Transportation

Bus, Airlines
Accomodation

3 Stars Hotels
Maximum Altitude

6,768 metres
Departure from

Santiago International Airport
Best season

Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb & Mar
Tour type

Eco-Tour, Hiking, Boating, City-Tour
Meals

All meals during the Journey( as per the itinerary)
Language

English, Spanish, French
Fitness level

Easy to Moderate
Group Size

2-15
Minimum Age

12
Maximum Age

65

Overview

Nestled high in the Andes, Peru is home to some of South America’s most stunning lakes, offering unparalleled opportunities for boating and exploration. Whether you’re gliding across the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca—the world’s highest navigable lake—or exploring the serene beauty of other hidden gems, Lake Boating in Peru invites you to experience the country’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.

This immersive journey takes you to some of Peru’s most iconic lakes, where you can cruise on traditional reed boats, visit picturesque islands, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities that call these areas home. From the mysterious floating islands of Lake Titicaca to the tranquil, lesser-known Lake Huaypo, each destination offers an unforgettable experience of Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and vibrant ecosystems.

Highlights of the Experience:

Lake Titicaca: The centerpiece of Peruvian lake boating, Lake Titicaca is not only the highest navigable lake in the world but also home to Uros Islands, famous for their unique reed-built structures. Cruise on traditional totora reed boats and explore the Taquile and Amantani Islands, where local communities maintain ancient customs, weaving traditions, and a deep connection to the land.
Lake Huaypo: Located near Cuzco, Lake Huaypo is a tranquil, high-altitude lake surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful boat ride and a taste of rural life, offering fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
Scenic Boat Tours: Glide across crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains, snow-capped peaks, and lush hillsides, each offering its own set of spectacular views. Take a boat ride during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding nature.
Cultural Encounters: Learn about the traditions of the indigenous Aymara and Quechua peoples, whose ancestral homes are nestled along the lakeshores. Visit local communities to witness traditional handicrafts, participate in ceremonies, and experience their way of life.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty: Peru’s lakes are home to diverse ecosystems, where you may spot native wildlife such as flamingos, ducks, and Andean condors, along with unique aquatic plants and flowers. The lakes themselves are often surrounded by lush forests and remote mountain peaks, creating a breathtaking backdrop.

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape into nature or a deeper cultural experience, Lake Boating in Peru offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Come aboard and discover the magic of Peru’s pristine lakes from a whole new perspective.

Highlights

Cruise on the World’s Highest Navigable Lake – Lake Titicaca
Visit the extraordinary Uros Islands, a collection of man-made floating islands constructed entirely from totora reeds.
Sail to Taquile Island, where time seems to stand still. The island is renowned for its pristine landscapes and vibrant, UNESCO-recognized handwoven textiles.
Take a boat ride to Amantani Island, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful views.
As you cruise along the lakes, take in the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Andes mountains, with their towering peaks and snow-capped summits.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Santiago

Arrive in Santiago: Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Santiago is nestled between the Andes and the Chilean Coast Range, offering both urban and natural experiences.
Accommodation: Check-in at a centrally located hotel like The Singular Santiago or Hotel Luciano K.
Evening: Take a leisurely stroll around the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Santiago. Explore the Catedral Metropolitana and the nearby Barrio Lastarria, a vibrant neighborhood with galleries, cafes, and street art.
Dinner: Enjoy your first dinner at Bocanáriz, a renowned wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Santiago, serving contemporary Chilean cuisine paired with local wines.

Day 2 :

Santiago City Tour & Valparaíso Day Trip

Morning: Start the day with a guided city tour of Santiago. Visit Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Andes Mountains. You can also visit the La Moneda Palace, the seat of the Chilean government.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Mercado Central, a historic market offering fresh seafood and traditional Chilean dishes.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive (about 1.5 hours) to Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colorful hillside houses, steep funiculars, and artistic vibe. Wander through the Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción neighborhoods, where you’ll find vibrant street art and cafes.
Evening: Return to Santiago for a relaxing evening, and enjoy dinner at Paseo Ahumada, a trendy spot offering a range of Chilean and international cuisine.

Day 3 :

Santiago to Atacama Desert

Morning: Fly from Santiago to Calama (1.5-hour flight), then transfer to San Pedro de Atacama (1.5-hour drive), a small town located in the heart of the Atacama Desert—one of the driest places on Earth.
Accommodation: Check-in at a boutique desert lodge such as Tierra Atacama or Hotel Alto Atacama.
Afternoon: Take a short excursion to the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a surreal desert landscape with salt formations and sandstone hills. Stay to watch the stunning sunset over the valley, which is known for its otherworldly beauty.
Evening: Return to the hotel for a relaxing dinner. If you’re up for it, enjoy the stargazing opportunity in one of the best places in the world for night sky observation.

