Lake Titicaca Information: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Where is Lake Titicaca?

At 3,800 meters (12,465 feet) above sea level, Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable body of water. It’s also the largest lake in South America, with a surface area of 8,372km². Its location is somewhat peculiar – it lies astride the border of Peru (to the west) and Bolivia (to the east).

For this reason, Lake Titicaca can be easily accessed from two countries. The most popular entry point from the Peruvian side is Puno. At the same time, Copacabana is a convenient choice when traveling in Bolivia.

History of Lake Titicaca

What was once a gap left over by an earthquake 50 million years ago became a large body of water due to melting glaciers and constant rainfall around the area. This new lake allowed life to flourish, and as time went on, ancient cultures began calling Lake Titicaca their home. The most notable was the pre-Inca Tiwanaku culture. They thrived from 500 to 1100 AD, where they built temples and monuments to worship gods linked to the sun, moon, and water. Many of the sites still stand today!

As the years went by, the Inca empire began taking control of the region. They believed that their first rulers rose from the depths of the water to form the mighty empire (more on that below).

However, the lake’s significance didn’t end with the Incas. Despite the Spanish colonization, the surrounding communities preserved their traditions as much as possible. Much of this can still be experienced today through their languages, customs, and traditions.

Legends & myths

Lake Titicaca is filled with history, legends, and uncovered mysteries. According to Incan mythology, it’s the birthplace of the first Inca king, Manco Capac.

Another myth says that the creator god emerged from Lake Titicaca before creating the Sun, Moon, and stars. Hence, the romantic nickname is ‘the birthplace of the Sun’.

The mysterious lake has also received its version of the Atlantis legend – rumor has it that there is a lost city under the face of the water. Well… this one proved to be more than just an old wives’ tale when the researchers found underwater ruins of an ancient temple at the bottom of the lake.

So, who knows how many other secrets are still waiting to be uncovered?

When to go & weather

May to September (winter season) is the driest time, making it most convenient to visit Lake Titicaca. December to March (the summer season) is warmer, but there is also a lot more rainfall which can spoil your hiking and sightseeing plans.

To experience the famous Festival de la Virgen de la Candelaria (celebrated both in Puno and Copacabana), you need to schedule your trip for the first two weeks of February.

Looking for a combination of good weather and lower prices? Aim for the shoulder season – April and October don’t see as much rain as the summer, and they tend to be less busy with tourists than the high season.

The lake is located in the Alpine climate, with cold temperatures most of the year. In winter, subzero temperatures are not uncommon (especially at night), and even in summer, you’d be lucky to see above 15 degrees on the thermometer.

So don’t be fooled by the ‘summer season and bring warm clothes regardless of the month you visit.

What make ups the lake

Lakeside towns

The towns on the shores of Lake Titicaca are more than just stopping points. Tourists tend to overlook Puno and head straight for the islands, but there’s plenty to see there. If pastel colonial architecture is your thing, don’t miss out on a stroll around this charming city.

Copacabana boasts an impressive Portuguese Basilica and a laid-back waterfront with views over the lake on the Bolivian side. Well worth a stop!

Islands

The islands are the star attraction at Lake Titicaca. The floating islands (Islas Uros) are the most scenic with their signature reeds, homes, boats, and crafts.

Coming from the Bolivian side, your itinerary will be incomplete without visiting the spring of youth on Isla del Sol. For those interested in local arts, Isla Taquile is a real treat.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Titicaca safe?

Lake Titicaca is one of Peru’s and Bolivia’s safest destinations! Communities are welcoming and many islands and families depend on tourism which is why they heavily enforce all type of safety with the local government.

However, as most tourist hotspots around the world, we recommend to stay on guard for pickpockets. Keep your valuables in a money belt and stay particularly vigilant in crowded places such as bus terminals or train stations. Also, remember that hostels are not always safe, so lock your possessions before leaving them in the room.

When booking tours, make sure it’s with a reputable and certified tour operator. We recommended checking out the Lake Titicaca tours listed on FindLocalTrips, a search and comparison site of the best tours in South America!

Remember that the lake is set at a dizzying altitude (quite literally). If you don’t want to succumb to altitude sickness, take things slow, and allow yourself time to acclimate.

Prevention methods include drinking a lot of water, steering clear of alcohol and cigarettes, and avoiding excessive exercise. You can also try a local altitude sickness remedy – coca tea. It will elevate the headaches and give you a kick of energy comparable to a cup of coffee.

Can you swim in Lake Titicaca?

Swimming in the lake is possible, however, it’s not recommended. The water reaches low temperatures of 10-14°C (50-57°F) and some areas could be contaminated making it hazardous for those who take a dip.

Is it better to see Lake Titicaca in Bolivia or Peru?

Both offer incredible experiences and views of the lake! If possible, you should visit both sides to enjoy everything Lake Titicaca has to offer. But worry not if you can only visit one side, you’ll still have an unforgettable time.

Is Lake Titicaca salty?

This is a widespread question, and the answer is more complicated than yes or no. See, the salinity of the waters of Lake Titicaca is about 5.5 parts per 1,000. Is this a high number? Not compared to seas.

The Mediterranean Sea has 38 parts per 1,000, the Red Sea has 36, and our oceans range between 34 and 36. The Baltic Sea is the least salty sea on Earth, at just ten parts per 1,000.

However, the salinity is much higher than in other lakes, with 0 to 0.5 parts per 1,000. So it’s safe to say that Lake Titicaca will not taste like a sea but is slightly salty.

The historical explanation of why it’s salty it’s because it used to be saltwater. It sits in a sedimentary basin that used to be below sea level, uplifted as the Andes were created. The glacier water and the inflow of 27 rivers made it less and less salty over time.

Are there accommodation options in Lake Titicaca?

Yes! There are many hotels around the lake in Puno and Copacabana, for all budgets. Check out our Lake Titicaca hotels for all the info.

Lake Titicaca Information