The Best Travel Guide for Copacabana & Isla del Sol (Lake Titicaca), Bolivia, South America

Riding along the shores of Lake Titicaca, also referred to as the sacral chakra of the earth, between Bolivia and Peru, you'll find the lively little of Copacabana. Its vibrant waterfront is the spot of activity, with boats ferrying floaties around throughout the day.

Below you will find the best and most ideal travel guide for Copacabana and Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca in Bolivia.

Legend told that the sun god, Viracocha, created the first Inca Man and Woman on Lake Titicaca. Below the surface of the lake, scientists recently discovered a wide temple, with many terraces for crops, which indicates Inca tradition.

Along this relaxing waterfront, you have many options: embark on a tour to nearby islands (like Isla del Sol), paddle a canoe, relax on the sandy shores while watching children play, indulge in a refreshing popsicle, or simply lose yourself in a good book.

The main road is lined with various tour operators, restaurants, shops, market stalls, cafes, and a bustling plaza with a stunning church.

Note: The city throws a HUGE festival called "The Festival of the Virgin of Candelaria" which celebrates the Virgin of Copacabana twice a year, February 2nd and August 5th. If you happen to overlap during these times, brace yourself.. I can say from experience that the town gets rowdy!

Recommended amount of time: 1-2 days (excluding time on Isla del Sol)

1. Place of stay

2. Activities

3. Isla del Sol

   1. Transportation

   2. Place of stay

1. Place of stay
   

• Hotel Chasqui de Sol: A four-flooded, colorful hotel, located right on the waterfront, with a great breakfast; all run by an adorable old owner himself, Jose. I was shocked at how bad the ratings were considering how much I liked the property and room. Luggage storage for free and safety guaranteed. Really enjoyed my stay here with comfortable and clean rooms.

• Sky Lake B&B: A big no-no! I went to volunteer here for two weeks and left on my fifth day...That's all I'm going to say...

2. Activities

• Hike to Cerro Calvario: A gorgeous and low-demanding hike to gauge a panoramic view of the entire city! It's a stunning sight, especially during the late afternoon or before sunset. The climb typically takes 25 minutes.

• Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana: A stunning church became my sanctuary, a place where I often retreated to reconnect with my breath, ground myself, and marvel at the exquisite artwork on its walls. Though smaller in size, the church is located on a spacious plaza. Outside, vendors offer their smilies, and I couldn't resist indulging in a bunch of jewelry – incredibly affordable and undeniably charming!

• Stay a night (or two) on Isla del Sol: Information included below

• Sit on a rooftop restaurant at the waterfront and watch the sunset (with a beer of course) :)

• Walk the waterfront and seek out the rainbow Copacabana sign!

3. Isla del Sol

This mini-island was a sacred place for the Aymara (indigenous people in the Andes and Altiplano regions of South America) and extremely important in Inca mythology.

a. Transportation

• For Isla del Sol, you can only buy the ticket on the day of boarding at the port. No fret, the tickets never sell out and they are going all day. Same with the way home, you buy the ticket as you are boarding the boat.

b. Place of stay

• Sol Y Luna: This place was absolutely incredible. With only two rooms in this boutique "hotel," you receive personalized attention that is truly exceptional. While it may come at a higher cost, treating yourself occasionally during backpacking travels is a must.  Each morning, breakfast was tailored to my preferences, and by the second day, the owner had my order down to the amount of Jam I liked. Since I had recently been discharged from the hospital and was cautious about eating out or venturing far, I asked the owner if she could prepare me dinner. For a mere 25 Bolivianos (USD 5), arriving when I requested, she went above and beyond to ensure my satisfaction. The establishment provided complimentary water, allowing guests to enjoy tranquility and peace. Additionally, a mini convenience store at the check-in stand offers snacks, alcohol, and tourist trinkets for added convenience.

Isla del Sol & Copacabana provided so much spiritual and physical healing. Simply laying on the waterfront, letting my emotions flow with the holy water, and being aware that Mother Nature was holding me restored all the energy.

Next stop: Puno, Peru via bus (bought at the station in Copacabana)

• Buses and colectivos (group taxis) going to Puno all day

Xoxo,

Chelsey