After two weeks of adventures around Peru, culminating in conquering the breathtaking Inca Trail (you can read all about that epic journey here), we were ready for a bit of rest and relaxation. And we found the perfect place: the remote and utterly captivating Titilaka Hotel, perched on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

As admirers of Relais & Châteaux properties, we arrived with high expectations, and Titilaka, like its sister hotels, absolutely delivered. For us, Relais & Châteaux consistently delivers that perfect trifecta: sumptuously comfortable accommodations in gorgeous settings, paired with terrific food. Titilaka was no exception.

A Remote Gem, So Worth the Journey

Initially, getting to Titilaka felt a bit daunting, given its remote location with the nearest airport almost two hours away. Yet, we found the journey to be an enjoyable part of the experience. While most guests fly, Katie’s love for rail travel led us to opt for the PeruRail Titicaca train from Cusco to Puno. This incredibly civilized journey provided gorgeous views of the Andes, complete with meals and drinks, and was a welcome change after days of hiking and touring. Just relaxing and watching the landscape drift by was so rejuvenating. Regardless of your chosen transport, Titilaka staff meets you at the airport or train station to ensure a seamless transfer. Our late evening arrival was particularly magical; the distant lights of the hotel twinkled against the vast, dark expanse of Lake Titicaca, powerfully highlighting its serene remoteness. Waking up the next morning to panoramic views from our room, stretching across the lake to the distant, snow-capped mountains of Bolivia, was simply breathtaking. Wow!

An Intimate Escape That Felt Like a Lakeside Home

With only 17 rooms, Titilaka felt less like a hotel and more like an exquisitely appointed private home. There were numerous cozy "living room" type spaces, both indoors and out, where we could simply relax, unwind, and enjoy a drink while gazing out at the lake. A wall near the bar was decorated with gorgeous suede cowboy hats. We thought it was very lovely and unusual art display….until we saw a group of guests grab the hats off the wall, put them on their heads and go outdoors for a drink on the terrace! We quickly joined them. Morning coffee is made to order and brought to your room. Another detail that made the hotel feel more like a home was that keys were left in a communal bowl when you left your room. At first, we thought this was unusual, but it quickly became clear that trust and comfort are paramount here. No one seemed bothered, and it only added to the feeling of being in a welcoming sanctuary.

We stayed in the Explorer room, which was tastefully decorated with dark woods, locally made textiles in beautiful but sedate colors and fresh flowers. The bed was amazingly comfortable, ensuring we got a great night’s sleep, which was especially welcome after our Inca Trail trek! A thoughtful touch was the inclusion of hot water bottles, keeping us perfectly cozy throughout the cool high-altitude nights (Lake Titilaca is at an altitude of 12,507 feet above sea level!). Every detail in the room was designed for comfort and relaxation. But the best part was probably the view. Lying in bed in the morning, drinking coffee and staring out at Lake Titilaca was pure magic.

All-Inclusive Indulgence: Culinary Delights and Curated Adventures

One of the most appealing aspects of Titilaka is its all-inclusive nature. This isn't your typical all-inclusive; it's a refined experience where ala carte, multi-course meals with local ingredients are served in the lodge-like dining room. There is no rushing, it’s all served at a very leisurely pace, which we loved. Breakfasts were bountiful including made-to-order dishes as well as a buffet showcasing fresh Peruvian fruits and locally made cheeses. At dinner each course highlighted featured fresh, local ingredients prepared with care. Trout ceviche, caught right in Lake Titilaca was a highlight, alpaca carpaccio and the best version of lomo saltado that David had all trip were some of the highlights. It was a joy to anticipate each meal, knowing we’d be treated to such delicious and thoughtfully prepared food.

Beyond the meals, a curated selection of activities were also included in our stay, allowing us to experience the unique culture and breathtaking environment of Lake Titicaca.

The resort has its own boat and guides that took us on a full-day Islands of Lake Titicaca Excursion. We started by exploring the Uros floating islands, a truly unique community. Here, the Uro-Aymara communities of the Uros Titino islands utilize Totora, or junco reed roots, as the unique building material for their floating homes. We got to spend some time with the islanders, understanding how they built their homes, provided for their families and cooked their meals. We then re-boarded the boat and went to Taquile Island, where we learned about the fascinating culture including how males weave their own hats to indicate their marital status. Married men wear mostly red patterned hats. Men in a relationship but not yet married adorn their hats with brightly colored pom-poms. Finally, single men ready to mingle wear red hats with a white top. Imagine if that was a custom here in the States! On Taquile Island, the hotel arranged an unbelievable outdoor lunch for us right on the cliffs, overlooking the endless blue of the lake. After enjoying a few glasses of wine with a tasty meal, we returned back to the hotel for rest and relaxation.

Evenings at Titilaka were just as enchanting. We joined a Aymara Constellation Observation expedition. Thanks to Puno’s clear skies, Titilaka is a perfect place to observe the stars. Layered up, we stepped outside to the gardens where our guide explained the movement of the stars and helped us locate constellations in the Milky Way. We learned about the religious beliefs of the Andean societies and the important connection with the stars and especially the Milky Way. They view it as a sacred river and it’s a vital part of their worldview.

All of these cultural experiences made this so much more than just a stay at a pretty hotel.

A Place to Linger and Be Elevated

We only stayed two nights at Titilaka, but we definitely wished we had booked a third. There's just something profoundly different about relaxing here. A deep sense of calmness swept over us. It's a place that encourages you to slow down, to breathe deeply, and to truly connect with your surroundings. It's not just a stop on an itinerary; it's a destination in itself.

If you're seeking an escape that combines unparalleled luxury with deep cultural immersion and breathtaking natural beauty, Titilaka Hotel on Lake Titicaca is an experience we cannot recommend highly enough. It's a place that will stay with you long after you've departed its tranquil shores.

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