tour isla del sol bolivia

A Guide To Isla del Sol, Lake Titicaca

A short boat trip from the lakeside town of Copacabana , Isla del Sol is a beautiful place teeming with archaeological marvels. Over 80 ruins can be found sprawled across the rugged 70 sq km island – remnants of the Inca civilization that lived there in the 15th century AD – as well as approximately 800 indigenous families who live in small villages dispersed throughout the island.

Bolivia travel tips Isla del Sol can be visited in a short amount of time, make sure to have it on your travel bucket list! Many travelers continue their journey to Peru. Make sure to check out Bolivia Hop , considered the best way to travel between Bolivia and Peru. Nearly everyone visits Bolivia for the salt flats. Check out the official Salar de Uyuni website for all the information you’ll need.

Photo Credit: Milou

With no motorised traffic, Isla del Sol’s main sites can only be accessed on foot via a network of rocky trails leading from one side of the island to the other. The village of Yumani, located on the south side, is the largest and most developed settlement, making it a popular layover for tourists spending the night. Cha’llapampa, on the northern side is where the gold museum and majority of ruins are located. And Cha’lla, on the central east coast, is a more rural dwelling, backing onto a beautiful sandy beach.

Photo Credit: Jenny Mealing

While Isla del Sol can be visited in a day, it’s highly recommend to spend at least a night or two in order to really appreciate what the island has to offer. Needless to say, accommodation on the island can be fairly spartan, however what Isla del Sol lacks in modern comforts, it makes up for in spectacular sunrises and sunsets.

Revered as the most important site within Inca mythology, Isla del Sol is well worth a visit for anyone interested in spectacular scenery and spiritual surrounds.

The Legend Of Isla del Sol

Photo Credit: Jean-Marie Prival

According to Incan lore, Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) is both the birthplace of their revered Sun God and the world’s first two Incas.

Story has it that following a great flood, the province of Lake Titicaca was plunged into a long period of darkness. After many days, the bearded god Viracocha arose from the depths of Lake Titicaca, traveling to Isla del Sol where he not only commanded the sun to rise, but created the world’s first two Incas; Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo (the Adam and Eve of the Andes).

While the story is indeed dramatic, it’s fair to say that the Incas didn’t actually originate on the shores of Lake Titicaca. A more realistic version is that in the mid fifteenth century the Incas invaded the island – wresting control from the rulers of the time – and created the story in an attempt to not only justify their reign, but to identify themselves with the pre-existing Tiwanaku civilization whom they considered to be a great source of religious and ideological identity.

Getting There And Away

Photo Credit: Mauro Gambini

The only way to get to Isla del Sol is via the glimmering waters of Lake Titicaca.

Several tour companies in Copacabana offer daily boat services to the island all departing around the same time: 8.30am or 1.30pm. Rates may vary slightly depending on which tour company you travel with. You can purchase your ticket from kiosks down on the waterfront or from one of the many tour agencies in the town.

From Copacabana it takes one and a half hours to get to Yumani on the south side then a further half hour to get to Cha’llapampa on the north side. When purchasing a ticket make sure to check if your boat transfer includes a stop at the side of the island on which you wish to disembark.

If you’re starting your trip in La Paz, we recommend checking out this Full Day Tour of Copacabana and Isla del Sol , where you’ll get to enjoy the best of both in just 1 day!

Photo Credit: James & Christina

The pleasant boat journey can be enjoyed from either inside the lower deck or from the open air upper deck; a good option for those suffering from motion sickness. It’s also possible to purchase drinks and snacks during the boat ride which you’ll be required to pay for at the end of your trip.

Tip: those wanting to escape the crowds can hire a private charter to and from Isla del Sol. Prices vary (around Bs 300 – 700) depending on your itinerary, so it’s worth shopping around in Copacabana before making a booking.

Bolivian Life Quick Tip:

As voted the best way to travel around Bolivia and Peru, we highly recommend choosing Bolivia Hop as your means of transport. Their local guides have plenty of knowledge about the best tours and even assist passengers with booking one while on the road!

For those looking to visit Isla del Sol on a day trip, your only option is to take the morning boat. The majority of tours go to the north side of the island first where you can spend a couple of hours exploring the main ruins before returning at 1pm to take a boat to the south side. Here you’ll have a further hour or so to explore the sights, eat lunch, and make your way back down to the port in time for departure.

If you’re the outdoors type, rather than take the boat you can hike the length of the island (approx. 3 hours), making sure to reach the south side by 4pm in order to take the boat back to Copacabana.

A number of tour companies also offer half day excursions which include a brief stop on the southern end of the island. While an okay option for those short on time, be aware that with these tours most of your time is spent on the boat.

Overnight Trips

Travelers wanting to spend at least one night on Isla de Sol can take either the morning or afternoon boat, disembarking on either side of the island.

Taking the morning boat will allow you enough time to hike to the other side in the same day. The afternoon boat however only gives you a couple of hours on the island before the sun begins to set, so you’ll have to save the hike for the following morning.

When you’re ready to leave Isla del Sol, boats from the north side will leave for Copacabana at around 1pm and from the south side at around 10am and 4pm. Always make sure to verify this information when purchasing your ticket as schedules do change.

We’ve been told my many travelers that this 2 Day Trip to Isla del Sol from La Paz is a great option with daily departures and great assistance from their team.

What To See And Do

There are two main points of arrival at Isla del Sol: Cha’llapampa in the north, and Yumani in the south. While you can start your hike at either end of the island, those wanting to spend the night on Isla del Sol may want to organise their layover to coincide with Yumani, home to most of the island’s guesthouses and restaurants.

There are two paths connecting the island’s north and south: Willa Thaki (also know as the Sacred Route of the Enternal Sun) is a trail running along the backbone of the island from Yumani all the way to the Chincana ruins, providing magnificent views of the coast on either side. The second trail continues along the east coast via the village of Cha’llapampa, passing small settlements along the way.

Photo Credit: Rachael Taft

Hiking the rocky and hilly trails, you’ll pass by agricultural terraces, serene beaches (which are a little too cold to swim), grazing animals, tiny settlements, giant eucalyptus trees and cacti. Magnificent views of Cordillera Real’s snow-capped peaks will stop you in your tracks, as will sweeping panoramic views of Lake Titicaca. Along the way are small kiosks where you can purchase drinks and snacks as well as public toilets which can be used for a small fee at some of the smaller settlements.

Photo Credit: Brennan Paezold

Taking a total of three hours, the hike is divided into two segments separated by a checkpoint. Yumani to the checkpoint is around 2 hours and from the checkpoint to Cha’llapampa it’s a further hour – depending of course on your level of fitness and how long you designate for exploring the sites.

Boats depart for Copacabana from Yumani around 4pm so it’s imperative you leave yourself plenty of time to complete the hike if you don’t wish to spend the night on the island. Keep in mind that Isla del Sol is some 3500 meters above sea level (4000 meters at its peak), so altitude sickness may affect the speed at which you can undertake the hike.

Tip: to make navigating the island easier, leave your main luggage in storage at your hotel in Copacabana, taking just a day bag instead.

As voted the best way to travel around Bolivia and Peru, we highly recommend choosing Bolivia Hop as your means of transport. Their safe, flexible and trustworthy service have proven to be the best way of getting the most out of your time in South America!

Museo del Oro

Located in the centre of Cha’llapampa is a tiny, but fascinating museum displaying artifacts that have been recovered from around Isla del Sol and under the waters of Lake Titicaca. Among the museum’s collection is pottery, stone boxes, and solid gold and silver figurines of both Tiwanaku and Incan origin.

Entrance fee: Bs 10 / $1.40 (also covers entry into the Chincana and Pillkukayna ruins so be sure to hold onto your ticket).

Tip: There is also a public bathroom next to the museum (the last you will see for a while) which you can use for Bs 1 / $0.15

Archealogical Ruins

Photo Credit: Médéric

There are over 80 ruins scattered throughout Isla del Sol, most of which date to the Inca period; around 15th century AD. However, based on archaeologists’ discoveries, there is evidence to suggest that people lived on the island as far back as the third millennium BC.

Tip: To get the most out of your experience, it is worth hiring a local guide once on the island to explain in more detail the history behind each of the archaeological sites. Guides cost around Bs 30 / $4 US and can be found greeting tourists at the island’s ports.

Northside Ruins

North of Cha’llapampa are the island’s main ruins which you can reach by hiking along the old Inca road:

Titikala: this apparently puma-shaped crag was believed by the Incas to be the origin and true dwelling place of the sun. As a result, the rock was consecrated and made a place of worship, where offerings such as chicha (corn beer), gold, silver and occasionally human children, were made. Once the destination of Incan pilgrims, this sacred rock is where Lake Titicaca derives its name.

Huellas del Sol: Translated in English as Footprints of the Sun, these foot-shaped prints on the track leading away from Cha’llapampa are believed to have been created when the sun walked from the Sacred Rock to light the world.

Chincana: meaning “place where one gets lost”, the labyrinth-like complex is one of Isla del Sol’s most impressive ruins. Palacio del Inco is Chincana’s main feature comprising of a maze of stone walls, rectangular rooms and tiny passageways. Based on the door-like outlines seen on the walls of the uppermost tiers, it’s believed that some of the palace’s rooms even had second floors. Inside the complex is also a small well which the Incas believed to bring health to all who drank from it. To top it all off, Chincana offers picturesque views of nearby Tikani Ridge (a charming deserted bay) and Isla Chuyu.

Mesa Ceremonica: a ceremonial table made of carved stone where animal and human sacrifices are said to have been made. Because the cut rocks aren’t actually in their original positions, (as indicated by old photographs) it’s hard to say whether the table was in fact used for such purposes. Today the table is also used by locals to display their handicrafts to passer-bys

Tip: The hike between Chincana (located on the most northern tip of the island) and the port at Cha’llapampa takes around an hour, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time if you need to be on the 1pm boat back to Yumani/Copacabana.

Southside Ruins

Photo Credit: Antoine 49

Pillkukayna: a surprisingly well preserved two story high temple which was built into the side of a cliff more than twenty meters above Lake Titicaca.

The Inca Steps: starting at Isla del Sol’s south port is a steep staircase of more than 200 steps leading up to the village of Yumani. Built by the Incas, the stairway also leads to a sacred fountain said to be a fountain of youth.

The Fountain of the Inca: a natural water source containing three separate spouts which the Incas referred to as “Ama sua, Ama Kella and Ama Llulla”, translated in English as “Don’t be lazy, don’t be a liar, don’t be a thief”. Commonly referred to as the “Fountain of Youth”, it’s believed anybody drinking from the fountain’s water will remain forever young.

The locals on Isla del Sol rely heavily upon tourism. To help fuel their economy tourists are required to pay several small fees, the proceeds of which are intended for community projects around the island:

Local Guide: Bs 30 / $4 US.
Entrance to Museo del Oro: Bs 10 / $1.40 (also covers entry into the Chincana and Pillkukayna ruins so be sure to hold onto your ticket).
Central Checkpoint: Bs 2 / $0.30 US.
Entrance to Yumani: Bs 5 / $0.70 US.
Aymara Blessing: For a unique experience on the north side of Isla del Sol, you can pay Bs 20 / $3 US to receive a blessing from an Aymara priest.
Public Toilets: Bs. 4 / $0.60 US.

Where To Sleep

Photo Credit: David Clow

In order to gain the most out of your time on Isla del Sol, it’s recommended to spend a night or two on the island. Keep in mind that while conditions on Isla del Sol are for the most part clean and adequate, they can be quite basic (slow WiFi, limited hot water, no heating, etc). – so make sure to adjust your expectations accordingly. Also note that prices on Isla del Sol are higher than in Copacabana.

South Island Accommodation

Palla Khasa: Friendly staff, hot water showers, large bungalow rooms, complementary breakfast as well as mules that can bring your bags to the beach when you are ready to leave (for approx. Bs 20). Palla Khasa while more expensive than some of the other places in the south, is worth it for the view, style and comfort. Do be aware that the guesthouse is a short 500 meter walk from the centre of Yumani.

Casa de la Luna A lovely hostel with large, well-equipped rooms all featuring a private bathroom with free toiletries, bed linen and towels. Onsite at the hostel is a bar, a restaurant featuring local cuisine, a 24-hour front desk, a garden, and a terrace with fantastic views over the lake.

Hostal del Sol: Basic but friendly hostel with spacious rooms, complementary breakfast and spectacular views over Lake Titicaca. The hostel is located atop a very steep hill so you may wish to organize a donkey in advance for your luggage.

Hostel Inka Pacha: Belonging to Hostelling International, this very basic yet cheap hostel provides guests with comfortable private and shared rooms, tasty meals (including trucha – trout fresh from the lake) and panoramic views over Lake Titicaca and the Cordillera Real.

Central Island Accommodation

Ecolodge La Estancia: An ecological building with thatched roof cottages and a beautiful terrace overlooking the lake. Only 20 minutes walk from Yumani, La Estancia offers guests comfortable rooms with heating and private bathrooms as well as a complementary buffet-style breakfast each morning and very friendly service. They also have an onsite restaurant.

North Island Accommodation

Willka Kuti Hostal: Just a 3-minute walk from local restaurants, Willka Kuti Hostal offers clean and comfortable rooms with hot showers right on the beach. Staff are very friendly and the views are unbeatable.

Where To Eat

While most of Isla del Sol’s guest houses have their own in-house restaurants, there are a couple of places in Yumani worth venturing out for:

Las Velas: one of the best options for dining on the island, the charming restaurant serves delicious homemade pizzas and pastas as well as more traditional South American options including llama meat and fresh trout. Meals can be enjoyed from tables overlooking Lake Titicaca, perfect for enjoying a beautiful sunset over a glass of wine. The restaurant is accessed via a short walk through the forest so make sure to bring a flash-light if walking back at night.

Directions: turn right just before the steps down to the dock and follow the signs to the eucalyptus woods.

Inti Jalanta: serves a great set menu of soup, grilled trout and a desert. While simple in décor, the restaurant provides tasty cuisine in a friendly setting with amazing views over Lake Titicaca.

Tip: If you’re only doing a day trip, many places in Copacabana will sell you a lunch box to take with you to Isla del Sol

Best Time To Visit

While Isla del Sol can be visited year round, the best time to visit the island is during the dry season from May to September. The average temperatures range from 16 to 17°C (60 to 63°F). Very occasional the Lake Titicaca area experiences high winds, at which time the Navy closes the port for safety reasons. Unfortunately predicting high winds is difficult, so the decision as to whether the ports stay open usually happens on the day.

