community on Lake Titicaca.
They’ll travel by fast boat, reaching the islands in 15-20 minutes. Upon arrival, guests will explore the main island and 2-3 additional islands, spending about an hour on each.
The Uros people are known for their ingenious use of totora reeds to construct their islands and homes.
Visitors will have the chance to learn about this remarkable culture and way of life directly from the native inhabitants. This experience provides a glimpse into the traditions and resilience of the Uros community.
Taquile Island
After visiting the Uros Islands, the tour heads to Taquile Island, where guests will spend approximately 1.5 hours traveling to reach it.
Upon arrival, visitors will have 3 hours to explore the island, including:
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Enjoying a trout-based lunch at a local restaurant
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Interacting with the locals and learning about their renowned textile traditions
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Admiring the scenic views of Lake Titicaca
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Experiencing the unique culture and way of life on this traditional Andean island
The tour then returns to Puno, arriving at around 3:40 PM.
More Great Tours NearbyInclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes hotel pickup and return, a bilingual guide (English/Spanish), entrance tickets to the islands, a trout-based lunch, and assistance throughout the day.
However, the tour doesn’t include pickup from hotels outside the city. Plus, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.
The fast boat ensures more time on the islands, allowing visitors to learn about the local culture from native inhabitants and enjoy scenic views of Lake Titicaca.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Puno
- Full Day Lake Titicaca Tour to Uros and Taquile Islands
- Full-Day Tour of Uros, Taquile and Sillustani From Puno
- Uros Reed Floating Islands & Taquile Island Titicaca Puno Full Day
- Full Day Tour to Copacabana and Isla Del Sol From Puno
- Full Day Tour Uros and Taquile Islands (Speed Boat)
- Private Full Day Tour of Ruta Del Sol From Puno to Cusco
Highlights
One of the highlights of this tour is the fast boat, which allows visitors to spend more time exploring the islands.
The fast boat ride to the Uros Islands takes just 15-20 minutes, giving you ample time to:
The fast boat ride to the Uros Islands takes just 15-20 minutes, allowing ample time to explore the floating reed islands.
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Experience the unique culture of the Uros community, known for their ingenious floating reed islands
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Visit the main island and 2-3 additional islets, each with its own distinct charm
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Enjoy scenic views of the expansive Lake Titicaca
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Interact with the local inhabitants and learn about their traditional textiles and way of life
Customer Reviews
Visitors have shared their experiences with this tour, providing helpful insights. Overall, reviewers rate the tour 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 13 reviews.
Positive highlights include the knowledgeable guides and delicious lunch on Taquile Island. However, some reviewers noted dissatisfaction with the perceived tourism exploitation on the Uros Islands.
While the tour offers a fast boat for more time on the islands and the chance to learn about local culture, a few customers felt the experience on the Uros Islands could be improved to provide a more authentic and ethical encounter.
Getting to Puno
To get to Puno, travelers can fly into Inca Manco Cápac International Airport (PUN), which serves the city.
From the airport, visitors have several options to reach their final destination:
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Take a taxi or private transfer, which can be arranged through the tour operator or booked separately.
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Use public transportation, such as buses or shared vans, which depart from the airport and take around 30-45 minutes to reach the city center.
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Rent a car and drive themselves, allowing for more flexibility and the ability to stop along the way.
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Book a package tour that includes round-trip transportation from the airport.
Things To Know
What Is the Weather Typically Like on the Islands?
The weather on the Uros and Taquile Islands is generally cool and breezy due to their high elevation and proximity to Lake Titicaca. Visitors should dress in layers and bring sun protection, as the sun can be quite strong at this altitude.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes a trout-based lunch at a local restaurant on Taquile Island. It’s best to rely on the provided meal and refreshments during the tour.
Is It Possible to Extend the Time on the Islands?
It’s generally not possible to extend the time on the islands beyond the scheduled itinerary. The tour operates on a fixed schedule to accommodate all participants. However, you can speak with the guide about any special requests or needs during the tour.
How Accessible Are the Sites for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old. The islands have uneven terrain, and there are no accommodations for those with mobility issues. Visitors should consider their physical abilities before booking this tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on This Tour?
The tour is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old but does not have any stated age restrictions for children. Younger participants can join the tour, though the activities may not be fully accessible for those with mobility issues.
Sum Up
This Lake Titicaca tour from Puno offers an affordable way to experience the unique floating islands of Uros and the cultural treasures of Taquile Island. With a fast boat ride, knowledgeable guide, and convenient hotel pickup, it’s an excellent option for those seeking an unforgettable day exploring the natural and cultural wonders of this iconic Peruvian destination.
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