
Amantani Island
Experience authentic Quechua culture through homestays and hike to ancient ruins for stunning Lake Titicaca sunsets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, clear skies

Amantani Island
Best Time
Sunny days, clear skies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience authentic Quechua culture through homestays and hike to ancient ruins for stunning Lake Titicaca sunsets.
"A place of serene beauty where the light hits Lake Titicaca is pure magic."

Learn Basic Spanish
While families are welcoming, knowing some Spanish enhances the homestay experience significantly. :speech_balloon:
Pack Light Layers
Temperatures vary greatly. Bring warm clothing for evenings and lighter layers for daytime hikes. :cloud:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pachatata & Pachamama Temples
Island Summit
Hike to ancient Inca ruins for breathtaking sunset views over Lake Titicaca. A truly magical experience.

Homestay with Local Families
Various Communities
Immerse yourself in Quechua culture, share meals, and learn about traditional crafts and agriculture.

Scenic Island Hikes
Throughout the Island
Explore well-maintained trails offering stunning vistas of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding Andes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Slow Pace
Pack for Altitude and Hiking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Learn Basic Spanish
While families are welcoming, knowing some Spanish enhances the homestay experience significantly. :speech_balloon:
Pack Light Layers
Temperatures vary greatly. Bring warm clothing for evenings and lighter layers for daytime hikes. :cloud:
Bring Cash
There are no ATMs on the island. Carry enough Peruvian Soles for homestays and any small purchases. :moneywithwings:
Respect Local Customs
Be mindful of local traditions and ask permission before taking photos of people. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Learn Basic Spanish
While families are welcoming, knowing some Spanish enhances the homestay experience significantly. :speech_balloon:
Pack Light Layers
Temperatures vary greatly. Bring warm clothing for evenings and lighter layers for daytime hikes. :cloud:
Bring Cash
There are no ATMs on the island. Carry enough Peruvian Soles for homestays and any small purchases. :moneywithwings:
Respect Local Customs
Be mindful of local traditions and ask permission before taking photos of people. :camerawithflash:
Stay Hydrated
The high altitude can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of water throughout your stay. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Amantani Island is lauded for its serene beauty, breathtaking sunsets from ancient ruins, and deeply immersive homestay experiences. Visitors cherish the opportunity to connect with local Quechua culture and enjoy the peaceful, slow pace of life. While some mention the importance of Spanish for deeper interaction, the overall sentiment is one of profound cultural enrichment and natural wonder.
"Amantaní is a place of serene beauty. The hike to the top of the island to see the sunset is simply breathtaking—the way the light hits Lake Titicaca is pure magic. We were so happy to have stayed overnight with a local family, as it gave us a real taste of the island's culture and traditions. The pace of life here is slow and peaceful. If you want to see a side of Peru that is truly untouched by mass tourism, make sure to include a stop on Amantaní in your itinerary."
Michal Rogozný
"One immersive experience with the locals, the food, the landscapes and the traditional party that they prepared for us was incredible! I really recommend the 2 days trip"
Camila Ceballos
"A great stop for a day or two. The island has walking paths which are easily accessible. Do make sure you have some level of fitness to be able to walk since it's not leveled and going uphill steep. The views in town but especially from the top are magnificent. People are very friendly as well."
Robin de Bruin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Amantani Island is by taking a boat tour from Puno. These tours typically include transportation to the island, a homestay with a local family, meals, and guided activities. The journey takes about 3-4 hours.
While some tours might offer a brief visit, it's highly recommended to stay overnight to truly experience the island's culture and tranquility. Overnight stays are part of the 'turismo vivencial' (experiential tourism).
It's generally easier to access Amantani Island from Puno on the Peruvian side. Traveling between the Peruvian and Bolivian sides of Lake Titicaca is possible, but requires border crossings and separate arrangements.
The boat trip from Puno to Amantani Island typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours, depending on the boat's speed and any stops along the way.
While organized tours are the primary way to visit, some local boat operators might offer passage, though this is less common and may not include the full homestay experience. Booking through a tour operator is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's advisable to book your Amantani Island homestay and tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.
Homestay experiences typically range from S/80 to S/100 Peruvian Soles per person, which usually includes accommodation, three meals, and guided activities.
Generally, the cost of your homestay package covers access to the island's main attractions like the Pachatata and Pachamama temples. There are usually no separate entrance fees for these.