Useful Resources

Photo Credit: Felipe Ernesto

It should be noted that some people visiting Isla del Sol may find the island’s ruins to be a bit of a let down compared to say that of Machu Picchu and Tiwanaku. What makes these ruins impressive however is not their size or scope, but instead the history and myths that surround them.

Therefore, in order to gain the most out of your time on Isla del Sol, it’s recommended to read Charles Stanish’s book Lake Titicaca: Legend, Myth and Science , which provides an excellent introduction to the Inca and pre-Inca civilizations which flourished around the region. Not only will you find the lavishly illustrated book incredibly fascinating, but knowing the facts and stories behind Isla del Sol will make your trip to the island that extra bit more special!

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Yumani is the main village at the south end of the island. Most boats drop you at the village’s dock, about 200m downhill from the town proper. The small…

Escalera del Inca

Just uphill from the ferry dock at Yumani, along the beautifully reconstructed Escalera del Inca (Inca stairway), you’ll pass plenty of terraced gardens,…

Pilko Kaina

This prominent ruins complex near the southern tip of the island is about 30 minutes (2km) south by foot from Yumani. It sits well camouflaged against a…

Mirador Palla Khasa

Follow the well-signposted path from Yumani's ridgeline up to this small stone lookout atop Cerro Palla Khasa (4065m) for sweeping sunset views over the…

Fuente del Inca

Early Spaniards believed Yumani’s spring was a fountain of youth and for the Incas the three streams represented their national motto: Ama sua, Ama llulla…

This lighthouse on the tip of Kakayo-Queña Ridge is technically in an area tourists are allowed to visit, though access by land has been cut off by the…

Chincana Ruins

Isla del Sol's most spectacular ruins lie near the island’s northern tip. Its main feature is the Palacio del Inca, a maze of stone walls and tiny…

This agreeable little village stretches along a magnificent sandy beach that could be straight out of a holiday brochure for the Greek islands. The…

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LAKE TITICACA & ISLA DEL SOL - 2 DAYS

Discover the allure of Lake Titicaca on this trip that takes you from La Paz to idyllic Isla del Sol (Sun Island) and back in two days. With the towering peaks of the Cordillera Real as a backdrop, the striking blue waters of Lake Titicaca will leave you in awe as you take in the views from the place deemed sacred in Inca history. This trip is not to be missed if you are a fond of jaw-dropping nature and authentic culture

COPACABANA & SOUTHERN ISLA DEL SOL

Early pick up in La Paz for a scenic drive by minivan across the Altiplano en route to Lake Titicaca. On the way, enjoy scenic stops to contemplate the sapphire-blue waters of the lake and the snow peaks of Cordillera Real (Royal Mountain Range).

Arrival in the town of Copacabana around noon. Follow your guide for a brief town tour and its famous Cathedral before enjoying lunch.

After lunch, set out on a relaxing boat ride to Isla del Sol (approx. 1.5 hrs.). Upon arriving, explore the ruins of Pilcocaina - a modest Incan temple with lots of history and impressive views. Later, hike your way to the top of the island for unmatched views of the Lake and Cordillera Real.

Enjoy a surreal sunset and a tranquil evening at your accommodation.

ACCOMMODATION BASIC: Simple room in local lodge. Private room & bathroom STANDARD: Upgraded accommodation in comfortable lodge with private room, bathroom and hot shower. PLUS: A private cabin at Ecolodge La Estancia with private bathroom, hot shower and meals onsite.

MEALS TRADITIONAL BUFFET LUNCH, DINNER

YUMANI, INCA STAIRWAY & FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH

The second day of our trip will see us enjoying an early moderate hike to the highest viewpoint in the southern part of the island to view a different perspective of the Lake and the Andean mountains.

We later visit Yumani village and have the opportunity to participate in a cultural activity hosted by a local family where traditional life is explained and displayed in the forms of music, traditions, agricultural products and colorful dresses (optional activity, must be added at the time of booking. Click here for more information). The rest of the morning is spent climbing down the famous Inca Stairway and learning about the Fountain of Youth.

Enjoy lunch in a privileged location on the island with awe-inspiring views of the lake amid nature before setting off on the return boat ride to Copacabana (1.5 hrs. approx).

From Copacabana, make your way back to La Paz admiring the natural beauty of the region while driving back.

Arrive in La Paz between 6 and 8 PM, depending on traffic in the city.

We will drop you off back in your accommodation or your selected drop off location (excluding the southern district known as “Zona Sur”).

ACCOMMODATION NONE

MEALS BREAKFAST, LUNCH

IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?

Ideal if you want to get to know Isla del Sol but don’t have a lot of time
No roads exist on the island. You must climb stairs and some uphill footpaths
If you have a knee or severe health condition, this trip is not recommended
Ideal if you enjoy moderate hikes on rugged terrain
This trip is ideal to wind down and enjoy the tranquility of Isla del Sol and Lake Titicaca
Note that there are no roads on Isla del Sol and all major attractions and your accommodation are located approximately 200 meters above lake level
This trip is not recommended if you would like to avoid walking or have a knee or serious health problem
You should have a decent level of fitness to be able to enjoy this tour
Food involves mostly fish from the lake including trout and sardines. Beef and chicken options are also available
This trip offers the opportunity to participate in a local, cultural activity where a local family will share their daily life activities, music and traditions. This is not included and is completely optional. You must add this to your booking if you would like it

OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

The following are dates in which other people have shown interest in forming a group for this tour. Use the ENQUIRY tab to request a new date or join one of the dates below to form a group and obtain the respective price. The number of interested persons is shown for your reference and you will be updated via email if other people are interested in the same date. If your party consist of four persons, we suggest booking a tour outright to confirm departure.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Transport La Paz - Copacabana - Isla del Sol - La Paz
Bilingual, experienced guide
1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Accommodation according to your selected package
All admission fees

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Tips/gratuities
Onward travel to Puno, Peru (optional)

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Isla del Sol

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Full Day Tour: Copacabana + Isla Del Sol

LA PAZ – COPACABANA – LA PAZ

Visit the scenic lakeside village of Copacabana on this full day tour from La Paz. You will have time to explore Copacabana itself and to take an afternoon boat trip onto Lake Titicaca to visit the "Island of the Sun".

Highlights:

Take a boat across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, to visit the mythical Isla del Sol, according to Inca legend the birthplace of the Sun God, Inti. – Copacabana
IMPORTANT: This is a private boat trip and NOT a guided tour. You will be given an island map and have time to explore the island independently. Please note that food is not included.

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Where Does This Tour Start:

Any hotel/hostel in central La Paz. Click HERE to view pick-up area.

TOUR ITINERARY & WHAT'S INCLUDED

Full day tour: copacabana + isla del sol download itinerary.

Pickup at central hotel/hostels in La Paz

Tiquina Mirador Viewpoint / Strait of Tiquina ferry crossing.

Arrive to Copacabana, drop off at Hotel Gloria (central location near all hotels/hostels).

Boat out to Isla del sol, departure from Hotel Gloria (Av. 16 de Julio). Drop off at Yumami at the south end of the island.

Walk around the sun temple Pilkokaina and the coast of Yumani.

Boat departs back to Copacabana from Yumani Port.

Bus departs to La Paz from Hotel Gloria (Av. 16 de Julio).

Strait of Tiquina ferry crossing.

Arrive to La Paz, drop off to all central hotels/hostels.

What’s Included

Guided bus transport
Roundtrip boat to and from Isla del Sol
Hotel/hostel pickups and drop offs
Free stop at the Tiquina Mirador (viewpoint)

Not Included

Isla del Sol - Yumani community entry ticket (south side of the island) - 10Bs

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23 - 26 & 30 - 31 DEC 2020 - END OF YEAR BREAK

Bolivia Hop will run as normal at the end of 2020 except on:

LA PAZ - COPACABANA NO BUS ON: 24 - 26 & 31 DEC 2019 & 1 JAN 2021

COPACABANA - LA PAZ NO BUS ON: 23 - 25 & 30 - 31 DEC 2020

NEXT BUS DEPARTING LA PAZ: 2 JANUARY 2021

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As well as an unbeatable safety record, Peru Hop is also famous for its punctuality and comfort. In South America, where things often run later than scheduled, we are very proud to say we achieve a 98.5% on-time arrival for each trip.

If comparing Peru Hop to other bus companies, make sure you check their safety record, past accidents, as well as their Tripadvisor page (if they even bother to have one) as often you will find there is a reason why some bus companies have “cheaper” prices than Peru Hop.

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Blankets for every passenger: Snuggle up and get some sleep on longer trips.
GPS monitoring system: Allows us to track our buses every step of the way and monitor driver velocity.
USB ports on every seat: Charge your phone or any device throughout your whole trip.

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Isla del Sol Bolivia: 14 Epic Adventures Await

Uncover the allure of Isla del Sol in Bolivia, where ancient Inca legends meet breathtaking landscapes. Curious about the island’s centuries-old ruins or yearning to relax on pristine shores along Lake Titicaca? Dive into a journey that merges history and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.

Isla del Sol, also known as “The Island of the Sun,” is located on the eastern sector of Lake Titicaca and about an hour from Copacabana’s mainland town.

Home to over 80 pre-Columbian ruins, Isla del Sol is a dream destination for history and archaeology lovers. Spread across the lake’s largest island, encompassing 5.5 square miles (14.2 square kilometers), these ruins await exploration by enthusiasts like you.

Isla del Sol is considered one of the country’s most sacred sites. Incan lore has it that the Incan god Viracocha emerged from Lake Titicaca after a great flood and a long period of darkness. He ordered the sun to rise from the island and made the Andean Adam and Eve, Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, believed to be the first Incas from whom the Inca empire began.

Table of Contents

14 Best Things To Do in Isla del Sol Bolivia – Sights

1. del oro museum .

Del Oro Museum is located on the northern side of the island. It is in the heart of the Challapampa region. Here, you can learn the island’s history through fascinating artifacts recovered from the bottom of Lake Titicaca.

These artifacts include stone boxes, silver figures, gold, and pottery of Incan and Tiwanaku origin. The entrance fee to the museum is around 10 Bolivian bolivianos (1.40 US dollars). Make sure to hold the ticket, as it can also be used to enter Pillkukayna and Chincana ruins.

2. Cerro Quenuani Viewpoint

Cerro Quenuani offers a great view of the snowcapped mountains and the lake from the top and one of the most scenic hikes to reach the viewpoint. On your way, you can spot a few llamas eating and playing in the distance.

Photography is not free here, so seek permission from the owner before capturing images. While they are generally accommodating, taking photos of llamas and cattle without prior consent is considered disrespectful.

Once you reach the top, the sight of the blue waters and the breathtaking islands will instantly catch your attention. Here, you can rest for a while and enjoy the views while having snacks.

3. Cerro Palla Kasha Viewpoint

Palla Kasha is a beautiful hill with a great view of Lake Titicaca and the nearby islands. It takes about 30 minutes to hike to the top, including breaks.

The viewpoint is also the highest point in the southern part of the island. From the top, you can see from the Yumani village to the northern end of Isla del Sol.

4. Inca Temple

The Inca temple called Pilko Kaina is around an hour’s walk from the Yumani village. The walk itself is pretty scenic. You will see plenty of white sand beaches with an amazing view of deep blue waters. You might meet some alpacas along the way, so keep looking for them during the walk.

5. Mesa Ceremonica

Mesa Ceremonica is a carved stone ceremonial table which is believed to be the place where many humans and animals sacrificed their lives. However, it is still a myth as old photographs show the cut rocks in different positions. As of now, the table is used as a means of showcasing the local handicrafts for visitors.

6. Chincana

Chincana ruins are a must-visit for adventurers. The ruins consist of a maze of stone walls containing small rectangular rooms and passageways. It is a place where one can easily get lost, which is what Chincana means. The design of the walls indicates that there were multiple floors once, but now it only has the walls left to trap you inside its history.

7. Huellas del Sol

Huellas del Sol means “the footprints of the sun.” It is a track that has footprints going away from the Challapampa region. The footprints are believed to have been created by the sun that walked from a sacred rock and lit the world with its light.

Best Things To Do in Isla del Sol Bolivia – Activities

There are two points to start your hike: Challapampa and Yumani. Yumani is located on the island’s southern end, whereas Challapampa is on the north. Two different trails connect the north and south ends.

The first is Willa Thaki, which goes through the island’s backbone from Yumani to Chincana ruins. This is the trail we took. We had some amazing views over the entire island. We took the boat to Challapampa and walked to Yumani.

The second trail, however, is on the island’s eastern coast, passing through the Challapampa village with small settlements.

Regardless of the path you choose, there are some great views along the way. The hike will take around three hours, providing a good look at magnificent beaches, giant eucalyptus cacti and trees, small settlements, and agricultural terraces. We took around 5 hours, as we wanted to take tons and tons of pictures, and we walked slowly due to the 13,000 feet (almost 4,000 meters) altitude.

9. Titikala Ruins

Titikala ruins are believed to be the origin of the sun, which later made it a place of worship. People in the past made a lot of offerings to the sacred rock, including gold, corn, beer, silver, and even their children. The name of Lake Titicaca is also derived from the word Titikala.

10. The Inca Steps

Inca Steps has more than 200 steps on the island’s southern port. The steps lead up to Yumani village. Once you finish the steps, you will end up at an amazing fountain called the Inca Fountain, which is believed to have healing powers.

11. Drink From the Inca Fountain

Inca Fountain - Fountain of the Youth Stock

Inca Fountain, known as the “Fountain of the Youth,” contains three different sprouts. The names of the three sprouts are Ama Llulla, Ama Kella, and Ama Sua. People believe that drinking water from one of the sprouts will keep you young forever.

I am not saying I believe it’s the true fountain of youth, but I am also saying that I drank from it.

Best Things To Do in Isla del Sol Bolivia – Food

12. trout at pachamama restaurant .

Pachamama Restaurant has a large terrace amidst a backdrop of colorful flowers. The best dish to try here is the local trout. You can also try their pizza and quinoa soup. For dessert, sundaes and wafer cookies are highly recommended. All this delicious food can be enjoyed in an open-air setting with a lake view.

13. Pizza and Pasta at Las Velas

Las Velas is one of the island’s best places to eat pizza and pasta. However, it is not the only thing you can try. The restaurant also offers some delicious trout and llama meat. Like Pachamama, you can enjoy the food with the view of the lake.

14. Inti Jalanta Soup

At Inti Jalanta, you can enjoy the best soup on the island. Locals highly recommend trying grilled trout with soup. The restaurant’s decor is simple, but the lake’s beautiful views and delicious food more than make up for it.

