A Night on the Floating Islands: My Stay at Uros Lodge on Lake Titicaca

During my travels through Peru, I had the unforgettable opportunity to spend a night at Uros Lodge, a cozy, family-run lodge located on one of the famous floating islands of Lake Titicaca, just outside the city of Puno. What made this experience truly unique wasn’t just the breathtaking views or peaceful atmosphere—it was the story behind the islands, and the warm connection I made with the lodge’s owner, Felix.

The Magic of Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, sitting at over 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level, is the highest navigable lake in the world and one of the most sacred places in Andean culture. Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, the lake holds deep spiritual and historical significance, believed by the Inca to be the birthplace of the sun.

But what makes Lake Titicaca truly extraordinary are the Uros floating islands—a network of man-made islands built entirely from totora reeds, which grow abundantly in the lake. The Uros people, a pre-Incan civilization, originally constructed these islands as a defense mechanism. By living on movable islands, they could avoid threats from rival tribes, especially the expanding Inca Empire.

Today, while some of the Uros have moved to the mainland, several families continue to live on the islands and maintain the ancient traditions, sharing their culture with visitors from around the world.

My Experience at Uros Lodge

I arrived at Uros Lodge in the late afternoon, after a short boat ride from Puno. From the moment I stepped off the boat, I was greeted by Felix, the owner, whose kindness and hospitality made me feel instantly at home. Felix, like many residents of the Uros islands, grew up on these floating platforms, learning the traditions passed down through generations—how to build, maintain, and live in harmony with the lake.

The lodge itself is humble yet welcoming. The rooms are constructed using layers of totora reeds, and though rustic, they offer all the basics you need for a comfortable stay. At night, it gets cold—Lake Titicaca nights are brisk—but warm blankets and hot tea made it all part of the charm.

Felix took the time to explain the history of the island and showed me how they maintain the reeds, add new layers, and keep the island afloat. He also shared stories of his childhood and how tourism has slowly become part of their livelihood, helping his family sustain their home while keeping their culture alive.

A Cultural Connection

What stood out the most was how immersive the experience felt. This wasn’t just a tourist attraction—it was a glimpse into a living culture. Watching the sunset from a floating island, surrounded by still waters and the soft rustling of reeds underfoot, was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

In the morning, Felix made a simple but delicious breakfast, and we shared stories over coca tea. Saying goodbye felt like leaving a friend behind.

Why You Should Visit

If you’re traveling through Peru, I highly recommend spending a night at Uros Lodge. It’s more than just accommodation—it’s a cultural exchange, a peaceful retreat, and a rare chance to witness a way of life that’s remained intact for centuries.

Staying on Lake Titicaca’s floating islands with someone like Felix will leave you with more than just photos—it will leave you with perspective, humility, and gratitude for the simple yet profound lives lived on these waters.