Sun Island and Copacabana | From Puno or La Paz / Day Trip

Set out on a captivating day trip from Puno or La Paz to Sun Island and Copacabana. Explore ancient Inca sites, breathtaking landscapes, and the renowned Sanctuary of the Virgen Morena. With a scenic bus ride, boat journey, and small group sizes, this experience promises an enriching glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage. Discover why this daylong adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive journey through the heart of the Bolivian Andes.

Good To Know

• The day trip from Puno or La Paz to Copacabana and Isla del Sol is priced at $95.00 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes hotel pick-up, bus or minivan transportation, and guided exploration of the Sanctuary of the Virgen Morena, Isla del Sol, and its historical sites.
• Travelers can visit the Basilica of the Candelaria Virgin in Copacabana, journey to the birthplace of the Inca Empire on Isla del Sol, and explore ancient archaeological sites.
• The tour provides a personalized experience with a small group size and live guides in English and Spanish.
• Participants must bring their passport or ID card and are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and pack a light jacket and water bottle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The day trip from Puno or La Paz to Sun Island and Copacabana is priced at $95.00 per person, with the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The day trip from Puno or La Paz to Sun Island and Copacabana is priced at $95.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can also take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option.

The 1-day tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation by bus or minivan, and a guided exploration of the Southern Zone of Isla del Sol.

Entrance fees and any meals not specified are excluded.

Participants are limited to a small group size of 10, with live guides available in English and Spanish.

Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with a pick-up at 6:00 AM, followed by a scenic 3.5-hour bus ride (151 km) to Copacabana.

Arriving around 10:30 AM, visitors will explore the Sanctuary of the Virgen Morena and Chapel of Candles.

At noon, they’ll take a boat journey to Isla del Sol, arriving around 1:00 PM.

In the Southern Zone, they’ll discover the Inca Garden, Fountain of Youth, and Pilkocaina Temple.

The return boat trip to Copacabana departs at 3:00 PM, followed by the bus ride back to Puno or La Paz, arriving around 8:30 PM.

Key Highlights

Visitors can expect to explore several key highlights during this day trip.

In the charming town of Copacabana, they’ll visit the Basilica of the Candelaria Virgin, a renowned pilgrimage site for its iconic black Madonna.

The highlight, however, is the journey to Isla del Sol, the birthplace of the Inca Empire.

Travelers will discover the ancient Pilkoken archaeological site, home to the revered Temple of the Sun.

They’ll also stroll through the Inca Garden and the Fountain of Youth, soaking in the island’s spiritual and historical significance.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This day trip tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation by bus or minibus, and a guided tour of the Southern Zone of Isla del Sol.

However, meals not mentioned in the itinerary, travel insurance, and any extra expenses or entrance fees are excluded.

Participants should bring their passport or ID card, as small group sizes are limited to 10 people.

A live tour guide is available in both English and Spanish to provide an informative experience.

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Important Information

Meeting point may vary based on booking option, whether travelers are departing from Puno or La Paz. Guests should come prepared with a valid passport or ID card. This small group tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. Live tour guides are available in both English and Spanish to facilitate understanding throughout the excursion.

| What to Bring | Recommended | Required |

|—————–|————-|———-|

| Comfortable Shoes | ✓ | – |

| Sun Protection | ✓ | – |

| Light Jacket | ✓ | – |

| Water Bottle | ✓ | – |

| Passport/ID | – | ✓ |

Exploring Copacabana

Upon arrival in Copacabana, travelers will find themselves in a picturesque lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

The town’s main attraction is the Sanctuary of the Virgen Morena, a historic church housing an iconic statue of the dark-skinned Virgin Mary. Visitors can explore the chapel, adorned with intricate carvings and candles.

Another highlight is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Copacabana, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.

Strolling through the town’s cobblestone streets, travelers can browse local markets, sample traditional cuisine, and take in the serene, spiritual atmosphere of this lakeside destination.

Discovering Isla Del Sol

After exploring the charming town of Copacabana, travelers embark on a boat journey to the renowned Isla del Sol, the legendary birthplace of the Inca civilization.

The 1-hour boat ride takes them across the serene waters of Lake Titicaca, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Upon arrival, visitors discover the island’s rich history, hiking along ancient Inca ruins and trails.

Visitors discover Isla del Sol’s rich history, hiking along ancient Inca ruins and trails.

Key highlights include the Inca Garden, Fountain of Youth, and the impressive Pilkocaina Temple.

With its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance, Isla del Sol offers a truly immersive experience for those seeking to explore the origins of the Inca Empire.

Returning to Puno or La Paz

As the day’s adventure on Isla del Sol comes to a close, travelers board the boat for the return journey to Copacabana, arriving around 3:00 PM.

The bus departs Copacabana at 4:00 PM, transporting visitors back to their hotels in Puno or La Paz.

The scenic 3.5-hour drive covers 151 km, with an estimated arrival time around 8:30 PM.

This well-planned itinerary provides ample time to explore the highlights of Isla del Sol and Copacabana, before a comfortable journey back to the starting point.

Travelers can relax and reflect on the incredible day spent discovering the origins of the Inca Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide meals, so bringing your own snacks and beverages is allowed and recommended to have during the day’s activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Stay on Isla Del Sol?

The tour only includes a 1-day visit to Isla del Sol. However, visitors can extend their stay on the island by booking additional night(s) independently. This allows more time to explore the Inca ruins and natural beauty at a relaxed pace.

Do I Need to Be Physically Fit for the Activities on Isla Del Sol?

Travelers don’t need to be extremely fit for the activities on Isla del Sol. The tour includes easy walks and gentle hikes, suitable for most visitors. However, good mobility and basic fitness are recommended to fully enjoy the island’s sights.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Stops Along the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs at the various stops along the tour, including Copacabana and Isla del Sol. Visitors can find traditional Andean handicrafts, artwork, and other local items to bring home as mementos.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Requirements for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but children under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should be able to board and disembark buses and boats without assistance. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Puno or La Paz offers a chance to explore the iconic Sun Island and Copacabana. Priced at $95 per person, the journey includes a scenic bus ride, visits to the Sanctuary of the Virgen Morena and ancient Inca sites, and a personalized experience with small groups and bilingual guides. It’s an enriching way to take in the stunning landscapes of this remarkable region.

You can check availability for your dates here: