Located high in the Andes, on the border between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is an idyllic inclusion in many walking holidays. Peru’s Lake Titicaca is arguably one of the most fascinating lakes to be found; situated 3,860 metres above sea level, it is of sacred significance to the Inca civilisation. Folklore tells that the first Inca king, Manco Capac was born on the lake, and under the orders of the God Viracocha, created the Inca Empire. The altitude of the lake affords some wonderful opportunities for hiking, Peru’s finest lake is well worth a visit.
Where to Stay
When visiting Lake Titicaca, the best place to stay is the town of Puno. Nestled between the shores of the lake and the mountains, the town is riddled with Incan folklore and remnants of the colonial times. Within the city itself, there remain some buildings that make for very enjoyable browsing; the Catedral Basílica San Carlos Borromeo, for example, which dates back to 1757, is a beautiful stone structure, and houses a fascinating altar made of carved marble and plated with silver. Puno harbour, on the shores of the lake, has an enchanting boardwalk, where you can relax as you gently stroll, enjoying the boats and the gift shops, and even a visit the Titicaca boats museum. Whilst locals don’t recommend hiking in the hills just outside the town of Puno, for those who are on walking holidays, Peru’s finest landscapes can still be enjoyed with relative ease by taking a colectivo to Chucioto, where you can see the summits dotted with sacrificial offerings left by the locals.
What to See
The unique floating islands are perhaps one of the most famous reasons for visiting Lake Titicaca; the islands, made of totora reeds, are home to roughly 2,000 members of the Uros tribe, which outdates even the Incas. The tribe is said to believe themselves to be the owners of the lake, and also immune to the cold. Houses on the islands are made from reeds, however it is the reed boats they use that are the most impressive. Often having the shape of an animal carved into the prow, these boats make for a wonderful photo opportunity. Used to making a living from selling fish on the mainland, and from their woven goods, the Uros tribe now also weave for tourists; one of their woollens can work wonders for keeping you warm during the rest of your walking holiday. Peru celebrates its wonderfully diverse and traditional culture, and nowhere is this more apparent than on a visit to the Uros tribe.
What to eat
Due to the altitude of Lake Titicaca, it is important not to eat too much if you intend to do any hiking. Peru does however offer some wonderful culinary opportunities that should not be missed! In Puno, you are likely to find plenty of fish on the menu, with trout and fried ‘suche’ – another local fish – caught daily, fresh from the lake. During the day, and whilst out and about on excursions, traditional dish ‘Huaitia’ makes a wonderful snack; consisting of potatoes and oca, a plant found in the Andes. It is baked in a mud hearth, and will certainly keep you going until dinner. In the evenings, make the most of local delicacies such as ‘Chairo,’ a lamb soup; ‘chalona’ which is made up of dried meat; or ‘lechon al horno’, made of baked pork. If however, you are feeling particularly adventurous, why not sample their specialty – guinea pig baked with cheese. For those who do not fancy making a meal of what we know as a household pet, alpaca meat is also considered a delicacy, and makes for another enticing choice.
For those who wish to amalgamate culture and hiking, Peru is the perfect choice of destination. Lying high up in the Andes, the areas surrounding Lake Titicaca offer spectacular walking opportunities with some fantastic views. The Lake itself and the surrounding towns are full to the brim with fascinating culture and tradition, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Inca legend.
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