Complete guide to Copacabana and Lake Titicaca by Grupo Rosario

TABLE OF CONTENTS LAKE TITICACA

COPACABANA

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

FESTIVITIES CALENDAR

TRAVEL PLANNING

GETTING HERE

ISLA DEL SOL

SOUTHERN HALF

NORTHERN HALF

ISLA DE LA LUNA

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

TRAVEL PLANNING

GETTING HERE

ISLAS DE WINAYMARKA

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

WHAT TO BRING

ABOUT TURISBUS

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ABOUT LAKE TITICACA Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world with an average elevation of 3,810 meters above sea level, and an area of more than 8,560 square kilometers. It straddles the border of Peru and Bolivia. At its deepest, the lake is 275 meters deep. A wonder of South America, Lake Titicaca is the result of a long history of constant geological movements and droughts. The lake is all that remains of what was once a massive inland sea that covered parts of modern-day Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and Paraguay. Lake Titicaca features 42 distinct islands, the largest of which is Isla del Sol, the spiritual center of the Inca world. The first human settlements on the shores of Lake Titicaca date back more than 5,200 years. The earliest civilization in the region was Tiwanaku, which emerged on the shores of the lake and spread across the altiplano across much of Bolivia. After the devastating cataclysm occurred in the end of 1200 AD, several civilizations emerged such as the Señorios Aymaras emerged and the Inca, who achieved complete autonomy on this territory in 1400 and were conquered by the Spanish in the sixteenth century. Currently its banks are populated by mestizos descendants of Aymaras, Urus and Quechuas. The Lake’s shores are thick with the totora reed, used for centuries in the construction of floating islands, boats and as food. There are also endemic gigantic frogs – Telmatobius Culeus – considered the biggest in the world. Brought from different parts of America, trout and Pejerrey constitute the most desired fish not only for locals but also for foreigners. The region is a popular year round destination. From September to March the weather is balmy and sunny. Warm rains make the countryside vibrant and green. From April to July, the winter months, the rains stop and the wind picks up. In the dry air, the snowcapped Andes Mountains on the horizon stand out in sharp contrast to the rich blues of the sky and lake.

COPACABANA The charming little town of Copacabana is one of Bolivia’s most bustling tourism places, with a dramatic location overlooking the endless expanse of blue waters of Lake Titicaca. It is situated in a bay of the same name and flanked by two large hills, the Sekora and Calvary. For hundreds of years, Copacabana and the lake, have been pilgrimage sites (Pakarina Sagrada). Throughout the centuries various cultural groups as the Chiripa, Tiwanaku, Aymara and Inca occupation have dominated the area. After the conquest, the Spanish arrived in the area and expanded the existing settlement occupation, and built the church of Copacabana, which now receives thousands of parishioners of the Andean region, mainly Peru and Bolivia, which demonstrate their faith through great religious pilgrimages, fantastic dances, beautiful costumes and visits each year.

