Uros Floating Islands
Islas flotantes de los Uros
Artificial floating islands made of totora reeds in Puno Bay, Peru. The Uros people have lived for generations in these 'floating villages'.
The Uros Floating Islands lie in Puno Bay on Lake Titicaca, outside Puno, Peru. There are about 90 artificial islands of varying sizes, all built from layers of totora reeds that grow in the lake. Each is 1–2 metres thick, and the surface feels springy underfoot. The bottom reeds gradually rot in the water, so islanders add fresh reeds to the surface every two or three weeks. An island can last about 25–30 years.
Legend has it that the Uros moved onto the lake to escape the Incas and the Collas. Today most families make their living from tourism, and some islands have solar panels. Traditions remain, though: weaving reed boats (nicknamed 'Mercedes-Benz' boats), fishing, and eating reed stalks as a snack.
Visiting: a boat from Puno port takes about 20–30 minutes. Islanders usually demonstrate how the floating islands are built. You can enter reed houses and take a short ride in a reed boat (an extra 10–20 soles). Handicrafts such as embroidery are sold on the islands.
A half-day tour takes about 3 hours. It can also be combined with Taquile Island, known for men's weaving and recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, as a day trip.
A few notes: the floating islands are quite commercialised, so shopping is optional. Puno sits at about 3,830 metres, and the sun on the lake is intense. Travel from Bolivia requires crossing at the Kasani/Desaguadero border. Chinese passport holders need a visa to enter Peru, though holders of valid US, Canadian, UK or Schengen visas can enter visa-free. Check Peru's latest policy.
Opening hours
All day (boats mostly 06:00–16:00)
Nearby sights
- Yavari Ship Museum
- Puma Uta Viewpoint
- Arco Deustua
- Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria
- Carlos Dreyer Museum
- Plaza de Armas & Puno Cathedral
- Museo de la Coca y Costumbres
- Kuntur Wasi Viewpoint