From Puno: 2-Day Uros, Amantani, and Taquile Islands Tour

Imagine traveling to the high plains of Peru and finding yourself on the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. For just $65 per person, this 2-day tour from Puno takes you to three of the lake’s most iconic spots: the Uros floating islands, Amantani, and Taquile. Guided by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll get a genuine taste of indigenous culture, stunning scenery, and hearty traditional food—all with the added charm of staying overnight on Amantani with a local family.

What we particularly loved about this experience is how it balances authentic cultural encounters with the comfort of organized logistics. The home-stay at Amantani adds a personal touch, while the visits to the floating Uros islands are fascinating, thanks to their unique construction of totora reeds. Plus, the traditional lunches served on both Amantani and Taquile are a highlight, giving you a real taste of local flavors.

A possible consideration is the altitude—lake excursions are at around 12,500 feet, so some travelers might feel the effects of altitude sickness or fatigue, especially during the uphill walk on Taquile. It’s worth packing some coca or muña tea, just as locals do, to help adjust. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want an interactive, cultural experience and don’t mind a bit of physical activity or the early start times.

If you’re looking to connect with local people, enjoy scenic boat rides, and sample authentic Peruvian cuisine, this tour is a fine choice—especially if you appreciate a balance of guided storytelling and free exploration.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion with homestays and local guides
• Unique islands: floating Uros and natural Amantani & Taquile
• Authentic cuisine: traditional lunches and local teas
• Accessible for most: well-organized with all essentials included
• Altitude considerations: pack accordingly and pace yourself
• Value for money: comprehensive experience at a modest price

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lake Titicaca’s Islands in Depth

Discovering the Floating Islands of Uros

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your Puno hotel (if centrally located), followed by a boat ride across Lake Titicaca to the Uros floating islands. These islands are a marvel of reclaimed land, built entirely from totora reeds—a plant that grows abundantly in the lake. The Uros community has inhabited these islands for centuries, and your guide, often a local from the community, will explain how the islands are maintained, reinforced, and inhabited.

Many travelers find a visit to the Uros incredibly engaging. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way they explained the construction of the islands and the importance of totora reeds for their survival.” The islands are quite touristy, but the craftsmanship and resilience of the communities are real. You can also opt for an artisanal totora boat ride for S/. 15.00, which many find adds a charming extra touch, even if it’s an additional cost.

Authentic Homestay on Amantani

From Uros, you’ll transfer to Amantani, a natural island where you’ll stay overnight with a local family. This is often the highlight of the trip for those craving genuine interaction. We loved the chance to share a simple but hearty meal with our host family, and many reviews emphasize how welcoming and friendly the locals are.

In the afternoon, you’ll hike up to the Pachatata and Pachamama temples, which offer stunning panoramic views of the lake—especially at sunset. This short trek, about 30-40 minutes uphill, is manageable for most but can be tiring due to the altitude. Travelers appreciate the authentic experience of staying in a family home, often noting that “the dinner shared with the family felt like stepping into a local’s everyday life.”

In the evening, a local show—featuring traditional music and dance—is often included, providing both entertainment and cultural insight. The stay includes breakfast in the morning, giving you a touch of island life before heading out to Taquile.

Exploring Taquile and Its Traditions

The second day begins with a boat ride to Taquile, renowned for its textile traditions. Upon arrival, you’ll hike uphill to the main square. This walk, roughly 40 minutes, is scenic but can be physically demanding, especially at this altitude. The views from the top are worth every step, with colorful textiles and stone houses creating a vibrant atmosphere.

On Taquile, you’ll visit a textile museum and the colonial church. The island’s artisan textiles are famous, and you’ll likely see locals weaving using traditional techniques passed down for generations. Many visitors mention the delicious lunch, often a traditional fish dish with local ingredients, paired with mate made from muña or coca leaf—a folk remedy to counter altitude sickness.

You’ll have some free time for photos and browsing before descending back to the boat for the return to Puno.

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What Sets This Tour Apart

This tour’s appeal lies in its combination of culture and scenic beauty. The home-stay experience on Amantani offers a rare chance to connect with locals and learn about their daily lives, while the visits to Uros and Taquile are both educational and awe-inspiring.

The traditional food is another highlight. Many reviews praise the delicious, hearty lunches prepared on both islands, which are included in the price. Having local guides who speak both Spanish and English ensures that you won’t miss the stories behind each place.

The logistics are smooth—organized transport, boat rides, and entrance tickets all included—making it easier to focus on the experience rather than logistics. However, it’s worth noting that some parts of the day involve long walks uphill and at high altitude, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

Considerations and Tips

While the experience is largely positive, some travelers mention the altitude can cause fatigue or mild sickness. To mitigate this, bring muña or coca tea, stay hydrated, and pace yourself during walks.

The group size typically remains manageable, but if you’re traveling in a large group, it might feel a bit less intimate. For those seeking a more personalized experience, early booking is advisable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day journey is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to experience authentic Peruvian culture and spectacular scenery without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind physical activity and are interested in connecting with local communities. If you’re ready for some early mornings, short hikes, and a taste of island life, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

However, it might not be ideal for families with very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues due to the physical elements involved. Also, while the homestay is enriching, it’s a very basic accommodation—think simple beds and shared facilities—so those expecting luxury might want to look elsewhere.

FAQs

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $65 per person, which includes transportation, boat rides, entrance tickets, homestay, lunches, and guides. This makes it a good value considering the comprehensive experience.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The tour spans 2 days, with most of the time spent traveling between islands, exploring, and enjoying meals. Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunches on Amantani and Taquile are included, along with breakfast on Amantani. You’ll enjoy traditional dishes that highlight local ingredients.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat for sun protection, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. The altitude may cause fatigue, so bring muña or coca tea for relief.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers over 8 years old due to the physical nature of the walks and the overall pace.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of unforeseen changes.

What about the group size?
While the tour is generally well-organized, specific group sizes aren’t mentioned, but the experience is designed to be accessible and manageable.

Is this tour available in other languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring helpful commentary and cultural insights.

Final Thoughts

This Puno-based tour offers a meaningful glimpse into the culture and landscape of Lake Titicaca. The combination of floating islands, authentic homestays, and scenic hikes makes it both educational and enjoyable. Affordable and well-organized, it’s a prime choice for travelers looking to connect with local traditions and enjoy stunning lake views without overspending.

While the simple accommodations and altitude pose some challenges, these are balanced by the richness of the experience. If you’re eager to learn, explore, and taste authentic Peruvian life on the water, this tour provides a solid, memorable introduction.

About the Experience Provider

AREQUIPA EXPLORER Y ACTIVIDADES TURISTICAS offers this popular tour, focusing on accessible, cultural, and scenic adventures around Peru’s highlands and lakes. Their organized approach ensures you’ll have a smooth and authentic experience on Lake Titicaca.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby