SHARED
SERVICE
Duration:
Full day
Distance:
0
Difficulty:
Moderate
Ideal:
young people
Uros and Taquile Islands 1 day Tour
Experience the best of Lake Titicaca with our Uros and Taquile Islands Tour from Puno. This full-day boat tour showcases the lake’s beauty and cultural richness, perfect for adventurers, authentic travelers, and those seeking a community experience. It begins with a visit to the Floating Islands of the Uros, astonishing islands built entirely of reeds by the natives, who maintain ancestral customs and will show you how they live sustainably on the waters of the world’s highest navigable lake. Then continue to Taquile Island, known for its views and its textile art, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There you can explore its trails, interact with its residents, and enjoy a traditional lunch overlooking Lake Titicaca.
The 1-Day Uros and Taquile Islands Tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience. Discover the heart of the Peruvian highlands. Get in touch with living cultures that preserve their ancestral customs.
Uros and Taquile Islands Tour
Itinerary to Uros and Taquile 1 Day:
Your adventure begins early with a direct pickup service from your hotel located in the heart of Puno at 7:15 AM. After transferring to the port of Puno, our adventure will officially start from the main port at 7:30 AM. The gentle morning breeze and the first views of the vast lake will welcome you to this unique experience. Around 8:00 AM, we'll arrive at the fascinating Uros Floating Islands. For approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, you'll have the opportunity to explore two of these unique islands in depth.
Here, members of the Uro community will demonstrate how they build and maintain their homes and lifestyle on totora reed platforms. You'll gain knowledge about their ancient customs, their ingenious use of totora for everything from homes to boats, and you can even take an optional ride on a totora reed raft, if you prefer. After our enriching visit to Uros, at 9:15 AM, our boat will depart for the charming Island of Taquile. Cruising through the blue waters of Titicaca is an experience in itself.
Around 10:30 AM, we'll arrive at the port of Taquile. From there, a pleasant walk of about 25 minutes along a winding path will lead us to the island's summit and the heart of the community. This peaceful walk offers breathtaking views of the lake and the island's agricultural terraces. Your specialized guide will provide a comprehensive explanation of Taquile's rich culture and history. You'll learn about the traditions of its people.
At 12:30 PM, you'll enjoy an exquisite typical meal at a local restaurant, giving you the chance to savor the local cuisine while delighting in unparalleled panoramic views of the lake. After lunch, at approximately 1:30 PM, you'll have free time to optionally stroll around the island and/or visit Taquile's Plaza de Armas. Interact with local artisans or simply appreciate the serenity of the environment.
Finally, at 2:30 PM, we'll begin our return boat trip to the city of Puno, arriving at Puno's port around 4:00 PM, where a vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
Included / Not Included
Uros and Taquile Islands 1 day tour includes:
- Transfer from your hotel (Puno center) to the port (and vice versa).
- Entrance fees to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island.
- Boat / Fast launch (comfortable seats).
- Life jackets.
- First aid kit.
- Official Spanish/English guide.
- Lunch at a typical restaurant on Taquile Island.
Uros and Taquile Islands 1 day tour does not include:
- Tips.
- Local boat ride (Totora Reed Raft) in Uros, an optional service lasting approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The cost is S/10.00 soles (or $3.00 USD) per person, payable directly to the local inhabitant.
- Other items not mentioned.
What to bring
Uros and Taquile Islands 1 day Tour
Layered Clothing: The weather on Lake Titicaca is variable. Mornings are cold, it can be sunny and warm at midday, and afternoons are windy and cool.
Windbreaker or Waterproof Jacket: Essential to protect against wind and potential rain.
Comfortable Pants: Trekking pants or any comfortable trousers that allow for easy movement.
Footwear: Hiking shoes or comfortable, closed-toe footwear are crucial for walking on the islands and ascending in Taquile. Ensure they have good traction.
Hat or Wide-brimmed Hat: Essential for protecting your head and face. At this altitude, solar radiation is extremely intense.
Sunglasses: With UV filter to protect your eyes from intense glare and water reflection.
Sunscreen: Apply generously and reapply throughout the day, even on cloudy days.
Scarf or Bandana: To protect your neck against the wind.
Gloves: Especially beneficial on cold mornings and on the boat.
Identification Document: Your original passport is essential.
Personal Medications: If you take any medication, make sure to bring a sufficient quantity.
Altitude Sickness Medication (Soroche Pills): It's highly advisable to take altitude sickness pills, particularly if you haven't been able to acclimatize in Puno. Consuming coca tea is also beneficial.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, chocolate, or any snack that provides energy during the tour.
Basic First-Aid Kit: Including bandages, pain relievers, antiseptics, etc.
Insect Repellent: Although it's not an area with many mosquitoes, it's always beneficial to have it.
