In spite of the tourism wave that has swept across many of the Lake Titicaca islands, Isla Taquile has managed to maintain a significant degree of authenticity. Located about a 35-km boat ride from Puno, the island harbors a unique and rich local culture. The locals still speak Quechua and continue to don the traditional dress. Women wear brightly colored polleras (skirts) and drape themselves with black headscarves, a practice implemented by the conquistadores. For the men, it’s the hat, not the ringfinger, that reveals their marital status. Single males wear caps with white tops, red bottoms and tips folded to the sides, while married men wear solid red caps with tips folded to the back.
In addition to transporting tourists, the islanders on Taquile sustain themselves with the production and sale of finely crafted textiles. Interestingly, while the women spin the wool, the men are contracted to do all of the knitting. Don’t be surprised if you spot a group of men, armed with needles, fervently knitting on the streets of Taquile. In the high season, which extends from June to August, Taquileños set up stands in the Plazas de Armas, where they sell exquisite scarves, hats, belts and gloves. Having adopted the communal ayllu system, a method to ensure that wealth is distributed evenly, all earnings are shared.
One of the most popular ways to visit the island is through a homestay, which gives visitors a chance to eat, sleep and live with a local family. Homestays can be arranged through a Puno tour company, but always make sure that you go with a socially responsible agency, and ensure that they pay islanders the going rate for lodging and food. You should also confirm that no more than two people stay with each family. For a more authentic experience, ask to stay away from the touristy area near the town square. You can also arrange your own homestay by catching a boat from Puno’s public pier (daily, 7:30 a.m.-8 a.m.). Upon arrival you will be assigned to a family, after paying a one dollar arrival fee.
As Taquile is only six km long and one km wide, it is very accessible and can be traversed in about two hours. The islands’ various beaches are great for relaxing or diving into the frigid waters of Lake Titicaca. Perched on the hilltop are pre-Inca ruins and a beautiful stone arch.
In 2004, the island gave birth to its first lodge, Tika Wasi, which offers visitors comfortable foam beds, clean white-washed walls, a terrace with lake views, running water and solar-heated showers. If you’re hungry head to the main square where you’ll find a dozen restaurants offering the same basic menu of quinoa soup, steamed or fried pejerrey, and tortilla mixed with potatoes and vegetables. Families also serve meals, though the quality and type of food offered varies.
In addition to a sense of adventure, travelers are advised to bring their own snacks and beverages, a sleeping bag to keep warm, a water bottle, soap and toilet paper.