Amantani Island Overnight Stay Itinerary

This two-day plan maximizes your time on the water and the islands. It groups visits logically to save travel time. Most tours pick you up from your Puno hotel early in the morning.

At a glance:

• Day 1: Uros Islands, Amantani welcome, sunset hike.
• Day 2: Taquile Island, hiking trails, lunch, Puno return.
• Logistics: Boats depart Puno port around 8:00 AM.

Day 1: Journey to the Heart of the Lake

Morning (8:00 AM – 10:30 AM): Start with a visit to the Uros floating islands. These islands are made of dried reeds. You will learn how the Uros people build their homes. This is a shorter stop before the long boat ride to Amantani.

Afternoon (1:30 PM – 4:00 PM): Arrive at Amantani Island. Local families will meet you at the dock. You will walk to your assigned host home for a hot lunch. After eating, join the group for a hike to the Pachatata or Pachamama peaks. These are at the highest points of the island.

Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Watch the sunset over the lake from the ruins. Return to your host family for dinner. Later, families often host a small dance in the village hall. You can dress in traditional ponchos and dance to live music.

Day 2: Taquile and the Return Trip

Morning (7:00 AM – 11:00 AM): Have breakfast with your hosts. Say your goodbyes and head to the boat. You will travel to the nearby Taquile Island. This place is famous for its master weavers and steep stone stairs.

Afternoon (11:30 AM – 5:00 PM): Explore the Taquile Island hiking trails for lake views. Eat a lunch of fresh trout at a village restaurant. Walk down the 500 steps to the main dock. The boat arrives back in Puno by late afternoon.

What to Expect from Your Homestay Experience

An Amantani Island overnight stay is a humble experience. Host homes are clean but basic. You should expect small rooms with heavy blankets. Most homes do not have heat or consistent hot water. This is part of the charm and the reality of island life.

Electricity is often limited to a few solar-powered bulbs. Bring a portable charger for your phone or camera. Bathrooms are usually shared and may be outside the main bedroom. High-altitude nights get very cold, so the extra blankets are essential.

Food is simple and healthy. Families serve mostly vegetarian meals. Expect quinoa soup, potatoes, and local cheese. If you have dietary limits, tell your tour operator in Puno early. Your host family will appreciate your effort to speak even a few words in Spanish or Quechua.

How to Book Your Amantani Island Trip

There are two main ways to book your stay. Most travelers use a travel agency in Puno. These packages include all boat transport, meals, and the homestay fee. You can find many reputable offices around the main plaza in Puno.

Another option is going to the Puno port directly. You can buy a ticket on a collective tour boat. This is often cheaper but requires more self-planning once you arrive. Ensure your tour covers the entry fees for all islands to avoid extra cash needs.

If you prefer a quieter experience, look into a Llachon village homestay experience as an alternative. Llachon is on a peninsula and is often less crowded than Amantani. However, Amantani remains the top choice for those wanting the classic island overnight trip.

Essential Packing List for High Altitude Islands

Packing correctly makes your stay much better. The sun at 12,000 feet is very strong. You also need to prepare for sudden drops in temperature. Bring a small daypack and leave your large luggage at your Puno hotel.

Essential items include sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses. Bring a warm jacket, gloves, and a wool hat for the evening. You should also pack a large bottle of water. While families provide meals, having your own snacks is helpful for the long boat rides.

It is a nice gesture to bring a small gift for your hosts. Many travelers bring fresh fruit or cooking oil. These items are expensive or hard to find on the island. Avoid bringing sweets or plastic waste that stays on the island.

Planning Your Stay in Puno

Puno is the gateway to the islands. It sits at over 3,800 meters above sea level. You should spend at least one day in the city before your island trip. This helps you get used to the thin air and prevents altitude sickness.

Stay near the city center for easy access to restaurants and the port. You can visit best viewpoints in Puno to see the lake from above. This gives you a great perspective before you head out on the water. Check the Official Peru Travel site for seasonal festival dates.

There are many other top attractions near Puno to see if you have time. Consider visiting burial towers or nearby temples after your return. Puno has a variety of hotels ranging from budget hostels to luxury lakefront resorts. Use our main search to find more spots in the region.