Understand

Welcome to the legendary Lake Titicaca, the birthplace of the Inca Empire, where mythical tales and breathtaking scenery unite. According to Inca folklore, the bearded god Viracocha emerged from the tranquil waters of this majestic lake and created the sun, bestowing light upon the world. It is here, on the mysterious islands of Lake Titicaca, that the fascinating story of the Inca unfolds. Legend has it that the son and daughter of the sun god were sent with a golden staff, which led them to discover the magical city of Cusco nestled among the majestic mountains. This tale, steeped in myths and legends, captures the imagination and invites you to explore the ancient wonders that still persist in this region. But beyond the legends, Lake Titicaca offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Leave behind the noise and motorized traffic as you step foot on these tranquil islands, where nature's tranquility reigns supreme. A visit to Lake Titicaca is a must for both backpackers and locals alike, with hundreds of people venturing to this sacred place every day. Immerse yourself in the Andean culture, observe the unique lifestyle of the islanders, and take a moment to ponder life's profound mysteries in this exceptional destination. Embark on the north-south path of discovery and let the splendor of Lake Titicaca ignite your imagination, leaving lasting memories that will stay with you long after you've departed its serene shores.

Get in

If you want to experience the wonders of Isla del Sol, the only way to get there is by boat. Luckily, there are numerous tour companies that offer full and half-day excursions from Copacabana. You can conveniently book your tickets at the agencies or simply go down to the waterfront around 8:00 or 1:00.
Embarking on a standard tour of Isla del Sol typically begins around 8:00-8:30 am when you hop on a boat that will take you to the north end of the island. You have multiple options to obtain a ticket—either purchase one from the street shops or from the individuals selling them along the waterfront. The cost of a one-way ticket is 25 Bolivianos, while a round-trip ticket is 30 Bolivianos (as of May 2017).
The boat ride itself can take up to two hours depending on the weather conditions. If you tend to get motion sickness, sitting on the top level of the boat will help provide more fresh air. Once you reach the north end of the island, you can choose to spend a few hours exploring the sites there before catching a boat to the south end at 1:30 pm. Alternatively, you can opt for the adventurous 3-hour hike from the north to the south end of the island.
It's important to note that Copacabana's high altitude makes hiking more challenging, so if you're not an avid hiker, it's recommended to stick with taking the boat. Leave your backpack at the hotel to lighten your load and fully enjoy the experience. The boat arrives at the south end of the island around 2:30 pm, giving you approximately an hour to savor a delicious lunch (try the fresh trout!), stroll around, and perhaps purchase some souvenirs.
The boat departs from the south end of the island at 3:30 pm and 4:00 pm, arriving back in Copacabana around 5:00-5:30 pm. However, if you decide to embark on the scenic hike from the north to the south end, ensure you manage your time wisely to fully explore the sites and avoid running out of time to explore the south end.
Please keep in mind that there are multiple entrance fees required to visit/hike different parts of the island. It costs 15 Bolivianos to see the north end, an additional 15 Bolivianos to hike from the north to the south end, and 10 Bolivianos to enter the south end.
For those looking to extend their adventure, consider spending a night in Challapampa. The following morning, you can walk to Yumani and return to Copacabana from there on another boat.
If you're departing from Yampupata, the local boatmen can take you across to Isla del Sol for 20 Bolivianos per person in a rowboat or negotiate a price of 150-200 Bolivianos for a group of up to 7-8 people in a motorboat. You may also have the opportunity to negotiate a stop at Isla de la Luna.
While exploring Isla del Sol, be aware that some of the locals may try to hike up prices or become rude if you don't make a purchase. Don't let this dampen your experience; focus on the beauty of the island and soak in the incredible views.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Salteña - Salteñas are Bolivia's most famous sandwich. They consist of a crusty roll filled with a mixture of beef, chicken, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and hot peppers, all drenched in a tangy, spicy sauce made from vinegar, chili peppers, garlic and cumin. The dish originates from the Yungas region but can be found throughout the country.

Ají de Gallina - Aji de gallina is a traditional Bolivian stew made with hen or rooster cooked in a spicy aji pepper sauce, which is a mix of yellow chilies and ají amarillo, both native to South America. The bird is marinated in the sauce before cooking and then served with rice, often accompanied by a side dish of potatoes.

Chuño – Chuño is dried white potato, a staple food in Bolivia. These potatoes are peeled, sliced, and placed in the sun to dry until they become hard and wrinkled. They can be eaten raw or toasted, often as an accompaniment to soups, stews, or other dishes. Chuño is high in carbohydrates and can be stored for long periods, making it an important food source in the Andean regions.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing