Lake Titicaca Peru Travel Guide
The Lake Titicaca National Reserve protects biodiversity. Choose journeys that respect its rules, remaining on designated paths and not disturbing wildlife.
Reduce waste by avoiding single-use plastics. Recycling basic facilities, so pack out non-biodegradable waste when possible.
Drinking water resources remain valuable. Be mindful of water usage in hotels, taking shorter showers and reusing towels.
Your travel choices foster sustainable tourism.
Consider offsetting your flight emissions with reputable carbon offsetting. This mitigates the environmental footprint of your travel.
Seek hotels or tour agencies that state their commitment to sustainable practices (e.g., waste reduction, energy efficiency, community support). Ask questions before booking to affirm their alignment with your values.
Support community-based tourism initiatives that directly benefit indigenous communities and safeguard their long-standing beliefs (e.g., Amantani homestays, purchasing crafts directly from artisans on Taquile and Uros).
Always ask before photographing people. A simple Spanish phrase like '¿Puedo tomar una foto?' displays consideration. A few words in Spanish or even Quechua/Aymara (e.g., 'Kamisaraki' - Hello in Aymara) display respect and foster warmer interactions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities or religious sites. Bargain politely in markets.
Prioritize buying crafts directly from artisans in communities (Taquile, Uros) or from fair-trade shops in Puno rather than mass-locally-made souvenirs.
Explore reusable products at Package Free Shop.Dine at local restaurants, work with local guides, and purchase from local markets.
Support conservation at The Rainforest Site.Direct purchases from artisans help circulate your money within the Puno economy, benefiting small entrepreneurs and for families.
Tourism activity positively impacts the local economy and communities.
Amantani Island Homestays are a prime example, where tourism directly supports local families through lodging and provisions. These things to do create a direct economic benefit to the communities you visit.
Be wary of tours which look to exploit local heritage without genuine community benefit. Do not hand money directly to children; this can foster dependency and discourage school attendance.
If you intend to donate, do so through established local NGOs, schools, or community projects rather than direct handouts. This allows for certain aid distribution is works well and sustainable.
Eating at local restaurants, utilizing local guides, and buying from local markets circulates your money within the Puno economy. This benefits small entrepreneurs and families.
Respect privacy, especially of minors and in private homes. Dress modestly, remove hats, and speak in a low voice when inside religious sites. Display respect during services or ceremonies.
Always seek permission before taking photos, notably of people and private property.
Dress conservatively, remove hats, and keep voices low in sacred spaces.
Consider purchasing a small item from local artisans as a sign of appreciation for photos.
Your actions leave an impression. Travel with a mindful spirit, respecting culture and environment.
