Isla Del Sol & Lake Titicaca Tour Review – 2 Day Trip From La Paz
Dreaming of seeing the sparkling waters of Lake Titicaca and exploring the ancient pathways of Isla del Sol? You know, maybe you’re plotting a little Bolivian escape from the bustling heart of La Paz? I’m here to talk about that fantastic two-day trip. Really, I’m here to give you the lowdown on everything, including the things that go just great and maybe some stuff you’ll want to watch out for to have an even smoother, more memorable visit.
Why Isla Del Sol is Calling Your Name
First, let’s be real, very little compares to gazing across Lake Titicaca. We are talking about this massive body of water with an intensely fascinating history, as it shimmers high in the Andes. Yet Isla del Sol, legend has it, that it’s actually the very birthplace of the Incan sun god. I think, imagine stepping onto an island steeped with such incredible history. What I’m saying is, every corner kind of whispers stories of ancient civilizations. You get a sense of the sacred when you see the terraced hillsides and little stone ruins just sitting up there. I think that makes the climb all worthwhile, you know?
What’s super cool is that the island is, too, split into three communities. Each of them boasts its own special vibe and set of ancient sites. So, just walking around and seeing how locals keep up these really old traditions –that really gets your attention. Like you’ll be going past farmers tending their fields the old-fashioned way and maybe craftspeople creating handmade textiles. You see, those kinds of experiences connect you more to a time and a culture so completely unlike our normal day-to-day. And the sunsets? They light up the whole lake with color so intense, it’s almost dreamlike. A reason in themselves to stick around for the two days.
Booking the Tour: What to Keep an Eye On
Okay, before jumping, almost ensure the tour company knows La Paz like the back of its hand and, is, too, totally on the up-and-up. What that means, really, is checking for reviews or asking your hostel for which operators are known for being great at what they do. The big thing for your awesome experience depends so heavily on that tour company really.
Look into every little thing, really, is what I would say. Check precisely what is included versus extra costs. You will be much happier. And figure out the group sizes because smaller is, frequently, much better in these situations. More intimate and all that, and I’m pretty sure you do not need to spend forever hearing all the selfie sticks clicking everywhere, correct?
When it comes to altitude, though, well that will be a thing, no matter how active you are. La Paz sits pretty darn high, so, really, by the time you’re kicking around Isla del Sol (even higher) that you must be prepped to allow your body to catch up a little bit. You could, say, get there days ahead to ease your way in. Also, chewing coca leaves (legal and all local, relax) may assist and they sell those anyplace you would expect, almost.
Day 1: From La Paz to the Shores of Copacabana
Day one often launches super early. I’m meaning that the bus ride itself might not be glamorous, yet, wow, once you arrive at Copacabana and watch the immensity of the lake appear right before you! It makes it worth a lot.
Usually, in Copacabana, it’s typical to spend some time scouting out this adorable little city. What you might see that you should definitely visit is, say, the Basilica de Copacabana – it’s something to behold. What happens is that after lunch you will head off by boat. Finally, it is lake time!
The cruise could last a couple of hours, offering picture opportunities that go forever. While the boat will pull right in from the northern part to Isla del Sol. Then it’s time to just start exploring, okay? Meaning that the northern area can show old ruins, I tell ya. You want to make certain, really, that you have packed decent shoes, for real.
Day 2: Sunrise, Southern Ruins, and Saying Goodbye
Okay, I am going to tell you straight out now: Getting out of bed early is almost something I generally really dislike. You understand? Though experiencing a sunrise above Lake Titicaca? Whoa, do that. It seriously alters your point of view a little, I think.
Once dawn breaks then you would amble toward the southern segment. In this way, then, what I think you really should go see is the Pilcocaina Palace. Word is that is an important historical ruin. And on your trip down through the southern side you’ll pass charming local communities too it’s almost picture-postcard gorgeous down here. Keep your eyes out for local artisans. So many unique treasures get sold locally like unique textiles!
By midday the journey comes close to finishing so you should then head back via ship. I would bet the views leaving Isla are equally jaw-dropping as while going to it. It won’t be very long before arriving at Copacabana to connect back up together with transport back to La Paz. The trip will take you into dusk, roughly. So it will make an extremely fulfilling 48 hrs.
Where You’ll Sleep: Accommodation on Isla Del Sol
You should know accommodations aren’t some luxurious spa or swanky hotel. We should be real for a moment about that. So expect, pretty much, tiny guest houses. Yet they actually are neat, comfy and they provide that you can see the landscapes just fantastically!
So make sure that as soon as you have selected one. Okay? Get the details down way before, when possible. Look up customer feedback pages or websites. That way the choice meshes best with your personal choices is the key thing.
Food on the Island: What to Eat
Alright, okay, let’s talk treats, that will be great, right? Restaurants won’t probably present five-star menus yet those authentic tastes can more than please you! Pretty typical and seriously try worthy? Well, it just may happen that your lodge produces lake fresh caught trout directly right out of Titicaca. How fantastic may that sound?
While there’s dining outside eating spaces are somewhat restricted just purchase drinks plus nibbles upfront previously you go or if you know food intolerances bring a stash personally and that works okay.
Things You Should Really Pack
You want advice on that, am I correct? So bring clothing in layers! From time to time at extreme heights climate will do absolutely anything without concern, okay? Okay also pack decent quality footwear for slopes along roads.
Okay too, sunlight safety isn’t to neglect: bring powerful block-out and a chapeau plus lenses. You may also have some meds whenever altitude hits very difficult and bring water to assist avoiding becoming dry.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Okay, you think I should recommend that trip for everyone? Obviously, maybe not. I’m trying to suggest if you love experiences over the comfortable and, are also a little athletic this could make an incredibly strong hit with ya!
And you’re seeking the inner you this can feel super life affirming to roam on this island and get disconnected. Yet that person in search of poolside margaritas or flawless service might not have too many nice moments, I’m gonna say.
