A luxury-class bus takes us from Cusco to the shores of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, enjoy optional visits to the "Sistine Chapel" of Peru and a pre-Incan site, as well as a huge lunch featuring traditional Peruvian cusine. Entrances to the sites are additional (aprx. $10 per person), but the lunch is on us!

Arrive at mystical Lake Titicaca in the early afternoon. Legend has it that the first Inca rose out of its azure waters. Transfer to your hotel and explore on your own this afternoon.

Depart this morning with your guide to the peninsula of Capachica to Llachon, a small community of Aymara farmers where visitors are always welcome. We’ll practice our kayaking skills before launching from the sandy beach. There is no better way to appreciate the mysticism of the area than with a silent two hour kayak trip over the crystal waters of this sacred lake. We continue to Ticonata Island, our home for the evening, where we stay at the EcoVillage, a center of replicas of the pre-Inca homes that existed in this area. This hidden corner of Lake Titicaca provides the chance to experience the tranquility of nature and Andean culture. Visit ancient ritual sites and experience a traditional dinner and dances. Your guide will help translate the stories about the daily life and the traditions of this remote island on Lake Titicaca.

We continue by sailboat for a two-hour cruise to Amantani Island, a quiet island known for its hilltop ruins that honor Pachamama and Pachatata (Mother and Father Earth). Here we meet our host families whose generosity is apparent with their open arms (and open doors to their homes) and smiles. Explore this island with your guide and then settle in to share a short day in the lives of the Aymara. Enjoy a breath-taking sunset over Lake Titicaca.

After breakfast and bidding farewell to your host family, return to Puno by motor boat, with a stop at the floating islands of the Uros People. Peru's floating islands are built using the buoyant totora reeds that grow along Lake Titicaca, and these reeds are interwoven to make homes, boats, and crafts. A ride in a traditional reed boat can be arranged with a local fisherman. Return to Puno, afternoon is free to explore on your own.

Catch a flight to Lima today. For travelers choosing this Lake Titicaca extension prior to your visit to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu PIcchu, transfer by bus to Cusco.