Lake Titicaca, on the border of Peru and Bolivia, holds the record as the highest navigable lake in the world (at an altitude of 12,500 feet, or 3,812 meters above sea level) and the record as South America's largest lake. Travelers here will see the ruins that many archaeologists consider the birthplace of the Inca. Once you cross into Bolivia, you can check out Sun & Moon Islands. The archaeological remains on Sun Island are well preserved, and it also provides one of the best viewpoints of the lake. Moon Island also features ruins. One popular time to visit is during the Candelaria Festival of February, paying homage to the patron Virgin of Puno. Contact Adventure Life if you want to witness this vibrant celebration, but booking early is imperative because spots go quickly!
As the highest navigable lake in the world, this is always a favorite for travelers to Bolivia or Peru. The border between the countries runs right through the middle of Lake Titicaca. Don't miss these highlights:
Uros Islands, the floating town built upon a manmade island of reeds.
The Pre-inca ruins at Tihuanaco, from 600 BC representing one of the greatest architectural achievements of pre-Inca South America.
Sun & Moon Islands and Copacabana, where important ruins of the ancient civilizations are pristinely preserved.
If you go in February, you could see the vibrant and exciting Candelaria Festival which honors the Virgin of Puno.
Kayaking on Lake Titicaca from your base at beautiful Titilaka Lodge
Homestays with local indigenous families that let you truly know and understand the locals and their lifestyle.
Travelers can get to Lake Titicaca either from the Peruvian or Bolivian sides.
From the Peru side, the city of Puno is the port of entry to the lake. Travelers can fly into Juliaca's International Airport Inca Manco Cápac (JUL Airport Code) just 25 miles north of Puno, or arrive via bus or even train from Cusco or Arequipa. Once in Puno, you'll hop in a boat to explore the expansive Lake Titicaca and it's culturally-rich islands.
From the Bolivian side (to the east), most travelers access Lake Titicaca on trips from La Paz, about an hour drive from the Lake. Day trips are frequently taken from La Paz to Copacabana, and the Islands of the Sun & Moon. Travelers frequently fly into La Paz's El Alto International Airport (LPB), the world's highest altitude international airport.
