Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca straddles the border between Bolivia and Peru and is arguably one of the most fascinating lakes in the world and certainly one of the most scenic. Situated at over 3,800 metres above sea level, it is the highest navigable lake in the world and it is also surrounded on all sides by the vast peaks of the Andes.  For the Inca civilisation it is a sacred place, as the first Inca king, Manco Capac, was born here. Incan mythology also has it that the world was created here, when the God Viracocha came out of the lake and created the sun, the stars and the first people.

On the Bolivian side of the lake lies the town of Copacabana, home to a beautiful 16th century shrine, the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana and also a great place to taste trout caught in the lake. Also on this side is Lake Titicaca's largest island, Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun). While there are no roads on the island, there are over 180 ruins from the Incan period, making it well worth a visit during your holiday to Bolivia. Make the breath-taking climb up to the summit of the island at sunset for astonishing 360 degree views of the lake and the peaks all around or just admire the views from the garden of your simple accommodation on the island. From here you can also venture to some traditional communities living on floating reed islands that see considerably fewer tourists than their Peruvian neighbours.