Copacabana Full Day: Isla del Sol Boat Trip and Inca Steps to Pilcocaina
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
15 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness with ability to walk uphill at high altitude; expect sustained climbs and steps.
Overview
Cross Lake Titicaca by boat, climb the ancient Inca steps on Isla del Sol, drink from the famed Inca Fountain, and stand above the ruins of Pilcocaina with sweeping views of the lake. This full-day from La Paz blends archaeological intrigue with a demanding high‑altitude walk.
Copacabana Full Day: Isla del Sol Boat Trip and Inca Steps to Pilcocaina
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The day begins before dawn on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the water a flat, iron-gray mirror that seems to hold the sky in place. You step onto a low motorboat and the lake wakes with a huff—currents nudging the bow, gulls interrogating the wake—and the city of Copacabana recedes into a ribbon of red roofs and whitewashed church towers. An hour and a half later the boat eases into the pebble beach of Isla del Sol, where stone steps worn by the Inca rise immediately into the sun.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimatize first
Spend at least a day in La Paz to adapt to 3,800–3,900 m; altitude affects pace and breathing on the Inca steps.
Hydration and sun
Bring 1.5–2 L of water and high-SPF sunscreen—the sun is intense at altitude and reflections off the lake increase exposure.
Footwear matters
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip for uneven stone steps and occasional scree on island paths.
Carry local cash
Small vendors and tips are usually in bolivianos; have small notes for purchases at Copacabana markets.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean gulls and occasional cormorants
- Vizcachas (rock-dwelling rodents) on sunlit cliffs
History
Isla del Sol was an important sacred site in pre-Columbian Andean cosmology; Pilcocaina served ceremonial functions tied to the Inca sun cult.
Conservation
Tourism here is high-impact on fragile soils and archaeological sites; stick to marked paths, avoid touching ruins, and use local guides to support community-based conservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in La Paz
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Support and grip for ancient stone steps and uneven island trails.
Layered jacket (windproof)
Keeps you warm and blocks sharp winds coming off the lake, especially early and late.
winter specific
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
High-altitude sun is strong—bring broad‑brim hat and SPF 30+ sunscreen.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle with filter or insulated bottle
Keep hydrated through the day; bottles stay cooler in sunlight and reduce plastic waste.