Transportation Options

How to get there .

The only way to get to Isla del Sol is by boat from Copacabana, Bolivia . If traveling from the capital, you must travel to Copacabana via bus. You can take a day tour or a boat to reach the island from there.

The boat ride from Copacabana to Isla del Sol takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the destination. You can purchase the tickets from anywhere in Copacabana. The round trip can cost you around $12 per person. There are two departure times – 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and return at 3 p.m. from Yumani port.

If you want to take the boat to the north and walk south, like we’ve done, you only have to buy a one-way ticket to the north. When you arrive in the south, a ticket booth will be at the port to buy return tickets.

Note: some guides want to take you when you come from the boat. You don’t have to go with them. You can just say no and walk the other way.

Getting Around Isla del Sol

You can walk or rent a donkey to get around in Isla del Sol. No other transportation is available on the island, so prepare for the tiring but adventurous journey. Most people enjoy the island by walking from north to south, which is also what we’ve done and recommend.

Where To Stay in Isla del Sol

Isla del Sol has some decent accommodation options for you to spend your night in the middle of Lake Titicaca. The island is divided into three sections – The north region, the Central region, and the South region. The best places to stay for all three regions are mentioned below

North Region

Titi Qala Hostel (Budget): Titi Qala is near Mama Ojjlla and Chinkana. The hostel offers a private beach area with mountain views and an amazing restaurant. You can also enjoy exotic drinks at the on-site bar.

Central Region

Inka Wasi (Budget): Inka Wasi is a perfect location for people traveling on a tight budget. It features stunning views of the city as well as the lake. A garden, restaurant, and terrace make the experience even more special.
Sol y Luna Isla del Sol (Mid-range): Sol y Luna is a mid-range hotel with a very friendly owner. There is a terrace and a garden to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere. Sol y Luna also comes with views of the mountains and lake.

South Region

Hostal Tawri (Budget): Hostal Tawri is around 10 miles (16 km) from the Copacabana market. It is a highly rated location for couples. This guest house has a terrace, city view, lake view, mountain view, and courtyard view. You can also enjoy some great American and continental breakfasts.
Utasawa (Luxury): Utasawa is a luxurious hotel experience on Isla del Sol. They offer various hiking and walking tours for some additional charges. The private beach area, buffet, and availability of WIFI throughout the property set it apart from other hotels on the island. The amazing architecture, views, and food make it the best place to stay on Isla del Sol.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Tips to Stay Safe During Your Isla del Sol Bolivia Visit

To get the best out of your visit to Isla del Sol, here are some expert tips that you can follow:

The best time to visit the island is in the dry season, which lasts from May to September. The average temperature during these months varies between 60°F to 63 °F (16 °C to 17 °C).
Before visiting the island, read the book “ Lake Titicaca: Legend, Myth, and Science ” to better understand ancient civilizations and the place as a whole.
Pack a good quality sunscreen as a higher altitude makes the UV radiation more dangerous for your skin.
Weather can change rapidly, impacting boat schedules to and from the island. Check the forecast and confirm boat times to avoid being stranded due to sudden weather changes.
You will be hiking for most of your trip, so make sure you wear some good quality hiking shoes .
Climbing steep parts can cause dehydration, so keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water. Lifestraw water filters will save the day, ensuring you access clean and safe water throughout your ascent.
Temperatures decrease drastically when the sun goes down, so keep warm clothes with you if you plan to stay the night.
Consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing , which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) – Isla del Sol Bolivia

What is the isla del sol famous for.

Isla del Sol is quite famous for its locations and spectacular ruins. It is also believed to be where the sun was born, which is why it is called “The Island of the Sun.”

Can You Stay in Isla del Sol?

Isla del Sol has many hotels and hostels, most of which offer great views of the lake, sunrise, and sunset. Make sure to choose a hotel that ensures all the amazing views.

How Do People Survive on Isla del Sol?

People living on Isla del Sol are mainly farmers. Around 800 families live on the island, earning from fishing, tourists, and farming. There are two villages where most locals reside: Yumani and Challapampa.

How Do You Get to Isla del Sol Bolivia?

The best way to get to Isla del Sol is by taking a ferry from Copacabana. The total ride is around two hours long.

Where Is Isla del Sol Located?

Isla del Sol is located on the eastern sector (Bolivia side) of Lake Titicaca, on the plateau of Altiplano, with its western side in Peru and the eastern side in the La Paz department of Bolivia.

Conclusion – Isla del Sol, Bolivia

We hope this article gives you a clearer idea of what to expect in Isla del Sol. (If you want to see more Incan ruins, you can also head to neighboring Isla del Luna). Both islands are excellent spots for exploration and Lake Titicaca sightseeing.

Aside from a taste of the islanders’ cultural heritage, Isla del Sol’s laid-back atmosphere and relaxing views will surely be a welcome break from any traveler’s usual South American experience. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

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Isla del Sol Bolivia: Travel Guide & Tips to Know Before You Go

May 15, 2017 By John Widmer 35 Comments

Isla del Sol, Bolivia’s “Island of the Sun,” was one of the most unexpected surprises during a four-month adventure across the Andes.

Venturing to Isla del Sol is a tranquil escape to nature, hiking, local island life, ruins, and sweeping views of Lake Titicaca. Those traveling across South America, regularly recommend at stop into Isla del Sol, Bolivia. We’re here to continue that advice, show how to get to Isla del Sol from Copacabana by ferry, and why it’s worth it to stay overnight.

Roaming around Isla del Sol turned out to be one of our favorite experiences in Bolivia. Yet it was not without its share of unexpected setbacks, such as the entire middle and northern part of the island being closed to tourism due to an ongoing conflict.

Despite the majority of the island being cordoned off, we still found Isla del Sol to be totally worth staying for a night, rather than a day trip. In this post we’ll elaborate on our opinion of why to stay the night, explain about this North vs South island dispute, and give you some Isla del Sol travel tips to help plan your island getaway.

What’s So Great About Isla del Sol Bolivia?

There’s just something about Isla del Sol. This island is a tranquil little escape from the hustle and bustle of South America. Isla del Sol itself boasts a stunning landscape that juts up in dramatic fashion out from Lake Titicaca.

Typical of island life, everything seems laidback here and moves at a delightfully slower pace. Additional appeal to Isla del Sol is:

great hiking trails,
incredible lookout points,
Incan ruins,
free-roaming livestock,
interesting places to stay,
a hidden “gourmet” restaurant, and
loads of local culture & tradition.

This combination makes for a fascinating and unique place in the world.

If that all weren’t enough, Lake Titicaca is considered to be the highest navigable lake in the entire world . It’s also South America’s largest lake. And Isla del Sol is the biggest island within this enormous high altitude lake. That’s a lot of superlatives for one place!

Isla del Sol is rooted in Incan history

The Incas believed that Isla del Sol was the birthplace of the Sun God. After spending a few days here you’ll certainly see where the island has gotten it’s name from.

At about 4,000 meters in altitude (nearly 2.5 miles high), the sun shines quite intensely. You’ll catch rays in all directions too as the sun reflects upwards from the surrounding lake. Any sun worshipers out there will surely appreciate this effect. But everyone else will want to be sure to cover up or face getting burned.

This video we shot should help to give you some idea of what makes Isla del Sol special, but really it doesn’t even begin to do the island justice. Isla del Sol is one of those places that needs to be experienced in person. Although that’s just our opinion, and I don’t want to overhype the island. We say just head over to this mystical island and decide for yourself.

6 Reasons Why To Stay Overnight on Isla Del Sol

1) to see the sunset.

This island is named after the sun, after all. It’s quite the spectacle to watch that big orange ball descend down into Lake Titicaca. But although the sunset occurs in the west, there are arguably even better views to the east.

On clear days, the late afternoon sun beams down and illuminates the Cordillera Real mountains (part of the Andes) on the mainland, which are often not visible from Isla del Sol in the morning.

But in the late afternoon, they begin to emerge and glow. When it nears sunset time, you may find it difficult to decide which direction to gaze.

Cordillera Real mountains from Isla del Sol Bolivia

Whichever direction you choose to look, there are many beautiful places all across the island to watch the sunset. We recommend anywhere perched atop the island’s ridge running across the spine of Isla del Sol.

There are some great miradors (look-out points) here to take in the sunset. Pack a Paceña (beer) from any of the little shops to truly unwind.

Or there are also a handful of westward-facing restaurants atop the ridgeline where you can watch the “show” while eating dinner and sipping a bottle of Bolivian wine.

Isla del Sol Bolivia sunset with donkey and Lake Titicaca

The last Isla del Sol to Copacabana ferry departs the island at 4:00 pm. So the only way you’ll be able to catch the sunset here is to stay overnight. Sunset time on Isla del Sol is between 6:00 and 7:15 pm, depending on the time of year.

You can check the exact sunset time by date here .

2) More Time To Experience Isla del Sol …Slowly

You can certainly visit most of Isla del Sol’s highlights on a day trip, particularly if only visiting the South portion of the island. But during a day trip, visitors must rush around Isla del Sol. There’s lots of huffing and puffing while making your way across the island’s often-steep, high altitude terrain.

Taking a day trip to Isla del Sol will give you about 5 hours in total to explore the island and be back to the ferry docks in time for your afternoon departure. It’s quite doable to cover most of the southern part of the island in that amount of time.

But if you’re planning to get your fill of hiking, you’ll need to move quickly, which goes entirely against what makes this island so special.

Day trippers likely won’t have time to take a leisurely long lunch. You may not have a moment to stop and practice your Spanish by having a chat with a friendly resident. You won’t have time to explore deeper and get to know the island.

Isla del Sol just isn’t the type of place to rush through. But perhaps most importantly, you simply won’t have time to truly relax during a day trip, which brings me to our next point.

3) Unplug & Unwind

There are no cars on Isla del Sol. You walk to get wherever you are going.

Wifi is a rarity. We were unable to get a data signal on our mobile phone. And it was great!

Sometimes it’s nice to escape from modern conveniences. Isla del Sol provides the perfect environment for a digital detox. This island is such a tranquil place to get away from everything, leaving all your worries behind.

It’s not possible to fully experience the serenity of this special place during a rushed day trip to Isla del Sol. You must stay for a night (or two) to really slip away into relaxation mode. Bring a book, disconnect, and drift away into this peaceful island paradise.

4) Come For the Sun, Stay For the Stars

On a clear night, the skies above Isla del Sol tend to light up.

There are no street lamps here and virtually no light pollution way out here in the middle of Lake Titicaca.

As a result, you may be treated to an astrological performance in the form of stars, planets, and maybe even a shooting star or two. Many galaxies light up the night sky above Isla del Sol and it’s spectacular. Enjoy!

5) Get A Room With A View

Many of the Isla del Sol hotels and hostels are fairly basic but there is just something special about sleeping on this serene island. Maybe it was experiencing the simple way of life. The dogs, donkeys, and llamas that wandered around outside our window always put smiles on our faces.

Yet perhaps it was the view you wake up to in the morning that really win visitors over. Most hotels and hostels on Isla del Sol are positioned to offer sweeping vistas of Lake Titicaca and the island itself.

Get a room with a view for a spectacular way to be greeted with the island’s namesake morning sun.

6) Enjoy The Island To Yourself

It seems that many people visit Isla del Sol as part of a day trip from Copacabana. As such, there’s a noticeable swell of visitors between 10:30 am and 4:00 pm.

But when trekking around the island in the morning and late afternoon hours, you may feel like you’re the only person around. The serenity is a beautiful thing.

Isla del Sol alone on the island in Lake Titicaca Bolivia

Know About The North vs South Conflict on Isla del Sol

During our time of visit to Isla del Sol, there was a major conflict between the Northern and Southern portions of the island. As a result, the entire North (and middle) portion of the island was completely closed to tourism . Ferries were not proceeding on their normal routes to the Northern part of Isla del Sol because of this conflict. There was absolutely no way to reach the Northern communities of Cha’llapampa or Cha’lla.

With no ferries running to the North, we attempted to trek there through the middle of Isla del Sol. We were blocked by locals who would not allow us pass. It was a peaceful and non-threatening exchange. But they were very firm in not letting us go through.

Below is an Isla del Sol map showing approximately where the cut-off point is (indicated in red) and the furthest point North you’re permitted to hike (the black X).

Isla del Sol map showing North vs. South conflict

Source map: Google Maps

As of 2019, the conflict is still in effect, so the North portion of Isla del Sol is still closed to visitors (at time of last update). Yet some travelers have reported being able to get a boat the north portion of the island. If you visit Isla del Sol, comment on this post and we’ll gladly update this information for other travelers. Gracias!

So what is this North vs. South conflict all about? We’re not entirely sure as we have heard many different rumors about the cause of this conflict. Someone on the island had explained to us that it had something to do with tourism development occurring too close to sacred Incan ruins which caused the dispute. Other hearsay was that the North was getting all the tourism money and the center wasn’t getting any, so they decided to set fire to the Northern part of the island – yikes! According to this rumor, it was the southern part of the island that cordoned off the remainder of the island until those who set the fires pay for the damages.

We were unable to validate whether any of this hearsay is true or not. But we can verify that there indeed is an ongoing conflict. Apparently this could remain for years to come. We will update this post if/when we hear the North is open to tourism again.

So is Isla del Sol still worth it? Given the conflict, we were only able to explore around Yumani (South part of the island). Yet we still wholehearted feel that Isla del Sol is well worth visiting. It’s absolutely beautiful and worth an entire day and night.

If You Go to Isla del Sol Bolivia: Travel Tips

How to get to isla del sol bolivia.

The only way to get to this island is by boat. The most common and easiest way to get to Isla del Sol is by ferry between Copacabana and Isla del Sol, twice each day.

Hence, you must first make your way to Copacabana on mainland Bolivia. For Northbound travelers, there are fairly frequent buses from La Paz to Copacabana. Southbound travelers can get to Copacabana by bus from Puno, Peru.

Ferry from Copacabana to Isla del Sol

It’s only a 16-kilometer (10-mile ferry trip) from Copacabana to Isla del Sol. But these ferries are very slow. So travel time on this Copacabana-to-Isla del Sol ferry takes about two hours.

The final half-hour of the ferry to Isla del Sol is the most scenic. At this point, the ferry nears the island and maneuvers through some rock formations. Pro tip : Snag a seat on the port (left-hand) side of the boat for the best views as you get close to Isla del Sol.

