Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Abra La Raya Pass

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey to Abra La Raya Pass, a breathtaking spot nestled between Puno and Cusco, perfect for families seeking adventure and culture. Standing at an altitude of about 4,338 meters above sea level, it marks a scenic divide between the Andes and the Amazon basin.

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Start your adventure in Cusco, a city rich in Incan history and culture. Spend the day exploring local markets and enjoying the vibrant street life, to gently acclimatize to the high altitude. Stay overnight in a family-friendly hotel in Cusco.

Day 2: Journey to Abra La Raya

Depart early from Cusco by bus or a pre-booked tour which takes about 3 to 4 hours. The journey itself is a highlight, winding through picturesque valleys and Andean communities. Bring along snacks and water, and keep your camera ready for impromptu stops to capture stunning vistas or llama sightings.

Arrival at Abra La Raya Pass

Once at the pass, take in the panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and the sprawling high-altitude grasslands. It"s a great spot for family photos! Engage the kids with stories about the Andes and how the pass serves as a natural boundary between regions, influencing local weather patterns.

Local Attractions

Visit nearby attractions such as the Temple of Wiracocha at Raqchi, an ancient Incan archaeological site that showcases the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. This site provides a tangible history lesson for children and adults alike.

Day 3: Return to Cusco

After a restful night in a local guesthouse, begin your return journey to Cusco. Stop at small villages along the way to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and interact with local artisans.

End of Tour

Return to Cusco by evening, filled with unforgettable memories and pictures, concluding your family’s high-altitude adventure at Abra La Raya Pass.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lake Titicaca

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Exploring Lake Titicaca

Day 1: Arrival in Puno

- Getting There: Fly into Juliaca Airport, which is the closest airport to Puno, located about 45 minutes away. Pre-arranged taxis or shuttle services can take you directly to your hotel in Puno.

- Explore Puno: After settling in, take your family for a leisurely stroll around the Plaza de Armas. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring the region’s specialty, trout.

Day 2: Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island

- Morning - Uros Floating Islands: Depart from Puno’s main harbor by boat. The journey to the Uros islands takes about 30 minutes. These unique islands are made entirely of totora reeds, continually replenished from the top as they rot from the bottom. Families can learn about the Uros people’s way of life, traditional crafts, and even take a short ride on a reed boat.

- Afternoon - Taquile Island: Continue by boat for about 2 hours to Taquile Island. The island is known for its weaving and breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Titicaca. The main square is a perfect spot for lunch, offering quinoa soup and fresh fish. To explore Taquile’s rich culture, follow the stone paths and meet local weavers displaying their crafts.

Day 3: Sillustani Tombs

- Morning Excursion: Take a guided tour to the Sillustani burial grounds, located about an hour’s drive from Puno. These pre-Incan burial towers, known as chullpas, are set on a beautiful peninsula surrounded by a tranquil lagoon. It’s a great spot for families to learn about the area’s history and enjoy some spectacular scenery.

Day 4: Departure

- Leisure Morning and Departure: Enjoy a relaxed morning in Puno. Visit a local market to pick up some handicrafts as souvenirs, followed by a transfer back to Juliaca Airport for your onward journey.

Interesting Fact: Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, sitting at over 12,500 feet above sea level, and is said to be the birthplace of the Incas.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Taquile Island (Isla Taquile)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Taquile Island (Isla Taquile)

Day 1: Journey to Taquile Island

- Morning:

Start your adventure early by catching a boat from Puno, the major city on Lake Titicaca’s shores. The scenic boat ride takes about 2-3 hours. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake, often hailed as the highest navigable lake in the world at 3,812 meters above sea level.

- Afternoon:

Upon arrival, embrace the warm welcome from the local Quechua-speaking community. Have a family lunch at one of the small, cozy restaurants, trying out the island"s specialties like fresh trout or quinoa soup.

- Late Afternoon:

Take a guided tour to explore the island’s terraced landscape. Learn how the islanders maintain centuries-old agricultural practices and make a living from farming, fishing, and handicrafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to buy unique handwoven textiles, known for their intricate designs and rich colors, which are a significant part of the community’s identity.

