Your morning starts with a hotel pickup in Puno, followed by a short drive to the port where a covered tourist boat heads out across Lake Titicaca — one of the highest navigable lakes in the world, sitting at 3,810 metres above sea level. On clear days, the Andean peaks reflect off the water as you leave the city behind.

On arrival at the Uros Islands, the island chief welcomes you and walks you through how these floating platforms are built — layer upon layer of totora reed, constantly renewed from above as the base decomposes beneath the water. Step onto the island and notice the spongy give underfoot; it's unlike anything on solid ground. Your bilingual guide explains the history of the Uru people, considered among the oldest ethnic groups in the Andean region, and how their language, Aymara, is still spoken today.

Residents invite you into their homes, show you how totora is harvested and used — for construction, cooking, and even as a medicinal plant — and demonstrate traditional fishing and weaving techniques passed down through generations. You'll also spot solar panels tucked between the reed houses, a quiet reminder that this community blends ancient tradition with practical necessity. For an optional extra, hop on a traditional reed canoe (local fee in soles applies) for a short ride between the islands. Bring cash.

The tour wraps up with a scenic return to Puno