Lake Titicaca: How To Best Enjoy Peru's Majestic Lake

Nestled in the extreme south of Peru, Lake Titicaca is one of the country’s most rewarding regions for tourists looking for authentic culture and beautiful natural scenery.

It’s the highest altitude navigable lake on the planet - with an average altitude of 3,812m (12,507ft) - set high up within the Andes with postcard-perfect lake and mountain vistas. However that’s not all that Lake Titicaca has going for it, where we can also visit thousand-year-old ancient ruins, experience unique sites like the floating Uros Islands, and also meet several indigenous cultures.

In this guide, we’ll explore Lake Titicaca, and why it’s one of the very best destinations to add to your own vacation around Peru. As well as showing how luxury travellers can truly relax and enjoy the lake in style, we’ll also answer your most frequent questions in our FAQ section.

Why Lake Titicaca Should Be Included On Your Peru Itinerary

Walk On The Floating Uros Islands

Perhaps the biggest highlight along the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, the Uros Islands are entirely made out of the local reed plant which grows naturally along the lake's edges. These islands date back over 3000 years - where ancient civilisations used to push them out deep into the lake to escape any incoming attacks or threats. Today, descendants of these cultures like the Uru-Chipaya and Uru-Iruito still live on these islands, where we can enter and learn how local communities live in these tiny settlements.

See The Ancient Burial Tombs Of Sillustani 

As a whole, Peru is known for its diverse range of incredible ancient ruins. However the Sillustani burial towers, which are located near Puno, easily ranks as one of the more unorthodox and fascinating sites. Known as chullpas, these giant towers were built by the ancient Colla civilization - who predated the Inca by some 300-500 years - which were used to bury the most elite members of their society. Overlooking a scenic lake, tourists can enjoy the high altitude landscapes while learning about pre-Inca cultures and unique burial traditions which would later go on to influence mainstream Inca architecture.

Experience Both An Authentic And Beautiful Andean Region 

Lake Titicaca offers travellers quite a unique experience, which is perfect for those who want to see the real Peru. Terraced hills and farmlands surround the lake’s edges, which together with the clear-blue waters creates some truly spectacular views. Local farmers and herds of Alpacas and Llamas are often spotted around some of the large islands like Amantaní, and even the contrast of the hot daytime sun along with brisk coolness in the shade makes you feel like you’re exploring a truly wild Peruvian destination.

Visit The Stunning Amantaní Island

One of the most picturesque islands in all of Lake Titicaca, Amantaní is renowned for its sweeping views, charming stone paths and rolling agricultural terraces. Here we will meet indigenous communities and local farmers, with the island’s slower pace of life allowing tourists to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Amantaní is also one of the best places to have an authentic community-based experience - where local families allow visitors to enter their homes, try traditional meals and learn about daily life on the island.

How To Explore Lake Titicaca As A Luxury Tourist

The lakeside city of Puno serves as the main gateway into Lake Titicaca, and as such is the best area to stay in to explore the surrounding region. Luxury tourists in particular have various options for a more comfortable stay, such as the Casa Andina Premium Puno, as well as the GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca which is located on a private island and has stunning lakefront vistas from room balconies.

For the most seamless and luxurious visit to Lake Titicaca, it’s highly recommended to organise your trip with a provider who can handle all of the logistics and finer details. For example, when booking your Peru vacation with us here at The Luxury Peru Travel Company, we use only the most reputable tour experts to show you around islands like the Uros and Amantaní. We also provide private transportation from Juliaca Airport to your hotel - or can include the luxury train journey from Cusco to Puno depending on your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Lake Titicaca 

Below we’ll now answer some of the frequent questions we get about Lake Titicaca, as well as anything else important that you need to know.

What Is So Special About Lake Titicaca?

Situated up at 3,812m (12,507ft), Lake Titicaca is officially the highest altitude lake on the planet, and is also known for its deep history and sacred status. Many ancient ruins like Sillustani and those on Isla del Sol can be found around the lake - while ethnic groups like the Uru-Chipaya live permanently on the floating Uros Islands which are constructed entirely out of reed plants.

Can You Swim In Lake Titicaca?

While there’s no strict regulations set in place against swimming in Lake Titicaca, it’s important to know that the average water temperatures here are between a chilly 10-14°C (50-59°F) - and as such is not ideal for those who are after a relaxing swim. If you do like cold swims then it’s entirely possible, however you’ll want to ask for local guidance on the safest spots to swim in Lake Titicaca. 

Is Lake Titicaca Fresh Or Salt Water?

Lake Titicaca is a freshwater lake - fed by giant glaciers and rainfall - and is the largest of its kind on the South American continent. It’s worth knowing that the lake is slightly brackish and does indeed have a low salinity level (roughly 1000 ppm) - however it’s hardly noticeable and doesn’t make swimming unsafe for those who are ready to brave the cooler temperatures.

Overview Of Visiting Lake Titicaca In Peru

And that’s all for this guide on why luxury tourists should visit Lake Titicaca on their journey around Peru.

The highest altitude navigable lake on our planet, Lake Titicaca dazzles travellers with its breathtaking landscapes, floating islands and ancient ruins. However this destination is also ideal for those who want a more refined and comfortable experience, where we can stay in a luxury hotel right by the lakeside, and also have private expert tours around sites like the Uros Islands and Sillustani Ruins.

Are you ready to explore Lake Titicaca and the rest of Peru? Here at The Luxury Peru Travel Company, we will fully tailor your vacation exactly how you want it to be. Get in touch with our travel experts now, and start planning your dream Peru trip with us.