2 Day Tour Uros Amantani and Taquile Islands With Homestay: A Guide to Experiencing Lake Titicaca’s Local Culture

Lake Titicaca is a unique natural wonder of the world that is shared by both Peru and Bolivia. It is the highest navigable body of water in the world, and is renowned for its mythical legends, bountiful aquatic life, and the traditional cultures of its inhabitants. One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by embarking on a 2-day tour that includes a homestay on Amantani Island. This tour offers a personal connection that you cannot get on a day trip, the unforgettable chance to watch the sunset and stargaze in the middle of the high-altitude lake, and a chance to explore Uros, Amantani, and Taquile Islands. Convenient pickup and drop-off from downtown Puno hotels and family-style meals of Andean cuisine are also included in this tour. In this guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about this unique experience.

Day 1: Puno to Uros Floating Islands to Amantani Island

The tour starts with an 8:00 AM pickup from your downtown Puno hotel. Your guide will take you to the port of Puno to board a motorboat to Uros Floating Islands. These islands are made entirely of reeds that grow in Lake Titicaca. The Uros people have been living on these islands for centuries, and they built their homes and boats from the reeds. The Uros people are known for their skilled weaving techniques, and visitors have the opportunity to purchase handcrafted souvenirs. The next stop is Amantani Island, where you will stay with a local family for the night. This is a unique experience that provides you with an opportunity to learn about the island’s culture, customs, and traditions. Upon arrival, your host family will welcome you with a traditional typical dish of the island. After lunch and some rest, your guide will take you on a hike to the top of Pachatata, the highest point on the island. From there, you’ll have an incredible view of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding islands. Finally, you’ll return to your host’s home for some traditional Andean dinner and spend the night.

Day 2: Amantani Island to Taquile Island and Return to Puno

After a hearty breakfast, you will depart for Taquile Island, known for its skilled weavers and pre-Columbian terraced farming. The island is inhabited by the Quechua-speaking people and is known for its colorful textiles. As soon as you arrive, your guide will take you on a scenic walk through the island’s terraced fields until you reach the town square. Here, you’ll have a chance to purchase some of the exquisite handmade textiles. After lunch, you’ll board the motorboat and travel back to Puno. You will stop at a point where you can take photos of the unique natural scenery of Lake Titicaca, including its crystal clear water and the surrounding snow-capped mountain ranges. You will arrive back in downtown Puno and be dropped off at your hotel in the late afternoon.

What’s Included in the Tour

1. Pickup and drop-off from downtown Puno hotels.
2. Round-trip boat cruise gives you spectacular views of Titicaca.
3. English-speaking guide to lead you through the tour.
4. A homestay with a local family.
5. Family-style meals of Andean cuisine

What to Bring with You on the Tour

1. A small backpack that can hold a few clothing items, personal toiletries, and electronic devices.
2. A warm jacket, hat, and gloves to keep you warm at night on Amantani Island
3. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun during the day.
4. Money for souvenirs, tips, and personal expenses.
5. A camera to capture the incredible landscapes you will see during the tour.

Tour Cost and How to Book

The cost of the 2-day tour Uros Amantani and Taquile Islands With Homestay is $89.99 per person. To book the tour, visit the following link and select the desired date and number of participants: book here.

Book Your Tour Now

The 2-Day Tour Uros Amantani and Taquile Islands With Homestay is an excellent choice for those who want to explore Lake Titicaca’s natural beauty and delve into the local culture. You’ll immerse yourself in the experience, from interacting with the islanders to staying with a local family to participating in cultural activities on Amantani Island. With everything included in the tour, you’ll be able to relax in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy the unique beauty of Lake Titicaca.

FAQ about Puno: Everything You Need to Know before Traveling to the City

If you are planning to visit Peru, you should not miss the opportunity to explore Puno. This charming city, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, offers unique cultural experiences, natural wonders, and delicious food. However, before packing your bags, there are some questions you may want to ask. In this FAQ, we have tried to answer the most common questions travelers have about Puno.

1. What is the best time to visit Puno?

The best time to visit Puno is from May to October. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, and the temperature is between 15°C to 20°C. However, keep in mind that the nights can be quite cold, so bring warm clothes.

2. How do I get to Puno?

The easiest and most common way to get to Puno is by bus from cities like Cusco, Arequipa or Lima. Additionally, Puno has its own airport, where you can fly from Cusco or Lima, but it is not as popular as the bus.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Puno?

Puno is full of interesting attractions that you should not miss, including:

The Floating Islands of Uros:

The Uros are a group of indigenous people who have created artificial islands by weaving reeds from Lake Titicaca. You can take a boat tour to visit these islands, learn about their culture, and even try some of their traditional food.

Taquile Island:

Located on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, Taquile Island is home to friendly locals and picturesque landscapes. You can take a hiking tour to explore the island and learn about their traditions.

The Sillustani Archaeological Site:

This archeological site is located 34 km away from Puno and was built by the ancient Colla people. It has impressive funerary towers and panoramic views of the Umayo Lagoon.

