Lake Titicaca (Puno) On a Budget
Lake Titicaca, Peru
Known as the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca sits at 12,507 feet and covers a little more than 3,200 square miles.
With that elevation, the most difficult part about visiting the area may very well be the altitude. Unless you are acclimated to the mountains, you'll likely experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, indigestion, and/or insomnia.
If you are unable to acclimate after a few days, it's best to descend to a lower elevation and try again later, and more slowly. You can also opt to take Diamox (a prescription pill which you can buy in the U.S.) 24 hours before arriving at the altitude, drop chlorophyll drops to drink in your water, chew coca leaves, and drink mate de coca (coca tea). Above all, it's important to take it easy and not overexert yourself until you've acclimated. Some hotels also offer oxygen tanks for those who are unable to handle the change in altitude so quickly.
Lake Titicaca is wettest in the month of November and experiences heavy rainfall all throughout January. Visit between May and September for average highs in the 80s and evening lows in the 40s.
Sights
Take a boat ride to explore the islands of Lake Titicaca. As you float along the river, you'll observe that the water changes from murky and dark to crisp and clear, depending on your location.Visit the Uros islands or book a homestay to explore the way of the Uros people to learn about their culture and history. The Uros people build everything out of reeds, from homes to furniture to boats and even the islands themselves, you'll learn a lot about how the Uros people construct and anchor their own islands in the lake and also detach and float away if necessary.
Those who want to rough it and experience life before technology will love Amantani Island, another small island that 4,000 residents call home. Visit the two mountain peaks, Pachamama and Pachatata, upon which ancient ruins sit, waiting to be explored. With no electricity, hotels or vehicles on the island, you'll experience basic living and the true culture and lifestyle of the locals.
History buffs will enjoy the the island of Taquile for the pre-Inca ruins as well as the beautiful views of the Bolivian snow-capped mountains. Like Amantani, Taquile remains untouched by modern technology and most residents still use candles or hand-crank powered flashlights. With so little artificial light, Taquile is the ideal spot for stargazing. It also retains much of its culture in its handicrafts and textiles.
Just a quarter mile from Lake Titicaca is the port city of Puno, where you can visit the public market every Saturday to shop for local produce, bread, grains, and potatoes. Puno is also known as the folklore capital of Peru, where you can always find a festival, exhibit or parade in its streets. Visit for Puno Week in the first week of November for music, dancing and parades that last until late into the night.
Food and Dining
When it comes to meals in Lake Titicaca, you'll be relying on the locals to make the menu. If you enjoy simple and humble meals grown, caught, or harvested right outside of your home for the night, you'll have plenty to look forward to. Staples include fish, quinoa, rice, and potatoes. Common meals may consist of a quinoa soup, mashed potatoes, and lightly fried fish seasoned simply with lime and salt.If you're looking for something a bit more elaborate, head back to the port of Puno, where you can find vegan cuisine, pizza, and fine local dining.
Accommodation
Homestays are the way to stay on the islands of Lake Titicaca and many can be booked with tour agencies. However, tour agencies take a large cut of the payment and thus, to best benefit the hosts, go to the port and ask the locals who work there for recommendations so that you can pay host families directly.Regardless of where you're staying, pack layers for versatility and warmth and remember that you won't be able to depend on electricity to charge up your modern amenities, so charge up ahead of time and even bring your own battery pack.
Don't forget to bring a gift for your host families. Recommended items include food staples such as pasta, rice, and cooking oil. Fresh fruits are difficult to obtain on the islands and will be much appreciated. Non-food items including school supplies, toys, and rechargeable flashlights are another well-received gift.
Transportation
When it comes to meals in Lake Titicaca, you'll be relying on the locals to make the menu. If you enjoy simple and humble meals grown, caught, or harvested right outside of your home for the night, you'll have plenty to look forward to. Staples include fish, quinoa, rice, and potatoes. Common meals may consist of a quinoa soup, mashed potatoes, and lightly fried fish seasoned simply with lime and salt.If you're looking for something a bit more elaborate, head back to the port of Puno, where you can find vegan cuisine, pizza, and fine local dining.
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