Puno: Uros Island – Kayak | Entry |

Puno: Uros Island – Kayak | Entry |

Location: Lake Titicaca, Peru
Price: $130 per person
Duration: 5 hours (check availability for specific starting times)
Rating: 4.8 (based on overall traveler feedback)
Supplier: Journey Peru SAC

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Quick Look at the Experience

This tour offers a chance to explore the Uros floating islands of Lake Titicaca with a blend of cultural discovery and outdoor adventure. For around five hours, we’re picked up from our Puno hotel near the Plaza de Armas, then whisked away to the embarkation point. From there, it’s a boat ride to the Uros Islands, where we get a guided look at the unique lifestyle of the islanders and their floating reed structures.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are two specific aspects: first, the hands-on kayaking in the calm waters of Lake Titicaca — a rare chance to paddle around floating hotels and see the islands from a different perspective. Second, the opportunity to learn about the daily life of the Uros people directly from guides who are often locals.

A possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include travel on reed rafts — which are traditional but not part of this specific activity — so if you’re eager to try reed boat riding, you’ll need to seek additional options.

This tour suits travelers looking for a mix of culture, nature, and adventure, especially those who appreciate authentic community visits and outdoor activities on tranquil waters.

Key Points

• Cultural insight: Gain a deeper understanding of Uros islanders’ way of life and their floating reed homes.
• Scenic views: Expect stunning vistas of Lake Titicaca’s shimmering waters and the surrounding Andean landscapes.
• Active experience: Kayaking around floating hotels offers both fun and unique perspectives on the islands.
• All-in-one package: Includes boat trip, entrance fee, kayaking, transportation, and a bilingual guide.
• Group size: Limited to 15 participants, making for a personalized experience.
• Exclusions: Does not include lunch or reed raft travel, so plan accordingly.

A Complete Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: From Hotel to Lake

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel near the Plaza de Armas at 9:00 a.m. This early start is ideal for avoiding midday crowds and making the most of the daylight. The transportation is included, ensuring a smooth transition from your accommodation to the embarkation port. Keeping in mind that the tour lasts about five hours, it’s good to be prepared for a relaxed but busy morning.

More Great Tours Nearby

Embarking on Lake Titicaca

Once at the port, you’ll board a tourist boat that sets out across the calm waters of Lake Titicaca. This lake, straddling the border of Peru and Bolivia, is South America’s highest navigable body of water and is nothing short of spectacular. The boat ride itself offers views of the surrounding Andean mountains, often shrouded in mist or bright sunlight, depending on the day. Travelers frequently comment on the “beautiful scenery” and “peaceful atmosphere” of the lake.

Visiting Uros: A Unique Community

The first highlight is the guided tour of the Uros Islands. The guides, often locals, are eager to share stories about how the islands are built entirely of reeds—a natural, sustainable resource. You’ll see floating hotels, homes, and communal spaces, all constructed from the buoyant reeds. Several reviews mention the “fascinating craftsmanship” and “authentic way of life” that you get to observe firsthand.

The guides often emphasize how the islands are not just a tourist attraction but a living community, with some residents still fishing and farming reeds for both livelihood and building materials. This gives you a sense of cultural continuity and resilience.

Kayaking in Lake Titicaca

After the guided walk, you’ll head to a private island where equipment awaits. This is where the kayaking activity kicks off, lasting approximately 40 minutes. The kayaks are provided, and the activity offers a fresh perspective on the floating islands—giving you the chance to paddle in the tranquil waters, close to the reeds and floating hotels.

Travelers love this part, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way kayaking made us feel more connected to the environment,” and another appreciating the “calm waters and stunning views”. The kayak activity is suitable for beginners, but it’s always wise to listen to your guide and take your time.

Returning to Puno

After your paddle session, the tour wraps up with a boat ride back to Puno. The overall experience makes for a relaxing yet engaging day, blending cultural insights with outdoor fun.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Tourist boat trip across Lake Titicaca
– Entrance ticket to the Uros Islands
– Kayaking around floating hotels
– Round-trip transportation from your hotel
– Professional bilingual guide, fluent in English and Spanish

Not Included:
– Travel on traditional reed rafts (which are not part of this activity)
– Lunch (so plan to bring some snacks or eat beforehand)

This setup provides excellent value, considering the boat ride, entrance fee, and guided experience are all covered. The kayaking adds a memorable, active dimension that many travelers find worthwhile.

Important Practical Details

• Languages: Tours are offered in both English and Spanish, and small groups (max 15) ensure a more personalized experience.
• What to bring: Warm clothing, sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, and cash for souvenirs or tips.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or travelers with certain medical conditions.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance — a flexible option for adjustable plans.
• Reserve & Pay Later: You can secure your spot with no upfront payment, providing flexibility.

Authenticity and Value

This tour provides a genuine glimpse into the lifestyle of Uros islanders and combines it with hands-on outdoor activity in a stunning setting. The kayak experience is a standout feature, allowing you to glide on the water and see the islands from a different angle. Travelers have described the views as “breathtaking” and appreciate how the tour balances cultural education with adventure.

The small group size ensures that your guide can give personalized attention, making the experience more meaningful. The inclusion of transportation and entrance fees simplifies planning, and the overall price of $130 is quite reasonable given the quality and authenticity of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is perfect for those who want a cultural day out with a little adventure. It suits travelers eager to learn about local communities in an authentic setting, rather than just viewing from afar. Outdoor enthusiasts and those curious about Lake Titicaca’s legendary floating islands** will find this tour particularly rewarding**.

If you’re not looking for a strenuous activity or a long day, this short, well-organized trip offers a balanced taste of nature and culture. It’s also suitable for families and small groups who appreciate a more intimate experience.

The Sum Up

The Uros Island kayak tour offers a compelling mix of culture, scenery, and outdoor fun. By visiting the floating reed islands and paddling on the calm waters of Lake Titicaca, you gain insight into a community that has preserved its unique way of life for generations. The tour’s inclusion of transportation, entrance, and guide makes it an excellent value, especially if you’re looking for an active, authentic experience.

While it doesn’t include reed-raft trips or lunch, the overall experience compensates with its stunning views, personal touch, and engaging activities. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who love discovering local traditions in a beautiful, peaceful setting and enjoy a bit of physical activity during their journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, guided tour, kayaking, and return to Puno.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from hotels near the Plaza de Armas is part of the package.

Do I need to bring my own kayak gear?
No, kayaking equipment is provided as part of the tour.

Can I do this tour if I don’t kayak?
Yes, kayaking is an activity within the tour, but you can still enjoy the guided island tour if you prefer not to paddle.

Is there an age limit for kayaking?
Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but the activity is generally suitable for those comfortable with light physical activity.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly. Bring snacks or plan to eat before the tour.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing and sun protection are recommended, especially since weather can change quickly on the lake.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for children comfortable with water activities, but very young children might find kayaking challenging.

Will I see real communities living on the islands?
Yes, guides often highlight how the islands are still inhabited by locals who live, work, and maintain their traditions.

Embark on this journey to Lake Titicaca’s floating Uros Islands, and enjoy an experience that blends cultural discovery with outdoor adventure in one of South America’s most captivating settings.

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