One of the best excursions you can do in Peru is a cruise on Lake Titicaca to see this beautiful ancient alpine lake and learn about the people who live there. We went with Sandra through Tours by Locals, and highly recommend her; there are larger group tours that will be less expensive. There are many companies and guides that offer trips from Puno, Peru’s gateway to the lake. Make sure you pick a cruise that takes you Uros and Taquile Island (most tours do both); if you’re working with a private guide, consider adding Amantaní Island.
When you visit the Uros, you’ll learn about a remarkable people who have lived on Lake Titicaca in much the same way for thousands of year. They construct floating islands out of dense reeds; the islands will last for decades, and the largest house up to ten families. The islanders will teach about their lifestyles and the process of making these incredible islands, as well as boats made out of the same reeds (you might even get a ride in one). If you have the time, many of the islands offer homestays; we recommend the Amalia Titikaka Lodge and the Walter Titikaka Lodge, where the people are friendly and the accommodations are comfortable.
At Taquile Island, you’ll learn about the indigenous culture that has lived there for centuries. You’ll also visit a craft market; the textile art of the Taquile people is on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. They’ll tell you about how they make this stunning art and you’ll have an opportunity to purchase some (bring cash; they don’t take credit cards). You’ll hike up near the top of the island; its highest point is at 13,287 feet and offers incredible views of the lake and the massive Royal Cordillera mountains in Bolivia. You’ll probably also get a tasty lunch at one of the locally-operated restaurants on the island before cruising back to Puno.