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ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Copacabana Church Even on the hills several miles outside Copacabana, it is still possible to admire the magnificent white shrine erected in honor to the Virgin of Copacabana, also known as Virgen Morena. Located in front of the main square, the original church was built between 1610 and 1619 by the architect Francisco Jiménez de Siguenza. You can still find evidence of the pre-Hispanic temple it was built on at the Museum Tito Yupanqui. Completed approximately in 1640 the church’s construction features Renaissance, Baroque and Moorish architectural styles. Major historical events related to the Virgin of Copacabana decorate the beautifully carved access gate. Inside the church, the baroque-style main altar is coated with gold leaf. Inside a special chamber in the center of the altar is the Virgin of Copacabana, which sits on a stand that rotates 360 degrees in so it can be appreciated by everyone. There is also a chapel of candles next to the church where visitors light a candle and take part in prayer. Copacabana Beach The beach is the perfect place to sit back with a book or gaze over the vast lake under the boundless skies of the Andes. All across the beach locals rent boats, kayaks, motorcycles, bicycles and horses. Kiosks on the beach sell snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. Markets There are two markets in Copacabana. The first one, Mercado de Copacabana, is near the main square. The second is lined with handicraft stores, along with a mix of outdoor fruit and vegetable tents. The trade of the famous sweet popcorns (pasankallas), the local breakfast api (purple corn beverage) and the colorful fruits of the season are not only interesting, but also an extremely delicious experience. Cerro Calvario When Copacabana was built a route emulating the Calvary of Christ was created on one of the hills, where it is possible to see the respective 14 Stations of the Cross. Usually people who hike, carry some stones with them symbolizing sins. There are also altars that elude the 7 Sorrows of the Virgin, where pilgrims pray and light candles. The ascent is somewhat hard, however the reward at the top is amazing with beautiful views of the lake and the horizon. Tribunal del Inca or Intikala Intikala or ‘The Sun Shaped Stone’ is a set of rocks that have the shape of seats for one or multiple persons. It is said that on this site people used to worship idols. It is also believed that this place was an area where the ancient inhabitants held significant meetings and deliberations. Horca del Inca One of the major archaeological ruins found near Copacabana, the Horca del Inca is located on Seroka hill. The ascent can be done in about 25 minutes. Once on top, you’ll find a pair of parallel rocks with a stone

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5 lintel placed between them. The Spanish conquerors believed this was a place where the Incas killed criminals, however, modern archaeological investigations determined that the site is originally a solar observatory. Almost like a calendar for determining the solstices and equinoxes for the ancient inhabitants of the area.

Cusijata The name comes from "Cusiahta" that means "good seed". It is located in the northeast of Copacabana, and centuries ago used to be a colonial hacienda. Inside, there is a small local museum with the same name that has ceramics, stone carvings, stone tools and a mummy. In the garden of the old house you can find the "Bath of the Inca". Due to its size and shape, this single block of andesite stone is said to be where the Inca bathed. You can also see the "Garden of the Inca" and the water tunnels that were built into the rock by the ancient inhabitants in order to collect water from the natural springs. Yampupata Traditionally tourists make the trip to Sun Island by boat, but another option is to make the hike through the small villages, archaeological ruins, and surrounding hills that you find on the way to the Yampupata community, in the northeast at the end of the Copacabana peninsula. This small village is located in front of the Sun Island and it is possible to combine trekking and a boat ride to Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna from here.

FESTIVITIES CALENDAR Fiesta Virgen de la Candelaria During the first days of February, people from Copacabana celebrate the feast of the Virgen de la Candelaria. Various festivals and folk parades take place in honor of the virgin, which was enthroned on February the second, 1583. Semana Santa The main festival of the year, Semana Santa, takes place through March and April, where thousands of people, mostly from La Paz and neighboring countries, make pilgrimages to show devotion to the Virgen de Copacabana. Usually the journey begins on foot from the city of La Paz across both paved and pre-Hispanic roads. Full of people and activities, these days are extremely crowded while various religious activities are performed in the sanctuary, evoking the passion and death of Jesus Christ. Fiesta de la Cruz Another religious festival in which hundreds of people from the city of La Paz and the town of Copacabana, gather to celebrate the Feast of the Cross on the 3rd of May. It is also linked to the Feast of the Chakana (Southern Cross) where it is possible to see a folk parade and a soiree. Bolivian Independence Day August the 6th is a very important date for the whole nation, where hundreds of people travel to Copacabana to visit the Virgin Mary, whose feast is also celebrated on the same date. Usually it’s associated with the feast of the Snow Virgin or Virgen de las Nieves (August the 5th). During these days, many visitors arrive, especially from Peru since it is an important celebration in their country.

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TRAVEL PLANNING MONEY EXCHANGE AND ATMS 

Throughout 6 de Agosto Av. there are several handicraft shops that change money, either in U.S. Dollars, Euros, Peruvian Soles or Bolivianos. There are four exchange houses, three of which are on the same avenue where you can change Traveler's Checks, and one more, near Plaza Sucre. Usually they are open from 09:00 to 18:00 from Monday to Sunday.

