Lake Titicaca tours from Puno come in several varieties, each offering a window into this fascinating region’s culture and natural beauty. The classic half-day Uros floating islands tour provides a compact introduction, while full-day excursions combining Uros and Taquile deliver a more complete cultural experience. Transportation options range from standard tour boats to speedboats and luxury catamarans.
I’m especially fond of the full-day tours that visit both Uros and Taquile – they provide the right balance of culture and value for money. The local guides are typically excellent, and included lunches feature authentic regional dishes. For those seeking extra comfort, the premium catamaran services offer a smoother ride and better facilities.
Let’s explore the best boat tours available in Puno.
Key Points
- Highly-rated boat tours and cruises offer scenic rides to Uros floating islands and Taquile Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Tour packages include cultural insights, meals, and transportation, providing a comprehensive experience for visitors.
- Variety of options, from 3-hour boat tours to overnight catamaran cruises, cater to different preferences and budgets.
- Guided tours with knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance the overall experience and cultural understanding.
- Accessibility and cancellation policies vary, so it’s important to consider individual needs and preferences when selecting a tour.
Tour to Uros and Taquile Islands in a Fast Boat
On a visit to Puno, travelers can embark on a captivating tour that takes them to the iconic Uros and Taquile Islands aboard a fast boat.
This highly-rated experience, with 99% of 311 reviews recommending it, offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of these remarkable communities.
The tour includes a scenic boat ride, a visit to the Uros floating islands, and a trek up to the plaza on Taquile Island, a UNESCO site renowned for its weaving.
Travelers can savor a delicious lunch of quinoa soup and grilled trout while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Titicaca.
With knowledgeable bilingual guides, this tour provides valuable cultural insights and the opportunity to support local communities.
Read our full review: Tour to Uros and Taquile Islands in a Fast Boat Review
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3h Boat Tour to Uros Island From Puno
Travelers visiting Puno can embark on a captivating 3-hour boat tour to the renowned Uros Islands. This tour, priced from $39.99 per person, provides an immersive cultural experience. Guests will interact with Uros families, learning about the islands’ unique construction and daily life.
The tour includes a professional English/Spanish-speaking guide, round-trip transfers, and entrance tickets. Travelers can also opt to ride traditional reed boats and purchase local handicrafts and cuisine. With a maximum group size of 15, the tour offers a personalized experience.
Past participants have praised the knowledgeable guides and memorable cultural insights, though some noted a slight pressure to purchase souvenirs. The Uros Island tour is a well-reviewed and enriching way to explore the Lake Titicaca region.
Read our full review: 3h Boat Tour to Uros Island From Puno Review
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Tour Uros Taquile by Normal Boat
This comprehensive tour offers visitors a chance to explore the renowned Uros Islands and the UNESCO-listed Taquile Island in a single day.
The tour includes pickup from central Puno hotels and motorboat transport with a professional bilingual guide. Travelers will get to experience the unique lifestyles of both islands.
The tour includes entry fees, lunch on Taquile, and coffee/tea and cold drinks.
While a moderate physical fitness level is required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant individuals.
Priced from SEK 689.55 per person, the tour has a 95% recommendation rate and an average 4.5-star rating, although some find it touristy with large groups.
Read our full review: Tour Uros Taquile by Normal Boat Review
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Uros Islands Half-Day Boat Tour – Puno
Exploring the renowned Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca is a must-do activity for visitors to Puno. This half-day boat tour provides the perfect opportunity to experience these unique, man-made floating communities.
Guests will enjoy a guided boat ride with excellent views of Puno, along with the option to take a traditional reed boat for an additional cost. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, entrance fees, and meals.
While reviews are mixed, with some citing additional costs, others praise the scenic beauty and cultural insights. Travelers should note the tour’s maximum group size of 25 and that it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Uros Islands Half-Day Boat Tour – Puno Review
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Tour to Uros Island and Taquile by Speed Boat
Embarking on a tour to Uros Island and Taquile by speed boat offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Lake Titicaca.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, a professional English/Spanish guide, and a delectable lunch of quinoa soup with grilled trout or omelet.
Travelers can opt for an additional raft ride on the Uros for a small fee.
While the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it’s accessible for strollers and requires a moderate fitness level.
With 5/5 star reviews, this tour provides an exceptional value at €66.41 per person, with flexible booking options.