🕗 Ferry schedule: Copacabana to Isla del Sol ferry times are 8:30 am and 1:30 pm. Arrive to the docks about a half-hour before the scheduled departure.

💲 Ferry price: The Isla del Sol ferry ride costs 20 Bolivianos (~$3), each way.

🎟️ Buying ferry tickets: To ensure securing a seat, do buy a ferry ticket in advance from one of the many travel agencies in Copacabana. You may be fine simply turning up to the boat docks and buying a ticket there too. It’s the same price, either way. So we recommend securing a ticket in advance just in case. It seems you can only purchase a one-way ferry ticket to Isla del Sol. So buy your return ticket from Isla del Sol to Copacabana once you arrive on the island.

Alternative route from Yampupata to Isla del Sol

Ultimately this route will likely cost more, take longer, and involves a transfer at Yampupata. Hence we recommend to simply take the ferry from Copacabana to Isla del Sol, as described above.

But do know there is another route. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Copacabana to Yampupata. The village of Yampupata is a closer point to Isla del Sol. From Yampupata, you can hire a rowboat or motorboat to take you across to Isla del Sol.

Puno to Isla del Sol by boat

For those coming from Peru to Bolivia, it would seem logical on a map to travel from Puno to Isla del Sol by boat. Unfortunately, such a route does not exist across Lake Titicaca. To get from Puno to Isla del Sol, you must first take a bus across the border to Copacabana, and then transfer to the morning or afternoon ferry to Isla del Sol.

Stay A Night Before or After In Copacabana So You Can Drop Your Bags

While Copacabana tends not to be a highlight on any Bolivia itinerary, we found it to be pleasant enough and certainly worth exploring for an afternoon. But Copacabana is an even more sensible stop simply for logistical reasons.

You must understand that once on Isla del Sol, most of the hotels are way up atop the island. The shortness of breath of the 4,000-meter altitude adds to the challenge. You do NOT want to schlep all of your heavy gear up this steep grade with you. Thankfully most hotels in Copacabana will allow you to leave your luggage there if you are staying with them before or after your overnight trip to Isla del Sol.

So just pack a small overnight bag that contains the essentials. (More on what to pack, later in this post). Leave everything else in Copacabana, where you must return to anyways for your onward travel. Most all hotels and hostels in Copacabana have complimentary left luggage storage specifically for this reason.

In Copacabana, we can personally recommend Hotel Wendy Mar , which had very secure luggage storage. But not only that, it has what we believe is the best deal in town! Hotel Wendy Mar has nice, big rooms that start at just $25 per night and even includes a good hot breakfast. When you get there, ask for a room on one of the higher floors and you’ll enjoy views of Lake Titicaca!

Hotel Wendy Mar provides left luggage storage in Copacabana Bolivia

Check here for Hotel Wendy Mar rates and availability on your dates .

Top Things To Do On Isla del Sol Bolivia

Given the aforementioned conflict on the island, we were only able to explore the southern portion of Isla del Sol. Hence, the following recommendations of things to do on Isla del Sol are exclusively confined to the South.

1) Go Hiking on Isla del Sol:

Isla del Sol offers some great trekking and the views are phenomenal. Often times we felt like we were on a Greek island in the Mediterranean. The terrain, the blue waters, and the donkeys all added to this feeling.

Despite only being able to trek the southern part of Isla del Sol, there are still about 10 kilometers of trails here that you can hike along. This 7-kilometer route will bring you to the South island’s best miradors. This circuit will likely take about three-four hours to complete if you account for some time to explore the ruins and pause to enjoy the miradors.

Note: At the Southern mirador, we saw many trekkers who incorrectly assumed this point was the end of the trail. Most people turn around. But you can most definitely continue on further down a series of less-defined trails. This is also one of the routes to access the Pilko Kaina ruins.

Isla del Sol hiking trail as there are no roads or cars on the island

2) See the Pilko Kaina Ruins on Isla de Sol

These ancient Incan ruins may pale in comparison to some of the larger sites in South America. Yet the Pilko Kaina ruins make a nice diversion to poke into while already trekking around the southern tip of Isla del Sol.

Note: There is no admission fee for the ruins itself. But do be sure that you bring your entrance ticket from when you first arrived to the island. There is a guy manning Pilko Kaina that will ask to see that ticket, or else you’ll have to buy a new one.

3) Roam around the Community of Yumani

Yumani is the main community in the southern part of Isla del Sol. You’ll see it right up the steep hill from the ferry docks. Yumani is where most of the locals live. It’s also where most of the restaurants and hostels are. If staying overnight, you’ll likely be sleeping somewhere in Yumani.

Be sure to take some time to get a little lost by wandering through the tiny island town. Visit some of the livestock. Have a chat with a local resident. We found most people here to be very friendly.

Check out the church. Stop into a cafe and quench your thirst with a beverage.

Yumani community on Isla del Sol Bolivia

4) Climb the Inca Stairs on Isla del Sol

There are two different ways to get from the ferry dock to Yumani: (1) the donkey trail and (2) the escalara de Inca (Incan stairs).

We recommend the latter. This ancient stairway to Yumani ascends the island alongside gardens and a trickling fountain. Look for the Sun God to find your way.

This may be the best thing to do in Isla del Sol. No further explanation is necessary.

Where to Eat: Isla del Sol Restaurants

Restaurants with a view.

There are a handful of restaurants and cafes scattered around the Yumani settlement and beyond. Most of these restaurants tend to have very similar menus. The common set menus include pollo a la plancha and fresh lake trout.

Any of the meals at these restaurants are decent. But none are particularly noteworthy. The views on the other hand, are so awesome that you won’t even care what’s on your plate.

Lunch with a view at a Isla del Sol restaurant

We recommend going to whatever Isla del Sol restaurant has an open table and a great view. You’ll find a string of restaurants lining the ridge on the trail just a little bit further uphill from the main Yumani community.

All of the restaurants have indoor seating, but on a nice day in Isla del Sol, you’ve gotta dine al fresco!

Best in Bolivia: You Must Eat At Las Velas

One restaurant that we can specifically recommend on Isla del Sol is Las Velas .

The experience of having dinner here is actually one more reason to stay overnight on Isla de Sol. Las Velas is completely hidden, located down a path that’s away from everything else. That’s part of what makes it special.

There is no electricity here so that makes cooking techniques interesting. The kitchen is equipped with a wood-burning oven and some propane-fueled devices. The name, Las Velas, appropriately translates to “the candles.” You’ll be most definitely dining by candlelight here.

Los Velas restaurant Isla del Sol Boliva

Because of the lack of electricity to cook your meal, be prepared to stick around for a while. We waited over an hour and a half for our meal.

Also, you should know that Las Velas menu prices were nearly double what we found throughout the rest of the island. You are paying for quality here. Our fresh trout in a wine sauce came to 50 bolivianos. And while it may be pricey by Bolivian standards, this delicious $7 gourmet meal is an absolutely steal by international standards.

We can attest that a meal at Las Velas is worth both the wait and the price. It turned out to be our favorite meal in all of Bolivia.

To find Las Velas, look for some signs in Yumani that point you in the right direction. Las Velas is just off the trail that leads to the southern mirador.

Where to Stay: Isla del Sol Hostels & Hotels

There is a decent amount of basic accommodation scattered throughout Yumani, towards the upper reaches. It is very possible to simply show up to Isla del Sol and find a place. But we suggest booking in advance.

Isla del Sol hostels tend to vary greatly in quality. The nicer ones that are listed online, do tend to get booked full. So to snag one of Isla del Sols best hostels, make an advanced reservation.

It’s also much more convenient to already have a place reserved. That way you can drop your day pack and start exploring, rather than spending your time on the island locating and comparing hostels.

For value, location, and great views, we suggest Hostal del Sol , with rooms starting at $29 USD including a good breakfast. We personally stayed there and can tell you it was fairly basic, yet very comfortable. It had hot water showers, electricity, a warm & comfy bed, nice views, and we definitely recommend. We really enjoyed staying here amongst the llamas and donkeys that wander the property. You can find the best rates online for Hostal del Sol on hostelworld.com .

Donkey and llama at hostal del Sol on Isla del Sol

What To Pack For Isla del Sol

Again, we recommend to leave your main pack at a hostel or hotel in Copacabana. Just bring an overnight bag with you to the island. Here’s are some suggestions on what to pack for Isal del Sol:

One change of clothes per night
A warm jacket – It gets chilly at night
Sunscreen – Seriously, don’t forget the sunscreen or else you will get burned. Amazon has great prices on BananaBoat , so stock up before your trip to Bolivia. Be sure to pack some lip balm with SPF too.
Small flashlight – Unless there’s a bright full moon, it’s going to be super dark and you won’t be able to find your way back to your accommodation after dinner. Don’t forget to pack a flashlight. We use this Mini LED Flashlight , which we love as we found to be the most powerful flashlight for its small size and price.
Toiletries – Pack whatever you need for a night: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
Bottled water – Stay hydrated.
Camera and/or phone – Isla del Sol is a photographer’s paradise. You’ll certainly find some Instagramable shots. ( Here’s one of our favorites we captured with our drone. PS. Give us a follow on IG if you like travel pics 🙂 )
Poncho or rain gear
Cash money – There is no ATM on the island and we didn’t see anywhere accepting credit card, so it’s very important to stock up on cash before you arrive. We recommend to bring more cash than you are budgeting for. Prices are slightly higher here than on mainland, you may indulge in a few extra beers, and you’ll want to have some spare cash just in case. There are ATMs in Copacabana, so make a withdrawal before you catch the ferry. You can easily find an ATM on Av 6 de Agosto. On Isla del Sol, there are a few shops with currency exchange (casas de cambios), but you’ll like get a better rate in Copacabana.
Maybe a towel – The hostel we recommend, Hostal del Sol , does provide towels. But not all hostels on the island do. So if you’re not staying there, you may want to bring a towel to dry off after showering.
Maybe a bathing suit – We can’t imagine going swimming in the frigid waters of Lake Titicaca. But some people do. If you like cold water, pack a swimsuit.

Find more packing recommendations over at our: Ultimate Packing Checklist .

Roaming Around Isla del Sol Bolivia

We hope this Isla del Sol travel guide and blog post has helped a little to plan your trip. If you go, we really hope you enjoy your time on this mystical island as much as we did.

Have you roamed around Isla del Sol?

Let us know in the comments how your experience was. And feel free to give an update about the ongoing conflict and any possible resolution. Also, we’re happy to answer any questions you might have about Bolivia’s Island of the Sun. So feel free to ask!

Happy travels amigos! 🙂

Bolivia Salt Flats Tour to Salar de Uyuni: Review, Travel Guide, & Tips

October 15, 2019 at 9:30 AM

Thanks so much for mentioning the Cordillera Real! I made my way back up to a mirador for the sunset and was able to enjoy both the view of sun setting over the lake in the east and the effects of that on the stunning Cordillera River Real in the east 🙂 PS The north of the island is still cordoned off at time of writing (15/10/19)

October 17, 2019 at 4:05 AM

Aren’t those mountain views just stunning! 🙂 And thanks so much for an on-the-ground update about the northern side.

November 5, 2019 at 6:15 AM

My wife and I were on the Island of the Sun in September 2019. I was made aware of the conflict between the north and the south and the stories I heard were not very nice. I will not go into it here but it stems from greed over the tourist money. The north where the Challapampa people live is only closed off because the South tell everyone that it is but in reality it is not. Most of the hostels and restaurants have had to shut down because tourists are not going there anymore. One hostel and one restaurant remain open on the north side for those tourists who ignore what they are told and venture to the north. We made a booking at the Willka Kuti Hostel and the owner Freddie picked us up from the South side of the Island on his private boat for a cost of 150 Boliviano. We also found out you can catch the community boat that runs between Copacapana and the north part of the island for 30 Boliviano. This runs every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Freddie was very hospitable and carried our luggage in his wheel barrow across the beach sand to his hostel. His son gave us a free tour of the archaeological sites on the north side as well. He speaks very little English but Google translate is a godsend and we were able to communicate well enough. We were the only tourists on the north side for the few days we were there. The north side of the island is much flatter than the south side and the scenery is very beautiful and spectacular and very different to the south side. The Challapampa people are very friendly and it saddened me that tourists were no longer going to the north as the Challapampa need the tourist money to support them as well. Freddie thanked us warmly for making the effort to come to the north and supporting his family. The infrastructure is there to accommodate more tourists. It just needs people to start going back and all the hostels and restaurants can maybe reopen. I am writing this long post in the hope that your readers read it and do not listen to the people in the south of the island and make the effort to venture to the north of the island. They will not be disappointed if they do as the north part of the island is very, very beautiful.

January 13, 2020 at 7:57 AM

It is a shame that both communities cannot come to a deal that brings profit to both ! e.g. (Foreign) tourists can easily pay e.g. 10$ (rather than 1$) entrance fee to the island, if it is to maintain the infrastructure, monuments. => I hope to visit the island in May this year, and in fact was aiming to walk the N-S and other paths, and stay overnight.. now hearing all problems either skip all, or just do an organized days-tour so as to be sure what is happening.. Of course this is much less beneficial to the island people, whether from N of S. !! I find it rather difficult to find which boats go when and where… different sites (probably set up at different date …) report different things.. boats only going to S, regular boats going to N, … only private boats going back from S to Copa… thus any planning seems impossible, hence ‘ condamned’ to take an organized tour !! (which is typically what I do NOT like)..

