Overview

The best way to experience Lake Titicaca and its rich culture is to organize a homestay with a local family. As homestays are fast becoming a signature part of the lake experience, this is not hard to do. Most Puno tour companies can organize a family for you to stay with, along with transportation to the island. You can also catch a boat from the Puno public peer and attempt to arrange your own homestay once you arrive on the island. (Of course, being able to speak Spanish or Quechua would be pretty helpful). Usually, a member of your family will greet you, and guide you to your new island home. Homestays can vary greatly, but often include afternoon hikes with your family, soccer matches in the village square, and neighborhood fiestas. Meals are included in the cost, and also vary. The socially conscious company All Ways Travel also runs a homestay program on Islas Anapia and Yuspique. Homestays through this company are highly recommended for their quality and because proceeds help support sustainable tourism and community development. Regardless of how you arrange your homestay, it is an enriching experience and an opportunity that shouldn't be passed up.