Tours typically depart from Puno in the morning, around 8-9 AM, and return the following afternoon. The island itself is accessible at any time, but overnight stays are the norm.
While some families like @amantani_arcowasi are active on social media, booking through a reputable tour operator is often easier and ensures a structured experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking to the Pachatata and Pachamama temples for sunset views, participating in local crafts like embroidery, learning about quinoa processing, and enjoying the peaceful island life.
Amantani Island is situated at a high altitude, around 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level, which is part of Lake Titicaca's elevation.
The primary accommodation is through homestays with local Quechua families, offering a unique cultural immersion in traditional homes.
Electricity is limited, often only available for a few hours in the evening, and Wi-Fi is generally unavailable. It's a place to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers. Bring layers of clothing as temperatures can change significantly throughout the day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals prepared by your host family, often featuring fresh, locally grown ingredients like quinoa, potatoes, and vegetables.
While traditional meals are common, inform your host family in advance about any dietary restrictions. They are usually accommodating and can prepare vegetarian dishes.
Absolutely! You'll likely taste traditional Peruvian dishes made with local produce, offering an authentic culinary experience.
Alcohol is not typically a focus of the homestay experience. If you wish to have a drink, it's best to inquire with your host family or bring your own in moderation.
Meals are usually served at traditional times: breakfast in the morning, lunch in the early afternoon, and dinner in the evening, often shared with the host family.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Pachatata and Pachamama temples offer incredible panoramic views, especially at sunset. The island's villages and Lake Titicaca's shores are also picturesque.
It's respectful to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Some families may appreciate a small tip if you take many photos of them.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing landscapes and distant views. A wide-angle lens can be useful for village scenes.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions, but always be mindful of privacy and local customs. Avoid intrusive photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh due to the high altitude sun.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to prepare children for the altitude and the limited amenities. Ensure they have comfortable walking shoes for the hikes and pack plenty of snacks. The slower pace of the island can be a refreshing change, allowing families to bond and create lasting memories away from screens and distractions.
🎒 Budget Travelers
This all-inclusive nature of the homestay means your main expenses are covered, making it easy to budget for your stay. By choosing Amantani, you're not only saving money but also directly supporting local communities, making it a responsible and economical travel choice.
❤️ Couples and Solo Travelers
Both couples and solo travelers can appreciate the opportunity for a digital detox and a chance to immerse themselves in a different culture. The hikes offer shared adventures, while the quiet evenings provide opportunities for relaxation and connection, whether with a partner or with oneself.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing 'Turismo Vivencial'
During your homestay, you'll share meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, often grown on the island itself. You might help with tasks like harvesting quinoa or learn traditional embroidery techniques. This immersive experience goes beyond sightseeing, fostering genuine connections with the island's inhabitants and providing a unique perspective on rural Andean life.
This type of tourism directly benefits the local communities, providing an alternative income source that helps preserve their culture and traditions. It's a sustainable way to travel that respects the local way of life and offers travelers an unforgettable, authentic experience.
Hiking to the Summit and Ancient Ruins
The trails are generally well-maintained, though they can be steep in places, requiring a moderate level of fitness. The ascent is well worth the effort, especially as you approach the summit. The views unfold gradually, revealing the vast expanse of the lake, dotted with smaller islands and framed by the majestic Andes mountains.
The highlight for many is witnessing the sunset from these vantage points. As the sun dips below the horizon, it casts a magical glow over the water, creating a breathtaking spectacle. It's a moment of profound peace and natural beauty that many visitors describe as a highlight of their trip to Peru.
Life on Amantani: A Digital Detox
Embracing this digital detox allows you to be more present, fully engaging with your surroundings and the people you meet. The quiet evenings, illuminated by candlelight or limited electricity, are perfect for stargazing or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance. It's a chance to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the simple things in life.
This slower pace of life is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern living. Visitors often find the tranquility of Amantani to be incredibly restorative, providing a much-needed break from the constant demands of technology and urban environments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit