Lake Titicaca: Uros & Taquile Islands Day Trip by Fast Boat

Summary

Meet the Uros on floating islands then hike Taquile’s car-free paths for trout lunch and lake views

You’ll walk on soft reeds with Uros islanders, cruise Lake Titicaca by fast boat from Puno, then hike up Taquile’s terraced hills for a local lunch overlooking endless blue water. Expect genuine encounters—maybe even a laugh when you try your hand at weaving or speaking Aymara—and plenty of quiet moments to take it all in.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget the first step off the boat at the Uros Floating Islands—my foot sank just a little into the reeds, soft and springy, almost like walking on a woven trampoline. Our guide, Rosa, grinned at my surprise and explained how her family has layered these totora reeds for generations. The air smelled faintly sweet, kind of earthy, and there was this gentle creak underfoot every time someone shifted. It felt both fragile and sturdy at once. A local woman named Julia showed us how she weaves the mats; her hands moved so quickly I could barely follow. I tried to say “thank you” in Aymara—she laughed (I probably butchered it), but it broke the ice.

The speedboat ride across Lake Titicaca was smoother than I expected—wind in my face, sun glinting off the water, mountains in the distance looking almost painted. We left Puno early, so by mid-morning everything was bright but not too hot. On Taquile Island, there are no cars—just stone paths winding uphill past terraces of potatoes and quinoa. The walk to the main square took about half an hour; honestly, I had to stop to catch my breath more than once (the altitude is no joke). But then you look back and see that deep blue lake stretching forever behind you… worth every step.

Lunch was simple but perfect: fresh trout with quinoa soup and muña tea (kind of minty). Sitting outside with other travelers and a few islanders, watching kids play soccer near the plaza—it felt like time slowed down. Our guide pointed out men knitting hats (apparently only men knit here), which still makes me smile thinking about it now. The whole day felt stitched together by small moments like that—awkward greetings, shared laughter, sunlight on old stones. Hard to describe unless you’ve been there yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Uros and Taquile Islands

• Board comfortable speedboat in Puno
• Cruise on Lake Titicaca
• Visit Uros Floating Islands
• Meet Uros locals and explore reed homes
• Optional reed boat ride on lake
• Travel to Taquile Island
• Hike from port to main square
• Explore Taquile's weaving traditions
• Enjoy local lunch with trout or omelet
• Return to Puno

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Uros & Taquile Islands from Puno?

The tour lasts one full day with morning departure from Puno and return in the late afternoon.

Is lunch included on the Lake Titicaca day trip?

Yes, lunch is included—a choice of fresh trout or omelet with quinoa soup and traditional tea.

How do you get to Uros Floating Islands?

You travel by modern speedboat from Puno directly to the Uros Floating Islands as part of the tour.

Is there hotel pickup for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for hotels around Plaza Mayor in Puno.

Can I ride a traditional reed boat at Uros?

Yes, there’s an optional reed boat ride available at Uros for 20 soles per person paid on-site.

How hard is the walk on Taquile Island?

The uphill walk from port to main square takes about 30–40 minutes; altitude can make it challenging but it’s manageable for most moderately fit travelers.

Are entrance fees included in this Lake Titicaca tour?

Yes, all entrance fees are included in your booking price.

What languages does the guide speak?

The professional guide speaks English and Spanish during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Puno, all entrance fees for both islands, a guided speedboat journey across Lake Titicaca with bus-style seats and toilet onboard, plus a traditional lunch of trout or omelet with quinoa soup and coca or muña tea before heading back home in comfort.