Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Note: in high season (June to August and also during festivals) prices listed here may
double.
Sights & Activities
Isla del Sol's
Inca remains
include the
Chincana
labyrinth complex in the north, and
fortresslike
Pilkokayna
and the verdant, gorgeous
Inca Stairway
in the south. The Chin-
cana is the site of the sacred Titi Khar'ka (Rock of the Puma), which features in the Inca
creation legend and gave the lake its name. The largest villages are Yumani to the south
and Ch'allapampa in the north.
Far less touristed, quiet Isla de la Luna boasts the partially rebuilt
ruins
of the convent
that housed virgins of the sun - women chosen at a young age to serve as nuns to the sun
god Inti.
Sleeping & Eating
Basic hostels in restful beachside Ch'allapampa charge B$25 to B$35 per person for ac-
commodation. There are a handful of basic restaurants and shops.
The most scenic spot to stay is Yumani, at the other end of the island. Far more deve-
loped, dozens of accommodations range from B$25 to B$90 per person, and there are rel-
atively sophisticated dining options (pizza and vegetarian fare) on offer.
On Isla de la Luna, there are three hostels in the main settlement on the east side of the
island, with ultra-basic rooms going for about B$15 to B$25 per person. Food in town will
cost about B$25 to B$30 a meal. Ask around. The hotel on the east-side tourist dock costs
B$20 per person, but you miss out on being in the main community.
If camping, it's best to ask permission from the local authority and then set up away
from villages, avoiding cultivated land (a nominal payment of B$10 should be offered).
Getting There & Around
BOAT
To Isla de la Luna, travel by ferry from either Copacabana or Yampupata, or with a guided
tour.
Tickets may be purchased at the ticket kiosks on the beach or from Copacabana agen-
cies. Boats to the northern end of the island land at Cha'llapampa, while those going to
the southern end land at either Pilko Kaina or the Escalera del Inca (Yumani).
