Visit Lake Titicaca from Bolivia or Peru? The lake between Bolivia and Peru is a major tourist attraction in South America, but should you visit the Peruvian or Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca? I visited both and I share the things to see from Copacabana and Isla del Sol in Bolivia and how to see the Uros Islands in Peru. I compare costs and help you decide between Lake Titicaca Bolivia or Lake Titicaca Peru.
When I was planning my 4,5 week trip around Peru, Chile and Bolivia, I knew I wanted to visit Lake Titicaca. It was high on my list of 7 reasons to visit South America, but I didn’t have my mind set on which side to visit. Would I visit the Peruvian or Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca? It turned out I managed to visit both the Peruvian ad the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca. This is my story how I visited both sides of Lake Titicaca in Bolivia and Peru!
Lake Titicaca
The Lake Titicaca is known as the highest navigable lake in the world. At an altitude of 3,812 m /12,507 ft. it sure is located high in the Andes. The lake measures 190 km in length, 80 km in width and is maximum 284 m deep. This makes it the biggest lake in South America.
But these are just numbers of modern day. The lake is one of the oldest ancient lakes on the planet and many cultures originated at the shores of lake. Local people find deep spiritual meaning in Lake Titicaca, both in Peru and Bolivia.
Read more: Travel Itinerary for South America
Lake Titicaca Bolivia
After a very short stay in La Paz, where I took the cable cart around town, I went to the bus station to catch a bus to the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca. There are options for local transport but as I was still not 100% well, so I took a tourist bus. I paid 30 BOB for the bus from La Paz to Copacabana, on the shores of the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca.
Copacabana on the Bolivian side
After a nice 5h bus ride, we were greeted by the first views of Lake Titicaca. Glistering blue water in the fierce burning sun. Our bus was transported over the water and we took a smaller boat across the strait. An hour later, we arrived in tourist town Copacabana. By now, I felt giddy and excited. In my head the tune of “Copa-copa-cabaaaaannaaaa” and a smile on my face.
What to do in Copacabana, Bolivia?
Copacabana on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca is a real tourist town. It has some indigenous people but most people are there for the tourists and the tours. Some people hate it, but I loved it. I installed myself on a rooftop terrace, overlooking the lake. Ate a sandwich, had a drink (or two) and just dreamed away.
I strolled around town, looking for the post office, and found the main square with the church of Copacabana. As you might know by now, I love visiting churches when I travel, so I was pleasantly surprised with this colourful stunner of a church. I was a little late, the ceremony for the blessing of the vehicles has just finished, so many cars drove off with colourful flowers to their grill.
Isla del Sol – Lake Titicaca Bolivia
But the main reason people go to Copacabana on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca is to visit Isla del Sol. Only an 1 hour boat ride from Copacabana, this is the must do when you visit the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca.
Many people take a boat to the north side of the Island of the Sun and then either hike to the south side of Isla del Sol, or take a boat there. You can visit the Aymaras ruins, hike and stay overnight. Update: since 2017 there has been some disputes about route across the island. Check in Copacabana what the current situation is and if hiking across is possible.
For more stories on hiking Isla del Sol, check the blog of Mitali over at Ecophiles who wrote about hiking the sacred Isla del Sol, and Bryony from Travelsandmore who wrote about the Island Isla del Sol.
Lake Titicaca Peru
I only had little time to visit Lake Titicaca and didn’t dare to hike anymore after my adventure in the Colca Canyon. Therefore I headed back to Peru again. I found a local tourist agency that included a tour to the Uros Islands from Puno with their bus journey across the border. This would be an excellent way to visit both sides of Lake Titicaca and I didn’t have to choose between the Bolivian or Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca.
Puno, Peru
Puno is a huge city, nested on the banks of Lake Titicaca on the Peruvian side and capital of the Puno region. I didn’t have much time to explore the city because I arrived at the bus station of Puno and hopped straight into my transport to the harbour to visit the Uros Islands. After I returned, I did walk into town to get some food and had the best tacos of my life!
Uros Islands
But first it was time to visit the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca. It was 4 o’clock and the boat was already waiting for me. In hindsight, I wouldn’t recommend this tour, because it gets dark (and cold!) rather quickly from 5.30 pm and you only have very little time to visit the islands. But we set out while it was still light and we meandered across the delta of reed and water, leaving Puno behind. Be smart, and book a tour that leaves in the morning.
We visited a family on one of the reed islands. Walking on the floating islands was the weirdest feeling I ever had! The island was bouncing up and down while I was ankle deep into the reed. I know I am a bit heavy, but I prayed the reed would hold me!
The family explained how the reed islands and houses are built and maintained. After this we took a quick ride around in their swan like reed boat. Once we returned they offered us all kinds of things for sale.
Are the Uros Islands a tourist trap?
