Islas flotantes Uros

Tour Uros Floating Islands Half-Day

Discover the heart of Lake Titicaca and be captivated by one of the most intriguing places in the Peruvian Altiplano: the Uros Floating Islands. This unique experience will allow you to explore an ancient community that lives on handmade islands crafted from totora, an aquatic plant that thrives in abundance in the world's highest navigable lake.

Just a 30-minute boat ride from the city of Puno, you'll enter a world where ancestral customs still endure. Local families will welcome you, showing you their way of life, their traditions, and the ingenious method they use to build and preserve their floating islands.

Walk on the totora, listen to stories passed down through generations, and appreciate a genuine connection with a culture that has adapted to environmental challenges without sacrificing its identity. This half-day tour is ideal for those seeking a short but intensely meaningful cultural experience, perfect for any type of traveler: families, couples, adventurers, or live history enthusiasts.

Details of the trip.

Itinerary tour Uros Floating Islands Half-Day.

8:20 AM - Hotel pickup in downtown Puno your guide will visit your hotel in downtown Puno to transport you to the lake port. If you're staying outside the central area, a nearby meeting point will be arranged. 8:45 am - Departure by boat from Puno Port You'll board a motorized tourist boat with a capacity for 15 to 30 people. During the 25–30 minute journey, you'll enjoy views of Lake Titicaca, Andean birds, and the city of Puno from the water. 9:15 AM - Arrival at the Uros Floating Islands Upon arrival, an Uro family, native to these floating islands, will welcome you.

You'll attend a cultural explanation (in Spanish or English) where you'll gain knowledge about: the history of the Uro people, the process of building the islands using totora (an aquatic plant), their way of life, food, clothing, and traditions. 9:45 am - Enjoy free time on the island. Interact with local residents, take photos, explore the traditional houses, and purchase handmade crafts. 10:20 AM – Optional totora reed raft ride (not included). If you'd like, you can take a traditional ride on a totora reed raft to another nearby island.

Approximate additional cost: S/ 10 - 15 per person, ride duration: 20 - 25 minutes, 10:45 AM - Return by boat to Puno Port: Board your boat for the return journey, enjoying views of the altiplano and the lake environment. 12:15 PM - Arrival at the port and transfer to your hotel: The transport service will take you back to your hotel or meeting point in the heart of Puno. The tour concludes around 12:30 PM.

Schedule:

Morning Shift: 8:45 AM to 12:30 PM
Mid-day Shift: 11:50 AM to 3:15 PM
Afternoon Shift: 3:50 PM to 6:00 PM

Tour Uros floating Islands includes:

Transfers from hotels in the city center.
Tourist boat.
Spanish/English guide.
Entrance fees.

Tour Uros floating Islands does NOT include:

Tips.
Local raft ride (optional service).

What to bring on the half-day tour to the Uros floating islands.

Windproof and Waterproof Jacket (Windbreaker): This is vital to protect you from the cold lake wind and any unexpected rain or precipitation.

Pants: Opt for comfortable and warm pants. Hiking pants or comfortable jeans are suitable.

Hat or Chullo (Andean Knit Hat): Important for protecting your head and ears from the cold, especially on the boat and islands.

Gloves: A warm pair of gloves will protect your hands from the low temperatures.

Scarf or Neck Gaiter (Buff): Very beneficial for shielding your neck and part of your face from the cold wind.

Comfortable, Closed-Toe Shoes: Sneakers or hiking footwear are perfect. The uneven and soft surfaces of the totora islands require good traction.

Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Apply it generously to all exposed skin.

Sunglasses: Essential to protect your eyes from the intense sun glare and reflections on the water.

Lip Balm with SPF: To prevent sunburn and dryness on your lips.

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes.

Snacks: Even though it's a half-day tour, bringing an energy bar, nuts, or cookies is useful.

Identification Document or Passport: Always carry it with you.

Cash (Peruvian Soles): If you wish to buy handicrafts or souvenirs directly from the Uros inhabitants.

Camera or Smartphone: You'll want it to take photos of the unique scenery.

Small Daypack: To comfortably carry all your personal items (water, snacks, clothing layers, camera).

Shared Tour Service

This group service means you'll do the tour with other people. This standard service operates with a group of 12 to 16 person. We have confirmed departures every day, so if you're traveling alone or with just one other person, don't worry, you can join one of our existing groups.

Starting from: $ 20 USD.

Private Tour Service

This service offers an exclusive way to experience the trip, where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary based on the number of people in your group. Please inquire at info@ausangateadventure.com or WhatsApp +51 914201334.

What are the Uros floating islands?

They are islands built and constructed from totora (an aquatic plant) by the Uro community, who live on Lake Titicaca. These islands float on the water and have been inhabited for hundreds of years. Currently, many families reside there and share their culture with tourists.

Can I experience altitude sickness (soroche) during the tour?

Yes, Puno and Lake Titicaca are at a significant altitude, so you might experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, nausea, or fatigue. We suggest acclimatizing for at least one day in Puno before the tour and drinking plenty of water.

Do I need cash? What for?

Yes, we recommend bringing cash in Peruvian Soles. You'll need it for optional services like the totora reed boat ride, and if you wish to buy handicrafts directly from the locals.

What kind of interaction will I have with the Uros inhabitants?

You'll have a direct and enriching cultural interaction. The Uros will welcome you to their islands, tell you about the construction and maintenance of their totora homes, share their daily activities, and display their handicrafts. You can ask questions and learn about their unique way of life.

Is it suitable for children?

The Uros tour is perfect for children. The experience of walking on the floating islands, observing the totora homes, and interacting with the residents is usually very fascinating and educational for them.

Can I ride a totora reed raft?

Yes, some families offer short rides on their traditional totora reed rafts, but this service is optional and paid separately (between S/10 and S/15 soles per person).

Is it cold during the tour?

It can be cold in the morning, but during the day, it's generally very sunny. The weather changes quickly, so it's advisable to wear a light jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Is it a physically demanding tour?

It's an easy tour suitable for all ages, with no long walks.