Taquile Island-A Must-Visit In Titicaca, Peru

Taquile island is a long, but small island on the Peruvian side of Titicaca lake. It is 35 km from Puno and takes roughly two-three hours to get there by boat, but depending on the speed. The Taquile scenery almost reminds you of being in the Mediterranean. People usually visit Taquile on a day trip from Puno, a day trip after staying the night at Amantani or to stay a night in Taquile. 

Taquile island is known for its handicraft. The quality of the handicraft is not only famous in South America but the whole world. The boys on the island start knitting at the age of 8 where they use specific hats in terms of their relationship status. Women usually make yarn and weave. 

Taquile hats

The Taquile people speak Quechua which is different from Aymara speaking people on other islands.The locals on the island were previously not allowed to marry people outside of the island. The Taquile society is based on community collectivism where they believe in  (do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy.) 

Some of the hills boast Inca terracing on their sides and small ruins on top. You are free to wander around the island and enjoy the ruins and tranquillity. The island has no roads, big buildings and streetlights. There are also no addresses here so if you stay here for homestay they will pick you up, although you could find out where to go if you knew the name of the host because everyone on the island knows everyone.