4. What can I eat in Puno?

Puno has a diverse and delicious cuisine influenced by both its Quechua and Aymara cultures. Some of the most typical dishes include:

Chairo:

This soup is made with lamb or beef, Andean potatoes, corn, and other vegetables.

Chuño:

This traditional ingredient is made by exposing potatoes to the freezing temperatures of the Andes Mountains during the night and then stomping them in a process that removes the water.

Cuy:

Guinea pig may not be as common in other regions of Peru, but you can find it in Puno as a typical dish.

5. What should I pack for my trip to Puno?

When packing for Puno, you should consider the following items:

Warm clothing:

As mentioned before, the nights in Puno can be quite chilly, so you should bring warm clothes like jackets, sweaters, and scarfs.

Sunscreen:

Although the weather is mostly dry and sunny, the high altitude of the city can make the sun quite strong.

Comfortable shoes:

You will probably walk a lot in Puno, especially if you plan to explore the islands, so make sure to bring comfortable and sturdy shoes.

6. Is Puno safe for tourists?

Overall, Puno is a safe city for tourists, but you should take some precautions to avoid any inconvenience.

Keep your belongings close:

Theft is not uncommon in Puno, especially in crowded areas. Keep your valuable items like cameras, wallets and cellphones safe and close to you.

Be careful at night:

The streets of Puno can be relatively empty at night, so avoid walking alone or in secluded areas.

Book Your Tour Now

Puno is undoubtedly one of the most exceptional destinations in Peru, and we hope that this FAQ has helped you address any concerns or questions you may have had about it. Remember to make the most out of your trip to this charming city, to enjoy its natural beauty, delicious food, and unique cultural experiences.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Puno

If you’re looking for a vacation spot in Peru that’s rich in culture and natural beauty, Puno is a great choice. With Lake Titicaca as its centerpiece, Puno has many outdoor activities available for tourists. In this article, we’ll explore what to do in Puno and how to make the most of your time here.

1. Visit Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the main attraction in Puno. Sitting on the border of Peru and Bolivia, it is the highest navigable lake in the world. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, going to the floating islands of Uros, Amantani, and Taquile. These islands are made of reeds that grow in the lake and are home to indigenous communities.

a. Uros Floating Islands

The Uros Floating Islands are a must-see attraction in Puno. These man-made floating islands are constructed by the Uros people, who live on the islands and rely on fishing and tourism. Visitors can take a boat tour to the islands and learn about the Uros culture and way of life.

b. Amantani Island

Amantani Island is another island in Lake Titicaca that visitors can explore. It’s known for its stunning views of the lake, traditional Incan agricultural terraces, and pre-Incan ruins. Visitors can stay overnight with a local family to experience their culture firsthand.

c. Taquile Island

Taquile Island is the largest island in Lake Titicaca, known for its textile production and weaving traditions. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island and explore the island, its textiles, and its pre-Incan ruins.

2. Explore the City of Puno

Aside from Lake Titicaca, Puno has many other attractions for travelers. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a walking tour.

a. Puno Cathedral

The Puno Cathedral is a stunning example of colonial architecture. Visitors can enter the cathedral and explore its ornate interior, which includes a silver altar and artwork depicting the life of Christ.

b. Mirador del Condor

Mirador del Condor is a hilltop viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can reach the viewpoint by hiking or taking a taxi.

c. Museo Carlos Dreyer

The Museo Carlos Dreyer is a small museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. Visitors can learn about the Incas, Spanish colonization, and the religious practices of the region.

3. Experience the Local Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and use of local ingredients. In Puno, there are many traditional dishes to try, such as:

a. Pachamanca

Pachamanca is a traditional Andean dish made of meat, potatoes, and vegetables that are cooked in an earthen pit oven. It’s a unique way to experience the flavors and cooking techniques of the region.

b. Chairo

Chairo is a hearty soup made with beef, potatoes, squash, and Andean herbs. It’s usually served with a side of bread and can be found in many restaurants in Puno.

c. Chupe de Camarones

Chupe de Camarones is a creamy shrimp soup that’s a popular dish in Puno. It’s made with fresh lake shrimp, milk, cheese, and potatoes.

4. Attend a Festival

Puno is known for its vibrant festivals that celebrate the region’s culture and traditions. Some of the most popular festivals include:

a. Fiesta de la Candelaria

Fiesta de la Candelaria is a two-week festival that takes place in early February. It’s one of the largest festivals in South America and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The festival features colorful costumes, music, and dancing.

b. Semana Santa

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a religious festival that takes place in March or April. The festival features processions, traditional music, and special dishes.

c. Virgen de la Asunción

Virgen de la Asunción is a festival that takes place in August and celebrates the Virgin Mary. The festival features a procession of the Virgin Mary statue, traditional dances, and music.

Book Your Tour Now

Puno is a unique and fascinating destination for travelers. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this region of Peru. Whether you’re exploring Lake Titicaca, exploring the city of Puno, or attending a festival, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip.