The island of Taquile on Lake Titicaca is high on the list of Perú InsideOut’s favorites and much requested destinations by those looking to tour this beautiful lake. Lake Titicaca offers inspiration and solitude to its visitors especially due to the fact it is the highest navigable lake in the world. Peru offers many interesting places to visit however, from our perspective, we think that Lake Titicaca is pretty special.
Taquile Island, unlike some of the other floating islands on Lake Titicaca, has not been overtaken by tourism and the island manages to maintain a wonderful balance between the traditional lifestyle and the tourists which visit. and life on the island is still today reflects ancient traditions.
The inhabitants, approximately 2,200 at last count, are referred to as Taquilenos and specialize in finely handcrafted and handwoven textiles and clothing which are some of the best handicrafts in Peru. In 2005, UNESCO, honored their textiles and proclaimed them as ‘Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Humanity’. What is particularly interesting about the Quechua speaking Taquilenos is that the knitting is done exclusively by men who start learning the trade as young as eight years of age. The women for the most part focus their attention on weaving and the making yarns.
You have the option of visiting the island of Taquile in our customized tours which will introduce you to the traditional way of life, almost untouched by modernity. The views on the island are unique and the Taquilenos customs are well preserved.
Like many destinations in Peru, Taquile Island offers a once in a life time opportunity to visit an exclusive and memorable site. Cherish a relaxing boat ride on the clear waters of Lake Titicaca and enjoy your visit to Taquile Island and this amazing isolated local community.
Contact Perú InsideOut for more information on Lake Taquile and Lake Titicaca tours in general.
