Peru is a culturally diverse country comprising ancestral customs, Andean mysticism and catholic traditions. Lake Titicaca, for example, is one of the most important regions of the country, since it holds some of the oldest communities in our country, as well as being the highest navigable lake in the world.
If you’re looking to experience a part of our extensive culture, you should definitely stay over at Amantani Island, one of the natural islands in this massive water body, which allows visitors to get fully immersed in the cultural expression of its inhabitants.
For those who may not know, Lake Titicaca holds an ancient mysticism, since according to Incan culture, it was the birthplace of the Wiracocha god and the first Inca ruler. Therefore, this is the perfect place to know another side of this powerful empire’s heritage.
Besides, the tranquil deep-blue waters of the lake will take you on a spiritual journey, while also letting you connect with nature on a deeper level. The Amantani Homestay offers a glimpse at the local daily life of the island, here we’ll tell you everything about it!
About Amantani Island
Isla Amantani is the largest natural island on the Peruvian side of the lake, extending over 9 km2 and housing about 10 quechua-speaking communities across the entire region. It is located 40 kilometers away from Puno and can be easily reached on a 2-hour boat trip.
The island comprises an authentic setting completely isolated from the outskirts of Lake Titicaca. Long before the Inca civilization, two cultures ruled these lands, leaving spectacular agricultural terraces that have been worked on ever since.
Nowadays, local farmers use these terraced hillsides to plant wheat, quinoa, potatoes and other vegetables. The low-pacing life of the island will leave you captivated from as soon as you glance at it. Each family contributes to the economy of the island in different aspects, something you’ll know about with the homestay experience.
Isla Amantani has an extensive cultural expression influenced by ancient societies and also the Spanish conquest. However, the Andean mysticism has remained deeply-rooted in the hearts of a society that fought hard to keep their ancestral culture alive.
Although the peasant dress imposed by the Spanish colonizers got stuck on their day-to-day attire, they modified it in such a way where they represent many of their traditions, beliefs and identity with beautiful patterns and colors.
Also, the island holds two archeological sites called Pachamama and Pachatata, these are closed all year round except for the third thursday of january, when they celebrate and perform a gratitude ritual to Earth and Heaven. Tourists are welcome to see the ceremony and also watch the sunrise from the Pachamama Archeological Site.
Amantani Island Homestay Experience
Our homestay experience doesn’t only take you to Amantani Island since the itinerary will allow you to experience other attractions on the way there. On this trip, you’ll get to visit the Uros Floating Islands, a group of over 100 man made islands built entirely of totora reed, here you’ll learn about their construction process and the daily local life of its inhabitants.
The Uros community is one of the oldest of the country since their cultural expression is believed to be about 3,000 years old, although their original dialect is already extinct. These man made islands are built entirely with totora reed, an aquatic plant that grows in the lake, and have been constructed since pre-Inca times.
Later, we’ll go all the way to Amantani Island, where you’ll be surrounded by the unique scenery of the place. Here you’ll get involved in their daily activities, immersing yourself in the lively culture of the islanders.
The accommodation in Amantani island is basic, remember that you’ll be staying with a local family that doesn’t speak English. However, they will be very happy to welcome you into their world and teach you a bit more of their daily activities and ancient beliefs.
Remember that this island is completely isolated from the outside world, some buildings may not have electricity or running water. The economy of Amantani mostly depends on agricultural production and tourism.
If you want to bring a gift for your hosts, it’s much better to bring food staples or school supplies, rather than sweets or sugar. It’s difficult to get dental care on Amantani.
Also, you’ll be able to trek all the way up to one of the archeological sites of the islands so you can watch the sunset from the highest point of the lake located over 4,000 meters above sea level.
On the next day, you’ll explore the authentic Taquile island, a place full of ancient traditions home to the most beautiful traditional textiles in the region. This island is known as the happiest place on Lake Titicaca thanks to their life philosophy.
Taquileans run their society based on the Inca moral code “Ama sua, ama llulla, ama quella,” which means “do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy.” Their economy is almost entirely based on tourism though agriculture and fishing are part of the community’s assets.
Life in Taquile is very simple and offers the perfect setting for those looking to relax and disconnect from the outside world. Taquileans are used to foreigners and are eager to show their ancient traditions to anyone willing to learn from them.
Would you like to experience Lake Titicaca at its fullest? Contact our travel specialists and make your way through the vast lake titicaca like a local expert. If you’d like to know more about the many things to do in Peru, we encourage you to check our travel packages and start planning your dream vacation!