Isolated from the modern world, these communities have kept their traditional customs alive. The Taquilenos produce elegant dresses sold only on the island and offer visitors lodging in their own homes. Towns near the lake possess treasures of colonial architecture, such as the carved stone churches of Juli and Pomata. Between Puno and Juliaca are the Chullpas de Sillustani, huge stone tombs. You can also visit the Pukara Temple and find good handicrafts in the city.
Trains leave daily in the high season and every other day in the low season.
Bus or microbus along the lake shore to Juli, Pomata, Yunguyo and to the Bolivian border. Basic lodging in other towns, lodging in private homes on the island of Taquile. Avoid physical exertion during the first couple of days. Bright sunshine during the day, very cold nights.