Full-Day Sun Island (Isla del Sol) Tour from La Paz to Copacabana
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–15 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to walk 4–6 km over uneven terrain and ascend stone steps at high altitude
Overview
Board a boat from Copacabana and spend a full day exploring Isla del Sol's Inca steps, fountain springs, and the village of Yumani. This guided tour pairs cultural history with high-altitude lakeside hiking and includes lunch and round-trip transfers.
Full-Day Sun Island (Isla del Sol) Tour from La Paz to Copacabana
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You step off the minivan into a wind that carries a high, crystalline light—the kind that only exists above 3,800 meters. Copacabana's shore spreads out beneath the mountains, and Lake Titicaca pulls at the world like a slow, deliberate tide. The boat engine coughs to life and you feel the lake's surface take you, carrying you toward Sun Island, where stone stairways and small adobe houses hover between sky and water.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimate before you go
Spend a day in La Paz or Copacabana to adjust to the altitude; move slowly on the island's stone steps to avoid breathlessness.
Hydrate and snack
Bring a 1L water bottle and high-energy snacks—the sun is strong and there are long stretches without services.
Wear grippy shoes
The Inca Steps and ruins are uneven and often slippery from windblown dust; closed-toe hiking shoes improve stability.
Carry local cash
Small vendors in Yumani prefer bolivianos for crafts and tips; ATMs are not available on the island.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean gull
- Vizcacha (rock rabbit)
History
Isla del Sol was an important ritual center for pre-Incan civilizations and later incorporated into Inca origin myths; terraces and stairways reflect centuries of agricultural and ceremonial use.
Conservation
Lake Titicaca faces pressures from pollution and invasive species; support local guides and vendors, carry out trash, and avoid single-use plastics to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Copacabana
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered jacket (windproof)
Wind and sun combine on the lake; a lightweight windproof layer keeps you warm and comfortable.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good traction is necessary for rocky paths and the Inca Steps.
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat)
High-altitude sun exposure is intense even on cold days.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated helps prevent altitude symptoms during the walk.