Full Day Tour to Sun Island in Copacabana From Puno

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Puno to the sacred Sun Island in Copacabana, Peru. Explore the archaeological site of Pilkokayna, dedicated to the Inti, the Sun God. Sail across the serene waters of Lake Titicaca and discover the tranquil village of Yumani, known for its ‘fountain of youth.’ With transportation, entrance fees, a bilingual guide, and lunch included, this tour offers an enriching exploration of the region’s captivating history and vibrant culture. Get ready to learn about the enchanting world of Sun Island and uncover the mysteries that lie within.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Full-Day Tours In Puno.

Good To Know

• Full-day tour from Puno, Peru to explore Sun Island, including visits to archaeological sites like Pilkokayna and the village of Yumani.

• Tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, bilingual guide, and lunch, with a shared motorboat ride across Lake Titicaca.

• Participants must meet requirements for a safe experience, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible or recommended for certain health conditions.

• Overall customer satisfaction is positive, with praise for the knowledgeable guide and tour organization, despite some minor issues noted.

• Flexible cancellation and payment policies, including a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Overview and Highlights

The full-day tour to Sun Island from Puno, Peru allows visitors to explore Pilkokayna, an archaeological site where the Incas worshipped the Sun God, Inti.

From there, the tour takes travelers to Yumani, home of the ‘fountain of youth’ and pre-Columbian terraces and gardens.

After the land-based portion, participants sail across the iconic Lake Titicaca to reach Sun Island itself.

This comprehensive excursion includes transportation, entrance fees, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and lunch, providing a well-rounded experience of the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Inclusions and Transportation

This full-day tour includes round-trip transportation from downtown Puno hotels, all necessary entrance fees, and the services of an experienced, bilingual (English/Spanish) tour guide.

Travelers will be picked up and dropped off at their hotel, and the crossing of Lake Titicaca to reach Sun Island will be done via shared motorboat.

Plus, participants must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccine and purchase an exhibit bus ticket from Puno to Copacabana, which is required for this tour.

The tour includes a delicious lunch, ensuring a well-rounded and convenient experience for visitors.

Booking and Participation Requirements

Minimum of 2 people are required per booking, with a maximum of 15 travelers allowed on the tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

Participants must have a valid passport on the day of travel, and it’s recommended to check visa requirements beforehand.

The tour operator can’t accommodate travelers with accessibility needs or serious health issues due to the nature of the activities involved.

Participants should ensure they meet the requirements before booking to have a safe and enjoyable experience on Sun Island.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Based on the 6 reviews, the tour to Sun Island in Copacabana enjoys an overall rating of 4.0.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable and organized tour guide, who provided valuable insights into the sites.

However, some concerns were raised about the lack of company representation during the border crossing.

The reviews highlighted:

• Positive comments on the guide’s expertise and the smooth organization of the tour.
• Concerns about the absence of company staff at the border, which caused some confusion for participants.
• An overall satisfaction with the tour, despite a few minor issues.

Cancellation and Payment Policies

The tour operator offers a lowest price guarantee and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility for travelers.

Plus, the company offers a reserve now and pay later option, which can be convenient for those who want to secure their spot on the tour without an immediate payment.

The clear and transparent cancellation and payment policies make it easy for customers to plan their trip and manage any changes or cancellations that may arise.

Exploring Pilkokayna

Pilkokayna is an intriguing archaeological site where the Incas worshipped the Sun God, Inti. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the ancient rituals and beliefs of the Inca civilization.

The site features:

• Carefully constructed stone structures and altars used for religious ceremonies
• Remnants of the Inca’s advanced engineering and architectural skills
• Stunning views of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding Andes mountains

The tour guide will provide insights into the historical and cultural significance of Pilkokayna, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the Inca’s reverence for the sun and their advanced civilization.

Visiting Yumani

After exploring the ancient Inca ruins of Pilkokayna, the tour continues to the tranquil village of Yumani.

Situated on the southern tip of Sun Island, Yumani is known for its ‘fountain of youth’ and pre-Columbian terraces and gardens.

Visitors can stroll through the serene village, admiring the beautifully maintained terraces and learning about the local culture.

The tour guide will provide insights into the history and significance of Yumani, highlighting its role as a sacred site for the Incas.

Whether it’s the picturesque landscapes or the rich cultural heritage, Yumani offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of Lake Titicaca’s indigenous communities.

Sailing to Sun Island

Upon completing the visit to Yumani, travelers then embark on a shared motorboat to reach the iconic Sun Island, the legendary birthplace of the Inca civilization.

The boat ride across the serene waters of Lake Titicaca offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Once on Sun Island, visitors can explore:

• The ancient ruins and artifacts that provide insights into the Inca civilization
• Scenic hiking trails that wind through the island’s natural beauty
• Traditional Aymara communities that maintain their cultural heritage

The journey to Sun Island is a highlight of the tour, immersing travelers in the rich history and stunning scenery of this remarkable destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Group Size for the Tour?

The typical group size for the tour is between 2 and 15 travelers. The tour has a minimum of 2 people required per booking and a maximum group size of 15 participants.

Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate vegetarian and other dietary restrictions with advance notice. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure their requirements are met during the included lunch.

What Is the Duration of the Guided Tour on Sun Island?

The guided tour on Sun Island lasts approximately 2 hours. Travelers will explore the archaeological site, Yumani village, and the island’s pre-Columbian terraces and gardens during this portion of the full-day excursion.

Are There Any Additional Optional Activities Available on the Tour?

The tour does not appear to include any additional optional activities. The overview focuses on the key highlights of the Sun Island visit, with no mention of any optional add-ons or extra experiences.

How Reliable Is the Motorboat Service for the Lake Crossing?

The motorboat service for the lake crossing is generally reliable, according to customer reviews. The tour provider uses shared motorboats to transport travelers across Lake Titicaca, and this mode of transportation is included in the tour package.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Puno to Sun Island in Copacabana, Peru, offers an enriching exploration of the region’s history and culture. Visitors will discover the sacred archaeological site of Pilkokayna, visit the tranquil village of Yumani, and enjoy a scenic boat ride across Lake Titicaca. With transportation, entrance fees, a bilingual guide, and lunch included, this tour provides an immersive experience of the area’s natural beauty and pre-Columbian heritage.