
What to see in Copacabana
As the main part of the isla del sol is closed here are some alternatives to do around Copacabana.
Horca del Inca
This is a 30 min walk uphill (500m). The structure was almost certainly used by a Inca astronomer-priest to observe the sun on the moring of june 21st, the date of the Aymara New Year.
Intinkala
Only ten minutes walking you reach the stone of the sun on the road to La Paz. It is a long group of carved stones used as seats or adore sites.
Kusijata
three kilometers out of Copacabana you will find Inca terraces for agriculture and store irrigation canals, one feeds a pool, the baño del Inca, which was possibly a ritual bath. There is also a little archeological museum with artifacts from the Chiripa, Mollo, Tiwanaku and Inca Cultures.
Sampaya
If you want to do a three hour hike in direction of the isla del sol, this is your spot to go. It’s a small village where the wisdom and cultural wealth are mixed in one. To conserve the arquitecture of the stone houses is its peculiarity.
Yampupata
This is the peninsula south of the isla del sol. The path is 17 kilometers and you need aproximately 4 hours walking.
Cerro Calvario
With a 30 min uphill walk you reach the cerro Calvario. To get to the top you simply follow the 14 stations of the cross. The sunset from top is spectacular, though beware of robbers and thieves.
Cathedral
The Cathedral’s black Virgin is carved by Inca Tito Yupanqui. It is situated above the altar upstairs in the Camarin. The Cathedral has a very golden inside.
Sahuiña
This community is located in the southern bay next to Copacabana (6km). It is known for its Totora (Andean Acuatic Reed) handcrafts.
You can also do a tour to floating islands in Copacabana, in case you want to avoid touristy Puno in Peru.
Hostal Joshua has a vegetarian restaurant and offers beds and rooms from 9 – 15 $ per night, the expensive ones with private bathroom.