{"id":24019,"date":"2015-11-02T11:45:35","date_gmt":"2015-11-02T11:45:35","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.mapsofworld.com\/travel\/?p=24019"},"modified":"2022-09-19T10:58:04","modified_gmt":"2022-09-19T10:58:04","slug":"lake-titicaca","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mapsofworld.com\/travel\/destinations\/bolivia\/lake-titicaca\/","title":{"rendered":"Lake Titicaca, South America"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n
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\"Lake<\/a>

Lake Titicaca is among the highest navigable lakes in the world<\/p><\/div>\n

With a looming backdrop of Cordillera Real mountain range under azure sky, Lake Titicaca is draped in mythology of ancient civilizations. A haven for ecotourists, this lake is named so for its shape resembling a leaping puma. To unfold the mystery of traditional villages and unique customs, get down to this divine landscape that exudes a rich history. The originality and true essence of this place remain unchanged for many centuries with indigenous people (descendants of pre-Columbian empires) leading self-sufficient lives as craftsmen and fishermen.<\/p>\n

History<\/span><\/h2>\n

Before being conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century, this region was home to the Inca Empire and the birthplace of King Manco Capac. This is the place where, according to the Incan Mythology, God Viracocha appeared from the lake and created the world. In 2000, an international archaeological expedition found an ancient temple submerged in the depths of the Lake.<\/p>\n

Things to Do in Lake Titicaca<\/span><\/h2>\n

Taking a ride in ubiquitous puma-head boats, staying overnight in one of the islands, and soaking the native folklore, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers are drawn to this place to see Islas Flotantes, otherwise known as the Lake Titicaca Floating Islands.<\/p>\n

The Floating Islands<\/span> \u2013<\/strong> A group of around 44 artificial islands is the main point of interest in the lake. Deeply immersed in cultural inheritance of the Uros people, these islands are made of local totora reeds. Day tours from Puno to these islands offer an insight into local spiritual practices and ethereal way of living. Amantani and Taquile are two other remarkable islands, located in Peruvian side of the lake.<\/p>\n

On the Bolivian side, Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) is home to about 800 families. On the rocky terrain of this island in Challapampa village, over 180 ruins, Chinkana (a labyrinthine structure), and several sacred sites of the Inca Empire are present. Isla de la Luna (Island of the moon), inhabited by Tiwanaku people, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its Aymara cultural value, Inca steps, and a fountain of youth. Suriki Island is perhaps the last place in this region where locals still produce reed boats.<\/p>\n

Shopping<\/span> \u2013<\/strong> Less than 10-minute walk from the shore to railroad tracks, every Saturday, local residents hold a public market in Puno. Fruits, vegetables, Peruvian potatoes, and woolen clothing are the highlights in about dozen streets of this open-air market.<\/p>\n

Wildlife<\/span> \u2013<\/strong> Titicaca National Reservation is a diverse ecosystem and home to waterfowls and birds (Puna Ibis, Chilean flamingo, and Grebe); mammals (Andean Wild Wolf, Llama, and Alpaca); fishes and endemic giant frogs.<\/p>\n

Nearby Attractions<\/span><\/h2>\n

Titicaca National Reservation, Zona Reservada Cerro Khapia, Sillustani, and Salar de Unuyi<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Where is Lake Titicaca?<\/span><\/h2>\n

This landlocked lake spans across the Altiplano region in the Andes on the border of Bolivia (eastern side) and Peru (western side).<\/p>\n