Read our full review: Tour to Uros Island and Taquile by Speed Boat Review
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Sun Island & Titicaca Lake With Catamaran From Puno
Travelers often embark on the Sun Island & Titicaca Lake with Catamaran from Puno tour to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region.
The 7-hour excursion features a catamaran cruise on Lake Titicaca, a visit to Sun Island, and exploration of the Inti Wata complex. Highlights include scenic vistas, agricultural terraces, and diverse flora and fauna.
The tour includes round-trip bus transfers, lunch, and admission fees. However, some travelers note the high costs and logistical issues, such as travel delays and border crossing problems.
Read our full review: Sun Island & Titicaca Lake With Catamaran From Puno Review
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Full Day Tour Uros and Taquile (Speed Boat)
The Full Day Tour Uros and Taquile (Speed Boat) offers visitors a chance to discover the enchanting floating islands of Uros and the picturesque Taquile Island, located on the iconic Lake Titicaca in Puno, Peru.
This highly recommended tour is rated 5.0 by travelers and includes lunch on Taquile, entrance fees, a bilingual guide, and hotel-port-hotel transport. Guests can also opt for a traditional boat ride on the Uros islands for an additional cost.
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and is accessible to those with wheelchairs and strollers.
With free cancellation and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, this tour provides a memorable experience on the waters of Lake Titicaca.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour Uros and Taquile (Speed Boat) Review
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Lake Titicaca and Sun Island Overnight Catamaran Cruise From Puno
This overnight catamaran cruise across Lake Titicaca from Puno offers travelers a chance to marvel at the stunning scenery of the world’s highest navigable lake and explore the enchanting Sun Island.
During the cruise, you’ll visit the traditional town of Challapampa and learn about the indigenous culture. You’ll also get to see ancient Inca temples like Chincana and Pilko Kaina.
The itinerary includes a Kallawaya Andean ceremony and a visit to a local museum. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
While most reviews are positive, some have raised concerns about lack of communication regarding changes to the itinerary due to social unrest.
Read our full review: Lake Titicaca and Sun Island Overnight Catamaran Cruise From Puno Review
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UROS and TAQUILE Full Day (Fast Boat)
On this full-day tour, visitors explore the iconic Uros and Taquile Islands on Lake Titicaca from Puno. The tour includes hotel pickup and return, entrance fees, a local guide, and a delicious lunch.
Guests can expect a maximum group size of 30 for a more personalized experience. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Travelers should note that additional charges apply for hotels outside the city center. Cancellation and rescheduling are free up to 24 hours before the tour.
At $59.18 per person, this tour offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible payment options.
Read our full review: UROS and TAQUILE Full Day (Fast Boat) Review
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Kayak From Puno to Uros Island and Fast Boat to Taquile
Adventurous travelers can explore the iconic Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island on this immersive full-day tour from Puno.
The tour starts with a relaxing kayak ride from Puno to Uros Island, followed by a fast boat transfer to Taquile Island. Along the way, you’ll have an English/Spanish-speaking guide to provide insights into the local culture and history.
The tour includes hotel/port transfers, all necessary equipment, and a delicious lunch on Taquile Island. While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, this adventure offers a flexible and budget-friendly way to discover the stunning landscapes of Lake Titicaca.
Read our full review: Kayak From Puno to Uros Island and Fast Boat to Taquile Review
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Common Questions
Are There Life Jackets Provided on the Boat Tours?
Yes, life jackets are typically provided on boat tours. The safety of passengers is a top priority, so tour operators ensure that all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, is available for use during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boats?
Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boats. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their policies and any restrictions they may have in place.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage, though storage space may be limited. It’s best to check with the specific tour company about their policies on luggage and personal items.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take the Boat Tours?
The best time to take boat tours is typically during the dry season, which runs from May to November. This allows for calmer waters and clearer weather, providing the optimal experience for visitors.
Are the Boats Wheelchair Accessible?
The boats generally are wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure proper accommodations can be made. Many tours offer assistance boarding and disembarking the vessels.
The Sum Up
Puno offers a variety of boat tours and cruises to explore the stunning Lake Titicaca and its islands. From fast boats to luxury catamarans, visitors can choose from a range of options to suit their preferences and budget. Whether you’re interested in the floating Uros Islands, the traditional culture of Taquile, or an overnight adventure, there’s a tour to meet your needs.