Lake Titicaca is a unique location that you can visit from either Peru or Bolivia. For that reason, there are plenty of ways to get here. Here is the complete guide to all the different methods to get to Lake Titicaca from both countries!
Quick tips to keep in mind:
- Each side of the lake has its charm – make sure to enjoy the most of them.
- Flights are the least recommended option. High costs & additional planning can become stressful quickly.
- If coming from Peru, most travelers recommend Peru Hop.
- Day Trips from Cusco & Day Trips from La Paz are great options for those looking to visit the lake quickly.
Note: The main access point to the lake in Peru is through Puno and in Bolivia its through Copacabana.
Quick links: By bus | By plane | By train | By day trips |
Quick links:
Getting to Lake Titicaca by bus
It’s the option chosen by most travelers on both countries. Let’s go into more detail.
In Peru
There are connections between Puno and most major tourist cities such as Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. You can opt for public buses or more traveler-friendly options (suggested).
- Public buses (best for locals who make the journey daily)
- Peru Hop (traveler-friendly option)
- Inka Express (touristic bus from Cusco to Puno)
Public buses are a common option for local passengers who tend to make the journey daily and are not focused on tourists. Some include many stops to pick up and drop off passengers, making the journey a few hours longer. Do your research and always check TripAdvisor reviews or search “’company name’ accidents” to find any recent news. Recommended options are Cruz del Sur and Civa.
We mention Peru Hop as a more traveler-friendly option as they are known to understand travelers’ needs and the fact that they provide care for passengers that many public buses don’t. The unique hop-on, hop-off system offers their passengers complete flexibility on their trip while still helping them discover the best of each place.
They have daily departures from Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco.Other benefits include bilingual, local guides onboard every bus sharing tips and stories, free tours at unique stops, comfort, and safety to name a few.
Note for those planning to cross the border onto Bolivia: Peru Hop will help with the process and necessary paperwork for a swift entry. It can be a dreadful experience, so having that extra help is a great bonus.
Inka Express is a great option for those in Cusco. More of a touristic bus, their service runs a unique route known as the Ruta del Sol (Sun Route) from Cusco to Puno. Throughout the journey, you’ll stop at Inca ruins and other sites that would be missed if you were traveling any other way.
In Bolivia
You can only get to Copacabana from La Paz. Unlike Peru, there are fewer reliable bus options. What makes this journey much more interesting is that you’ll catch a quick ride on a small ferry across the Strait of Tiquina, a thin body of water that separates Copacabana from the rest of Bolivia.
- Public buses (best for locals who make the journey daily)
- Peru Hop (traveler-friendly option)
As you might’ve guessed it, Bolivia Hop is Peru Hop’s sister company from the Bolivian side. They offer all the same services and provided the much needed border-crossing assistance for those going into Peru.
Keep in mind about Peru & Bolivia buses:
- Travel times listed by public bus companies are on the more optimistic side. In reality, Peruvian and Bolivian public buses are frequently delayed. Be especially prepared for delays when crossing the Peru-Bolivian border on a public bus.
- Be attentive to your belongings if traveling on a public bus with pick-up/drop-off stops.
- Choose a reputable bus company. The roads can be windy and steep which is why it’s important to prioritize safety over everything else.
- Traveler-friendly options make the trip stress-free and more enjoyable.
- If the cost of a bus ticket is cheap, it’s probably best to be avoided.
Getting to Lake Titicaca by plane
It’s not possible to get to Copacabana or Puno by plane.
However, on the Peruvian side, there is the option to fly to the Juliaca, located 44km (28 miles) from Puno, and then take a taxi or bus. Departures to Juliaca are only available from Lima and Cusco.
Unfortunately, due to the remoteness and low airline competition, flights to Juliaca are more expensive than other routes. Once there, organizing the journey to Puno isn’t any easier. It could be a 3-hour journey on a cramped taxi or bus through windy, unkept roads.
Many travelers, including Peruvians, avoid this option, and it’s easy to see why!
Getting to Lake Titicaca by train
If you want a proper old-fashioned adventure, pick a luxury sleeper train that crosses the stunning Peruvian landscapes on the way. Prices start from $270 for the 10-hour ride and departures are only available on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
If you have the budget for such experience, we strongly recommend it! Check out our Train to Lake Titicaca page for more info.
Day Trips to Lake Titicaca
Day trips are the perfect option to visit the lake in a short amount of time. Options are available on both sides and you get best of both ends.
Day trips from Cusco offer experiences on the Peruvian side. You’ll head to the famous artificial floating islands of Uros. These islands are in the middle of the lake, and we assure you you won’t find anything like it elsewhere! Homestay experiences are also available, where you’ll spend the night with a local family on one of the islands.
Day trips from La Paz include visiting Isla del Sol. You’ll have the chance to explore the mythical island known as the birthplace of the Inca. Options to spend the night on the island are also available.
