Uros Floating Islands

Travel Guide

Uros Floating Islands which includes a small town or village and a lake or waterhole
Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca which includes a small town or village as well as a small group of people
Uros Floating Islands featuring a lake or waterhole and a small town or village
Lake Titicaca which includes a small town or village and a lake or waterhole

Interact with the Uros people, who live on man-made islands fashioned from totora reeds, a plant which grows around Lake Titicaca’s shoreline. 

The unusual and unique Uros Floating Islands are among the most popular destinations in Lake Titicaca. Find out how the islanders create and take care of their woven reed constructions, which are fabricated entirely by hand from reeds.

Though the Uros people have long lived in this region, their woven islands only came about with the rise of the Inca civilization and other tribes. In order to protect themselves, the Uros people crafted their own floating territories, which could be easily moved in order to avoid any aggressors.

Take a boat trip out to the islands to see the woven constructions up close. Each island is made from layers of totora, a reed that thrives in the shallows of the lake. The islands need constant maintenance as the lower layers break down in the water. Note the spongy feeling of the reed floor of the islands.

Many of the islands’ other constructions, including houses and, on the biggest island, a watchtower, are also built from reeds. Browse the goods on sale by the locals. Colorful patterned textile goods, such as blankets, hats and clothes, are commonly sold as are woven handicrafts.

Bring your camera to photograph the striking islands. While there, remember to be respectful of the local people, some of whom may not wish to be photographed.

Most ferries to the Uros islands stop at the main island of Kamisaraki, where you’ll find accommodations in woven hut-like structures. Eco-friendly accommodations are also available on Isla Khantati. Hop on board one of locals’ canoe-like reed boats for a small fee to travel between the islands. Many of these rafts feature impressive carved dragon heads.

The Uros Islands are located around 4 miles (7 kilometers) east of Puno. Ferries and private tour boats depart regularly from the port in Puno. Boats en route to Isla Taquile and Amantanífrequently make stops in Uros too. For some extra context on the Uros community, consider visiting with a guide who will explain the history, customs and practices of the Uros people.

Uros Amaru Marka Lodge - Lake Titikaka

Uros Amaru Marka Lodge - Lake Titikaka

Puno
Stay at this vacation home in Puno. Enjoy free WiFi and patios. Popular attractions Esteves Island and Yavari are located nearby.
"Experiencia única la oportunidad de convivir y aprender con nuestros anfitriones. El agua caliente no llega a nuestro cuarto por lo que hay que usar un baño exterior pero aun con ese inconveniente la amabilidad y actitud de servicio en todo momento compensó ese detalle."

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2021

Uros Amaru Marka Lodge - Lake Titikaka
UROS AMARU MARKA FLOATING EXPERIENCE family room

UROS AMARU MARKA FLOATING EXPERIENCE family room

Puno
Stay at this houseboat in Puno. Enjoy free WiFi and patios. Popular attractions Esteves Island and Yavari are located nearby.
"We visited the place at the end of August. We had a wonderful experience. Felix went above and beyond to accommodate for us. We got to the lake very late, around 10 PM but Felix was still nice and picked us up from the lake sure. The tour the day after was great and the breakfast was very good. The ..."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2024

UROS AMARU MARKA FLOATING EXPERIENCE family room
Los Uros, Puno Titicaca

Los Uros, Puno Titicaca

Puno
Stay at this vacation home in Puno. Enjoy free breakfast, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Esteves Island and Yavari are located nearby.
7/10 Good! (2 reviews)
"Communication prior to arrival difficult. We were given a short boat tour, without being asked, and later charged for it, as was each boat trip. Property not the one advertised and rented, it was much smaller..Just as we were leaving we were presented with 90 45 soles in extra charges, which had ..."

Reviewed on Feb 21, 2025

Los Uros, Puno Titicaca
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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