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Some handicraft shops and restaurants usually change dollars and soles. Another option is to change money at the border town of Kasani if you are traveling to or from Peru. In all cases, in order to avoid scams or any kind of fraud we strongly suggest you to use lower value bills.

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There are 3 ATMs in Copacabana, but only two accept Visa and MasterCard. We suggest getting money before you arrive, in Puno or La Paz since they are often out of order.

INTERNET 

There are a quite a number of Internet cafés in Copacabana. Most of which are on 6 de Agosto Ave. where open times are from 8:00 to 22:00.

POST & TELEPHONE 

The post office is located in Plaza 2 de Febrero and is open Tuesday-Sunday from 09:00 to 12:00 and re-opens from14:00 to 18:00. There are several call centers (Viva, Tigo, Cotel, Entel) in Copacabana with an option on almost every block. You’ll be sure to find one on 6 de Agosto Av., Jáuregui St. and Murillo St. 2 blocks from the Plaza 2 de Febrero is the main office of Entel behind the church.

MEDICAL SERVICES Copacabana has a basic municipal hospital available 24/7, located on Murillo St. and Felix Tejada Av. There is one private health company that can help you, called Home Medical Assistance, which also is available 24/7. Nevertheless, if your emergency is serious, it’s better to go to La Paz or Puno in Peru.

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PHARMACY 

There are a couple of pharmacies in Copacabana; which are located on 6 de Agosto Av., Jauregui St. and Plaza 2 de Febrero, working from 08:00 to 21:00 everyday.

SAFETY Copacabana has a Police Post, but there is also the Bolivian Navy that takes control of Costanera Av. (beach) during the night. When the town is crowded because of festivities, they play the role of the police, around the small town.

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ELECTRICITY 

The electric service in Copacabana comes from La Paz city, but sometimes there are programmed cuts during the day. The electric current operates at 110-220 volts at 60 Hz and uses a flat pin connector. There are hotels that support different types of voltage transformers to adapt electronic outlets of other countries.

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WATER 

Water service depends on the spring waters that exist in the region. During the summer or rainy season water service is all day, but in winter, water supplies are available for a few hours, usually from 07:00 to 10:00, every day. We recommend using bottle water when possible and avoid drinking water directly from the tap.

GETTING HERE FROM LA PAZ It takes about three to four hours to get to Copacabana from La Paz (166 Km) on a paved road. One hour before arriving to Copacabana, you have to cross a stretch of about 800 meters (Estrecho de Tiquina) that separates the two parts of Lake Titicaca, Lago Mayor and Lago Menor (shallow) and it is called Península e Copacabana. Both portions of water can be viewed from Tiquina, including the Moon Island and the snowy mountain, Illimani. Each side of the strait has a town: San Pablo and San Pedro de Tiquina. On each side there are popular dinning, kiosks and toilets. Vehicles must cross on ferries and passengers in small motorboats. It takes about 10 minutes to cross the stretch and is the first tangible approach to the lake.

FROM PERU As soon as you cross the border between Perú and Bolivia, Kasani, you can get to Copacabana by a paved road in no more than 15 minutes. Roads from Cuzco, Juliaca and Puno are completely paved if you are finishing your tour of the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Uros Floating Islands or other attractions around Peru, and you want to get to Bolivia. Machu Picchu – Cusco 120 Km.

(combined Bus and Train)

Cusco – Juliaca

345 Km.

(Bus or Train -train arrives and depart from Puno-)

Juliaca – Puno

44Km.

(Bus)

Puno – Kasani

130 Km.

(Bus)

Kasani - Copacabana

8 Km.

(Bus)

LEFT LUGGAGE Most of the hotels and hostels in Copacabana have storage rooms. You must spend a night in one of them to leave your luggage with no extra cost; otherwise you have to pay for it. We highly suggest to leave your

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8 luggage in Copacabana, La Paz or Puno, especially if you are planning to make a trip to the Sun Island or Moon Island for a couple of days.

