Lake Titicaca is one of the prides of Peru. During this tour you’ll explore the lake’s floating Uro Islands and encounter an indigenous Quechua-speaking group on Taquile Island.

The Uros Islands are probably unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. The islands, which are about a 20-minute boat ride from Puno, are made up of giant piles of reeds that are anchored to the lake bottom. The reed, or tótora, is cut and continually replaced to keep the lake afloat. The scenery here – with the bright blue waters of Lake Titicaca shining in the background – is absolutely spectacular.

The Uros people are thought to have fled to these islands to escape forced labor in the Spanish mines. The locals still have a simple existence, fishing in huge tótora rafts adorned with dragon heads.

After visiting the Uros Islands, your tour continues on to Taquile Island, which is located about 22 miles (35 km) from Puno. The island is inhabited by about 2,000 Quechua speaking locals and offers travelers a good look at indigenous life. The island is small and has a few beaches and simple pre-Inca ruins. While here you’ll admire some impressive handicrafts and enjoy lunch.