Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world (at almost 4000 m) and it straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia. It is here that the Quechua traditions meet those of the Aymara and it was from the islands on the lake that the Incas originated. Travelling to the lake's islands is a fascinating experience.
On the Peruvian side of the lake, the main islands to visit are the floating reed islands of Uros, and the islands of Suasi, Amantani and Taquile. Suasi Island is located close to the Lake's remote northern shore and is a private island with a comfortable, exclusive hotel. Visiting the latter two islands is a highlight for many travellers as the way of life on the islands is still very traditional, and there is the opportunity to stay with families overnight.
Uros Islands
The islands have been inhabited for many years by the Uros Indians who constantly lay down tortora reeds to keep the islands built up. They also use the reeds for building homes and their boats. One of the 40 or so tortora reed islands is kept as a kind of living museum to this traditional way of life of the Uros Indians.
Suasi Island
Suasi Island is a private 106 acre island near the remote northern shore of Lake Titicaca. Martha Giraldo, the owner, originally managed a small eco-lodge on the island. However, this has now been franchised to the Casa Andina Hotel chain forming part of their Private Collection, whilst Martha continues to manage the rest of the island.
Amantani Island
This terraced island is home to farmers, fishers, and weavers. It is a beautiful but barren place, with a handful of villages composed of about 800 families and ruins. There are some excellent opportunities for hikes, with good views of the lake and the sparsely populated island landscape.
Taquile Island
This is a far more prosperous island than Amantani with a thriving tradition of weaving and knitting. All the men knit hats. You can buy some of the famed Taquile textiles at the cooperative warehouse in the centre of town. The island has limited electricity and a few small restaurants. The people of Taquile speak Quechua as opposed to the Aymara which the Amanatani islanders speak.
