Puno: 2-day Tour Lake Titicaca – Uros, Amantani & Taquile

Exploring Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is one of those trips you’ll remember long after you return home. For two days, you’ll travel from the bustling city of Puno into a landscape of shimmering water, traditional communities, and vibrant cultural traditions. This tour, offered at around $98 per person, balances guided insights with authentic island visits, making it a great way to get a feel for high-altitude Peruvian life.

What we love most? First, the opportunity to meet local people and learn about their lifestyles firsthand—especially on Amantani, where families open their homes. Second, the chance to witness traditional textile art and dances, which are both stunning and meaningful.

A potential consideration is the altitude—at 3,800 meters above sea level, you’ll want to pace yourself and take it easy as you acclimate.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy culture, scenic boat rides, and being outdoors. If you want a mix of natural beauty and genuine community experiences, this package delivers.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion with local families on Amantani Island
• Spectacular views of Lake Titicaca and surrounding Andes
• Authentic activities like traditional weaving, dancing, and shaman visits
• Knowledgeable guides who provide context about the islands’ history and customs
• Limited electrical facilities on Amantani, adding to the rustic charm
• Good value for the price, including transportation, guides, and most meals

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lake Titicaca Experience

The adventure begins early in Puno, where a pickup from your hotel sets the tone for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural discovery. The first highlight is the Uros Floating Islands—a collection of around 80 man-made islands built entirely from totora reeds. Here, we loved the way the Uros community has maintained their floating homes and customs, weaving their houses and boats from the same reed material. Our guide, Maria, explained that these islands are handmade by the Uros people, who have lived on this water for generations. As one reviewer put it, “Meeting the Uros was a highlight—their friendliness and stories made it real.”

The boat ride from Uros to Amantani Island takes about an hour, crossing the expansive lake, which at 3,812 meters above sea level, is the second-largest inland lake in South America. The journey offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and the vast, shimmering water. Once ashore, we were greeted by local families who live in simple but welcoming homes.

Amantani is a place of contrasts—serene in its natural beauty but lively with tradition. The island’s ceremonial centers and shamans offer a glimpse into spiritual practices that have persisted for centuries. Climbing to Pacha Tata (a sacred mountain), at over 4,100 meters, it’s breathtaking and also a test of your breath! We appreciated how the guides explained the significance of these sites, making the experience more meaningful. Evening brings an opportunity to share a home-cooked local dinner and participate in activities like traditional dancing or listening to folk music, if you wish.

Overnight stays with local families allow travelers to truly connect. The homes are basic but comfortable, and the experience of sleeping in a traditional family household is something few tours offer.

On day two, the tour continues to Taquile Island, famous for its textile art and vibrant community. After a boat ride of about 45 minutes, you arrive at a place where the scenery impresses immediately—terraced hillsides, sprawling farms, and a sky so clear it seems to intensify the deep blue of the lake.

Taquile’s residents are known for their craftsmanship and communal spirit. The local men wear distinctive traditional costumes, and you’ll see demonstrations of ancient weaving techniques that utilize natural dyes from vegetables and plants like the Cantuta flower and Muña. During our visit, a lively dance show showcased the community’s cultural pride, and the photo session dressed in traditional attire was a fun highlight.

Lunch here is included and features local dishes, giving you a taste of authentic Andean cuisine. The views from the island are spectacular, with the Andes framing the water and the sky, making every photo a postcard moment.

After exploring, the group boards the boat back to Puno, concluding a journey that’s both visually stunning and culturally enriching.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guides play a vital role in making this experience worthwhile. We found them to be knowledgeable and personable, sharing insights about the history and customs of each island, which enriched our understanding. As one traveler noted, “Our guide, Juan, was so passionate—he made everything come alive.”

The scenery on Lake Titicaca is breathtaking. The combination of water, mountains, and clear skies creates picture-perfect moments at every turn. The chance to see underwater cultural heritage—the floating islands and their manual construction—adds a special dimension that few other lakes can offer.

The tour’s value lies in the inclusive price—covering transportation, guide services, island entrance fees, and most meals—making it a comprehensive package that doesn’t break the bank. The overnight stay with local families adds an authentic touch that many day-trips can’t match.

However, the altitude is a real consideration. at over 3,800 meters, some travelers might feel dizzy or tired, especially if they’re not acclimated. We recommend taking it slow and resting well beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culture seekers, nature lovers, and anyone interested in authentic community interactions. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, traditional crafts, and learning about indigenous ways of life, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for travelers who don’t mind rustic accommodations and basic facilities, especially on Amantani.

Those looking for a luxury experience or with mobility issues might find some aspects challenging, given the high altitude and the absence of electricity on Amantani. But for anyone eager to connect with local traditions amid stunning scenery, this tour offers a memorable glimpse into life around Lake Titicaca.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts for two days, with check-in times depending on availability, and includes transportation, guides, island visits, and most meals.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip transfers from your hotel in Puno, guided tours in both English and Spanish, boat rides, entrance tickets to the islands, and meals on both days are included.

Are accommodations provided on Amantani?
Yes, you’ll stay in a simple but cozy family house, giving you a genuine taste of local life. Keep in mind there is no electricity or outlets on the island.

What should I bring?
Important essentials include your passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, a jacket, and a hat. Remember, the altitude is high, so pack appropriately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally yes, but children should be comfortable with boat rides, walking, and high-altitude environments. Check with the provider if you have concerns.

How fit do I need to be?
While not physically demanding, you should be prepared for some walking and the high elevation, which can cause fatigue or dizziness.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour operates year-round, but clear skies and good weather are more common during the dry season (May to October).

Can I participate in traditional activities?
Yes, you’re welcome to join in dances and other community events, and there’s an opportunity to participate in local customs if you wish.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Lake Titicaca tour offers a well-rounded experience of natural beauty and cultural authenticity. With knowledgeable guides, scenic boat rides, and the chance to stay with local families, it brings the lake’s traditions and landscapes to life in a way that’s both respectful and engaging.

For those who enjoy learning about indigenous communities, exploring stunning scenery, and having meaningful interactions, this tour hits the mark. Its value is clear when you consider that it covers transportation, guided expertise, island entrance fees, and meals—all designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Lake Titicaca without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself.

However, remember that the high altitude requires some preparation and a willingness to embrace a rustic, authentic experience. If you’re ready for that adventure, you’ll be rewarded with memorable views and genuine human connections that remind us how vibrant and enduring local traditions are—even in the face of modern change.

Feel ready to explore Lake Titicaca’s floating islands, traditional communities, and breathtaking vistas? This tour is a fantastic way to connect with one of South America’s most iconic natural and cultural treasures.

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