I'm going to Peru this summer, including the Lake Titicaca area. I had initially hoped to run across the border to check out the Bolivian side as well, but just saw that Americans are now charged a $100 visa fee to enter Bolivia! I've already been to Bolivia and wouldn't go deeper into the country, so I'd essentially be paying the $100 just to spend a couple days on Isla del Sol. Is it that amazing or different from the Peruvian side that it's worth the money? I don't want to regret not doing it, but that's big bucks for just a quick trip. Still, I'd fork it over if I'd be missing out on something unique.
Thanks for any advice!
llapa
1
saviajaro
Hi
Although Isla del Sol is a nice day on the lake. It is not worth 100+ USD. You could spend that doing something cool like rafting Colca Canyon in Peru or Trekking up El Misti outside of Arequipa. You can check out the Lake from Puno which has some nice views.
ENJOY
4
steve20050
Agree with #1, #2, #3. When I did finally get out to Isla del So , it was one of those short day trips. When you get there, you have a short time to run up the steps and view the area then get back to the boat for return. If you were interested in doing the Trek out to Yampupata and crossing over to the island and spending a night it would make more sense. Personally, I was with my wife and we just sat at the lunch stand by the boat landing and discussed the island woman's love life, which was about as long as the boat waited.
5
rainboy
<blockquote>Quote
<hr>Is it that amazing or different from the Peruvian side that it's worth the money?<hr></blockquote>
No. I didn't like it much at all. If you are really craving pizza or need maijuana its a good stopover.
So I agree with #1, #2, #3, and #4
6
havananights
Well, I disagree with the above posters. Isla del Sol is BEAUTIFUL. But, if you do go, please spend at least 1 night. I was there 3 days, 2 nights and that wasn't enough. Most people who go, do not bother to stay and that's a waste in my opinion.
If arriving by the south end, prepare yourself for a near vertical hike up a million stairs, but it is so worth it. I stayed at a ho(s)tel for 15 Bolivianos (~$2USD) in a room by myself on top of the mountain with fantastic views of the snow covered mountains to my left and the blue lake all around.
Take the hike (6-8 hours, depending) around the island to the north area and the many beaches on the east end. And the sunrises/sunsets are fantastic!
Regarding the $100 US visa talk, as of this moment in time, it is not being enforced if you walk across the border from Peru. I just did it. I carry only a US passport, flashed it and got in. Not only did I not pay for a visa, but I did not pay the 1 Bolivianos or whatever it was entry fee bc I came with a bus from Puno and there was mass confusion about the crossing. Having said that, I wouldn't take the tourist bus across the border again. It's much easier (and cheaper) to take collectivos.
Please go and do enjoy your stay!
7
enjoyingmylife
I also think it's worth it, if you have the time. Isla del Sol was one of the highlights of my Peru and Bolivia trip. We arrived on the North side from Copacabana, hiked across the island from late afternoon to dusk (spectacular), passing only locals and their sheep, and stayed at the top on the South side. Magical views and island, still wonderfully unspoiled.
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