Camera: With alternative batteries or a portable charger to capture the impressive landscapes.
Cash (Peruvian Soles): Very important! On the islands, particularly Uros and Taquile, credit cards are not accepted. You'll need cash to buy handicrafts, give tips, or pay for the optional totora reed raft ride in Uros (usually S/ 10.00 soles).
Small Backpack or Daypack: To comfortably carry all your personal items.
Travel Information
How many days do I need to acclimatize before the hike?
It's very important to be well-acclimatized to the altitude before exerting yourself on a tour of the islands in Puno. We recommend you arrive in Puno at least 2 days before your hike begins to help you acclimatize and avoid potential problems with altitude sickness during the tour. If you've already been to another high-altitude area in Peru before arriving in Puno, we still suggest having a full day in Puno to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the experience.
Pickup
Pickup is done early in the morning; tours may start slightly earlier or later. It's important that you are ready in your hotel lobby at the time indicated by the guide or operations staff. Pickup is round-trip from your hotel, with return transfer back to the hotel at the end of the excursion. In some cases, if your hotel is located outside the city center, an additional cost may apply for the pickup service.
Altitude
Puno, located at approximately 12,507 feet (3,812 meters) above sea level, is one of Peru's highest cities. At this altitude, atmospheric pressure decreases, meaning each breath carries less available oxygen.
Climate
In Puno and Lake Titicaca, the climate is cold and dry for most of the year, with seasonal fluctuations. The dry season, from April to October, is the perfect time to visit Puno. It's characterized by sunny days and clear skies, with little to no precipitation, ensuring excellent visibility for enjoying the landscapes. Daytime Temperatures: Pleasant, ranging between 13°C and 17°C (55°F and 63°F). Nighttime Temperatures: Very cold; they can drop drastically from -5°C to 2°C (23°F to 36°F). It's essential to wear thermal clothing during mornings and nights. The rainy season, from November to March, is characterized by frequent rains, often appearing as downpours, especially in the afternoons. Daytime Temperatures: Vary between 12°C and 15°C (54°F and 59°F). This is warmer than the dry season's night temperatures of under 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F).
Protests and Strikes
We'll do our best to maintain your original itinerary, even if it means departing a night earlier. In some cases, trips might be canceled. Please be aware that protests and strikes are common in Peru and can affect travel plans, potentially blocking roads. However, our operations team will communicate with you throughout. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.
Lost Items
Please take special care of your belongings and make sure you collect everything when leaving our vehicles, hotels, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the tour.
Tour Price
Shared Tour Service
This group service means you'll do the tour with other people. This standard service operates with a group of 12 to 16 people. We have confirmed departures every day, so if you're traveling alone or with just one other person, don't worry; you can join one of our existing groups.
Starting from: $47 USD.
Private Tour Service
This service offers an exclusive way to experience the trip, where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary based on the number of people in your group. Please inquire at info@ausangateadventure.com or WhatsApp +51 914201334.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Uros and Taquile Islands tour include?
It usually includes boat transportation from Puno, a bilingual guide (Spanish/English), island entrance tickets, a tour of the Uros floating islands, a walk around Taquile, and a typical meal in Taquile.
How long does the full tour last?
The tour lasts all day, starting around 7:00 a.m. and ending at approximately 5:00 p.m.
What type of boats are used for the tour?
Comfortable, motorized tourist boats are used, with a capacity for 20 to 40 people, depending on their use.
Can we ride a traditional totora reed boat?
In Uros, an optional (paid) ride on a handmade totora reed raft, crafted by the residents, is offered.
When is the best time to visit Uros and Taquile?
The dry season, from April to October, offers clear skies and more stable weather. From November to March is the rainy season.
Is it cold on the lake? What clothes should I bring?
Yes, it's cold in the mornings and evenings. Bring warm layered clothing, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes.
What kind of food is offered in Taquile?
A traditional meal includes quinoa soup, fried trout, or an egg omelet, accompanied by potatoes and muña or coca tea.
Is the Taquile tour physically demanding?
Moderately. There's a walk along steep paths (20-30 minutes of hiking). It's not recommended for people with respiratory or heart conditions.
Do the island inhabitants speak Spanish?
While their native languages are Quechua (Taquile) and Aymara (Uros), most of them also speak Spanish.
Is it allowed to take photos?
Yes, but it's advisable to ask residents for permission, particularly in Uros. Some individuals might request a small fee if photographed.
Prices
SHARED SERVICE
$$47USD USD per person
- Daily departures subject to availability.
- Reference price for this service.
- Final availability is confirmed by our travel team.
Private Service
On request
- Flexible schedule.
- Recommended for families or private groups.
- Custom pace and private logistics.
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