Copacabana is situated on the southern shores of Lake Titicaca, one of the highestaccessible lakes in the world. Taking a boat ride over the blue waters of thelake to the mysterious Incan ruins is a must on any traveller’s list of thingsto do in Bolivia.
Copacabana is a small town and easy to navigate byfoot. While sightseeing, take things slow and stop for regular breaks. Being atan elevation of 3,841 metres (12,602 feet) above sea level, the air here isthin and any exertion of energy can leave you gasping for air. Begin the daywith breakfast at the local markets, try the buñuelos (donuts), and drink a “matede coca”, a tea made from coca leaves that helps cure altitude sickness.
Copacabana is a renowned pilgrim destination,particularly during the holy days in February, April and August, when Bolivianand Peruvian pilgrims come to the Plaza2 de Febrero. Watch folkloric dances performed in traditional dress and processionsthrough the streets. Attend mass at the 17th-century Catedral de la Virgen de Candelaria and see the Virgin’s reveredimage.
Stroll along the CopacabanaBeach, sample fresh trout and dine in one of the restaurants. Enjoy arelaxing boat tour and see the ruins of Isladel Sol (Island of the Sun) and Islade la Luna (Island of the Moon) where the Inca dynasty began.
Explore the Iglesiade Colquepata (Church of Colquepata) and take the hiking trail up the hillto the Cerro Calvario. This is wherepilgrims travel to make offerings and have their fortunes told. See the Asiento del Inca (Seat of the Inca), acurious rock formation in the shape of a throne. For a more challenging hike,climb the Horca del Inca, anastronomical observatory ruin created by the Chiripa people who existed priorto the Incas. After a day of sightseeing, ask a local how to get to the Baño del Inca and soak your muscles inthe thermal spring.
The bus ride from La Paz to Copacabana takesapproximately 3 hours. From Puno in Peru, it takes 2.5 hours but includestransfers and crossing the border. Coming by boat is an alternative choice.
