Lake Titicaca
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Titicaca and what makes it special?
This is the largest lake in South America by area (about 8,372 sq. km), which lies at an altitude of 3,812 m in the Andes. It is often called the highest navigable lake in the world - that is, yes, ships really go here, and not just tourist boats.
How to get there?
The lake is shared between Peru and Bolivia. From the Peruvian side, the main entry point is the city of Puno, from the Bolivian side - Copacabana. Boats to the islands are already leaving from there.
What to see on the lake?
First of all, the floating islands of Uros - they are built simply from totora reeds, and the locals there live on the water in the literal sense. It is worth looking at Takile Island with its men's knitting (yes, it is men who weave here, and this is recognized by UNESCO), at Amantani Island without any cars, and from the Bolivian side - at the Island of the Sun with traces of the Incas.
When is the best time to go?
The dry season lasts from June to September: the days are warm and sunny, but the nights are cold. The water in the lake is cool all year round - 10-14 degrees, so swimming here is better for the very brave.
Any interesting facts?
According to Inca legend, the sun god was born here. And there are also endemics in the lake that are not found anywhere else: a very small Titicaca water frog and a flightless Titicaca toad.
