Visiting Isla del Sol

Information

The Isla del Sol has several internal paths that allow you to walk around it, and thus access its different attractions such as archaeological ruins, viewpoints and beaches. In addition, the island can be reached from its two northern and southern ends (confirm boat frequencies and schedules), which are joined by a long path called the Ruta Sagrada de la Eternidad del Sol (Sacred Route of the Eternity of the Sun), which can be done on foot. As there is accommodation and place to eat, it is a good idea to spend the night on the island to get to know it better and with more time.

1. South of the island:
- This is where there is the greatest number of accommodation and places to eat. It has a harbour where boats come and go that connect with Copacabana and the northern part of the island.
- A few metres from the port, the so-called Escalera del Inca (Inca Stairway) begins, which with its stone steps leads almost from the shore of the lake to the upper part where there are places to stay and eat. If you have to go up or down with luggage, bear in mind that there are many metres of unevenness and it requires a significant physical effort (it is also above 3800 metres above sea level). Next to this staircase you will see a water fountain called Fuente de las Tres Aguas (Fountain of the Three Waters).
- There is a 1.4 km long path with spectacular views of the lake, which leads to the Pilkokaina Palace. It is a well-preserved Inca construction, which many also call the Templo del Sol (Temple of the Sun).

2. North of the island:
- It has some accommodation, a coastline with a beach and ruins to visit. It has a harbour where boats come and go, connecting with Copacabana and the southern harbour of the island.
- Very close to the port is the Museo de Oro de la Ciudad Sumergida (a museum), with pre-Hispanic archaeological pieces obtained from excavations of a site that is submerged under the waters of the lake, which they call the Ciudad Sumergida (Submerged City). A short distance from the museum, the shoreline has a beach with crystal clear water.
- If you follow a path for about 2 km, you will come to an area of ruins. Here you can see the Roca Sagrada (Sacred Rock, it looks like a rocky mound), the Mesa Ceremónica (Ceremonial Table) and the Laberinto de Chincana (Chincana Labyrinth).