Titicaca, on the borders with Bolivia, right in the heart of the Andean altiplano, is the highest navigable lake in the world. It is surrounded by traditional villages and is known for its floating islands, home to Indian communities.

Lake Titicaca is undoubtedly a legend amongst the exceptional natural sites in the world. It stretches out to the south of Peru at an altitude of more than 3 000 metres and is dominated by the peaks of the Andes. Not only is it one of the largest lakes in the world (8000 km²), but it is also one of the highest to be inhabited, with flourishing agriculture and arts and crafts on its banks and islands. The size of the lake equates it to a small inland sea, with waves and small storms. The town of Puno, in Peru, is the main gateway to the lake from Peru. This large town of almost 100 000 inhabitants boasts a thriving market economy, which can be seen in its central pedestrian thoroughfare and in its market, which enjoys a reputation for its wool and alpaca products. In the surrounding area, the villages of Chucuito, Ichu and Juli and the Capa Chica Peninsula reflect the long relationship of people with the lake – this place has been home to fishermen since the times of the Incas. The lake at the foot of the Andes is revered for its dazzling beauty. The best place to appreciate the stunning magic of the surrounding area is from a boat on its waters. Several of the floating islands, formerly a refuge for the Uros, and today inhabited by the Aymara Indians, reflect an original lakeside life spent in houses made of reeds and dedicated to the twin pursuits of fishing and crafts work. Tourists are fascinated by these tiny islands, built on eucalyptus stilts. A wide range of excursions is organised from Puno, in particular to the floating island of El Paraiso. The boat also visits the “real” islands on the lake. The best known of these is TAquile Island. It is a three-hour boat ride from the lakeside. Here you can immerse yourself in a village community which makes its living from agriculture and crafts work (jackets, hats ...), worlds away from the hectic pace of modern life.