Four of us came to Puno on a very long bus ride from Cuzco to see the much-touted Floating Islands. These are small, man-made very colorful islands constructed by the people of Uros from layers upon layers of cut totora (a thick buoyant grass that grows abundantly in the shallow areas of Lake Titicaca). The people continuously add layers of these sedges to the surfaces. They are golden in color, and can be painted in a variety of bright colors. Many islands measure 50 by 50 feet or so. Each island is decorated differently and uniquely from the other, and inhabited by individual families, who also build different types of thatched houses for themselves on each island. Some islands have watchtowers – also made out of the sedges. Some are simple, and some are fancy. People dress in their traditional outfits and come out to greet you when your boat arrives. These islands have become a major tourist attraction, and the people of Uros supplement their income by taking tourists from one island to another for 10 soles per person. You are then “invited” to people’s “homes” where they conduct hard sells to get you to buy their stuff. That part was a little annoying. There is one island where you can go to get your passport stamped with their cute stamp. We were happy to do that. The trip would have been nice if we had not felt forced to buy items to help the people out. With the continuous pressure to buy, and the questionable hygiene of those locals, we asked our tour guide to cut our trip short, and opted for a city tour instead. That was so much better.

Visiting the Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca is a fascinating experience that highlights the unique cultural and historical aspects of the region. The islands, made entirely from reeds, are home to friendly locals who share their lifestyle and craftmanship with visitors. Aldo and his wife, notable for their hospitality, provide insightful stories about their culture and lifestyle, enhancing the authentic experience. Travelers can also purchase handcrafted items directly from the makers. Opting for a tour, such as those provided by Lima Tours, ensures a well-organized visit and often includes these islands as a key stop. The combination of engaging local interaction, scenic beauty, and cultural education makes this a must-visit destination, deserving a high rating for anyone traveling to Peru.

We did not think that Puno was very pretty, more of an urban city with lots of teenagers milling about due to the university being there. We both did not feel very safe. There is a waterfront but nothing to really go on about. But it is the gateway to the islands on Lake Titicaca! We took a boat out of Puno to Uros one of the floating islands where we were welcomed by the Imari people and shown how they actually make an island with the reads and other stuff like peat that floats. Seen how they live on their little island with the communal kitchen and seen into their rooms. They sold lots of handicrafts and I took a trip on one of their reed boats, whilst my husband climbed the watch tower. It was so interesting and felt very humble.

We took a well organised tour, quite affordable, got picked up from our hotel. The trip to one of the islands was about thirty minutes. The information given is interesting and the islands are unique, but the supposedly locals, actually live in Puno and behave like actors and actress offering a staged show. Lots of pressure to buy overpriced products, but most of them can be found in Cusco for a fraction of the price. We didn't take the trip with their local boats and had to wait under the sun for half and hour. They could have taken us to the other island and wait in the boat instead. We didn't like that. All they are interested in, is money money money

Was incredible to see and meet the people who live on these islands and experience a little snapshot of their lives. Was a fascinating day although I didn’t like the hard sell of products. Felt like we were a captive audience

We chose Terra Quechua Peru for our tour to Lake Titicaca + the Uros and we couldn't be happier. The attention to detail and professionalism of the team was outstanding. The floating islands of the Uros are incredible and learning about their construction was very educational. On Taquile Island, we enjoyed a hike that offered breathtaking views of the lake and an immersion into the local culture. Lunch was delicious and the service was impeccable and we had a great time visiting the floating islands of the Uros with Terra Quechua Peru.

First of all I'd like to say something about tourist traps. A lot of people complain about this being a tourist trap. Isn't everything! Plus, if you do your research you'll find that now tourism is the main source of income for local people. People calling things "tourist traps" come from a very privileged position of not having to turn to tourism as their only way to live and survive. Anyway. It was incredible seeing their way of life and how things are done here. Very cool experience.

We did a day visit to the Uros floating islands. Fascinating to see how these islands are constructed and how the families live. Then we did a homestay at Amantani, 2nd largest island on Lake Titicaca. Another interesting visit our host family were friendly, accommodating and the food was plenty and lovely. The next day we had lunch on Tequile, 3rd largest island on Lake Titicaca. The Islands are all unique and worth a visit. We went with Llama Path, our guide Freddie was great. Told us lots about the history of the area and he made sure we were OK all the time.