1 Day
Daily Tour
9 people
English, Espanol, Francais
The Uru Culture is one of the most ancient and indigenous groups residing on Lake Titicaca. Speaking the Aymara language, the Uru people have lived on the lake since the time of the Incas, who expanded their territories across the plateau centuries ago. The men are highly skilled in navigating totora reed rafts, while the women focus on embroidery and crafting their traditional textiles. Their way of life is intricately connected to the totora reed, which they use to construct their floating islands, homes, and rafts, and it also provides essential resources such as food and fuel for their community.
Taquile Island, inhabited by approximately 2,200 people, is renowned for its high-quality handwoven textiles. The island’s residents speak Quechua and are celebrated for their weaving skills. Men are responsible for knitting, a tradition they learn from a young age, while women excel in wool spinning and use natural dyes from plants and minerals to color the wool. The women also create the distinctive Chumpis, wide and colorful belts that are a common part of the traditional attire on the island.
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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