The short answer
- How long
- 2 nights in Puno, or 1 in Puno and 1 on Amantani
- Altitude
- 3,810 m: visit after Cusco
- From Cusco
- Bus 7 to 10 hrs, or the PeruRail Titicaca train
- Nearest airport
- Juliaca, 45 minutes from Puno
Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America by volume and, at 3,810 m, one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. The Peruvian side is reached from Puno, a busy town that is the base for boat trips to the islands.
Most visitors combine it with Cusco, either as an add on at the end of a trip or on the way to Bolivia. It is high and cold, so plan it after a few days in Cusco, not before.
The islands
| Island | What it is like | Time needed |
|---|---|---|
| Uros floating islands | Dozens of islands built from totora reeds, a short boat ride from Puno. Touristy, but genuinely unusual | 2 to 3 hours |
| Taquile | A hilly island known for textiles made by its men and women, recognised by UNESCO. Lunch with lake views | Full day with Uros |
| Amantani | A larger farming island with no cars and two hilltop temples. Visitors stay overnight with families | 1 night homestay |
| Sillustani (mainland) | Pre Inca burial towers beside Lake Umayo, 45 minutes from Puno | Half day |
Tip: Amantani homestays are simple: shared bathrooms, no heating and freezing nights from May to August. Bring warm layers and a small gift such as fruit or school supplies for your host family.
Getting there from Cusco
The road from Cusco to Puno climbs over the La Raya pass at about 4,335 m. Tourist buses take about 10 hours with stops at the churches and ruins on the way, which turns the journey into a sightseeing day. Direct buses take 7 hours. The PeruRail Titicaca train is a luxury option that runs a few days a week. You can also fly from Lima to Juliaca.
Continuing to Bolivia
From Puno, buses run to the border and Copacabana on the Bolivian shore in about 3 hours, for boats to the Isla del Sol and onward buses to La Paz. Check Bolivia's entry rules for your nationality before you go.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Titicaca worth visiting?
Yes, if you have 10 days or more in Peru. The islands and the homestay on Amantani are some of the most memorable experiences in the country. On a one week trip, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley are a better use of time.
How many days do you need at Lake Titicaca?
Two nights is ideal: one day for Uros and Taquile, and either a second day at Sillustani or a night on Amantani.
Is the Peruvian or Bolivian side better?
Peru has the Uros, Taquile and Amantani; Bolivia has Copacabana and the Isla del Sol. If you are travelling on to La Paz, see both.
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