Taquili island

Main square at Taquili island

Yohay Elam

Taquili island is gorgeous. It is a hilly island in the lake, where a special social culture has developed. Each person has clothes according to their social status.  Leaders have black hats, for example. There is a difference between single men, dating men and married men. This applies also for women.

Contrary to many traditional societies, a couple must live together for one year, to see if it works out, before getting married.  Weddings are held anually in a great celebration (a full week) for all the couples. Many sheep are slaughtered for the occasion.

To avoid corruption, leaders are elected for only one year.  This is different from Peru's laws, but the locals insisted on keeping their ways.

In addition to viewing the locals, it is nice walking around the main square, visiting a gallery and wandering around the island. A nice place for photos is at the arch on the way to the harbor.

The island can be reached on a one day tour (usually includes also the Uros islands), a longer tour, or independently.