Perched at a breathtaking 3,800 meters (12,400 ft.) above sea level, Puno and the surrounding countryside are the cradle of the Aymara civilization and the legendary birthplace of the founders of the Inca empire. Puno lies on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, from whose waters the Inca believed Manco Capac, their cultural founder, emerged. Many ethnic groups like the Uros still depend on the resources of the lake for their living. The Uros themselves dwell on the floating islands they build with the lake’s reed vegetation. Near Puno, overlooking Lake Umayo, are chullpas, or burial towers, that once served as the tombs of high-ranking Aymara Lords.

Three and a half hours from Puno by boat lies the Island of Taquile, where life has remained unchanged from centuries and weavers still craft traditional textiles. North of Taquile is the Island of Amantani, famed for its woven straw baskets. An overnight stay on one of this islands is an unforgettable experience and highly recommended. Surrounding the lake, dozens of colonial settlements and their ornate churches bear witness to the lake’s importance during colonial times. Puno is famed as the folklore capital of Peru. Be sure to take in at least one of the innumerable folk festivals that punctuate Puno’s festival calendar. The Virgen de la Candelaria, held in February, its a three-day spectacle rich in traditional folklore.

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Three and a half hours by boat from Puno, this remote island is a remarkable community where Quechua, the language of the Incas, is kept alive by the islanders. The outstanding highlight of its inhabitants is their handicraft derived from techniques developed over centuries. Box lunch included.
* Daily.
* Optional overnight with full board

A three and a half hour boat ride on Lake Titicaca takes us to Amantani Island, 3,812 meters (12,500 ft.) above sea level and home to impressive archeological sites. Passenger can meet the Yatiri indians, the `Shamans´ of Lake Titicaca who read the future in coca leaves. Box lunch included.
* Daily.

Combine a land and boat excursion to visit and enigmatic lake spot and enjoy the Inca remains and spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Lunch in Copacabana and proceed back to Puno via important religious sites around the lake.
* Daily.
* SIB available with tour restrictions.

Drive to Copacabana, visiting the remote towns of Juli and Pomata on the way. Then, board the hydrofoil for departure towards the Sun Island where, according to legend, the first Inca appeared. After exploring the island’s Inca remains and majestic views of Lake Titicaca and surrounding andean mountains, continue on the Huatajata for a brief stop before the final drive to La Paz and your hotel. (L)
* Daily except Mondays - Minimum 2 passengers.
* On Mondays minimum 8 passengers.

Early land transfer to Copacabana Santuary, board the Catamaran Cruise Ship, lunch while sailing to Sun Island, the legendary birth place of the Inca Empire. Visit the Inca Garden, steps and fountain then the Inti Wata Cultural Complex including the Ekako Underground Museum, the traditional medicine and the Titikaka Reed Shipbuilders display centers, the Pachamama agricultural Inca terraces, a handicraft center, the Intica lounge and at the Manco Capac Look out the largest variety of Andean cameloids.
Also, the Inti Wata Complex at Sun Island includes a unique sailing experience aboard a huge Titikaka traditional vessel visiting the Pikokaina Inca Palace. Catamaran Cruise Ship to Chua harvor, land transfer to la Paz city.

Early morning drive South along the western shore of Lake Titicaca, passing the picturesque towns of Chucuito and Juli. The drives continues until Desaguadero, a village in the Bolivian border where you will check on immigration. You still stop to visit the millenary Tiahuanaco ruins, the main archeological center of Bolivia, before going through a pass with a fabulous view of the Highlands and the Royal Andes Range. Box lunch included.
* Daily.

Early morning departure through the towns of Pomata and Juli before arriving in Copacabana. Brief visit of the church and chapel of The Dark Virgin of the Lake. After lunch, overland again on a narrow road to the straight of Tiquina to begin the cruise to Suriqui Island for a most exciting view of Lake Titicaca, the island and the andean mountain range. Arrival in Puerto Perez for final drive to La Paz. (L)* Daily minimum 2 passengers.