Plan exploreInca Trail to Machu Picchu
Everything you need to know about puno’s floating islands
everything you need to know about puno’s floating islandsPuno’s floating islands are a draw for many travelers to Peru. Numbering at around 62 floating reed islands, this man-made archipelago in Lake Titicaca is brimming with thousand-year-old history and a fascinating culture. The strange experience of stepping off the boat and onto one of these inhabited reed-cushioned islands is one that will stick with you long past the moment your holiday in Peru comes to an end. Trust us on that one. How did Puno’s floating islands come to be and what’s it like to visit them on your adventure tour? Read on.
History of Puno’s Floating Islands
Like many of the attractions you’ll come to visit on a Peru holiday, the artificial Uros floating islands are the result of the Incas. Unlike those attractions however, the floating islands were not built by the Incas. When the Incas rose to power, the pre-existing Uros culture had been living on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The eventual threat of being conquered by the Incas drove the Uros to look to the lake for refuge. They hoped that a mobile floating city would be just the thing to evade their enemies. Unfortunately, it didn’t. The Incas came and conquered the Uros, putting them to work as slaves in their empire.
How the Uros Islands are Made
Puno’s floating islands are made of layered totora reeds, a buoyant material that’s abundant on Lake Titicaca. The Uros weave the reed’s roots together, then anchor them to the lake bed below using sharp sticks and rope. Over time, the base of the roots eventually rot away and disintegrate altogether, meaning the islands require constant upkeep to live out their projected 30-year life span. On the most visited islands, the reeds must be swapped out every three months or so, as walking on the islands tends to speed up their decay.
Touring the Floating Islands of the Uros
Located just three miles (5 km) from Puno’s shore, the floating islands of the Uros are easy to get to by boat. Most tours depart in the morning for a full- or half-day visit to one or a few of the floating islands. Upon arrival, the island’s inhabitants will greet you, give you a tour of their humble home, and show you exactly how they built and maintain their floating islands. They’ll also introduce you to some of their handicrafts, age-old customs, and lifestyle, giving you a glimpse into their still thriving 3,000-year-old culture.
What Else?
Follow up your visit to the Uros Floating Islands with a visit and/or homestay on the nearby Taquile Island. Taquileños are renowned for their intricate hand-woven textiles and their community-focused style of governance that still operates by the Inca’s moral code. Book your tour of Puno’s Floating Uros Islands with Explorandes, one of the leading adventure travel tour operators in Peru. Contact us today to begin planning your dream Peru holiday.
Pacha Tata Temple, Amantani, Peru
Plan exploreDestino Cusco
this season featured experiences
HIKING&TREKKING
huayhuash trekThe Huayhuash Trek is an amazing journey to the very heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash, the second highest tropical mountain range in the world. A trekker's paradise, this terrain is remote, wild, and stunningly beautiful. The film Touching the Void, the tale of climbers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, was made about their harrowing experience as the first mountaineers to scale Siula Grande, which is part of this mountain range. This version of the Huayhuash trek crosses six high passes over 4500 m (14,763 ft) and two that are higher than 5000 m (16,404 ft)! Throughout the 12 days of the trek, we camp next to stunningly beautiful alpine lakes and in broad, grassy valleys replete with wildflowers and rushing alpine creeks, while basking in the imposing presence of the White Mountains looming over us, with peaks at elevations above 5000 m (16,404 ft) and 6000 m (19,685 ft). At least three days of acclimatization hikes in the area are strongly recommended to be able to enjoy the trek.
April - October
12 days / 11 nights
From
$ 1750
/ Per PersonHIKING&TREKKING
ancascocha trek & the short inca trailNational Geographic Magazine has rated this Inca Trail alternative trek as one of the top hikes in the world! This Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail is truly the road less traveled by, for those who crave time away from crowds, amidst the beauty of nature. The journey begins at the Parpishu Footbridge and ascends amidst the dramatic backdrop of Mts. Salkantay and Verónica. Crossing through rugged terrain, remote mountain communities, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems for around 37 km (23 mi), the trek culminates at the village of Camicancha, near Km 77 on the railroad tracks to Machu Picchu. On day 4, we will board the train to Km 104 to walk along the pathway that covers the final stretch of the Inca Trail, where you will have a taste of the famous longer Inca Trail hike, and the thrill of entering Machu Picchu through Inti Punku, the Gate of the Sun. On our last day of the Ancascocha Trek & the Short Inca Trail, we will spend time exploring Machu Picchu, one of the ancient wonders of the world.
March - December
5 days / 4 nights
From
$ 1290
/ Per PersonHIKING&TREKKING
running the inca trails - choquequirao to machu picchuOn this run, we will traverse an incredible Inca highway consisting of over 125 km (77.7 mi) of ancient roads. The activities include trail running, enjoying the tranquility of nature, and exploring two amazing and enigmatic archaeological sites. We will cross through highly varied terrain of diverse ecosystems: from majestic rivers at 1500 masl (4921 fasl) to high mountain passes at 4650 masl (15,256 fasl); from tropical rainforests to imposing glaciers; from the territory of the endangered spectacled bear to the skyways of majestic condors in flight; all combining to make this a unique and memorable experience. The route begins in the town of Capuliyoc and passes through the famous archaeological complex of Choquequirao. We’ll visit small villages along the route, running lightly over intact Inca paths winding through the mountains, and ending at the mystical ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
April - November
8 days / 7 nights
From
$ 2310
/ Per PersonCULTURALCLASSICS
journey to the heart of titicacaEmbark on a unique journey through one of the most mystical and culturally rich regions of the Andes. Our 4-day/3-night program takes you on a deep dive into the heart of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and spiritual significance.
This immersive experience blends adventure with cultural exploration, guiding you through the iconic Uros Floating Islands, the historical Isla Taquile, and the serene community of Luquina Chico. Along the way, you’ll engage in traditional activities, connect with local communities, and hike ancient Inca paths that lead you through the stunning altiplano.
Whether you’re hiking the sacred trails of the Inca, meditating on the shores of the lake, or sharing stories by the fireside, this program offers an unparalleled chance to experience the timeless spirit of the Andean world.
April - October
4 days / 3 nights
From
$ 810
/ Per Person