Isla del Sol is one of the most well-known destinations on Lake Titicaca. But just opposite, a small island discreetly emerges from the deep waters of the lake: Isla de la Luna. Much calmer, more intimate, yet it is rich in history and mysticism. An ancient sacred Inca site, it offers a perfect getaway for travelers who want to go off the beaten path and immerse themselves in another era.
📍 Where is Isla de la Luna?
Located a few kilometers east of Isla del Sol, in the Bolivian part of Lake Titicaca, Isla de la Luna faces the coast of Copacabana. It is much smaller than its big sister, but also wilder. Around twenty families live on the island, in a small village perched on the heights. Here, no cars, no mass tourism, just the blue of the lake, silence, and a few trails.
🛶 How to get there?
🚤 From Copacabana
From Copacabana port, several companies offer excursions to Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna. You can opt for:
- A combined excursion (Isla del Sol + Isla de la Luna in one day)
- A visit to Isla de la Luna only, rarer but possible with a private boat
The journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes and costs between 30 and 60 bolivianos round trip. Departures are usually in the morning (around 8:30 AM), with a return around 4:00 PM.
⛰ Access on foot from Isla del Sol?
No. Even if the two islands are close, you cannot walk from one to the other. You will need a boat.
🏫 What to see on the island?
🏛 The Temple of the Virgins of the Sun
The highlight of the visit is clearly the Templo de las Vírgenes del Sol. These Inca ruins are still well-preserved and offer you a direct leap into history. It is said that this is where the Sun’s “chosen ones” lived: young girls selected for their beauty and purity, trained in the arts, religious duties, sometimes destined to become wives of the emperor or to be sacrificed.
The place is peaceful, mystical. You can feel that it was a sacred place. From the temple, you have a breathtaking view of the lake and the Andean peaks in the distance.
🏠 The Village
At the top of the island, you can stroll through the village. There are very few inhabitants, but some sell handmade crafts: bracelets, scarves, small statues… The atmosphere is very authentic, almost timeless.
No tourist hustle and bustle, no one forces you to buy. You can chat, observe the slow pace of island life, and enjoy the silence.
🎨 Why visit Isla de la Luna?
- For Inca history and the very well-preserved ruins
- For the absolute calm, far from the crowds of Isla del Sol
- For the incredible view of the lake and mountains
- To meet a local community still deeply rooted in its traditions
It’s also a welcome break in an intense journey. Here, time slows down.
🛌 What to bring for the visit?
- Good shoes (the path goes up a bit)
- Drinking water (your OKO Water Bottle is perfect)
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- A windbreaker jacket (even in full sun, the wind can be freezing)
- Something to snack on if you spend several hours there
It’s also a great place to take photos or videos with your Insta360. The views are amazing, especially at sunrise or sunset.
🏡 Can you sleep on the island?
There isn’t really a developed hotel infrastructure on Isla de la Luna. Some families sometimes offer simple homestays (without hot water or Wi-Fi, of course). But unless you have a guide or a local contact, it’s better to stay in Copacabana or on Isla del Sol.
You can book your hotel at the best price here: see offers in Copacabana
💬 My Experience
I had hesitated to go, thinking it would be redundant with Isla del Sol. And yet… what a shock. Not a sound, not a tourist, just the ruins, the wind, and the deep blue of the lake. The history of the temple truly moved me. You can feel the weight of the past here, as if the stones still recount ancient songs.
I sat for a moment facing the lake. It’s the kind of place where you reconnect with yourself, without distraction.
📖 Practical Tips
- Leave early in the morning from Copacabana
- Take bolivianos in cash, no ATM on site
- If you are prone to altitude sickness, go after a few days of acclimatization in La Paz or Copacabana
- Respect the sites: do not climb on the ruins, do not leave any trash
- Inquire about the boat return times so you don’t get stranded
🛍 Conclusion
Isla de la Luna is a real gem. Little-known, silent, mystical. If you want to experience an authentic moment, far from the hustle and bustle, it’s a perfect stopover. A concentration of history, natural beauty, and spirituality.
If you go to Lake Titicaca, don’t just stick to Isla del Sol. Take the detour. Treat yourself to this little journey back in time. You won’t regret it.
