The charm of Lake Titicaca is intensely felt on islands like Taquile, where the history held in the memory of its people is expressed in marvelous textiles, true works of art recognized worldwide.
In their textiles, the inhabitants reflect their imagination and culture in complex designs that honor the richness of their ancestral legacy, which can also be explored by venturing along the various trails that lead to ancient Inca terraces and ceremonial centers.
The island has a port at its lower end, built from stones sourced from the island itself, where boats or rafts carrying passengers from Puno or other neighboring islands disembark. From there, a climb of more than 567 steps leads to the village of Taquile. At the top, a spectacular view of the lake and a simple stone gateway await the traveler, welcoming them to one of the most unique communities in Peru. From here you can see almost the entire island and a large part of the lake; it's the best view on the entire lake route.
General Information:
Schedule:
Depends on the Operator
Altitude:
3,927 m (12,000 ft) above sea level
Climate:
Min. 3°C / Max. 14°C (57°F)
Price:
Depends on the Operator
Essential Items:
Sunscreen, flashlight, hat, comfortable warm clothing, camera, cash.
Location
It is located on Lake Titicaca, in the district of Amantaní, and is 45 km (28 miles) from the regional capital.
What to do in Taquile?
The most impressive sight on this island is nature itself, which has been generous in bestowing upon it a diverse array of wild vegetation. This has been further enriched by eucalyptus and cypress trees introduced by humans in the 1950s. These species have adapted to the region's climate. In the waters surrounding Taquile, totora reeds grow, and on the slopes, the grass known as ichu thrives, serving both as fodder for sheep and as thatch for the roofs of houses.
Taking a ride in a small totora reed boat around the island is truly breathtaking.
