Peru

The Lake Titicaca, located between Peru and Bolivia, is one of the highest lakes in the world and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes. It is also an ideal place for kayaking, with many options for beginners and experienced kayakers.

The community of Santa María, near Llachon, is a popular starting point for kayaking trips on Lake Titicaca. From here it is possible to sail to various sites including Taquile, the Titinos islands and the Capachica peninsula.

The different routes

Taquile

A popular option is to take a trip to the island of Taquile, located about 15 kilometres from the community of Santa María. The island is known for its handmade textiles and archaeological remains, and is also a great place to swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. This trip can take a full day, and it is recommended to leave early in the morning to avoid the strong afternoon winds.

Titinos

Another option is to sail to the islands Titinos, located north of the community of Santa María. These small islands are little known to tourists and offer an authentic experience of life on Lake Titicaca. Visitors can meet local fishermen and enjoy the tranquility of the calm waters.

Capachica

A third option is to hike around the Capachica Peninsula, an excursion that can take several days. Hikers can camp on the shores of the lake and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Andes. This trip is recommended for experienced kayakers who are comfortable with changing weather conditions and long distances.

Suasi

The Suasi Island Lodge (islasuasihotel), on the private island of the same name on the north shore of Lake Titicaca (titicaca_lake)**, also offers a kayak tour of the island, which allows for a relaxing time on the waters of the lake in the safety of the island's shores.

Precautions to take

It is important to take certain precautions before kayaking on Lake Titicaca. First of all, it is recommended to choose an experienced local guide to ensure the safety of the navigation. Strong winds and changing weather conditions can make navigation difficult, so it is important to follow the recommendations of your guide.

It is also recommended that a life jacket be worn at all times while sailing. In an emergency, it can save lives and allow you to float on the surface of the water while waiting for help.

It is also important to consider the effects of altitude on the body. The lLake Titicaca is located at an altitude of over 3800 metres, so it is important to acclimatise gradually to the altitude before starting a kayaking trip.

Similarly, the albedo is particularly strong on Lake Titicaca and it is recommended to protect yourself with a full protection sun cream. You should also remember to protect your lips with an appropriate sun protection stick. You should also make sure you have good sunglasses and a head covering to protect your head.

Finally, it is important to respect the surrounding nature and local communities. Avoid leaving rubbish on the shores of the lake or on the islands, and respect the local culture and traditions. By following these precautions, kayakers can enjoy a safe and environmentally friendly navigation experience on Lake Titicaca.

How to get there

From Lima Arequipa or Cusco it is possible to arrive by road by bus or car to Puno or even directly to the community of Llachon and Santa Maria. There are also flights to Juliaca airport and a transfer to the community is necessary. From the port of Puno those interested can arrive by community boat to Llachon or by minibus with local public transport.

Conclusion

In conclusion, kayaking on Lake Titicaca offers a unique experience for water sports and outdoor enthusiasts. The different sailing options, such as trips to Taquile, the Titinos islands and the Capachica Peninsula, offer different experiences for different levels of kayaking skill. With its crystal clear waters and breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes, the Lake Titicaca is an ideal place for kayaking enthusiasts looking for an exceptional sailing experience.