Discovering The Captivating Copacabana In Bolivia

Copacabana, Bolivia is a must-see destination for many reasons. Located on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America, Copacabana offers stunning views, a rich history, and a vibrant culture. Here are some highlights and must-see attractions in Copacabana:

- Lake Titicaca: The lake is considered sacred by the indigenous people and is believed to be the birthplace of the sun and the Inca Empire. It is also the highest commercially navigable lake in the world.

- Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna: These islands are central to Incan theology and are considered highly sacred. Isla del Sol offers white beaches, crystal clear waters, and hiking trails, while Isla de la Luna features ancient ruins and incredible views.

- Cerro Calvario: This hilltop offers one of the most spectacular sunsets in the area and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.

- The Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana: This 16th-century colonial cathedral is a significant religious site, housing a statue of the Virgin of Copacabana, the patron saint of Bolivia.

- Car Blessing Ceremony: A unique tradition where Bolivians bring their new cars to be blessed by a priest at the basilica, adorned with flowers and ribbons.

- Horca del Inca: An ancient pre-Inca astronomical observatory with impressive rock carvings, offering insights into the region's astronomical knowledge.

- Local Cuisine: Copacabana is known for its delicious trout dishes, served fresh from the lake. You can find it fried, grilled, or in ceviche along the lakeside stalls and restaurants.

- Hiking Trails: Copacabana has several hiking trails that lead to nearby villages and offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.

- Local Markets: Explore the local markets, such as Mercado Copacabana, to immerse yourself in the local culture and sample traditional snacks like buñelos and ceviche.

Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana

The Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana is a must-see destination in Copacabana, Bolivia. This 17th-century Spanish colonial shrine is located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, with a rich history and cultural significance. Here are some reasons why you should visit this iconic site:

Architectural Marvel

The Basilica is renowned for its impressive architecture, showcasing a beautiful blend of Spanish colonial and Moorish-influenced designs. The white exterior, adorned with blue and rust-red tiles, creates a striking visual appeal. Stepping inside, you'll discover a grand interior with intricate decorations and an intricately carved, gold-covered altar. The attention to detail and artistic craftsmanship will leave you in awe.

Religious Significance

The Basilica houses the image of the Virgen de Copacabana, the patron saint of Bolivia. The story of Our Lady of Copacabana dates back to the 16th century, when indigenous sculptor Francisco Tito Yupanqui carved a statue of Nuestra Senora de Virgen de la Candelaria. Miracles were soon attributed to the Virgen de Copacabana, and an adobe shrine was constructed in her honour. The shrine holds significance for both indigenous peoples and Catholics, making it a sacred site for all.

Wish-Granting Statue

According to local beliefs, the statue of the Virgin Mary in the cathedral is said to grant wishes and bestow blessings. Visitors flock to the basilica seeking blessings for safe travels, healthy children, and even automotive reliability. The statue is considered a symbol of faith and devotion, attracting pilgrims from all over.

Car Blessing Ceremonies

One unique tradition associated with the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana is the car blessing ceremony. Bolivians bring their new or second-hand cars to the basilica to receive a blessing from the priest. This ceremony, known as "Bendiciones de Movilidades," takes place twice a day and involves the spraying of holy Coca-Cola or beer. It's a fascinating blend of indigenous spiritual beliefs and colonial Christian faith, creating a unique cultural experience.

Breathtaking Surroundings

The basilica is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, with Lake Titicaca, the highest commercially navigable lake in the world, sparkling nearby. The area is believed to be the birthplace of the Incas and the sun itself, adding to the spiritual significance of the site. The nearby hills, such as Cerro Calvario, offer panoramic views of the lake and provide a peaceful escape from the tourist traps in the town centre.

In conclusion, a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and spiritual experiences. Its architectural grandeur, religious significance, and the surrounding natural beauty will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Explore Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna

Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna are two of Bolivia's most sacred islands on Lake Titicaca, and they are a must-see when visiting Copacabana. Here is a detailed itinerary for exploring these islands:

Day 1: Isla de la Luna

Take a boat from Copacabana to Isla de la Luna, which is a small island with just over 100 inhabitants. The island is steeped in legend and is said to be where an Inca king ordered the moon into the sky. You can walk across the entire island in just over an hour, taking in the stunning views and exploring the local stalls selling souvenirs. The main attraction is the Temple of the Virgins, where "chosen" girls were sacrificed to the moon and sun. After exploring Isla de la Luna, head back to the boat to continue to Isla del Sol.

Day 2: Isla del Sol

Upon arrival at Isla del Sol, you will find an elongated island with about 3,000 inhabitants. The island is named after the sun god Inti, who is believed to have been born here. Dock at the small harbour of the village Yumani, where you will find several hotels, some located high up and accessible via a steep Inca Staircase called "Escalera del Inca". It is worth spending a couple of days on Isla del Sol to explore all the sights and viewpoints, as the island is best discovered on foot.

Start your exploration of Isla del Sol in the village of Yumani, the largest village in the southern part of the island. Here, you can visit the Iglesia de San Antonio church and find most of the island's hotels and restaurants. Head west from Yumani to reach Bahia Kona, which offers a beautiful view. If you have time, consider a half-day hike from Yumani to the headland called "Kakayo-Quena", where you will find a small lighthouse.

