Taquile Island Overview
Taquile Island is one of the most visited in Lake Titicaca, whose inhabitants are known to weave the finest quality garments in the region. The scenery is also quite beautiful with hillside Inca terraces overlooking the shores of the bright blue Lake Titicaca. Modern influences can hardly be seen here, a result of the natives careful protection of their ancient community. They don't allow hotels to be built and they also operate their own passenger boats so they can control the amount of tourists coming to the island.
Even though Taquile Island was a colonial hacienda in the 16th century the native islanders gradually regained control of their lands and today are a closely integrated community that is very loyal to their ancient traditions. In fact, little has changed over the centuries: crops are basic, the land is farmed with traditional tools, and the best trout in Peru is fished on the shores of the lake.
Similar to the neighboring Puno, Taquile has many festivals, including Santiago on July 25, and Pacha Mama (Mother Earth) in early August. Music, dancing, and plenty of chicha, the traditional alcoholic beverage, are always in abundance. Even on days when there isn't a festival the people look as if they're dressed for one, with the women in layers of bright-colored hand-woven skirts and embroidered blouses and the men in handsome waistcoats and black trousers.
Although Taquile's woven goods are the most expensive in the region, the quality is definitely the best and well worth the higher price. The residents also take great care not to compromise their craftsmanship for the sake of what tourists will buy but instead maintain their cultural traditions. In this way they can make the most of the economic benefits without compromising their revered way of life.
There are no hotels on the island but some families open their homes to visitors who can spend the night and have dinner for a reasonable price. Their hospitality is generous but the accommodations quite basic compared to modern standards. If you can rough it for one night, it could be an enriching experience to add to your Lake Titicaca itinerary.
Map of Lake Titicaca
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