Day 2: Exploring Taquile’s Rich Culture

- Morning:

Start with a hike around the island. The paths are well-maintained, but involve some climbing, so good walking shoes are recommended. Visit the main square, Plaza de Armas, to see the communal life and perhaps a traditional dance performance.

- Afternoon:

Participate in a cultural workshop where you and the kids can learn about the traditional weaving techniques directly from the artisans. These workshops not only provide insight into the Taquilean way of life but also support the local economy.

- Evening:

Return by boat to Puno. The sunset views over Lake Titicaca provide a perfect ending to your enriching cultural journey.

Interesting Fact: Taquile Island is renowned for its remarkably textile art which UNESCO declared part of the "Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity" in 2005.

Note: Remember, Taquile Island runs on sustainable tourism principles, respecting local customs and traditions enhances the experience and supports the community.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Uros Floating Islands (Islas Uros)

Why Visit?

Family Adventure to Uros Floating Islands (Islas Uros)

Day 1: Arrival in Puno

- Morning: Arrive in Puno, the nearest city to the Uros Islands, situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca. You can reach Puno by bus or train from Cusco or Arequipa, or fly directly to Juliaca airport followed by a short taxi or bus ride to Puno.

- Afternoon: Explore Puno’s vibrant town center and visit the Yavari Iron Ship Museum, an intriguing site for both kids and adults.

- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, tasting regional specialties like trout or quinoa soup.

Day 2: Journey to Uros Floating Islands

- Morning: Depart from Puno’s main harbor by boat. Guided tours usually start early to avoid afternoon winds. As you float towards the islands, learn how these incredible structures are made entirely from Totora reeds, continually replenished from the top as they rot from the bottom.

- On Arrival: Be greeted by the Uros people, who will show you around their extraordinary home. Learn about their daily lives, traditions, and how they build and maintain their reed islands.

- Activities: Participate in a traditional fishing demonstration, try out a reed boat ride, or help with artisanal crafts. These interactive experiences are perfect for keeping curious young minds engaged.

- Lunch: Have a picnic on the reeds or dine with a local family for an authentic culinary experience.

- Afternoon: Return to Puno. On your way back, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including flamingos and other birds.

Day 3: Departure or Additional Exploration

- Morning: If time allows, visit Sillustani, an ancient burial ground near Puno, which will fascinate with its chullpas (funeral towers) set against a striking landscape.

Facts for the Curious Minds

- The Uros originally created these islands centuries ago as a defensive measure to escape conflict. Today, the islands are a vibrant testament to ancestral ingenuity and endurance.

This compact, fun-filled itinerary ensures a memorable and educational experience for the whole family on the unique Uros Floating Islands.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Suasi Island (Isla Suasi)

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family adventure to Isla Suasi, the only privately owned island in Lake Titicaca, Peru. Known for its serene environment and stunning natural beauty, Suasi Island provides a perfect escape into nature.

### Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Getting There: Start your journey in Puno, a city on the shores of Lake Titicaca. From Puno, take a scenic 3-hour boat ride across the lake, enjoying the vast expanse of the highest navigable lake in the world. As you approach Suasi, watch for diverse birdlife and the shimmering waters.

Upon arrival, check into the eco-friendly Casa Andina Private Collection Hotel, the only hotel on the island, offering comfortable accommodations with a sustainable approach. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the island’s gentle hills. A guided walk introduces the family to the island"s flora and fauna, including vicuñas that roam freely.

### Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

After a homemade breakfast, participate in a cultural demonstration including traditional textile weaving, showcasing the rich heritage of the Andean communities. It"s a hands-on experience, perfect for children to learn and engage with local culture.

In the afternoon, take a solar-powered boat ride around the island. This quiet, eco-friendly cruise allows for incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the sunset from the island’s viewpoint, offering 360-degree panoramic views of Lake Titicaca, a truly magical experience for the whole family.

### Day 3: Hiking and Departure

Start the day with a guided nature hike around the island, exploring its diverse ecosystems and spotting wildlife. Learn about the island"s conservation efforts and the importance of preserving such unique environments.

In the afternoon, say goodbye to Suasi and head back to Puno by boat, filled with unforgettable memories of a unique family adventure.

Interesting Fact: Isla Suasi is committed to sustainability, using solar energy and practicing water conservation, making it a great educational experience for kids about environmental responsibility.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.