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Island · Puno, Puno
Isla Amantaní
The largest Peruvian island in Lake Titicaca, with Quechua communities that host visitors in their homes and with the temples of Pachatata and Pachamama on the two summits, from where you can watch the sunset over the lake.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Isla Amantaní
Amantaní is the largest island on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, about 36 km from Puno, with roughly 15 km² of terraces, fields of potatoes, quinoa and fava beans, and stone walls. It is inhabited by about 3,500 people from Quechua communities who live from farming, fishing, crafts and community tourism.
The most common visit is two days, with one night in a family home. Families take turns hosting visitors, who sleep in simple rooms, share meals with the family and take part in some daily activities. There are no cars or hotels, and electricity is limited.
The island has two peaks, Pachatata (father earth) and Pachamama (mother earth), each with a stone temple on the summit, of pre‑Inca origin. In the late afternoon visitors usually climb Pachatata, the highest point at over 4,000 meters, to watch the sun set over the lake. At night, communities organize parties with music and dancing, for which hosts typically lend traditional clothing.
In January the communities celebrate Pachatata and Pachamama, when each half of the island climbs its peak. The trip usually continues to Taquile the next day.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two days and one night, going via the Uros and returning via Taquile.
Best time
In the dry season, usually from May to September, with clear skies for the sunset and starry nights. Nights are very cold: bring warm clothes and a hat.
How to get there
By boat from the port of Puno, in about 3 hours. Two‑day agency tours include the boat, family homestay and meals.
Tip
Bring a useful gift for the host family, such as fruit, rice or school supplies. Climb Pachatata slowly, with a flashlight for the descent.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Isla Amantaní
What is it like to sleep in Amantaní?
In a community family home, in a simple room, with home-cooked meals. There are no hotels, and electricity is limited.
What are Pachatata and Pachamama?
They are the two peaks of the island, each with a stone temple of pre-Inca origin, dedicated to the father earth and mother earth.
Amantaní or Taquile: which to choose?
Most two-day tours include both: you sleep in Amantaní and visit Taquile the next day. Taquile is better known for its textiles; Amantaní for family homestays.