April 15, 2019 at 8:06 AM

We had a wonderful time on Isla Del Sol in March 2019. We were a group of 10 and stayed 1 night at Tacana Lodge which is by the water’s edge. I would highly recommend staying here. The boat dropped us off right at the lodge so there were no steps to climb. The owners were wonderful and provided us with the best food. The rooms were clean and we had a beautiful view of the lake. They took us by boat to the Inca Ruins and then took us to the village. We made the hike to the top. It took us 4 hours total to get back to The Lodge but it was worth it. The views were amazing. We used sun block but still got sun burned. It was a hard hike and we were short of breath so we took frequent stops. This was not a bad thing because everywhere you looked was beautiful. We should have taken a flashlight with us. It was getting dark and our path was a little scary at times going back. We were treated to a delicious dinner of trout and chicken when we got back. Unfortunately it was a cloudy night so we couldn’t see the stars. My only regret was not staying a second night. We all felt such peace and tranquility as soon as we reached the island. This was our 1st family trip to Bolivia. My husband was born in Oruro and had not been back in 25 years. We are already planning our next trip. #porfinbolivia

April 18, 2019 at 5:06 PM

Sounds like a great experience! Isla del Sol is really such a special place. Reading your account just fueled my wanderlust to make it back to this beautiful island. So glad to hear you had such a great family trip. Thank you for sharing! 🙂

August 11, 2018 at 6:17 AM

I enjoyed reading your review of Isla del Sol. We were there last October and really enjoyed it. What we particularly noticed and enjoyed were the fabulous flowers, considering how bleak the rest of Peru was where we had just come from! I wish we had stayed a bit longer as our overnight stay felt rushed regardless. It’s just nice to take time out to relax and do nothing sometimes at a new location! We also went to Las Velas, and the meal took forever. I had a veggie option, but my partner went for the beef lasagne. Unfortunately, my partner was so ill the next day, i won’t go into details, but you can just imagine. The only thing we had different was the meal at las velas, which made me think that maybe the meat hadn’t cooked properly. The chef was all alone and it being so dark in there using just a miner’s light on his head to see, how could he tell if the meal was cooked properly or not? Anyway, aside from that, my partner also took a tumble down the hillside as we tried to find the connecting track from the lookout point to get down to see pilko kaina. We made it of course, but not without my partner causing some serious scar damage to his leg. Oh well, it’s all part of the experience! A lovely island, lovely sunsets, beautiful views. We stayed at the YMCA hostel and it was great. Private room with bathroom and great views. We were able to leave our bags there whilst we wandered the island before going back to Copacabana. If I could go there again, I would! and for at least a couple of days, just to relax and take it all in 🙂

August 13, 2018 at 1:58 PM

Thanks for the feedback about your trip! Sorry to hear about the food poisoning and the tumble down the mountain, but sounds it sounds like you were able to have a positive experience on this beautiful island despite the setbacks. Your description about Las Velas sounds bang-on what we experienced too, minus the stomach trouble. We wanna go back to Isla del Sol too! 🙂

October 10, 2017 at 6:51 AM

we had dinner in Las Velas 2 weeks ago. Yes it was good, but to be honest, to us and to the majority of the people in the restaurant, it was NOT worth the waiting. We waited exactly 2h20′ for our food – 1 plate. And we were the first to be served. We were able to order a drink at the beginning, but afterwards nothing more. The chef was all alone and I have the impression he came in together with us (everyone enters one sunset finishes) Towards the end of the waiting, you saw tiredness and people bored on every table. 1 girl was lying with the head on the table. What strucks me most: everyone took the same dish: trout in papillot – the same dish he is preparing since years. Wonder what would have happened in case people would have ordered more divers meals (there are not many, but still > 5 choices). You know you’ll have to wait when you eat here, but when after 2 hours still nothing appears the fun really is gone. We adored Isla des sol, even with only Yumanu being accessible, but at Las velas we wouldn’t go again.

October 24, 2017 at 11:37 PM

Yeah, it was quite the wait for us during our visit too. The chef has a wife that helps him out and perhaps moves things along more quickly, but she wasn’t there during our visit either. So he was all by himself when we were there and we had a similarly very lengthy wait. Still, we enjoyed the experience and the trout. We got a bottle of wine that we slowly sipped on during the long wait. Isla del Sol seems to move at a slower pace overall, but Las Velas definitely takes that to a whole ‘nother level. 😉 Agree that there’s still so much to enjoy on Isla del Sol, even with the Yumani side being closed.

July 1, 2017 at 8:18 PM

Excellent review and very accurate. We were there in mid-May, and Las Velas was closed that day. Since one in our party was sick, we did not attempt the hike north. We didn’t hear anything about the trail being closed, but it’s possible that they just don’t advertise it. I was aware that it had happened recently though. We stayed at the hostal Wara Uta, a short distance from El Sol. The hot water didn’t work that morning, but it was very comfortable, with a great view, and warm beds and soft towels. We had a family room with private bathroom which was definitely more expensive than El Sol, but still a good value. Even though we didn’t get to do much, the gorgeous views alone were worth the trip. We hired a burro to take our one carry-on bag and small backpacks up the steep hill. Well worth it!

July 5, 2017 at 2:55 PM

So glad to hear you had a nice time on Isla del Sol! Too bad about Las Velas being closed on the day of your visit. I suppose that just gives you a reason to come back one day! 😉 As for the North being closed, they don’t advertise it. We had to walk to the closed point before being turned around. Not sure if it is still closed, but the last I heard was that it was. Glad to hear about your stay at Wara Uta – we had considered staying there too but they were booked full during our visit. Sounds lovely though, aside from the lack of hot water. And great tip about the use of mules to haul your stuff up to the top. Thanks for chiming in about your experience!

June 12, 2017 at 8:30 AM

I’ve never heard about Isla del Sol Bolivia before. And now I am in love with it!!

June 12, 2017 at 11:14 AM

We hadn’t heard of it either until we began researching our Bolivia travel plans. We hope you make it there one day – it’s a special place!

May 24, 2017 at 2:38 AM

So awesome that you included Isla del Sol in your Bolivia itinerary! We visited but only as a day trip, would have loved to have spent overnight as there’s so much to do. We did a full day private tour from La Paz and included it as part of kayaking on Lake Titicaca. So much authenticity about the whole region, the villages, and the locals, and of course, the incredible untouched views 🙂

May 24, 2017 at 9:10 AM

Yes definitely so much authenticity, culture and those unspoiled views. Take us back! 🙂 Oooh, and kayaking around there sounds like it would be such a great experience on Isla del SOl. We didn’t see any kayaks around when we went. Perhaps they were on the North or Central side of the island? I would love to go kayaking around those beautiful calm waters!

May 23, 2017 at 6:38 PM

I always thought of Bolivia as mountains, I forget that there are lakes and islands there too. Isla del Sol looks like a great opportunity to get back in touch with nature, especially with some of the rustic accommodations. I bet kids would enjoy it too.

May 24, 2017 at 9:14 AM

Yup, there’s a big ol’ lake right on the Northern western border of Bolivia! 😉 It is indeed a great place to unwind a connect with nature. And we did see some families with kids of varying ages. Although, probably best for kids that can walk/hike, rather than babies/toddlers. I saw one family that had to carry their toddler up the mountain to Yumani and it did not look very enjoyable, haha!

May 23, 2017 at 11:23 AM

Isla Del Sol looks amazing. Thank you for this super informative post. This looks like the kind of place I would love to explore fully. Maybe rent a vehicle and just go on a road trip throughout. Yumani so beautiful. You’ve just made me re-vamp my bucket list.

May 24, 2017 at 9:15 AM

You won’t be going on that road trip through Isla del Sol. There are no roads or cars on the island! That’s part of what makes it so special.

May 23, 2017 at 9:28 AM

Thank you for this super detailed and informative post about Isla Del Sol!! I loved your video too! This looks like the kind of place we would love to spend time in. It sounds like there’s lots to do, so one night would probably not even be enough. Sad to hear about the north-south conflict. Hope everything gets resolved peacefully there.

May 22, 2017 at 11:23 PM

Isla del Sol looks like a magical place you would definitely want to stay over in to watch the stars and relax. Great tip about finding a secure hotel to leave the majority of your luggage at. I would hate to schlep my stuff up those stairs at that altitude.

May 24, 2017 at 9:20 AM

It is indeed magical! 🙂 And yes, definitely best to leave your stuff at a hotel on mainland. We saw others having a very difficult time carrying their big backups up from the shore. The altitude plus the steep grade are no joke!

May 22, 2017 at 10:18 PM

Thank you for this!! We may be heading to Bolivia and this is the best guide I have seen! Very helpful tips for the night beforehand too!

May 24, 2017 at 9:21 AM

We hope you do make it to Bolivia – it’s such a fascinating country with so much to offer, like Isla del Sol! 😉 Let us know if you head that way.

May 22, 2017 at 9:45 PM

I’d never heard of Isla del Sol but will add in a stop on my upcoming trip through Peru and Bolivia. Your pictures are stunning!

May 24, 2017 at 9:23 AM

Awesome! Yes, you must add it to your trip! We hadn’t’t heard of it either, before arriving to South America, and we were so glad to added it to our itinerary and stayed overnight there. We hope you have a great trip to Bolivia and Peru! We found it to be such a fun and fascinating region to travel through.

May 22, 2017 at 3:40 PM

That scenery is so gorgeous I think I would want to stay more than just a night! An island with llamas? I’m sold!

May 24, 2017 at 9:24 AM

Haha, yes the resident llamas wandering around the island are definitely a bonus. They are such characters! There were some that lived at our hostel and we loved waking up to seeing them right outside our window.

May 22, 2017 at 8:34 AM

Isla del Sol looks incredible! The sunset photos look stunning, and it’s a good tip to see it from the east and watch the glow reflect off Lake Titicaca. Isla del Sol really sounds like the perfect place to unwind, especially without cars or light pollution. I can just imagine the gorgeous astrophotography! Great post, with heaps of info, thank you!

May 24, 2017 at 9:26 AM

It is a great place to unwind! And yes, when we were looking for a spot to catch the sunset in the west, we were instead so surprised to see those beautiful mountains reveal themselves in the opposite direction. We almost didn’t even care about the sunset anymore, we were in such awe by the glowing snow-capped Andes! 🙂

May 22, 2017 at 7:22 AM

Fantastic to find a place where you can tick off so many world exclusives! It blows my mind that the lake is nearly twice as high up as the highest point in Australia!! You’ve made it sound very appealing – especially as I’m a committed ‘slow traveller’! Thanks for the tour – hope to see the real thing one day!

May 24, 2017 at 9:30 AM

And this is somewhat of a contradiction for us because we often travel fast, but Isla del Sol is most definitely a destination to take it slow. Any committed slow travelers would easily slip into the tranquil island vibe way up there. And all those world exclusives – crazy right!

May 17, 2017 at 7:13 AM

Great Post! It’s great to read about Isla del Sol Bolivia, I didn’t know about this place. Amazing View and I just updated my bucket list for travelling with Isla del Sol Bolivia to visit in future.

Thanks for such a useful information! I am always looking forward to new places to explore as much as I can.

May 20, 2017 at 4:13 PM

Thanks Nitin! It really is a beautiful place and the pictures we’ve posted here don’t even begin to do its beauty justice. We hope you do get a chance to make it out there sometime in the future and experience this magical island in Lake Titicaca! 🙂 Happy travels!

Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Isla del Sol, Bolivia

Known as the birthplace of the sun and the Inca bloodline, Bolivia’s Isla del Sol – meaning “Island of the Sun” in Spanish – is deemed one of the most sacred islands in South America. Just an hour’s boat ride from Copacabana, today travelers can visit the island to explore Inca ruins, learn ancient weaving techniques, and take in some of Lake Titicaca’s best views. Here’s what you need to know.

There’s a north/south divide.

Despite having a tiny population, Isla del Sol is made up of three communities: the Yumani living in the south, the Cha’llapampa in the north, and the Cha’lla in the central eastern coast. In recent years, there have been growing disputes between the three communities over tourism on the island. At the time of writing, the north side (where the Gold Museum and some of the ruins are located) has been closed off to tourists until the issues are resolved. This is not to say you shouldn’t visit the island (most accommodation options are in the south, as well as many of the tourist attractions), but just check out the situation before you book anything.

Day trip or overnight stay?

Isla del Sol is slow, laid-back island life at its best. In terms of “ticking off” all the tourist attractions (particularly now that the north side is off limits), you could definitely do it all within a day. Having said that, if you’re looking for a couple of romantic nights of beautiful sunsets, serene country hikes, and impressive Lake Titicaca views (as well as a unique insight into Bolivian culture), then it’s definitely worth stopping a while. It’s also worthwhile stopping off at Isla de la Luna on the way, another sacred island nearby with stunning views of the Andes.

Views of the snow-capped Andes from Isla de la Luna, Bolivia

Accommodation and facilities are basic

If you do decide to stay the night , be aware that there are currently no luxury accommodation options. Despite growing tourism, life on Isla del Sol is still very much as it was hundreds of years ago, meaning no Wi-Fi, limited electricity and hot water, and certainly no soaking jacuzzi bath. A stay here is about disconnecting from the outside world, getting out into the great outdoors, and experiencing a fascinating way of life. When you have that, who needs luxury anyway?

Most accommodation options on the island, and Lake Titicaca as a whole, are comfortable but basic

Come prepared for extra charges

Even if you’re coming over on an “all-inclusive” day trip, it’s a good idea to bring some Bolivianos with you. Although prices are affordable on the island, there are a couple of charges that sometimes catch travelers out. For example, you’ll need to pay 15 Bolivianos (US$2.15) to enter Yumani, 30 bolivianos if you’d like a guide (who usually makes himself known on the boat or on the jetty), and a couple of Bolivianos for the use of toilets. Also note that if you photograph the residents, you should tip them. It’s a basic expectation, and many locals can get quite upset if you refuse. Either way, be sure to ask their permission before taking the shot.

Be sure to tip locals if you photograph them

There’s a steep climb in store…

Now that the north side of the island is off limits, the boat only stops at the Yumani community on the south side, which requires a steep climb up from the boat jetty to the top of the island. If you’re staying the night, your hostel may be located even further up the hill and, as there are no cars on the island, you won’t have much choice but to walk it. Having said that, as long as you’re acclimatized and in a relatively fit condition, you won’t have any problems. Our advice? Leave your heavy backpack or suitcase in your accommodation in Copacabana and just come with a light daypack.

It’s a steep walk up to the top of the island, but the views are worth every step

And a slow, bumpy boat ride

Boats are painfully slow in Bolivia, there’s just no getting around that. Because of this (and thanks to the cramped space inside), you seem to feel every little wave and bump in the lake. If you suffer from motion sickness, best to take some tablets before you board.

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Make time for a trout lunch…

Since they introduced trout into the lake in the 1930s, trucha frita (fried trout) has been served in tourists restaurants by the bucketload here. It’s super fresh, great value, and usually comes with a soup starter, a huge side of potatoes and salad, and – even – a dessert of ice cream or bananas with chocolate. The best bit? All the restaurants on the island come with an incredible view of Lake Titicaca and, on a clear day, the snow-capped Andes.

A local fisherman preparing freshly caught trout on Isla del Sol, Bolivia

And a spot of shopping

Isla del Sol is known for its incredible hand-woven hats, sweaters, gloves, and jewelry. In fact, if you take a hike along one of the island’s cobblestones paths, you’ll likely see women at work using the backstrap loom, one of the oldest weaving techniques on the planet. Many of these women will be selling their wares to tourists, often at the fraction of the price that you’d find on the mainland. A purchase from these ladies gets you a bargain souvenir and helps them make a living, so get stuck in!

