Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is located on the border of Peru and Bolivia at an altitude of 3,800 meters (12,500 feet). It is not only the highest lake in the world, but also one of the oldest, thought to be more than 1 million years old.

Most people get here from the town of Puno, the transportation hub on the Peruvian side, and either take a day trip to the closer islands or go to one of the more local islands further afield. We stayed a few nights on the island of Amantani, which we loved for its natural beauty and tranquility.

The views here were breathtaking and the lake reminded us of the Mediterranean. One of our favorite moments on Amantaní Island was watching the spectacular sunsets on our private terrace, listening to the sound of the waves and soaking up the peace and serenity of the place.

History and background of Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is considered the origin of the Inca civilization, where the creator god Viracocha created the moon, sun and stars from islands in the center of this great lake. It is also believed to be the birthplace of the first Inca king, Manco Capac, son of the sun god.

There are several indigenous communities living here, the most prominent being the Uros on the floating artificial islands, the Quechua speakers on Amantaní Island and the Taquile people on Taquile Island.