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Lake Titicaca Reed Boats Near Puno, Peru
Boat Trips - Mixing With Locals on The Water
Visitors to Lake Titicaca can take boat trips out to the totora reed islands, where the Uros people live.
Boats leave from Puno, on the Peruvian side of the lake.
Of the forty small islands on Lake Titicaca, tourists are ferried to the main island of Santa Maria, where they can hire reed boats to get a closer look at the fish.
Photo by Michel Guntern.
Plan Your Visit to Puno, Peru
Puno is located in south-eastern Peru, near the shores of Lake Titicaca; the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable body of water in the world.
Location Scouting
Puno is the capital of the Puno Region and is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,830 metres above sea level in the Andes Mountains.
Altitude
Due to its high altitude, visitors should be cautious about altitude sickness and take appropriate measures to acclimatise, especially if arriving from lower elevations.
Cultural Heritage
The region surrounding Puno is home to various indigenous groups, including the Aymara and Quechua people, who have a rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can experience their traditional customs, music, dances, and colourful festivals, such as the famous 'Fiesta de la Candelaria' held in February.
Festivals and Celebrations
Puno is well-known for its lively festivals and celebrations, often featuring colourful parades, traditional music, and dance.
These festivals are excellent opportunities to experience the local culture and traditions.
Indigenous Market
Puno's main square, Plaza de Armas, and its surrounding streets host a vibrant indigenous market where you can find handicrafts, textiles, and other traditional products.
Lake Titicaca
Puno is renowned for its proximity to Lake Titicaca, and the city serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the lake and its surrounding islands.
The lake is shared by both Peru and Bolivia and is considered a sacred body of water by the locals, with several myths and legends associated with it.
According to Andean mythology, it is believed that the first Inca king, Manco Cápac, and his sister Mama Ocllo emerged from the depths of the lake, sent by the god Viracocha to establish the Inca civilisation.
Lake Titicaca continues to be an essential part of the cultural and ecological landscape of South America, offering a glimpse into the ancient history and traditions of the Andean people.
It remains an iconic and cherished location for both locals and international visitors alike.
Taquile Island
Another popular destination on Lake Titicaca is Taquile Island, known for its stunning landscapes and traditional weaving culture.
The island has been recognized by UNESCO for its Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Uros Floating Islands
Near Puno, on Lake Titicaca, are the Uros Floating Islands.
These unique islands are constructed entirely from layers of reeds that grow in the lake.
The Uros people have lived on these artificial islands for centuries and maintain their traditional lifestyle.
Wildlife
Lake Titicaca supports a diverse array of flora and fauna.
The lake is home to several unique species of fish, including the Titicaca orestias, which have adapted to the high-altitude environment.
Various waterbirds, such as flamingos and Andean seagulls, can also be found around the lake.
Things to do on Location
Peru Tourism:
Peru travel and tourist information with links to official travel and tourism websites and local resources for visitors to Peru.
Where to Stay in Puno, Peru
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