Puno – Full Day Kayaking on Lake Titicaca and Visit to the Uros Island from Puno

Have you ever kayaked? Perfect! Now imagine doing it at 3,827 meters (12,556 feet) above sea level on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. On this journey through the water, you’ll observe the biodiversity of the national reserve, especially local birds, as well as fauna such as the popular totora reeds and other marine algae of great importance to the reserve’s conservation. The final paddle will take us to the Uros Islands, one of the most popular communities inhabiting this destination. Here, you’ll learn about the ancestral techniques used to build these reed platforms and experience their unique way of life firsthand.

What will you know on this Full Day?

1. Lake Titicaca National Reserve.
2. Esteves Island.
3. Uros Islands.
4. Uros Island Local Pier.

Our full-day tour will begin with passenger pick-up from the comfort of their accommodations near the Main Square of Puno, followed by a transfer to the lake shore. There, you will receive all the necessary safety equipment, such as life jackets and paddles, to begin your kayaking adventure. Paddling, you will enter the Lake Titicaca National Reserve, where you will observe the local flora and fauna as you skirt around Esteves Island, appreciating how native birds take refuge among the totora reeds that surround the island before venturing into the vastness of the open lake.

The guided kayak tour will take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. During this time, you may encounter local fishermen, boats collecting fresh totora reeds, and various other vessels also approaching the islands with more visitors. This tour will culminate upon arrival at the commercial area, where you will enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients (not included, approximate cost from S/20 soles). After lunch, we will board a boat to head towards the native communities of the Uros. Upon arrival, a host family will give you a warm welcome, introducing you to the Aymara descendants. They will then explain the amazing process of constructing the totora reeds that form their floating homes. To conclude the visit, they will tell you more about their daily routine and the activities they carry out to generate income on their island (such as handicrafts, weaving, and others).

Additionally, you can enjoy a ride on a traditional raft (optional, approximate cost S/20 soles). A few minutes later, we will depart by speedboat, sailing back across the bay to conclude the experience in the city of Puno, arriving at approximately 16:00.