Day 3: Exploring the North of Isla del Sol

On your third day, explore the north of Isla del Sol, where you will find the charming village of Cha'llapampa and several Inca ruins with beautiful views. Visit the Museum of Gold to see ancient figures and artefacts from pre-Inca periods. Continue to the sacred rock "Titikala", believed to be the birthplace of Viracocha, where the Incas made offerings and performed rituals. Nearby, you will find the "Mesa Ceremonial", a ceremonial table likely used for animal and human sacrifices. Explore the "Laberinto Chincana", a stone labyrinth that once housed the sacred maize cultivated by the Incas.

Practical Information

• It is recommended to spend at least two days on Isla del Sol to fully explore the island.
• There is no motorized traffic on the islands, so be prepared to walk everywhere.
• There is a dispute between communities in the north and south of Isla del Sol, so check before your visit to see which regions are accessible to tourists.
• Boats to Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna depart from Copacabana at 8:30 am and 1:30 pm, and tickets cost 30 Bolivianos.
• There is an entrance fee of 10 Bolivianos for each island, contributing to the local community.
• Supplies are more expensive on the islands, so bring food and water from the mainland if you are on a budget.

Hike to the village of Yampupata

Yampupata is a small village on the coast of Lake Titicaca, a 17km dirt-road hike from Copacabana. The village is nestled between Isla del Sol and Copacabana, and is accessible by a 45-minute minivan ride or a long hike from Copacabana. The hike takes you through several small communities and offers stunning, uninterrupted views of Lake Titicaca.

The village itself is a collection of lakefront adobe houses, with rooms available to rent for around 30 Bolivianos. There are no hostels, hotels, restaurants, or internet access in Yampupata, so it is a great place to experience rural Bolivian life. The locals are friendly and you can even ask them to cook a meal for you, which will likely consist of potatoes, tomatoes, and eggs.

From Yampupata, you can take a boat to Isla del Sol. The Asociación Transport Yampu Tour Lacustre offers a one-way trip to the south of Isla del Sol for 130 Bolivianos, and a round trip to Isla de la Luna for 250 Bolivianos.

If you are looking for a challenging hike with incredible views, the trail from Copacabana to Yampupata is a great option. The trail is mostly flat, with a few short uphill sections, and takes you through peaceful countryside and rolling hills. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, energy bars, and plenty of water for the hike, as the sun is strong and there is little shade along the way.

Watch the sunset from Cerro Calvario

Watching the sunset from Cerro Calvario is a must-do when visiting Copacabana, Bolivia. Here is a guide on how to make the most of this experience:

Getting to Cerro Calvario

To get to Cerro Calvario, you can start by walking to the end of either Calle San Antonio or Destacamento 211. These streets will lead you to the path up the hill. Along the way, you will pass through a small square where buses wait for passengers. It takes about 30 minutes to walk up the hill to the top of Cerro Calvario, where you will find several crosses. The hike can be quite challenging due to the high altitude and steep incline, so make sure to take your time and rest as needed.

What to Expect at Cerro Calvario

Cerro Calvario offers breathtaking views of Copacabana, Lake Titicaca, Isla del Sol, and even Peru. It is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike, so it is important to be respectful of others. Unfortunately, the area has been marred by graffiti and litter, which can detract from the natural beauty of the site. There are usually vendors at the top selling drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.

When to Go

The best time to visit Cerro Calvario is just before sunset, when you can watch the sun go down over Lake Titicaca. The golden hour light illuminates the lake and the surrounding area, creating a stunning atmosphere. The sunsets from Cerro Calvario are known to be spectacular, with the water of Lake Titicaca turning a deep blue and Copacabana taking on an orange hue.

What to Bring

The hike up to Cerro Calvario can be strenuous, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water to stay hydrated. The weather can get cold, especially after the sun goes down, so bringing a sweater or a light jacket is recommended. It is also a good idea to bring a headlamp or a fully charged phone to light your way back down the hill after sunset, as there is no street lighting.

Eat trout by the lakeside

Copacabana, Bolivia, is a lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The town is known for its delicious trout, which you can savour in almost every local restaurant. Here are some suggestions on where to eat trout by the lakeside:

Lakeside Stalls

Near the pier and in the town, you'll find several stalls run by Cholitas (local women) selling fried trout. These stalls offer a unique dining experience and the opportunity to interact with the locals. The basic dish, including trout, chips, salad, and rice, typically costs around 25 BOB ($4).

Beach Stands

Along the boardwalk, you'll find a series of tent-like eateries serving grilled trout. This is considered a local specialty, as the trout is fished straight from Lake Titicaca. You can enjoy a plate of grilled trout with a slice of lemon, taking in the beautiful lakeside views.

La Orilla

La Orilla is a family-owned restaurant located on Avenida 6 de Agosto. While they offer a variety of seafood dishes, their grilled trout is a popular choice. The restaurant provides a cosy atmosphere and friendly service.

El Condor and the Eagle Café

This café, located on Avenida 6 de Agosto, offers a unique dining experience with a twist of Irish hospitality. In addition to delicious breakfast options and sandwiches made from homemade Irish bread, they also serve freshly caught trout. The café has a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your meal.

Floating Islands

Just a 10-minute taxi ride or a leisurely one-hour walk from the town centre, you'll find families living on floating reed islands. They serve freshly caught trout, allowing you to choose and catch your own fish. The trout is then prepared and cooked right in front of you for a reasonable price.

Copacabana offers a variety of dining options to enjoy trout by the lakeside, each providing a unique experience and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and hospitality.

Frequently asked questions