A woman weaving on Isla del Sol, Bolivia

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Isla del Sol

2.1 North-Central dispute
4 Fees and permits
5 Get around

Isla del Sol ("Island of the Sun") is the largest island on Lake Titicaca , and part of Bolivian territory. An ancient holy site of the Inca, it's easily reachable from Copacabana .

-15.9975 -69.183056 1 Challapampa - A village near the north end of Isla del Sol in Lake Titicaca, Bolivia. It has a quite basic tourist infrastructure.
-16.03533 -69.15253 2 Yumani - Has the best infrastructure on the island, and is where mostly people choose to stay overnight.

Inca legend says that Viracocha, the bearded god who created the universe, emerged from the waters of Lake Titicaca and created the sun at this location.

The son and daughter of Inti were sent out of one of the caves on the island with a golden staff. Manco Cápac took this staff across the water and found Cusco between the mountains. He decided to start his Inca empire there. This of course is according to legend. In reality, Cápac probably lived in the region of Cusco instead.

North-Central dispute

Between 2019-2022, the central and northern portions of the island remain closed to tourists due to an ongoing dispute between the communities of Cha'llapampa, located at the north end of the island, and Cha’lla, located in the center. No tourist boats are permitted to come ashore in Cha'llapampa and overland visitors are turned back at the -16.030906 -69.160091 1 checkpoint . As a result, many of the interesting sites such as the Gold Museum, Rock of the Puma, Inca Table, and Footsteps of the Sun are inaccessible.

The dispute originated in early 2017 when tourism huts were built near an archaeological site on the north end of the island. After concerns their proximity jeopardized the preservation of the site were ignored, inhabitants of Cha'llapampa destroyed the buildings. Cha’lla responded by blockading access to Cha'llapampa by both land and water.

The dispute has been, at times, violent, resulting in injuries among local residents and burned boats. In 2018, foreign tourists attempting to dock in Cha'llapampa were attacked and detained until the Navy intervened and returned them to Copacabana.

There are several service boats running from Copacabana to the Isla del Sol. Boats stop in the southern part near Yumani and then continue to the northern part in Challapampa.

Another boat schedule, probably due to the conflict, is a stop at the Isla de la Luna for 1 hr and a consequent stop at the Isla del Sol near Yumani for 2 hr. The boat ride all together is 7 hr.

There are also numerous tour companies organizing full and half-day excursions, you can make a reservations in one of the numerous agencies in Copacabana . It is recommend to leave your large backpack in a hostel in Copacabana as getting up the Inca steps in Yumani is hard work at a high altitude. The half-day tour is not worth it due to the time you spend on the boat. Also, since only 3 hr of the full-day tour are on solid ground and 4 hr are on the boat, you might instead opt for staying at least one day on the island.

You can get the best rates for the day tour with the boat company (Bs. 20) right before they leave at 08:30. However, it is complicated to find out which boat goes and where is the company. Even guys selling ticket near the pier are just travel agent seeking a commission selling the day tours for Bs. 25-35, like all the booking offices in town. It is probably best to consult the guy that checks the ticket when the people enter the boats—he belongs to the boat company and will give you the best price. Do not let yourself be stress, there is always space on the boat and they will fit as many people as possible onto the boat. Mind the "Andes Amazonia" boat, which seems to be the slowest one around, meaning less time on the island for you. Alternatively, try the "Inti Kala" boat.

You can also charter a boat between Yumani and Yampupata . Bs. 100, non-negotiable (the boatmen are watching each other) at the pier, for up to 7 persons. Lower prices can be had in the village: ask at your hostal. A short stop at Pilko Kaina can be arranged.

Fees and permits

Each passenger entering the island has to pay Bs. 10 when leaving the boat.

There are no motor vehicles on Isla del Sol. It might be possible to rent a donkey.

Unless you're spending the night on the island, your itinerary will be basically determined by the boat tour you arrived on. Frankly, the half-day tour is barely worthwhile as it consists only of a brief stop at the southern end and most of your time will be spent on the boat.

A full-day tour will take two hours to get from Copacabana to Cha'llapampa, two and a half hours to see the museum and make a round trip hike to the Rock of the Puma, three hours to take the boat to Isla de la Luna and back to the Inca Steps at the town of Yumani, and two hours for the ride back to Copacabana. You can also choose to hike from the Rock of the Puma back to Yumani (three hours) and catch the boat from there. (Decide on this when buying tickets, as the boat fare to Isla de la Luna adds just a bit to the cost.)

Cha'llapampa , the town on the northern end of the island, is where the boat lets you off. The Gold Museum ( Museo de Oro ) displays Inca treasures which were discovered underwater off the island in the last decade. The Bs. 5 admission also lets you see the Rock of the Puma. Other than that, the town has a small beach and some dirt roads.
The sights on the northern tip are ancient Inca sacred sites. The Rock of the Puma , or Titi Kharka , after which the lake is named, is a large formation that will probably look nothing like a puma until the guide points it out. Your reaction will likely either be "Ah, there it is!" or "That's it?!" A short distance from the rock is the Inca Table , a low platform fashioned of stone. You may just be imagining a red tint on it, but it was supposedly used for human sacrifices. The Footsteps of the Sun nearby are a set of natural (or supernatural?) impressions in rock.
From Yumani on the southern part of the island, the Inca Steps descend down to the water. At the bottom is the Fountain of Youth . (Oh, those gullible conquistadors!) The channel of water flowing down the hill should convince you that drinking from it is much more likely to shorten your life than extend it.
The Temple of Pilcocaina is a little further south, and is an optional stop for the boat tour. Bs. 5 admission.

Again, Yumani has the best offerings. Challapampa could be good for lunch if you are coming with the morning boat and staying overnight on the island. Many places in Copacabana will sell you a lunch box, convinient for daytrippers. The few shops around have limited stocks -fruits are mostly bananas and apples. Many eateries charge about Bs. 30 for a dinner.

Las Velas ( The Candles ), Yumani, Isla del Sol, Bolivia ( Follow the signs through the Eucalyptus trees at the top of the Inca Stairs ), ☏ +591 712 356616 . Hard to find but worth the walk. Serves trout, filet mignon and the excellent vegetarian pizza. The food doesn't get made until it's ordered, so have a few drinks while you wait. There is no electricity so the place is candle lit in the evening. Amazing sunsets from here as well. The owner will walk you back to the main area of Yumani by flashlight if needed. Bs. 30-50 pp (without drinks) .

Yumani is growing fast and already has a lot of tourist facilities. There are some basic alojamientos in Challapampa and Challa . Challapampa in the northern part is much easier to get to, the village is on the beach and the to accommodation are cheaper. The cheapest hospedajes start at about US$2 per night. At those prices expect basic conditions, everything is pretty clean and decent though. Camping should be possible in Challapampa.

Most basic lodgings now charge Bs. 25-30 pp with shared bath and breakfast extra.

Hostal Templo del Sol . (Yumani) It's in an uninviting building at the top of the town, but it has excellent views of the lake and the Cordillera Real. Rooms are basic. The shared bathroom has an electrical heated shower. The price is Bs. 15 per person.
Hostal Puerta del Sol , Yumani ( walk up the Inca stairs until you reach the very top ), ☏ +591 719-55181 . This place has an amazing view and great sunsets on the Peru side of Lake Titicaca, but make sure you bring your own lock for your room as there has been reports of stolen items from locked rooms using the locks the hostel provides. Bs. 30 pp .

Isla del Sol might be a nice destination, if you have never seen an island in a lake, like in Greece. However, considering the number of tourists shoved in here every day, the locals demanding Bs. 10 from each and watching the tourist arrive, as well as the numerous pizzerias on the island leave doubts about the authenticity of this place. Yes, it is quiet and nice. But is it really worth the trip? Maybe Copacabana, its hills and its trails are already sufficient enough to get a feeling for the area and lay back.

Isla de la Luna is easiest visited from Yumani, by renting a boat. However, regular tours and boats also go to the island.

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Isla del Sol, Bolivia Guía de Viaje 2024

La Isla del Sol, Bolivia, se encuentra al sur del gran lago Titicaca. Primero, es una parada perfecta al cruzar la frontera entre Bolivia y Perú. Y segundo, según la leyenda, es el lugar de nacimiento de los Inca. Sin embargo, es un lugar que fácilmente se puede visitar en un día; aunque los viajeros suelen quedarse más tiempo y extienden su estadía para tomar un descanso del ajetreo del viaje por Perú y Bolivia.

Mitología Inca

Tanto el lago como la isla son considerados los lugares de nacimiento del sol y del mundo según la mitología Inca. Según la leyenda, el primer rey Inca, Manco Cápac, fue creado por el Dios del Sol, Inti. De acuerdo a la leyenda Inti, Manco Cápac y sus hermanos fueron enviados a la tierra por el Dios del Sol y salieron de la cueva Pacaritambo portando un bastón de oro. Los mismos viajaron hasta Perú y fundaron la capital Inca de Cusco y también construyeron el templo Inti en la ciudad.

Cómo llegar

La manera más conocida de llegar la Isla del Sol, Bolivia, es en bote desde Copacabana ; este pequeño pueblo es bastante turístico, sin embargo, ha podido mantener su encanto de pueblo costero. Desde Copacabana puedes tomar un tour de medio día o un full day; como también, puedes bajarte y quedarte el tiempo que desees. No hay autos en la isla; la única manera de transportarse es a pie o rentando un burro.

Isla del Sol bolivia - puerto copacabana

Port of Copacabana

Dependiendo de a que parte de la isla llegues y de que tanto tiempo tengas, estás son tus opciones:

Camina del Norte al Sur – Puedes caminar por la Isla del Sol, Bolivia, desde Challapampa, en el norte, hacia Yumani, en el sur. En una caminata de 3 horas, donde podrás conocer muchas llamas y pasar por increíbles vistas; mientras llegas a la zona arqueológica. Entre las diferentes partes de la isla tendrás que pagar un impuesto local (Entre 5 a 15bs). Usualmente los visitantes se quedan en el sur de la isla; desde donde toman un bote hasta el norte para luego bajar hacia al sur.

Visita la Isla de la Luna – Esta isla pequeña es hogar de las ruinas del templo de Vírgenes. Está habitada por 80 personas y se puede llegar en bote desde Yumani o Copacabana; el precio de la entrada son 10Bs.

Salta al lago – Si tienes tiempo de sobra para pasar en la Isla del Sol, Bolivia, recomendamos bastante un día para relajarse en la playa y nadar; ya que la Isla se calienta durante el día, nada más refréscate que lanzarse al agua.

Contempla las estrellas – Las hermosas vistas hacen de esta isla el escenario perfecto para los amaneceres y atardeceres; sin embargo, lo que se roba completamente el show, es el cielo de la noche. Si extrañas ese cielo estrellado de Uyuni; Isla del Sol, Bolivia, es el lugar perfecto para disfrutar de estas mágicas estrellas.

Qué no te puedes perder

Las escaleras Incas: La escalera Inca consiste de 206 escalones de piedras construido por los Incas; te llevan al pueblo Yumani al sur. Al llegar a la cima de las escaleras encontrarás una fuente natura que los Incas creían era la fuente de la juventud; el agua sale de 3 arroyos que tienen escrito “No seas flojo, no seas un mentiroso y no seas un ladrón”.
La roca del Puma: Esta roca con forma de Puma se llama Titi Kharka, se cree que es el lugar de nacimiento del sol y la luna. El lago Titicaca recibió su nombre por este misterioso lugar.
Museo de Oro: Este pequeño muse se encuentra en el pueblo de Challapampa en el norte de la Isla del Sol, Bolivia. La colección se basa en tesoros Incas, cerámica antigua y objetos de metal que fueron descubiertos bajo el agua de la ciudad Marka Pampa.
La mesa Inca: Esta piedra plana, con forma de plataforma, era usada para rituales de sacrificio humano; y aún es usada por chamanes para actos religiosos dedicados al sol.

Algunos Consejos útiles

¡Usa protector solar! El Sol va a cocinar tu piel sino lo usas. La altura (3.812 metros/ 12.507 pies), el cielo despejado y el reflejo del sol en el lago pueden causarte una insolación.
No traigas la mochila grande. Deja tus cosas en el hostal de Copacabana y solo toma lo que necesites para el día (o la cantidad de días que planees quedarte). No hay transporte en la isla; lo que traigas, lo vas a tener que llevar por ti mismo.
Trae ropa para el calor y el frio. El viaje en bote es algo frio y como es una gran altura, la temperatura tiende a bajar drásticamente cuando anochece. Sin embargo, los días son bastante calientes. Prepárate para todo tiempo de climas y recuerda traer tus lentes de sol.
Trae calzado cómodo. Se camina bastante en la isla, siendo el único medio de transporte, es recomendable traer zapatillas cómodas o incluso deportivas.
Agua. El recorrido de la isla es bastante caliente durante el día; la altura también te cansará más rápido, asegúrate de traer agua suficiente.

¡RESERVA UN TOUR EN BOLIVIA AHORA!

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Aliz's Wonderland

A travel blog, where a coffee shop is just as important as tourist attractions, a day trip to isla del sol, bolivia.

Isla del Sol is not just an ordinary island. It’s situated in Lake Titicaca, so on the way there and also from the island you can enjoy the view of snow-capped mountains, green hills and the blue vastness of Lake Titicaca. Furthermore, the island is home to cute llamas and other animals. You only have to enjoy this sacred atmosphere, get ready for high altitude and walk slowly. Check out how we spent our 1 day trip in Isla del Sol, Bolivia.

How to get to Isla del Sol, Bolivia?

Isla del Sol is located in Lake Titicaca, close to its Bolivian lakeshore. The easiest way is TAKING A BOAT FROM COPACABANA and in 1,5 – 2 hours you can reach the island.

Boat tickets can be purchased at many places in Copacabana, though at tourist agencies it might be more expensive. We bought our return tickets in a kiosk at the lakeshore (at the end of Av 6 de Agosto) one day in advance.

The seller said that the boat will arrive at Porta Sur, the harbour of Yumani village located on the southern part of the island. However, our boat stopped at the Temple of Sun, which is more south from Porta Sur. This way was even better because we just needed to walk north and didn’t need to go back and forth (see it on the map below.)

Going to Isla del Sol by boat from Copacabana

Return ticket price – 30 BOB/person (purchased in the harbour)
Boats depart from Copacabana at 8:30 am and 1:30 pm
Boat trip takes around 1,5 hours to reach Temple of Sun harbour (south part of the island)
Boat goes back to Copacabana at 3 pm from the port of Yumani

Watch our travel video on YouTube about our day trip on Isla del Sol!