BORDER CROSSING The immigration office at the border, Kasani, doe not request any charge to enter Bolivia, unless you come from countries that require a visa. To get the exit stamp it is required that travelers have their passport and migration sheet ready. The Peru-Bolivia border is open from 09 am to 06 pm. From either side, the process won’t take more than fifteen minutes if your passport and tourist visa are in order. When you enter Bolivia, you receive a 90-day tourist visa, which is stamped upon exiting the country. Keep the following tips in mind: •

You can save time at the border by completing your visa form for entering Bolivia online.

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Torn, ripped, or merely old bills will be declined, so keep cash pristine and as close to exact change as you can.

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Save yourself the time and hassle of crossing back to Peru just to make photocopies of your passport or visa! Bring them with you

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Officially, border officials can ask about the following: your hotel reservation, itinerary, yellow fever vaccination, and even request proof of economic solvency in the form of a credit card copy or bank statement. Very rarely does this happen, but it is possible.

VISAS If you need a visa to enter Bolivia, for more information visit the website: http://www.migracion.gob.bo/web/

ISLA DEL SOL – SOUTHERN HALF Originally known as Titicaca Island, Isla del Sol is 9.6 km in length and 6.4 km wide. On the island there are three communities: Yumani, Challa and Challapampa. As a result of the island’s importance in the pre Hispanic era, today, the island has several archaeological sites. According to legend, Isla del Sol is where the first Incas, Manco Kapac and Mama Ojllo emerged, resulting in one of the most sacred places in the entire Inca empire.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Pilckaina In the southeastern part of the island is the small palace, Pilckaina. The construction of the stone palace was ordered by the Inca Tupac Yupanqui. Inside you’ll find lots of niches where they used to placed idols and other objects. Situated in the southeast of the island, the palace faces the rising sun and the Royal Mountain

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9 Range of the Andes. At the top there is a trail leading North to the Yumani community, approximately a 30 minutes walk. There is an admission fee of five bolivianos.

Escalera del Inca & Fuente del Inca As soon as you arrive, you’ll immediately be greeted with the stone steps of the Escalera del Inca that ascend all the way to the top of the island. The first community of the island, the Yumani, take these steps to the Fuente del Inca, an ancient fountain made of stone blocks that form three natural springs that originate high up in the Andes. It’s said that they represent the three commands of the Incas: Ama Sua, Ama Llulla, Ama Quella (don not steal, do not lie and do not be lazy). The Yumani, which means Priest, not only rely on this natural water source to provide water for its people, but also to keep the surrounding gardens and flora fertile throughout the year. There is an admission of five bolivianos when you reach Yumani harbor, but if you have already visited Pilcocaina, the admission ticket will suffice. Yumani With a little effort climbing the Escalera del Inca to the Fuente del Inca, you’ll finally reach the top of the island and the Yumani community. From here you overlook the entire island and the hillside terraces (tacanas) that cover it. In the Yumani community you’ll find home-stay accommodations and small restaurants along the hills. Tourism acts as a main source of income for the Yumani people. The path continues from the top of the island and heads north towards the two other communities. If you decide to make the hike north, the charge is about 15 bolivianos and the Piedra Sagrada is about a three to four hour trek. Cha’lla Between Yumani and Challapampa is Cha'lla, the second community of the island. This is an excellent place to enjoy the magnificent views of Lake Titicaca as well as visit a small museum in town.

TRAVEL PLANNING Things to be aware of while you’re traveling to Sun Island: •

Most people only spend a day or two on Sun Island, but it is absolutely essential to have cash with you on this trip. There are no ATMs and credit cards are not accepted anywhere in the Yumani and Cha’lla communities.

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If you need to make a call there is only one call center in Yumani.

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10 •

Since there is no running water on the island, the villagers carry water from the spring to their homes and lodges, and fill their water tanks for personal use as well clients.

