“La Isla de la Luna”, also known as “Koati”, has a special charm that sets it apart from its famous neighbor, “La Isla del Sol”, located just 8 kilometers away. Its deep religious and cultural roots make it a cherished place for the Incas.
This beautiful island is truly captivating, as you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and stunning landscapes that invite quiet reflection. With the majestic views of Lake Titicaca surrounding you, it’s the perfect spot to fill your heart with positivity, taking the best shots using your camera or phone. We can say that a day trip here will be one you always remember.
Their main source of income is selling their handcrafts and colorful art to visitors. This highlights their skills and keeps providing economic income to the island. Visiting the Island of the Moon in Bolivia is a rewarding experience. You can admire its beautiful geography, discover historical treasures, and feel the warmth of the locals' hospitality. This lovely destination is definitely worth a visit in your lifetime.
- Every day, there is a shared public boat that departs from Copacabana's port at 8:30 a.m.
- The port is easy to find since Copacabana is a small town, and everyone knows where the port is.
- Near the port, by a large white anchor monument, you'll find the ticket booth where you can purchase your boat ticket to the Island of the Moon.
- It's recommended to arrive at least 20 minutes early to complete the process calmly.
- This is a private service. You can take a taxi from Copacabana and ask to be taken to Yampupata port, which is well-known and about a 45-minute drive.
- Once there, you need to hire a boat to take you to the Island of the Moon.
- Make sure you arrive at the port by 5 p.m. at the latest, as traveling later can be dangerous due to strong winds and nightfall.
- This is another private service. You’ll need to take a taxi from Copacabana to Sampaya port.
- Beforehand, arrange with your accommodation or contact on the Island of the Moon to send a boat to pick you up from this port.
- Once everything is coordinated, you can take the taxi knowing that you'll be picked up and can reach the Island of the Moon without any issues.
Koati Island is truly a gem, offering breathtaking views and a rich archaeological site. One of the highlights is the Palace of the Virgins, or "Iñak Uyu," which is a must-see attraction. This ancient Inca temple tells a fascinating story. During the time of the Inca empire, Koati Island was home to women chosen by the Sun god.
These talented women were skilled in weaving and art, and some even became companions to the Inca. We invite you to join us for a guided tour to explore this captivating history on the Island of the Moon! The Palace of the Virgins is a sacred space honoring women, also known as the "Coya of the Sun." It features one of the best-preserved structures in the Andean highlands.
Here, these women learned important religious rites, weaving, and cooking from an elder. Some became companions of the Inca, while others participated in purification rituals. The Palace boasts a central stone courtyard, trapezoidal doorways, cross-shaped entrances, and 35 rooms. Its interior and exterior are beautifully decorated with niches made from stones fitted together without mortar, using a traditional technique.
Nearby, a spacious area was used for ceremonies. In the past, only the Inca emperor could enter the Island of the Moon. Today, a small community of indigenous families from the Quechua and Aymara cultures lives here. They sustain themselves through agriculture, herding, and selling crafts and textiles to visitors. We encourage you to visit the Palace of the Virgins during your exploration of the Island of the Moon – it truly is a must-see!
Bolivia is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes, and its altitude ranges from 600 to 4,000 meters, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip accordingly. There are two main seasons to consider: the rainy season from November to April and the dry season from May to October. Even during the rainy season, places like Uyuni and the Altiplano showcase breathtaking views that are perfect for photography.
During the dry season, you can expect clear skies, but remember that temperatures can drop below freezing at night. In the eastern lowlands, such as Santa Cruz and the Amazon, the weather stays warm all year, with temperatures between 15°C and 31°C. July and August tend to be the busiest months because of the nice weather, which can lead to higher prices and larger crowds.
To make the most of your visit, consider going in April or October. April offers lush greenery, while October brings warmer weather and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore Bolivia’s diverse beauty. Enjoy your trip!
Light Clothes: Temperature can change drastically throughout the day, so we recommend layering clothing.
Water and Snacks: Energetic bars and lots of water can be useful for you. Keep in mind that the island doesn’t have many grocery stores.
Good shoes: You must wear comfortable and reliable trekking shoes, as you’ll be walking the rugged and mountainous path
Protect from the sun: Sunblock and a good hat will be your best allies during your trip.
We hope you can enjoy your trip to Bolivia and Moon Island! Travel with Viagens Machu Picchu to enjoy the best of Bolivia and Peru!