Day 4 :

Atacama Desert Exploration

Early Morning: Visit El Tatio Geysers at sunrise. The geothermal field is one of the highest in the world, and the early morning light creates a magical atmosphere as steam rises from the geysers.
Late Morning: Visit Laguna Chaxa in the Salar de Atacama, a vast salt flat where you can spot flamingos and other desert wildlife.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in San Pedro de Atacama, such as La Estaka, which offers traditional Chilean and Andean dishes.
Afternoon: Explore the Pukará de Quitor, a pre-Columbian fortress built by the indigenous Atacama people, offering views over the desert.
Evening: Opt for a tranquil evening with a visit to Salar de Atacama to enjoy the evening sky, or relax at the hotel’s spa after your adventures.

Day 5 :

Atacama to Punta Arenas - Patagonia

Morning: Fly from Calama to Punta Arenas (about 2.5-hour flight), the gateway to Patagonia.
Accommodation: Check-in at a local hotel in Punta Arenas, such as Hotel Cabo de Hornos.
Afternoon: Explore Punta Arenas, the southernmost city in Chile. Visit the Plaza de Armas, the Magellan Monument, and the Navy Monument. Learn about the history of this region, including its connection to the exploration of Antarctica.
Dinner: Have dinner at La Marmita, a cozy restaurant offering Patagonian specialties like king crab, lamb, and freshly caught seafood.

Day 6 :

Torres del Paine National Park

Early Morning: Drive (about 5 hours) to Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most iconic parks in Patagonia, known for its dramatic granite towers, glaciers, lakes, and wildlife.
Accommodation: Check in at a lodge near the park, such as Hotel Las Torres or Tierra Patagonia.
Afternoon: Begin your exploration of the park with a visit to the Salto Grande waterfall and take a short hike to see the famous Torres del Paine peaks (the park’s namesake).
Evening: Enjoy a hearty dinner at your lodge and soak in the views of the mountains and lakes surrounding you.

Day 7 :

Torres del Paine National Park & Return to Santiago

Morning: Embark on a half-day excursion to explore more of the park, either by boat on Lago Grey (to see the Grey Glacier) or by hiking to Base Torres for an up-close view of the park’s iconic granite towers.
Afternoon: After your morning adventure, return to Punta Arenas (5-hour drive) to catch your flight back to Santiago (about 3 hours).
Evening: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final dinner in Santiago, or relax before your departure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Expand all

What lakes can I visit for boating in Peru?

Lake Titicaca: The largest freshwater lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world, located in the Andean highlands.
Lake Llanganuco: A stunning glacier-fed lake located in the Huascarán National Park near Huaraz, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.

What types of boats are used for the tours?

On Lake Titicaca, you will typically travel on traditional reed boats, crafted from totora reeds, which are used by the Uros people who inhabit the floating islands. Modern motorboats are also available for longer excursions to the islands and other parts of the lake.
On Lake Llanganuco, you’ll typically ride in motorboats, providing a comfortable and scenic way to explore the lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Is boating on Lake Titicaca safe?

Yes, boating on Lake Titicaca is generally safe. Boats are operated by experienced guides, and safety equipment, including life jackets, is provided. However, because the lake is at a high altitude, it’s important to take precautions against altitude sickness, especially if you’re sensitive to higher elevations.

Can I visit both Lake Titicaca and Lake Llanganuco in one trip?

Yes, it’s possible to visit both lakes, but they are located in different regions of Peru, so it requires some travel. Typically, you would start in Puno (for Lake Titicaca), then either fly or take a bus to Huaraz (for Lake Llanganuco). A well-planned 7-day itinerary can include both lakes, but the travel time between destinations can be long (6-7 hours between Puno and Lima, then a flight or bus to Huaraz).

What should I bring with me for the boating tours?

Sunscreen: The high altitude means stronger UV rays, even on cloudy days.
Warm clothing: Even during summer months, temperatures can be chilly, especially on the lake.
Waterproof jacket: It can get windy, and you might get splashed during the boat ride.
Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning landscapes, so don’t forget your camera.
Medication for altitude sickness: If you’re not accustomed to high altitudes, it’s a good idea to carry medication or chewable tablets like Diamox.

How high above sea level are Lake Titicaca and Lake Llanganuco?

Lake Titicaca is at approximately 12,507 feet (3,812 meters) above sea level.
Lake Llanganuco sits at a slightly lower elevation of around 12,000 feet (3,660 meters) above sea level.

Are there any cultural activities involved in the lake tours?

Yes, especially on Lake Titicaca. When visiting the Uros Islands, you’ll learn about the Uros people, their history, and how they build their floating islands from totora reeds. On Taquile Island, you can interact with the local Quechua-speaking inhabitants, enjoy a traditional meal, and observe their famous hand-woven textiles. These cultural experiences add a rich, authentic dimension to your lake boating adventure.

Can I take a private boat for the tour?

Yes, private boat tours can often be arranged for both Lake Titicaca and Lake Llanganuco. This is a great option for those looking for a more personalized experience, or if you’re traveling in a group or as a family. You can arrange private tours through local tour operators, but it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Lake Boating in Peru

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Overview

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Itinerary

Cost

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The Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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