And subscribe to my YouTube channel to not miss the upcoming travel videos.

How many days to spend in Isla del Sol?

We visited the island during our stay in Copacabana at the lakeshore of Lake Titicaca. Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun) is the birthplace of the Sun and the Inca dynasty. More than 80 Inca ruins are located on the island.

During our Bolivian trip (March of 2020), ONLY THE SOUTHERN PART OF THE ISLAND WAS OPEN FOR VISITORS. Unfortunately, the northern and southern part had some differences again, so sometimes the northern part can’t be visited.

Before planning your Bolivian itinerary, make research about conditions of visiting Isla del Sol. You might be luckier than us 😉

After a 1,5 hours boat ride, we arrived at its harbour and spent around 5 hours on the island, which was enough to climb 2 mountains, make friends with a baby llama and have lunch with a view. Walking and climbing weren’t effortless at an altitude of 4000 m, so we kept many breaks and we walked slowly.

Our 1-day trip to Isla del Sol was perfect like this, though IF THE WHOLE ISLAND WOULD BE POSSIBLE TO VISIT, 1 DAY WOULDN’T BE ENOUGH TO DISCOVER ITS WHOLE BEAUTY. In peaceful times the boats also stop at the harbour of Challapampa , on the Northern part of the island. From there you can walk south and take the boat from the harbour of Yumani back to Copacabana.

Viewpoint of Cerro Queñuani - A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia | Aliz’s Wonderland

This is how our day trip to Isla del Sol looked like…

On the following map ( My Maps by Google Maps ) you can see the harbours, viewpoints and restaurant we visited on our day trip and the routes we took.

By clicking on the tab next to “A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia”, you can see the actual points, and it’s also possible to turn off and on layers. Furthermore, you can also save this map (if you have My Maps account) by pressing the star next to the map title.

Where to stay in Isla del Sol?

If you decide to spend a night on the island and stay there more days, you’ll find many hostels on the island. Though don’t expect luxury and high-speed wifi.

On Booking.com , there are hostels in Yumani and a few in Challapampa. Most of them provide gorgeous views of the lake. Make sure to not bring heavy luggage because carrying our small backpacks and ourselves on this high altitude was enough…

Harbour of Yumani - A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia | Aliz’s Wonderland

How to spend a day in Isla del Sol?

Our small boat (which doesn’t have a toilet) left Copacabana harbour at 8:30 am, just next to the kiosk, where we bought our tickets the previous day.

We sat on the top of the boat to enjoy the view, though it was a bit cold because the morning was rainy in Copacabana. Make sure to have a light jacket and wear layers.

After a 1,5 hours boat ride, we arrived at its harbour at Temple of Sun, which is located on the southern part of the island. At Temple of Sun, everyone had to pay an entrance fee to the island (10 BOB), which was the only one for the day.

Temple of Sun - A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia | Aliz’s Wonderland

The viewpoint of Cerro Queñuani

We started to walk north to visit a viewpoint called Cerro Queñuani. The walk on the eastern side of the hill was very scenic, overlooking the lake and the snowy mountains on the other side of the blue lake. On our way, we also met horses, donkeys and could spot a few llamas in the distance.

Before taking photos of animals, ALWAYS ASK THE PERMISSION OF THE OWNER. I was thinking about taking a photo of donkeys, but before I could turn on my camera, their owner said it’s not allowed… Usually, they ask for money, so don’t be surprised if posing with llamas will cost you a few bolivianos.

Finally, we reached the woods, where the viewpoint can be reached. On the top, we had to catch our breath, have a longer break (on the way we had multiple small stops) and recharge ourselves with some biscuits.

FROM THE VIEWPOINT OF CERRO QUEÑUANI, THE PANORAMA WAS FASCINATING to the peninsula of Copacabana, other islands and the deep blue lake. A stone mausoleum was also located on the top and cute llamas were eating grass next to the path. A baby llama was very interested in us, it even came close to us. Closer to me, I guess it could feel my admiration for llamas 🙂

We also realized that the peak could be reached via a shorter (but maybe steeper) way if we would walk straight up at the harbour of Temple of Sun (see the route on the map above).

After resting and taking photos, we headed to the direction of the village through the forest. Just follow the path in the woods and after reaching the village choose the western road for restaurants with terraces and panoramas.

The viewpoint of Cerro Palla Kasha

Before having lunch, we climbed another hill called Palla Kasha. You’ll find signs, so you won’t get lost. From the village, the slope looked steep, though hiking for us took around 30 minutes (including breaks). The panorama from the viewpoint totally compensated us for the suffering at high altitude.

Cerro Palla Kasha is the highest point on the southern part, so from there you can even have a view to the northern part of the island and the village of Yumani.

Viewpoint of Cerro Palla Kasha - A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia | Aliz’s Wonderland

Where to eat in Isla del Sol?

After the hike, we deserved lunch with a view! So we headed back to the village to find a perfect lunch spot. On the western road of the hill, there are many restaurants with a panorama to the lake.

Our chosen restaurant was Restaurant Pachamama with its fantastic terrace and colourful flowers. THE MUST-TRY DISH IS THE LOCAL TROUT in Isla del Sol and around Lake Titicaca, so we had trout for lunch, which was served with quinoa, fries and vegetables.

Restaurant Pachamama - A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia | Aliz’s Wonderland

Yumani harbour and the Inca Steps

After the tasty trout and sunbathing, it was time to go to the harbour and leave this paradise. The road took 25 minutes to the port of Yumani through curvy streets and stairs of the village.

The last part was the Inca Steps, more than 200 steps leading to the lakeside. When we reached the harbour we were super happy that we didn’t have to climb up on those steps…

The boat departed at 3 am with us sitting on the upper deck again. That time we didn’t need our jackets, only a cap to cover our head from the strong sunshine.

Yumani Inca steps - A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia | Aliz’s Wonderland

What to bring to Isla del Sol, Bolivia?

LIGHT JACKET AND LAYERS to be ready for wind, sunshine and shadows. The weather is warm thanks to the powerful sunshine, though in the shadows you might need an extra layer against the cold.
COMFY SHOES are required for walking all day long on the island.
You’ll need SUNSCREEN AND SUNGLASSES to protect yourself from the intense sunshine. The sunshine is stronger at high altitude, so make sure to use your sunscreen every 2-3 hours. I’d suggest using lip balm providing sun protection as well.
Have a lot of water to hydrate your body. DRINKING WATER AND COCA TEA are also good to prevent altitude sickness.
Bring snacks to provide you with some energy during hiking.
Cash to pay your entry to the island and lunch in the restaurant.

Walk slowly and get ready for high altitude - A day trip to Isla del Sol, Bolivia | Aliz’s Wonderland

Expenses during our 1-day Isla del Sol trip

On the island, we spent money only on the entrance fee and lunch. Our day trip cost 162 BOB for the 2 of us, which is around 24,3 USD (if 1 BOB = 0,15 USD). See our expenses below:

Boat return ticket – 30 BOB/person
Entrance fee to the island – 10 BOB/person (the only fee you have to pay on the southern part)
Lunch at Restaurant Pachamama (2 trouts (35 BOB/portion) + coke) – 82 BOB

This is how we spent 1 day in Isla del Sol. Don’t miss this magical island if you’re in Copacabana or the area of Lake Titicaca or La Paz. The scenery and the panorama to the blue lake will provide a memorable adventure for you.

Interested in more Bolivian and South-American landscapes?

How to pick the best Uyuni Salt Flats tour to Bolivia?
The best things to do in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
How to plan your perfect trip to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile?
Ilhabela travel guide – what to do and where to go

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alizswonderland

My name is Aliz and I was born and raised in Hungary and I live in the wonderful city of Budapest, where I like to wander as a tourist. At the same time, I can’t wait to discover new destinations. On this travel blog, Aliz's Wonderland, I unite my obsession with travelling, travel planning, specialty coffee and tasty brunch.

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Copacabana: Your Base To See Lake Titicaca & Isla del Sol in Bolivia

While visiting Bolivia, most first-time travelers primarily focus on seeing cities like La Paz or Uyuni. However, if you’re near La Paz and have an extra 2 days, I strongly suggest making your way over to these incredible locations of Lake Titicaca on the Bolivian side. Isla del Sol is a stunning island on the lake located a short boat ride away from Copacabana, Bolivia. Each location has its own character and I am here to tell you the best way to visit them both.

There is no visiting Isla del Sol without stopping at Copacabana , and there is no real point in getting yourself all the way to Copacabana without going out to explore Isla del Sol. These two go hand in hand so why not tell you, all you need to know in one post. Isla del Sol is located on Lake Titicaca and Copacabana lies at its edge. Both are truly remarkable places because of their locations. Life is slow, beers taste 10x better and you won’t find swarms of tourists.

Below you’ll find all the logistics needed to travel there, must-see places, and most importantly, downloadable itineraries for your stay. As always, this post will try to cover the basics of everything you need to know about traveling there, perfect things to see, and things I wish I knew.

Let’s get to the logistics

Lake Titicaca, Bolivia is simply incredible. The rich blue water along with mountain views make this a crazy beautiful destination. Most that visit, see this lake from the other inside in Puno, Peru . Since I didn’t have a chance to see it there, I jumped on the opportunity when backpacking in Bolivia. To this day, I view this spot as one of the most unique destinations I have ever been to.

Before we dive into this part of the Bolivia itinerary, here is a reference for you of how I planned my 2 week trip to this incredible country:

Flew into La Paz to take a bus into Copacabana and stayed there a night to acclimate.
Then took a boat to Island del Sol on Lake Titicaca for an overnight stay.
Returned to Copacabana to take a bus back to La Paz and stayed there for 4 days.
Next stop from La Paz to Uyuni for 3 days.
After the tour, I took an overnight bus to Sucre and stayed there for 4 days.
My last stop was Santa Cruz to which I took a flight from Sucre. I stayed there for another 3 days.

Traveling there as a US citizen

While most countries don’t need a visa while traveling to Bolivia, the US relationship with the country made it mandatory to get one in the past. For that reason, it was quite rare to find many American travelers there. Obtaining a visa was fairly straightforward and I got one at the New York Bolivian embassy for a hefty fee of $160 USD.

Good news for you my fellow traveler, as of the 2020s and the change of presidents, US citizens are no longer required to get one.

Surviving high altitude

The city of Copacabana, Bolivia is located higher than La Paz, at over 12,600 feet. That is a crazy attitude for someone coming from sea level like myself. What happens at such high elevations, is that your body can no longer take in the same amount of oxygen per breath. This condition is called hypoxia. Having less available oxygen gives you a headache, confusion, lethargy and most annoyingly it’s hard to breathe too.

The first time I experienced pretty bad symptoms of altitude sickness was when I visited Cusco. I talk about this “horror” story here , so feel free to read it for some entertainment. When I was going to Bolivia, I wanted to be prepared so I researched ways to make this process less painful. I found out that you can take Acetazolamide or Diamox , a high blood pressure medication that can ease your symptoms of altitude sickness. I went to the doctor and got my prescription ready.

This is what it felt like for me: My doctor suggested starting the meds 3 days prior to arrival. After landing, I felt my head get a little heavy but not as bad as it did in Peru. My first stop was Copacabana and I was pretty ok throughout the day. At night, however, I got a headache that felt like my brain was about to explode. I cried because I thought it was my last day on earth, not kidding. To my surprise, I managed to fall asleep and woke up totally fine. After that, I did not have any more major issues while traveling the rest of Bolivia.

How to survive altitude sickness:

Give yourself a day to do nothing and get your body used to the brutal altitude. Read a book, lay around and whatever you do, do not drink alcohol!
Instead, drink tons and tons of water before and when you get there.
If you know you will get sick based on prior experience, consider getting a prescription from your doctor for Acetazolamide or Diamox, a blood pressure medication that has a positive effect on altitude sickness. Its mechanism of action is believed to make your blood more acidic thus making oxygen stick to hemoglobin molecules in your blood a little better. I used it, and although it didn’t save me completely, it helped a lot compared to my experience in Cusco.
If your symptoms get really bad, you can ask for oxygen at the hotel or you can descend to a lower altitude if possible.

To get to Copacabana from La Paz, you will need to take a bus from La Paz at the Cementary stop. If you’re landing in La Paz and want to go straight there since you’re already in El Alto that will save you an hour of extra travel. I decided to go to Copacabana first before going to La Paz and I am super happy with that route.

When I got off the plane, I went to the bus station, La Terminal Nueva de El Alto , hopped on the three-dollar, 4-hour local bus. I made friends with the local lady who fed me coca leaves to ease my altitude sickness. Most of them leave frequently but only when they fill up with enough people. They run until 6 pm or so. There are also tourist buses for about $7 that offer a little more comfort compared to the local one. I took this one back to La Paz and it was also totally fine.

On the way there, about 45 minutes outside of Copacabana, you will arrive at Tiquina Strain, a river crossing at which a little boat will transport you across it. The bus was will be a separate platform peacefully crossing the channel. It was so casual for everyone. For me, however, this was 3 hours into my Bolivian adventure so I was crazy fascinated by the whole process. There was a tiny fee for the boat transfer but from what I remember it wasn’t more than $0.40 or so.

If you’re spending a lot of time in South America and don’t mind long bus rides, I would really recommend looking into Bolivia/Peru Hop. The connections, flexibility and prices are great and allow you to see all the highlights of the gringo trail.

Where to stay in Copacabana, Bolivia

Copacabana is tiny. When you get there, you will have everything within a 15-minute radius. Honestly, it doesn’t really matter where you stay, it all depends on your budget. You can find places as cheap as $5 a night or as pricey as $60. I stayed at a known hotel with a middle price range, La Cupula . It was beautiful, comfortable, and warm. I loved it and I would highly recommend it. Cupulas neighbor, the funky Hostal Las Olas is higher in price but if you have the budget, it’s a super cool place to stay in.

A lot of people choose to take a day trip to Isla del Sol from Copacabana as there isn’t that much to do on the island but I highly recommend staying a night there instead. It becomes a very different experience and you can soak in the beauty of the island without being rushed. Your hikes won’t be limited, you’ll get to see the most incredible stars at night and you won’t have to worry about missing the boat.

