Lake Titicaca is one of the most popular destinations in Latin America. This is one of the essential stops of a trip to Peru. It seduces with its natural purity, its Inca legends, and its authenticity. Let’s set off to discover this famous, exceptional natural site.
At an altitude of 3,812 m, it is quite simply the highest navigable lake in the world; it is notably the largest freshwater lake in Latin America. It extends over nearly 200 km, 8,400 km² and reaches a maximum depth of 280 m. Its environment is deceptive because you could believe you are on the sea with its beaches, its waters as far as the eye can see and its seagulls. Located in the heart of the Altiplano, it benefits from an epicurean environment: purity of air, dazzling brightness and natural landscapes dominated by the majestic cordillera. It is best to go there between the months of May and October to avoid the rainy season and take full advantage of beautiful sunny days.
The lake is divided almost equally between Peru and Bolivia. To the west is Peruvian territory and to the east is Bolivian territory. It is home to around forty islands accessible by boat. The main archipelagos of the lake are the Uros, Taquile and Amantani islands for Peru and the Sun Island, the Moon Island and the Copacabana peninsula for Bolivia. In terms of lake fauna in particular, a wide variety of birds and fish live within the lake. The region’s population is predominantly Indian; predominantly Quechua in Peru and Aymara in Bolivia.
In addition, this region is full of archaeological sites, vestiges and pre-Columbian mysteries. The multiple sites around the lake demonstrate the powerful religious syncretism that exists within the region. These are, in particular, religious structures and beliefs of Hispanic and pre-Columbian civilizations.
For thousands of years, the lake has been a sacred place in Andean culture. It is, according to legend, the cradle of Tunupa, founding god of the Aymaras. For Bolivia, it is particularly appreciated because it is the main coastline of the country! Note that Bolivia is one of only two countries in Latin America, with Paraguay, not to have a maritime coast.
Copacabana is the main metropolis on the Bolivian coast; it is located on the large Bolivian peninsula of the lake. In the heart of the city is the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame, built by the Spanish and which is currently one of the most important places of pilgrimage in Bolivia. Copacabana is also the starting point for numerous archaeological sites, a legacy of the past of the region’s inhabitants. Near the town there are exceptional viewpoints to admire and succumb to the natural beauty of the entire lake.
The Island of the Sun owes its name to the sun god Wiracocha and founder of the Inca civilization. He deposited his son Monco Cápac, the first Inca, and his wife Mama Occlo on this island.
Furthermore, in Peru, the Uros floating islands are located near the main town of the lake, Puno. They are built with a 3m layer of reeds! They take their name from the people who lived there previously; There are now 2,500 Aymaras living on these small archipelagos. As for the islands of Amantani and Taquile, they are occupied by Quechua communities. On these islands there are farmers in superb, colorful traditional clothing. They live mainly from fishing, crafts and tourism. The latter two are idyllic places to sleep with locals, at an altitude of 4,000 m. The island of Taquile is home to Mediterranean landscapes and has a UNESCO-listed craft heritage. Wilder, more authentic and larger, Amantani Island is the ideal place to enjoy magnificent sunsets.
We still feel a very strong Indian and Andean culture all around the Lake Titicaca region, through its populations and traditions. Its inhabitants continue the customs of their ancestors by retaining the same lifestyles and community organizations. This excursion on Lake Titicaca will allow you to succumb to the charm of its majestic landscapes and discover the secrets and mysteries hidden in this essential place in Latin America.
More information : http://www.peru-excepcion.com/regions-perou/region-du-lac-titicaca