I can only answer this question with: YES! Should you ignore them because of it? I’m not sure. It was an unique experience to walk on the islands. To see the small houses and see what the Uros people can build with the reed. Yes, it was very touristic, the people didn’t feel genuine and really dressed up to look authentic. They were all smiles and giggles, but as soon as I said I didn’t have enough money to buy anything, they turned their back on me and walked away. But I can’t blame them.
I did have fun getting a special stamp for my passport on one of the other floating reed islands. We visited a bar but we didn’t have enough time to explore more. It was getting dark and really cold, so we returned to Puno.
There are other islands out there, like Amantani and Tequile. You can even stay the night at a host family and this sounds like a more real experience. I have heard great things about that, read this funny story by Cassie about meeting her Amantani Mama.
How to travel from Bolivia to Peru via Lake Titicaca?
I didn’t feel like too much hassle and took a tourist bus across the border. We set out from Copacabana in a luxury tour bus and drove for 1 hour on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca. We disembarked at the border, got in line and got our passports stamped.
Then, we walked a few meters, through a gate and got in line at the Peruvian border control. Another set of stamps and we waited outside for all the people on the bus to get through customs. We all got back on the bus and “welcome to Peru“. Now the bus drove alongside the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca. Our journey ended in Puno after roughly 3.5 hours (waiting at the border included). I paid 25 BOB for the bus ride.
Visit the Lake Titicaca: Bolivia or Peru?
I wanted to visit Lake Titicaca and I did. I managed to visit Copacabana on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca and Puno on the Peruvian side. So which one did I prefer? Which one should you choose?
Costs to visit Lake Titicaca
For me, as a Dutch citizen, I only require a visa to visit Bolivia and Peru. The visa is free for Dutchies, so this wasn’t a deciding factor for me. However, American citizens pay a hefty visa fee to enter Bolivia, ($160) so this might be a deal breaker if you’re traveling through South America on a budget. If you plan on visiting Bolivia regardless of the visa costs (and you should!! You do not want to miss the Salar the Uyuni), the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca should definitely be on your itinerary.
Things to do
Lake Titicaca Bolivia has Copacabana and Isla del Sol and Lake Titicaca Peru has Puno and the Uros Islands and other island communities. How to choose?
Hiking on Lake Titicaca
If you like hiking, then Isla del Sol at Lake Titicaca in Bolivia is a no brainer for you. Go to Bolivia, go to Copacabana and embark on a boat to Isla del Sol. Hike from north to south and stay overnight on the island.
Relaxing at Lake Titicaca
If you like lazy cocktail time, hippie vibes, relaxing in the sun and just chillin’ away, then Copacabana is a good fit for you! Not as modern and hip as its Brazilian sister, Copacabana in Bolivia is still a great place to hang out, recharge your batteries and soak up some warmth and sunshine while enjoying the views of the lake.
Have little time to visit Lake Titicaca?
If you have little time, visiting the floating islands of the Uros people from Puno on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca might be a good fit for you. Tours set out and return under 3 hours and you get a feel of the culture and the tradition of the reed islands.
Conclusion on both sides of Lake Titicaca
As you might have noticed, I think the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca has more to offer for the person who travels to South America. I enjoyed the laid back atmosphere and the sun and I loved Isla del Sol. I didn’t hike it but I’m 100% convinced it will be an unique experience.
However, I was very happy to also be able to visit Lake Titicaca from the Peruvian side. It was fun to see the reed islands and meet some Uros people. This way, I got to form my own opinion about how much of a tourist trap the place is (very!) and got that cool stamp in my passport. I didn’t like the shortness of the tour and the way the people presented their selves, but I did meet some amazing people and had fun! What more do you want?
Are you travelling to Lake Titicaca soon? Will you visit the Bolivian or Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca? Did you travel to Lake Titicaca and only visited one side? Why did you choose one over the other? I’d love to hear your experiences!
Great comparison. I’d probably do both :-))
That was what I decided too Fabian. Have a great time.
Great post. I’m curious about the wonderful tacos you mentioned. Where did you have them?
If only I knew. It was a small pizza place in a small street of the main square. I have searched but couldn’t find it online. But they were soooo delicious!
Such pretty pictures, thanks for sharing them. Looks like a beautiful place to visit.
I’ve never been to Peru before but will definitely be checking out Lake Titicaca when I do go! It sounds like there’s a ton to do around there. The sunset view of the lake with Puno in the background is unreal, especially with the silhouette of the man on the boat. I would love to stay with a host family when I visit – always enjoy getting the more authentic experience.
I believe it is a very authentic experience, although communication can be difficult Diana. I’m sure you’ll love it.
I opted for a Bolivian side as it seemed less touristy 🙂
The Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca was my first pick too Monika.