Similar to Copacabana, your stay will largely depend on your budget. I choose a pricer option, Hostal Jallalla because I wanted the views and a place with heat. I was also staying at cheap hostels for the rest of my trip so I figured splurging a little was worth it. Note, that the island can get chilly at night and not all the places provide heaters. The place was incredible but if you don’t want to spend the money, my only suggestion is to find a hostel as high up as you can. The main highlight of the island is Lake Titicaca’s views so don’t choose a place that deprives you of them.

Note: There are constant conflicts between the north and south side of the island, with the north frequently closing tourist access. Make sure to find relevant information before you leave to avoid surprises upon arrival. That’s why I recommend staying in the south part, in the village of Yumani.

People & Safety

Copacabana has mixed safety reviews. For the most part, people don’t have bad experiences and feel safe. I felt safe myself too. However, there are some tales of theft or scams but I honestly don’t think it’s any worse than your average travel threat. The one scam that comes up over and over is ATM machines eating your cards. That is exactly what happened to my travel companion upon arrival in the city. We thought this was the end of the card especially when the teller said the person that can get it, is out for lunch. However, to our surprise when we returned later in the day, the card was waiting for us. Turns out, the guy really went to enjoy some lunch…

Isla del Sol is filled with locals. There are a few tourists that stick out like sore thumbs wandering the island. I wouldn’t be too concerned about your safety there. However, when you’re hiking in remote areas, make sure to understand that the farms are the property of the people that live there. Unless you have permission or there is a sign allowing you to enter, do not wander into someone’s alpaca farm.

Most Bolivians are extremely nice and welcoming people. Embrace that but don’t go blindly trusting everyone that approaches you.

Copacabana has a stretch of touristy restaurants along the main street of Av 6. The food isn’t horrible but also not very authentic. Go down to the port and have a local trout at one of the kiosks there. It’s a local specialty and I bet you that it tastes 10x better than at most restaurants in town.

Isla del Sol has family-run spots all over the tiny town. The best part is eating on top of the hill overlooking the lake. Try a couple to support the locals. For a navigational point lookup Pachamama .

Sightseeing

There isn’t an abundance of things to do in either of these spots but the spots themselves are worth making the journey. You’re meant to disconnect and enjoy the amazing scenery of both. My favorite part of Isla del Sol was stopping and listening to how quiet it was. Connecting with mother nature and allowing yourself to pause is the best thing you can do there.

Check out a couple of things you can do in each city in the list below.

Perfect Things To Do in Copacabana, Bolivia

Let’s not lie to ourselves, Copacabana doesn’t have many things to do. You’re likely not blending in as a local or finding things that are “off the beaten path”. So embrace being a visitor and don’t put on the “too cool to buy a fluffy alpaca” act.

Walk along Avenida 6 de Agosto to the “Port”

Being the main touristy street of town, on Avenida 6 de Agosto, you will find a ton of little shops, bars, and restaurants full of gringos. It’s cute, you can make friends with the tourists and enjoy a couple of beers in actually nicely decorated places.

When you reach the “port” or the dirt road from which the boats leave to the surrounding islands, you can observe the locals fishing, kids playing, and tourists buying shuttle tickets. What I do recommend, however, is grabbing the local delicacy or the trout along with a cold Paceña, in one of the kiosks. It’s one of those must-dos on your trip there and it’s much better than the one you can get in town.

Cerro Calvario

Technically this is a sacred place dedicated to a pilgrimage but many tourists simply enjoy the hike there. At the top, you will find the stations of the cross statues which are celebrated around Easter time. It will give you the best views of the town from above. Locals and tourists both visit the site and it will take about 30 minutes to get to the top. Unfortunately, I was battling altitude sickness that day so I didn’t get to watch the sunset from it as I really wanted to. Oh, yea, a 30-minute hike at almost 13,000 feet isn’t your typical stroll.

Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana

This is a beautiful white colonial church that you should visit despite what religion you believe in. It’s an important spot in Bolivia and many people come to see it through a pilgrimage. Also, it is sacred to both Catholics and the indigenous people due to its Inca importance.

Every day around 10 am , highly decorated cars pass through a blessing drive-thru for safety. The blessing is done by a catholic priest as well as a witch doctor. The car owner often finishes the blessing with a beer or coca-cola, for Pachamama of course.

Another thing you can find near the church is market stalls . Bolivian ladies sell anything from candy, toys, and tourist trinkets. It’s the closest to “local” as you will get in this area.

Horca del Inca

Back in the day, like Inca back in the day, this used to be an astronomical observatory. Rock structures used to be positioned to the sun, moon, and other structures. Today, only a couple of them remain after the ruthless Europeans decided to destroy a bunch of them after invading Bolivia.

It’s a difficult hike and only those that are fit and acclimated to the altitude should attempt it. However, the views will be amazing from there and the spot should be less crowded compared to Calvary Hill. If you’re interested, read this brief history about it in a very informative and well-written article from the Temple Trail here .

If you really want to see some ruins but aren’t fit enough to make this climb, try going to Intikala El Asiento del Inca instead. It’s close and accessing it is a lot easier.

Hike to Yampupata (or back to Copacabana)

Another cool (but much longer) hike can be done from or to the village of Yampupata . A lot of hikers opt to take an 80 boliviano/35-minute taxi ride to the village and then hiking back to Copacabana along the shore of Lake Titicaca. It’s a good activity if you have some extra time in the city and want to warm up for your Isla del Sol treks. You can do it both ways too but you have to be in really good shape. Again, Copacabana’s altitude is a killer, and things that are normally easy, become extremely strenuous on a person who doesn’t live in these types of conditions.

Islas Flotantes

Along the hike from Yampupata, you can encounter little floating islands close to Copacabana. They’re small and not as impressive as Peru’s islands and I don’t know if I would specifically make a trip out of town just to see them. But there is a bunch of tours organized from town that let you hike around and enjoy this unique activity so if you always wanted to see one and don’t have time for the Peruvian ones, take a short boat ride there.

Perfect Things To Do in Isla del Sol, Bolivia

To get to Isla del Sol from Copacabana, you will need to take a boat at 8:30 am or 1:30 pm from the boat dock in town for about $3. Make sure to get to the dock 30 minutes earlier and buy tickets there to save yourself some money because the ones that you will buy in town are a lot pricer. You can technically come back the same day because the boats come back at 3:30 and 4 pm but I wouldn’t really recommend that.

Useful Tips:

If you’re going there for the night, store your main luggage at the hotel and only bring what you need for the day. You’ll save yourself the headache of carrying huge packs.
Always triple-check the times of the boats. I missed mine by 30 minutes.
If you miss the boat and you’re lucky, there are some private boats that can take you there but you will pay a shit ton more. I had to opt out for this option because my dumb self thought the boat runs between not at 8:30 and 1:30 …
If the waters are choppy, you won’t be able to make the trip there.
There are no ATMs on the island so take all the cash that you think you will spend. I had to loan money to a fellow traveler because they had no way of getting back to town.
There may or may not be wi-fi there.
North and the southern parts of the island always seem to be in conflict so there is a chance your plans might not work out if you wanted to see both sides. For the most part, the Yumani area seems to be always open, it’s the north that likes to close off access to tourists.

Hike hike hike

The reason why you came to Isla del Sol was for the views, sunsets, and untouched territory. There are no cars on the island so guess what? You are walking my friend. And you’re walking a lot, so make sure you’re acclimated as you’re at the highest lake in the world.

If the north and the south aren’t fighting, take the north-to-south route hike on the Willa Thaki Trail . Assuming it’s open, your boat can drop you off in the north part which is the Challapampa community, and then you can start your walk to Yumani which should take you 2-3 hours. If closed, you’ll get dropped off in the south, and you can loop that trail, one way in the middle of the island, the other on the coast.

Everything is marked and there aren’t any alternatives so you will have no problem following the route. Along the route, there is a bunch of ruins that I marked on the Bolivia map for you but I know nothing about them aside from that they’re old and important.

If the north is fighting with the south, you can still get killer views on the tiny south stretch. Walk to Mirador Palla Khasa for great views.

Sunset and Sunrise

I saw a couple of famous sunset spots in the world, and all I have to tell you is that they have nothing on the Isla del Sol views. This is the main reason why you should stay on the island for the night. Stay in Yumani but on the hill so you can comfortably grab a glass of wine or a cold Paceña and just silently soak in this beauty.

Oh, and you know the best part? After the sun goes down, the stars are SO bright they were the best ones I have ever seen in my life. Better than in the Uyuni desert or Mount Teide in Tenerife. Stargazing is even better than the sunset.

Inca Stairs

When you’re taking the boat back to Copacabana, you won’t be able to avoid the 200+ Inca Stairs. They’re beautiful but at that altitude, any physical activity is a huge pain. I wasn’t happy and the amount of mud there didn’t make this any easier on me. But the whole walk is surrounded by flowers and beautiful trees so it’s worth the pain. Spot the Fountain of Youth along the way. They bring you to the dock which is pretty too.

This was the highlight of the trip for me. Las Velas is a candlelit restaurant in the middle of the woods serving dinner at one time per night. The walk there is very scenic too. We arrived there a little early so we got to enjoy some beers on a cliff along with a great sunset.

The chef cooks everything from scratch as the whole restaurant waits. You can enjoy beers and board games as you will probably wait for over 2 hours. Is it worth it? A million times yes. The whole experience of disconnecting and just enjoying sitting collectively with other travelers while someone cooks a gourmet meal for you is incredible. At the end of the night, he made a little speech and every guest applauded him.

Then we walked back to the hotel in pitch dark through the woods. The stars were extremely bright and I didn’t even want to use a flashlight. I would say that this entire evening was one of the top travel experiences of my travel life.

Speaking of restaurants … EAT

Go to the top of the hill in Yumani around the restaurant Pachamama. You will have a meal with the most beautiful backdrop of the lake. Try to eat a couple of places as they’re all family-run. You can also go closer to the docks where you will find even more places.

Unwind, relax and stay the night

Traveling to Bolivia is hectic. You always have to plan and be prepared for everything ahead. A lot of your trips are arranged where you’re on a constant schedule. La Paz is a whole other story. It’s wild and loud and scary at times. Isla del Sol is everything but that. I frequently stopped while walking to just simply soak in the silence.

If you take a day trip, you will be rushing and stressing to get back to your boat and miss the most important reason for visiting this place. Staying the night will allow you to see the sunset and sunrise, the stars, and also experience the island “to yourself” as the majority of the day travelers will be gone after the last ferry.

Appreciate the rawness of this place, talk to the locals and soak in this unique beauty that many travelers haven’t seen yet.

Bonus: Isla de la Luna

Ok, you’ve heard of Isla del Sol but did you know it has a little sister, Isla de la Luna? It’s much smaller, and can be reached from both, Isla del Sol and Copacabana. It is known for its famous Temple of the Virgins. Even fewer people make it there or if you’re looking for some secluded hikes, ruins, and remote places, take a boat ride there too.

Copacabana & Isla del Sol Perfect Itinerary: FREE Downloadable Guides

These two beauties go hand in hand. You can’t avoid Copacabana when visiting Isla del Sol and vice-versa. For that reason, I planned the best-combined visit for your trip. All my itineraries were made after I traveled to a destination so they are optimized for things I wish I did differently. I hope that my mistakes could help you avoid any bumps in the road. However, if you feel like some plans can be even more perfect, please let me know in the comments below!

Two-Day Perfect Itinerary

For your two-day plan, I start with the transport to Copacabana . Then you will explore this tiny city on foot for the major tourist highlights. After that, you will be able to climb a hill for the best sunset views and end your day with a perfect dinner. On the second day, you will wake up early to head to Isla del Sol located on Lake Titicaca. You will relax, hike and spend the night there, enjoying everything the island has to offer.

Three-Day Perfect Itinerary

Although technically not necessary, I like the three-day option for a slow enjoyment of life. This plan includes a day in Copacabana on day one, a trip to Isla del Sol on day two, and then back for another half a day in Copacabana. Alternatively, you can spend two days on the island and just one in town, stretching out the activities I suggest in that plan.

On day one, you will explore the town, climb a beautiful hill and have a tasty dinner. Then on day two, you will head to the island to explore it but more importantly, just to simply enjoy its beauty. On day three, you will spend one more night in Copacabana hiking or relaxing. For the night, I suggest a local Discoteca for some dancing and drinks.

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Kasia is a travel blogger that loves to share her detailed itineraries and travel tips with her community. She's traveled to numerous countries and makes it a priority to explore her home state of New Jersey while still being passionate about her 9-5 career.

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A Guide To Isla del Sol, Lake Titicaca

The Legend Of Isla del Sol

Getting There And Away

Bolivian Life Quick Tip:

Overnight Trips

What To See And Do

Museo del Oro

Archealogical Ruins

Where To Sleep

Where To Eat

Best Time To Visit

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LAKE TITICACA & ISLA DEL SOL - 2 DAYS

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Isla del Sol

Full Day Tour: Copacabana + Isla Del Sol

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23 - 26 & 30 - 31 DEC 2020 - END OF YEAR BREAK

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Isla del Sol Bolivia: 14 Epic Adventures Await

14 Best Things To Do in Isla del Sol Bolivia – Sights

2. Cerro Quenuani Viewpoint

3. Cerro Palla Kasha Viewpoint

4. Inca Temple

5. Mesa Ceremonica

6. Chincana

7. Huellas del Sol

Best Things To Do in Isla del Sol Bolivia – Activities

9. Titikala Ruins

10. The Inca Steps

11. Drink From the Inca Fountain

Best Things To Do in Isla del Sol Bolivia – Food

13. Pizza and Pasta at Las Velas

14. Inti Jalanta Soup

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Getting Around Isla del Sol

Where To Stay in Isla del Sol

North Region

Central Region

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Conclusion – Isla del Sol, Bolivia

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Isla del Sol Bolivia: Travel Guide & Tips to Know Before You Go

What’s So Great About Isla del Sol Bolivia?

6 Reasons Why To Stay Overnight on Isla Del Sol

2) More Time To Experience Isla del Sol …Slowly

3) Unplug & Unwind

4) Come For the Sun, Stay For the Stars

5) Get A Room With A View

6) Enjoy The Island To Yourself

Know About The North vs South Conflict on Isla del Sol

If You Go to Isla del Sol Bolivia: Travel Tips

Ferry from Copacabana to Isla del Sol

Alternative route from Yampupata to Isla del Sol

Puno to Isla del Sol by boat

Stay A Night Before or After In Copacabana So You Can Drop Your Bags

Top Things To Do On Isla del Sol Bolivia

1) Go Hiking on Isla del Sol:

2) See the Pilko Kaina Ruins on Isla de Sol