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Electricity is continually available on the island service is continuous.

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There is a very basic medical center a few minutes away from Yumani, however, sometimes you cannot find a doctor.

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Sun Island is known for having very peaceful communities, so there is no police station on the island.

GETTING HERE From Copacabana and Yampupata you can take a motorboat to the southern part of Sun Island. Once on the island there are no roads or vehicles, so the only way travel to the attractions is on foot or by boat. Copacabana – Yumani

1 hour

Motorboat

Pilcokaina – Yumani

5 min.

Motorboat

30 min.

Trekking

Copacabana – Cha’lla

1.20 hour

Motorboat

Copacabana – Yampupata

45 min.

Motorboat

4 hours

Trekking

Yampupata–Yumani

10 min.

Motor boat

Yampupata- Cha’lla

35 min.

Motor Boat

ISLA DEL SOL - NORTHERN HALF ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Challapampa The Challapampa community is located on the north end of the island. Nestled in a peaceful bay with beautiful surroundings, the Challapampa area is known for the archaeological site of the Sacred Stone or Piedra Sagrada. In this community there is a small local museum, which displays a variety of archaeological objects found nearby. These artifacts were salvaged through research and exploration of the underwater archeology around Sun Island.

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11 Piedra Sagrada Considered the most important icon of the Inca culture, the Piedra Sagrada is where the brothers Manco Kapac and Mama Ojllo begin looking for the city of Cuzco. This enormous sacred stone is 68 meters long with parts of it previously being covered with gold, silver and beautiful textiles. In Inca history the site was visited by hundreds of people on special days, who made offerings to the rock, with the sacred drink of the Incas, Chicha. One part of the stone shows a shape similar to a face that many believe to be the face of Inca god Viracocha. In front of Piedra Sagrade is a stone table, where offerings and preparations were made.

Chinkana Ruins Located about 50 meters away from the Sacred Stone to the northeast are the Chinkana ruins, which could be considered the only ancient labyrinthine construction in Bolivia. The ruins are a series rooms with low walls and niches where idols were placed. The ruins also feature a collqa (store of certain products) and what is believed to be former living spaces for priests or other elite people.

TRAVEL PLANNING •

As in the southern side of Sun Island, Challapampa does not have any ATM or money exchange, therefore it is better to bring cash from Copacabana, La Paz or Puno.

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There is one call center for national and international calls.

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Since there is no public water service, villagers have to carry water from a spring and then to their homes and lodges, and fill their water tanks for personal use and clients; similar to process in Yumani and Cha’lla.

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Electricity is continuously available

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There is no medical assistance post at this time

GETTING HERE From Copacabana you can take a motorboat that arrives at the northern part of Sun Island. In Challapampa there are no roads or vehicles in and around the attractions, so the only way to reach them is on foot or by boat. Copacabana – Challapampa

1,45 hour

Motorboat

Yumani – Challapampa

45 min. 4 hours

Motor Boat Trekking

Yampupata – Challapampa

1,10 min.

Motorboat

Challapampa – Chincana

20 min. 40 min.

