08:45am – 09:15am

Hostel/hotel pick up

09:15am – 11:45am

Boat out to the vast, gleaming Lake Titicaca for a guided tour of the Floating Islands. Climb to the upper deck as you approach your destination and take in the spectacular views of these man-made islands.

Be welcomed by the Uros people, and experience a guided tour, in which you’ll learn how the dwellers make their home islands entirely from one of the lake reeds, totora. Discover the way a subsistent lifestyle is forged when floating in the middle of Lake Titicaca! There are lots of lessons to be learned about the relationship between the Uros people and that of their natural environment.

The importance of the ‘totora’ reed is paramount in the daily lives of the inhabitants: not only is it used to construct the entirety of these intriguing floating islands, but it also contributes towards shelter, transport (reed boats) and nutrition. Take the opportunity to ride on one of these famous dragon reed boats (at an additional cost). The totora reed is also a source of iodine, traditionally used to prevent thyroid tumours, and even has pain and hangover relief properties.

The days of subsistence living are gone, and tourism is now one of the greatest incomes on the islands, which have themselves become a victim of their own success. That being said, the history and existence of these incredible people is a truly unique experience not to be missed… Who knows if there will be the chance to do so in years to come…

08:45 - 09:15

Hostel/hotel pick up

09:15

Departure from the port

09:45

Visit the Uros island

11:45

Return to Puno port

- Hotel/hostel pick up and drop off
- Boat transport
- English speaking guide
- Uros Island entrance ticket

- Reed boat ride in Uros Islands “Kuntiki” (costs an extra S/.10 soles) – this is strictly optional
- Food or drinks

- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Bring your own water, as prices for a small water or soda are quite expensive

Cancellation or changes of this tour:

CHANGES: It is FREE to change tour date before 6:00 pm (Lima time) the day before the tour begins.

NO SHOWS & CANCELLATIONS: If you cancel before 6:00 pm (Lima time) the day before the tour begins or earlier a 10% administration fee will apply (+ the card fee). After this time there is a 100% no show or cancellation fee.

You must email bookings@findlocaltrips.com (include the name of the tour and the reservation number) to cancel this tour or to make any changes.

1. I cannot find my accommodation listed in the operator pick up locations when I’m making my booking. What should I select?

   This operator only offers pick-ups from the hotel and hostel accommodation listed. This list covers over 90% of the accommodation providers in the area. They do not provide pick-ups or drop-offs at private residences, Airbnbs, bus terminals etc. If you cannot find your hotel on the list, please select an alternative pick up location close by and be ready for pick-up at the time shown on your booking confirmation

2. What should I bring to the tour?

   Light backpack, water, sunscreen (very important), hat, camera and sunglasses are a must. Those who plan to stay longer/ overnight should add: warm layers, scarves or jacket (very important), beanies, scarfs (temperatures can reach lows of -10 ̊ C), basics like toilet paper, etc., snacks, personal medications, money for drinks/food/tips.

3. Does the tour include a ride on one of the traditional reed boats?

   No, this experience is optional and can be paid directly to the locals on the island.

4. Do the tour prices include the island entry fees? Do I need to take extra money?

   Yes, all of the tour prices include the associated island entry fees. If you’ll be heading to the islands of Taquile and Amantani we advise you to take some money for souvenirs, as they are renowned for some of the finest woven goods in Peru.

5. I have heard that the Floating Islands are very touristy and fake. Do the Uros people actually live on the islands and are they worth the visit?

   The Floating Islands in Puno are the original, authentic Floating Islands. Due to their unique nature, they have become a very popular tourist attraction in Peru and have become almost a victim of their own success. A visit is still definitely worthwhile, not only to learn about the incredible construction of these islands (houses and boats are all made out of reeds), but also to see how the Uros locals manage to forge a subsistent life out in the middle of lake Titicaca on these tiny, buoyant islands. Tourism is now their number one income, and whilst families do live out on the islands, a lot of the families and younger members do work and study in Puno.

6. Will I have problems with altitude sickness on this tour?

   Altitude sickness can catch many travellers off guard. Not everyone gets sick in high altitudes and it is difficult to predict who is likely to be badly affected by it. For most people, it is nothing more than a headache and some dizzy sensations that diminishes over a short period of time, usually 1 to 2 days for most people. If you want to limit your chances of getting sick, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, do not fly directly into high altitude. Proceed slowly, allowing your body time to acclimatize as you ascend gradually. However, if this is not possible, here are some further steps to take: Drink lots of water and slow down!! This sounds simple, but both of these things are very important. Your body is struggling because you don’t have enough oxygen, so avoiding any strenuous activity is a good idea. Chew some coca leaves. The native people of South America have been chewing coca for centuries, thanks to its ability to alleviate mild altitude sickness symptoms. Coca leaves can be bought in any supermarket, and even souvenir shops or street stalls. Take (Soroche) altitude sickness pills. These are sold over the counter all over Peru and Bolivia, and cost just a few dollars. If you are flying straight into altitude over 2500metres, without spending any time at an intermediate elevation and you’re worried about getting sick, you can ask your doctor for more specific and stronger altitude sickness medication in advance. In the rare case that your symptoms are more severe than a headache and mild dizziness, it is best to descend in altitude and seek medical assistance.

7. Why book with FindLocalTrips.com?

   Apart from our low price guarantee, with us you can be 100% assured that your booking is made. We provide instant email confirmation and have live spaces and availability for each tour. You are in the capable hands of our team here on the ground of 20 local experts who speak perfect Spanish and English, always ready with a quick response to any and all questions you might have. Tour operators are experts at operating their tours...we are the experts at reservations, organisation and assistance with your plans for these tours.