Uh wow that sunset shot is stunning!! This looks like a beautiful place to visit even if it is kind of a tourist trap. I’m always conflicted about places like that because while I don’t like being one of a million tourists, there’s certainly a reason why they’re such popular attractions right? I think I’d still like to see this for myself one day. It looks really cool.
That is exactly why I wanted to visit both Christina. To see for myself and Judge myself.
Interesting, comprehensive post. I think when visiting a “cultural interaction” type place you need to go with the expectation that it is done for tourists or else you will be disappointed. I never knew you could visit from two sides so this will be a great resource for when I finally get to South America!
I agree Cliodhna, but some places are over commercialized and are even worst than your low expectations.
Somehow I never heard or didn’t know that they were two sides of the titicaca lake. And u know it was high up but I didn’t know that it was that high up. Wow! But thanks for the tips. Will definitely keep that in mind if I go there 🙂
Glad you learned new things and hope you can go someday.
Wow, that is some new piece of information about the worlds highest navigable water body.As a matter of fact India has Pangang Tso which is one of largest brackish water lake in Asia at an altitude of 4250m. Some of it lies in India and the rest in Tibet.
Tibet has many many high lakes too, but not all are used for commercial boats, I believe that is the key reason. But then again, it is all in a name and doesn’t really matter Arnav, both are absolutely beautiful.
The Bolivian side sounds more like my type of place.I absolutely love to hike and tune out for awhile when we are traveling. However, I still want to see the reed island someday (even if it is touristy.)
I had the same thing Melissa, I wanted to see the reed islands for myself but didn’t want to miss out on the Bolivian side either. So.. did both 🙂
Awesome post. Hoping to visit Bolivia next year! Great tips cuz copacabana is definitely on my list! Was wondering if to do it via Peru or La paz! Thanks for this
You can do both Stacey. If you’re near Puno, it is really easy but from La Paz too. But both are quite different so hopefully you can make a good decision, or do both!
Nice post. Isla del Sol is one of my favorite spots on the planet. Visited about 3 1/2 years ago, and think about that visit and hike across its spine often.
I love it how memories stay with you like that Bob.
What a lovely read. I visited the lake a few years ago and was meant to see it from the Peruvian side. But due to the miners going on strike, I didn’t get to it but did end up seeing it from the Bolivian side. I loved Copacabana and I went hiking on Isla del Sol. I think I ended up going to the right side
Sounds like things worked out well for you Kathy, but I can imagine you were disappointed with the strike.
Great to know which side is better hehe. I actually never heard of this place before. Sad about the tourist trap though but yeah quite common even in asia
Yes in Asia things are even more touristy than South America, Johna
Great post! I would love to visit both of those places! I find a lot of places are becoming tourist traps and I only hope that we can keep these places as pristine as possible. Or, we try and visit them before too many tourists invade!
It is a delicate balance between really great things to see and things becoming too touristy Samantha. I think if you know what to expect, it is half the problem.
Thanks for the great insight to both sides and stunning photos.
I´ve not been to Peru or Bolivia yet but it certainly looks like an adventure I shoudl consider
The whole trip was indeed an adventure Molly, well said.
I have of course heard of Lake Titicaca but had no idea what it looked like honestly until I saw your photos! I think I would head to the Bolivian side just so I could sing “Copacabana”. The song is stuck in my head just from reading your post! haha
I’d agree with you on the Bolivian side being better… I recall it being somewhat less full of tourists, and slightly less hassle to buy stuff from everyone. Saying that, we did the hike and had a few “checkpoints” to go through which required us to make extra payment although I think you pay when you get on the island anyway? Both sides have been developed too much to take advantage of tourists I think, but that’s the way things go when there’s money to be made! I’m glad you really enjoyed your time there!
Ah the notorious checkpoints, they are indeed still there Caitlin, although you also need to pay the fee to get on the Island. They don’t let you off the dock if you don’t pay.
Wow this is so beautiful !! I’ve always wanted to go to Bolivia so I think I’d choose that side. Great post.
I always had in my mind to visit the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca Adrienne, but I was happy to also visit the Peruvian side.
Wow! What a gorgeous place! I’m bookmarking your post…maybe one day i will get to go there! Fingers crossed!! )
For me it was a life time dream that came true Sabrina. I hope you get to go too.
The trip sounds really fun! It’s too bad that it’s so touristy. Since the lake is so huge, do you know if there are places along the lake that you could visit that are less touristy, but still a nice experience? The reed islands sound really cool though! And Bolivia and Peru are both places that I REALLY want to visit 🙂
There are village around Copacabana where you can hike to or take the bus once a day. They cannot be that touristy, but for the reed islands, you really need a boat and not sure if you can rent your own and just go explore on your own Marie.
Your posts are always informative . I think I’d prefer to see the reed islands side, just for the exposure to the culture. Love the sunset pix!
Thank you Perrisha, the reed islands were indeed more a cultural thing