Motorboat Trekking

ISLA DE LA LUNA A much smaller island located to the East of Sun Island and the Peninsula de Copacabana is Isla de la Luna or Moon Island. No more than 2 kilometers long, the island is inhabited by only a small number of people and much like Sun Island, the views from the Isla de la Luna are quite spectacular. It is also referred to as Coati Island. During the dictatorship of Bolivia, part of the island was used as a prison but today; Moon Island is the best upholding example of the matriarchy in Andean culture. The archeological ruins of Iñac Uyu, on the islands eastern edge, are the best place to view this part of Inca history.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Coati Trail The trail features both ascents and descents across the hillside terraces. It begins in the small village of warmithakhi, meaning woman trail, where you’ll notice the local flora used to make medicines, as well as the agricultural terraces of corn, potatoes and quinoa; a legacy of the Inca Empire. Along the trail there are several stops where interpretive maps help provide guests with a better understanding of the Andean world before finally descending to the ruins of Iñac Uyu. Coati Village In the community of Coati, families are involved in community–based tourism as a sustainable and diversified way of life. They are also dedicated to maintaining agriculture that recovers traditional Aymara and Inca rites, naturalistic medicine, fishing, grazing as well as the sale of handicrafts and textiles to visitors. Iñac Uyu The Iñac Uyu archeological ruins are located in the eastern part of Coati Island or Moon Island. The famous Inca, Tupac Yupanqui, ordered it to be built between 1425 and 1470. This site was built for the "Virgins of the Sun", that according to history were very beautiful women who were under the orders and service of the Inca. In this place they were taught to create textiles, arts and others in order to be chosen as one of the Inca’s concubines. The building was built around a central courtyard with ornaments that are still evident on the walls with staggered crossings and Andean details. In the center, there are two rooms that stand above the rest. When the Spanish conquerors arrived, the story was that Moon Island featured a beautiful sculpture of a woman, and that she was made of half silver and half gold. Pizarro sent the sculpture to Cuzco with other gold and silver objects. From the ruins there are spectacular views of the impressive Royal Mountain Range of the Andes where the snowy Illampu and Janko Uma grab the attention of anyone’s view.

TRAVEL PLANNING •

The Coati community uses solar panels to provide electricity and hot water.

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There is no water service, consequently villagers get water from the lake and then filter it.

•

It is possible to make phone calls, but there are not any call centers.

•

Before reaching the ruins of Iñac Uyu, there is one pretty basic bathroom.

GETTING HERE From Copacabana and Sun Island, you can take a motorboat to Moon Island. Much Sun island, there are no roads no vehicles, so the only way to reach all attractions is on foot or by boat. Copacabana – Iñac Uyu

1,10 hour

Motorboat

Yumani – Iñac Uyu

45 min.

Motorboat

Challapampa – Moon Island 1.15 hour

Motorboat

ISLAS DE WINAYMARKA Lago Menor also known as "Winnaymarka" (Eternal City) is the smallest portion of Lake Titicaca, but features a series of interesting islands worth visiting.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES Isla Pariti Pariti is a quiet little island that in 2004 became famous with the discovery of more than 250 archaeological pieces of fine manufacturing, belonging to the Tiwanaku culture. The island is an hour and a half away from Huatajata by motorboat. There is a museum where you can see the "Lord of the Ducks", a variety of wakuretratos (vessels with human faces), representations of animals like monkeys, ducks, condors, snakes, and even a miniature Chachapuma (puma man) made with stone. Another place that you can visit is the small and simple chapel located just steps from the port or we suggest making the climb up the hill from the North to appreciate the lake and the surrounding area from a higher point. Isla Kalauta Just in front of the Pariti Island is Kewaya Island also called Kalahuta, meaning "stone house", because of the buildings made of stone shaped towers, called chullpares. Formerly, these monuments were used to hold human corpses. Apparently they are post Tiwanaku but some researchers say that they are part of the Inca period. It takes just 10 minutes by boat from Pariti Island.

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS ALTITUDE SICKNESS When planning a trip that visits multiple cities, it is important to remember that affects that the altitude can have. Altitude sickness can result from the lower levels of oxygen in the air at elevations above 2,500 meters. Altitude sickness presents itself as a collection of symptoms not unlike a mild hangover. Symptoms can include drowsiness, nausea, headache, shortness of breath, upset stomach, lightheadedness or trouble sleeping. In most cases, the body acclimates in 1-2 days and the symptoms disappear on their own. The best advice for travelers arriving at high elevation destinations is to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, to avoid alcohol and to not overexert yourself. There are inexpensive over the counter medications available in drugstores such as Diamox that treat symptoms. Coca tea, or mate de coca, is commonly recommended by locals to treat or prevent altitude sickness as well has carb-heavy meals and snacks high in potassium. Serious cases can also be treated with oxygen. In extreme cases, altitude sickness may require medical attention, with victims treated with steroids, medication, or hyperbolic chambers. Casual travelers are unlikely to reach elevations high enough to pose a serious danger in Bolivia.

