Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, a vast, deep-blue expanse straddling the border of Peru and Bolivia at some 3,800 metres on the Andean altiplano. Sacred to the Incas as the birthplace of the sun, its islands hold ancient communities that keep age-old traditions and weaving alive, most famously the Uros, who live on floating islands built entirely from totora reeds.

What you actually see

• The Uros floating islands - the islands built from totora reeds.
• Taquile Island - the community famed for its traditional weaving.
• Amantani - the island for a homestay with local families.
• The lake and altiplano - the vast blue water under the high Andean sky.

When to go

May to September, the dry season, for the clearest weather and calm water; nights are bitterly cold at this altitude year-round, so pack warm layers. A homestay on Amantani or Taquile deepens the experience.

Honest expectations

At 3,800 metres it is very high, so acclimatise and expect cold nights. The famous Uros floating islands, while genuine, have become heavily touristy and geared to visitors; the further islands like Taquile and Amantani feel more authentic. The strong high-altitude sun burns quickly, so cover up.

Nearby

Puno is the lakeside base; the Bolivian side and the Isla del Sol lie across the border.