Bolivia
Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca, Bolivia

Isla del Sol, Lake Titicaca

Legend has it that this is the birthplace of the sun and the very first Incas.

Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca, Bolivia

© RCichawa,Shutterstock

Discovering Isla del Sol

Many visitors to Lake Titicaca make a worthwhile visit to Isla del Sol.  Legend has it that Isla del Sol is the birthplace of the sun and the very first Incas, Mano Capac and Mama Ocllo, who went on to found the beginnings of the Incan Empire. It’s a large island with amazing views, interesting hikes, ruins and culture – explore it at a gentle pace, and soak up the energy of the island.

The island’s permanent residents consist of a mix of indigenous peoples, most of these live Cha’llapampa in the north and Yumani, the biggest town, in the south.

It’s possible to visit the island on a day trip, but those wanting a more in-depth experience can opt for an overnight. Don’t expect luxury accommodation, it will be rustic but perfectly adequate and comfortable. Most of the island’s guest houses and eateries are found in Yumani.

  • Travel by boat across Lake Titicaca
  • Enjoy the coastal vistas as you walk
  • Meet the local villagers
  • Explore ruins dotted around the island
  • Hike the length of the island
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Hikes and Inca ruins

Isla del Sol, Lake Titicaca, Bolivia © Shutterstock

Comfortable shoes are a must!

There are no motorised vehicles on Isla del Sol, so be sure to pack your walking boots or comfortable trainers. Two main paths link the north and south of the islands. Willa Thaki, also known as the Sacred Route of the Eternal sun, runs along the backbone of the island from Yumani to the Incan Chincana ruins (see image of ceremonial stone table). From this vantage point you'll get superb coastal views on both sides. The other trail runs along the east coast passing through Cha'llapampa and many other small settlements.

Sacrificial altar at the Incan Chincana ruins on the Isla del Sol, Lake Titicaca, Bolivia © JWagstaff,Shutterstock
Sacrificial altar at the Incan Chincana ruins on the Isla del Sol, Lake Titicaca, Bolivia
© JWagstaff,Shutterstock

The hiking is not difficult though there are rocks and hills involved. You’re looking at around 3-4 hours from north to south, depending on stops you might make along the way as you come across areas you might like to explore in-depth. Take your time, stop and enjoy the panoramic views of the lake with Cordillera Real’s snow-capped peaks in the distance. Isla del Sol is around 3,500 metres above sea level so altitude may play a part in the speed at which you complete the hike.

How to do it

To get to Isla del Sol, you must cross the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca, several tour companies offer the boat transfers and it takes about an hour and a half to cross to Yumani, continue for another thirty minutes and you’ll reach Cha’llapampa in the north.