SUNBURN & HEAT EXHAUSTION With Bolivia being close to the equator and most of its cities being at high altitude, the sun is extremely intense. Even during the rainy season and winter, the rays of the sun are strong, so regardless of where you are in the country, it is important to carry sun tan lotion with you, frequently applying it on exposed skin. Having sunglasses and wearing a hat can be essential in preventing sunstroke as well as always having a bottle of water with you, especially since remote areas of Bolivia may not have drinking water available. If you begin feeling lightheaded or begin experiencing symptoms of sunstroke, make sure to stop and rest in the shade with some water close at hand.

ANIMAL BITES It is important to avoid direct contact with all animals in order to prevent the chance of any disease, injury or illness. Any bites or scratches should be immediately washed and treated. Make sure your vaccinations are update before you travel Advise children of the dangers and make sure to supervise them whenever around animals Alert your doctor after your trip if any scratch or bite occurred while traveling

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FOOD The leading cause of illness with most travelers is disease from food and water. Here are a few tips for safe eating and drinking to pay attention to: •

Wash your hands as often as possible and traveling with some hand sanitizer is also a smart idea.

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Make sure that your water is bottled with a fastened cap or at least boiled before drinking. Avoiding ice cubes and tap water is recommended. If you are purchasing food from street vendors make sure the meal is fully cooked before eating. Avoid non-pasteurized dairy products Vomiting and diarrhea can occur from food and water diseases, so make sure to purchase diarrhea medication before your trip to treat mild cases.

WHAT TO BRING Around Lake Titicaca and Bolivia in general, the high altitude can bring intense heat during the day as well as cold nights once the sun goes down. Packing for a variety of conditions like this while trying to keep your pack light can be a challenge. The best recommendation is to consider bringing layers that can easily be added and removed. A simple process to remember is that base layers (lightweight polyester or synthetic) manage moisture, middle layers (fleece or wool) are meant for insulating and outer layers (rain/wind shells) protect you from them the elements. A suggested packing list is provided below: − Comfortable boots/shoes with good ankle support. − Light weight trousers/shorts − T-shirts. (Avoid cotton. It holds moisture and keeps you cold) − Long-sleeved shirt (also helps protect from the sun) − Lightweight underwear and socks (thermal underwear can be extremely beneficial since it is light and warm) − Fleece or wool jacket − Rain shell − Hat or cap to protect from the sun. − Sun tan lotion, lip balm, sunglasses. − Money belt − Camera with spare batteries or a charger − Plastic sandals (useful for in the shower) − Binoculars − Water bottle

ABOUT TURISBUS

We are one of the most important operators of Incoming Tourism in Bolivia, with decades of experience in culture and nature trips around Bolivia and southern Peru, providing services operated by us and from selected tour operators that allow us to provide responsible, efficient and dependable services. We develop strategic partnerships to support communities and local enterprises of lake transportation and food in Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna, boosting job creation and tourism development in Bolivia. We have an excellent team of professionals that guarantee the quality of services, and turn every customer into a friend. We have a large fleet of modern vehicles of different capacities, in addition to trekking equipment that with the work of the guides team and sales staff, become our greatest assets available to the customer. We are recommended in the tourist guides South American Handbook, Bolivia Handbook, Guide Routard, Lonely Planet and many more. However, the best recommendations are from our own customers every day.

CONTACT US La Paz, Bolivia C. Illampu 704 Tel (591-2) 245 1341 Tel (591-2) 245 1658 La Paz - Bolivia experiences.turisbus@gruporosario.travel

Visit us at online:

www.GrupoRosario.com

Santiago, Chile Ebro 2869 Dept. 801, Las Condes Tel (56-2) 2717 4645 Cel (599) 8201 9838 Santiago - Chile gerencia.chile@gruporosario.travel