Kayaking on Lake Titicaca & Visit to the Uros Floating Islands

🧭 Description

This kayaking tour on Lake Titicaca is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Puno. You’ll kayak through the crystal-clear waters of the highest lake in the world, surrounded by Andean landscapes and guided by local experts. The adventure doesn’t end there: you’ll disembark on the mythical Uros floating islands, handmade from totora reeds, where you’ll meet the inhabitants and their traditional way of life, and enjoy the tranquility and charm of this ancestral community. It’s the perfect fusion of sport, ecotourism, and living culture, ideal for travelers looking for more than just a trip.

A trip on the highest navigable lake in the world, surrounded by nature, ancestral culture, and aquatic adventure.

🗺️ Itinerary

🛎️ Hotel pickup and transfer to the port of Puno

The tour begins with pickup from the participants’ accommodations, located in downtown Puno. Once the group is formed, we will transfer by tourist transport to the port of Lake Titicaca.

👨‍🏫 Technical Safety and Paddling Briefing

Upon arrival at the port, your expert water sports guide will give you a brief but comprehensive briefing on kayaking, basic paddling techniques, safety precautions, and how to enjoy the boat responsibly.

🛶 Kayaking on Lake Titicaca

The adventure begins: we will begin kayaking on Lake Titicaca, admiring its calm waters, clear skies, and high Andean wildlife, such as migratory birds. Paddling is relaxing, ideal for beginners, and allows you to calmly enjoy the majesty of the surroundings.

🏝️ Arrival at the Uros Floating Islands

After a kayak ride of approximately 1 hour, we will arrive at one of the Uros floating islands. Here, the locals will welcome us and share their history, customs, and traditions. You will learn how they build their islands with totora reeds, how they live on the water, and you will be able to explore their homes and crafts, including an optional ride on a traditional raft (at an additional cost).

📸 Free time to explore and take photos

After the guided tour, you will have free time to walk around the island, take photos, chat with the locals, or purchase handicrafts as souvenirs.

🚣‍♂️ Return by kayak and end of the tour

We will begin the return kayak to the port of Puno, enjoying the natural surroundings once again. Once on land, we will drop you off at the Plaza de Armas or at your accommodation, thus concluding this wonderful experience.

✅ What does the tour include?

🌊 Guided kayak trip on Lake Titicaca
You’ll paddle across the highest navigable lake in the world, with expert guides who will accompany you throughout the experience.

🛶 Professional kayak rental (double or single)
Includes modern and safe kayaks, with paddles, life jackets, and all necessary equipment.

👨‍🏫 Professional guide specialized in water sports and experiential tourism
Our local guide will instruct you in paddling techniques and tell you all about the history and culture of the Uros.

🚐 Pickup from your hotel (downtown Puno)
We’ll pick you up from your accommodation in downtown Puno for your convenience.

📍 Admission to and guided tour of the Uros Floating Islands
Discover the ancestral life of this community that lives on islands made of reeds.

🗣️ Cultural interaction with local families
You’ll learn about their customs, history, way of building floating islands, and their crafts.

🔐 Complete safety equipment
Includes a life jacket, whistle, and assistance at all times to ensure a safe experience.

📸 Free time for photos and exploring the island
You’ll have time to explore the island at your own pace, capture photos, or buy souvenirs.

🎫 Entrance fees and tourist permits
All entrance tickets are included to avoid lines and surprises.

📦 Personalized assistance throughout the tour
Our team will be attentive to your needs, from pick-up to the end of the tour.

❌ What’s not included?

🍽️ Food and drinks
The tour does not include breakfast or snacks. It is recommended that you bring water or fruit for the trip.

🚣‍♂️ Traditional totora reed raft ride (optional)
Available on Uros Island for an additional voluntary fee.

📍 Tips
Tips for guides and locals are not included; however, if you are satisfied with the service, you can offer one as a thank you.

🚌 Transfers outside of Puno City Center
If your accommodation is outside the historic center, there may be an extra charge for pickup.

🎒 Personal Expenses
Purchases of handicrafts, drinks, or any additional expenses not specified.

🌟 Recommendations

🧥 Dress in layers:
Mornings in Puno are usually cold, but as you paddle, the sun can quickly warm you up. Bring thermal, windproof, or waterproof clothing and a breathable shirt.

👟 Comfortable, non-slip footwear:
It’s recommended to wear sneakers or closed-toe sandals that can get wet, as you’ll be getting in and out of the kayak.

🧴 Bring sunscreen and a hat:
Sun radiation at high altitudes like Titicaca is intense. Protect your skin and face throughout the activity.

🕶️ Don’t forget your sunglasses with UV protection:
They’ll help protect you from the sun’s glare on the water.

💧 Stay hydrated:
Although the weather is cool, the effort of paddling can dehydrate you. Bring a reusable water bottle.

📷 Bring a camera or cellphone with waterproof protection:
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture incredible photos, but be sure to protect your equipment from water.

🧤 If you’re sensitive to the cold, wear light thermal gloves:
During the first part of the morning, the air over the lake can be very cold.

📄 Don’t forget your ID or passport:
It’s important to bring it in case it’s needed for tourist check-ins or security checks.

🤿 Swimming skills are not required, but please let us know if you don’t:
Life jackets are mandatory and safe, but it’s good for the guide to be knowledgeable.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take this tour if I have no previous kayaking experience?
✅ Yes. Before starting, you’ll receive a basic briefing on paddling techniques and safety. The trip is relaxing and suitable for beginners.

How difficult is the kayaking route?
🚣‍♀️ It’s easy to moderate. The paddle takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour in gentle sections, ideal for enjoying the scenery without extreme demands.

Is the tour safe for children or older adults?
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Yes, as long as they have good mobility and basic fitness. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

What happens if it’s very windy or bad weather?
🌦️ In case of adverse weather conditions, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons. You will be notified in advance.

Is the totora reed raft ride included?
🛶 No. This ride is optional and has an additional cost. You can decide at the time if you want to do it.

Can I leave luggage or belongings during the activity?
🎒 Yes. The operator has a secure space to leave personal items that you don’t want to carry on the kayak.

Can I bring a camera or cell phone?
📸 Yes, but it’s recommended to keep them protected in a waterproof bag or case.

What time does the tour end?
🕛 Around noon, perfect for enjoying the rest of the day in Puno or visiting other attractions like Sillustani or Chucuito.