After Peru, your first step into Bolivian lands will be Copacabana, a small village on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Copacabana, with its vibrant architecture, is well worth a visit and serves as a gateway to the well-known Isla Del Sol.
As the final town you will reach by road from La Paz to the Peruvian border, Copacabana makes for an excellent overnight stay. Copacabana is a fantastic place, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The town is small, yet has a lot of amazing sights to see. In this guide, we’ll show you what you need to know to make to visit Copacabana.
History
Perhaps you’re thinking of a popular Brazilian beach. Bolivia’s Coapabana is older and actually gave its name to Carioca Beach. From now on, we’ll refer to “Copacabana”, the Bolivian city. Nestled by the beautiful Lake Titicaca, Copacabana inspired the famous beach in Rio de Janeiro. Its name comes from the Aymara phrase kota kahuana, meaning "view of the lake."
This charming city has a rich history that goes back to the time of the Inca civilization, making it a fascinating place to explore. A key part of Copacabana's culture is the Virgin of Copacabana, brought by Spanish colonizers. Every year on February 2, her festival attracts thousands of visitors. The event features lively traditional dances and blessings for vehicles, often with a bit of alcohol to wish for safe travels.
Copacabana is also the perfect starting point to visit “Isla del Sol” and “Isla de la Luna”. These islands hold great spiritual importance for local indigenous peoples. At 3,800 meters above sea level, the city offers a refreshing climate that feels different from the bustling beaches of Brazil, making it a peaceful and less crowded spot. If you’re looking for a unique mix of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Bolivian Copacabana is a wonderful choice for your next adventure.
How to Get there
You have three excellent options for your journey: bus, tour, or private transport. Whether you're traveling from other parts of Bolivia or crossing the border from Peru, this is your starting point. Most visitors arrive in Copacabana by bus from La Paz in Bolivia or Puno, Arequipa, or Cusco in Peru.
Bus travel is the most budget-friendly option and can be very comfortable. The trip from La Paz to Copacabana is popular, as many people enjoy a day trip to Lake Titicaca. Book your bus ticket at one of the many travel agencies in La Paz or head straight to the main bus terminal.
While the bus quality may not be luxurious, the journey takes about four hours and is easily manageable. Buses to Copacabana depart in the morning, between 7 AM and 8 AM, depending on the company. If you're heading back, buses depart from Copacabana at 1 PM daily. Bus companies such as Bolivia Hop can be great options.
What to Do
Isla del Sol, the Birthplace of the Sun and Moon: Just a two-hour boat ride away, this stunning island features lovely white sand beaches, scenic hiking trails with ancient inca ruins, and over 80 archaeological sites waiting for you. On Isla del Sol, you'll find a relaxed vibe.
In the north, you can wander through the historic Chincana Labyrinth and see the natural stone arch, Arku Punku, which looks like a gateway to the sun. Consider downloading an offline map for your adventure, as mobile service can be spotty.
Isla de la Luna, A Touch of Mystery: Just 7 km east of Isla del Sol, you'll find Isla de la Luna, rich with legends about the Incan god Viracocha and the moon's rise. This small island features an archaeological site called Iñakuyu and offers beautiful, untouched beaches, making it a perfect place for a peaceful escape. You can reach Isla de la Luna through organized tours or by taking a boat from Yumani to Isla del Sol.
Strolling Through Copacabana: While the islands are stunning, the town of Copacabana has its own special charm. Take a leisurely walk down Avenida 6 de Agosto, the main road leading to the coast. Along the way, you'll discover a variety of restaurants, shops, and coffee houses buzzing with local life. The friendly locals and lively atmosphere create an ideal spot to practice your Spanish, enjoy a coffee, and watch the world go by.
Sunset at Cerro Calvario: For the best views in town, take a hike to the Cerro Calvario viewpoint. The trail starts just north of Plaza Surce and takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. As the sun sets, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Copacabana and Lake Titicaca. Don’t forget to bring a headlamp on your way down, as the path is unlit. The views of the lake Titicaca as you watch the sunset in this high-altitude town, are one of the best things to do in Bolivia.
Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana: One of the main landmarks in Copacabana is the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. Inside, you'll find a beautifully decorated hall and the respected statue of Our Lady of Copacabana, Bolivia's patron saint. The basilica welcomes visitors daily, inviting you to explore its beauty and peacefulness.
Car Blessings, a Unique Tradition: Don't miss the exciting tradition of car blessings in Copacabana. On weekends, flower-decorated cars line up around the basilica, waiting for blessings from priests and local shamans. After the blessings, car owners often splash beer on their vehicles as an offering to “Pachamama” (Mother Earth) for safe travels, adding a colorful touch to your visit.
Local Market, a taste of Bolivian Culture: Make sure to check out the local market, located off Avenida 6 de Agosto. Here, you'll find a lively mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local goods sold by “Cholitas”, friendly women who offer their products in stalls around the market. Believe us that having a small chat with them can enrich our experience in the Andean country.
As you can see, you can have lots of fun in Bolivia. Stay in Copacabana, and enjoy Bolivia and South America. When in Peru and Bolivia, choose Viagens Machu Picchu. We are a receptive travel agency, we hope you can travel with us to start living your adventure in the Andean country!
