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Isla de la Luna
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Isla de la Luna, also known as Coati, is the smaller neighbor to Isla del Sol in Lake Titicaca and holds a fundamental position in Inca cosmology. While Isla del Sol was dedicated to the Sun, this island was the sacred domain of the Moon goddess, Mama Quilla. The island's most significant structure is the 'Iñak Uyu', or the Palace of the Virgins of the Sun (Ajllahuasi), where chosen women lived in seclusion to serve the solar cult and produce high-quality textiles. The palace architecture showcases classic Inca craftsmanship, characterized by precise stonework and iconic trapezoidal niches. The island is sparsely populated and much smaller than its neighbor, lending it an air of profound spiritual isolation. From its elevated points, one can witness panoramic views of the lake's deep blue waters against the backdrop of the high Andes. Archaeological evidence suggests that the island's ritual importance predates the Incas, going back to the Tiwanaku period.
- Location: Bolivia
- Top sights: Palace of the Virgins of Sun · Temple of Fertility · Island of the Moon
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 152 | 137 | 98 | 54 | 27 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 29 | 59 | 64 | 123 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to this smaller island in Lake Titicaca is usually by motorized boat, typically departing from the mainland town of Copacabana or as a connection from the neighboring Isla del Sol.
Best season
The Andean dry season, stretching roughly from May to October, provides the clearest skies and calmest waters, making it the most reliable time to cross the lake and explore the ancient Inca temple.
Terrain & paths
Visitors should expect to navigate uneven, rocky paths and dirt trails that lead from the shoreline up to the island's historical ruins, requiring moderate physical exertion.
What to bring
Essential items include sturdy hiking shoes for the rocky paths, a wide-brimmed hat and strong sunscreen for the intense high-altitude UV rays, plus bottled water.
Parking
Since there are no cars on the island, visitors typically park their vehicles securely at accommodations or designated lots in Copacabana before boarding the passenger ferries.
Safety
Given the lake's elevation of over 3,800 meters, altitude sickness is a genuine risk; visitors should acclimatize properly, walk slowly, and protect themselves against the strong sun.
Time needed
Most travelers spend around two to three hours exploring the island and its ruins, usually as part of a half-day excursion or a combined tour with the larger Isla del Sol.
Geography
Facts
- The island is located about 7 kilometers east of Isla del Sol.
- The main attraction is the Iñak Uyu temple complex from the Inca era.
- According to mythology, the island is the place where the Moon was created.
- The Ajllahuasi palace once housed up to 50 Virgins of the Sun.
- Archaeological evidence dates back to the Tiwanaku culture (c. 600 AD).
- The island is only accessible by boat from Copacabana or Isla del Sol.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Isla de la Luna (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do you reach Isla de la Luna?
By boat from Copacabana or Isla del Sol.
What is the most important ruin on the island?
The Iñak Uyu, also known as the Temple of the Virgins of the Sun.
Is the island inhabited?
Yes, there is a small, traditional community living there.
Can you visit the island in one day?
Yes, it is often part of a combined boat tour.
Do you have to pay a fee?
Yes, the local community charges a small entrance fee.
Isla de la Luna: where is it located?
Isla de la Luna is located in Bolivia.
Isla de la Luna: what is there to see?
Highlights include Palace of the Virgins of Sun, Temple of Fertility, Island of the Moon.
Isla de la Luna: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Nov.
Isla de la Luna: why is it worth visiting?
Isla de la Luna, also known as Coati, is the smaller neighbor to Isla del Sol in Lake Titicaca and holds a fundamental position in Inca cosmology.
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History & landmarks
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Copacabana
A white, Moorish-style pilgrimage church on Lake Titicaca that houses the famous wooden statue of the Virgin of Copacabana.
Estación Central Mi Teleférico
The main station of the spectacular cable car network in La Paz, which was formerly the city's old central train station.
Mercado de las Brujas
The fascinating Witches' Market in La Paz is full of traditional remedies, amulets, and spiritual offerings for Pachamama.
Basílica de San Francisco
Exquisite Catholic basilica in La Paz showcasing a unique blend of Baroque and indigenous art.
Obelisco de La Paz
A historic monument in the middle of La Paz's traffic center, serving as an important landmark in the city.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
The neoclassical cathedral on Plaza Murillo impresses with its steep stairs and magnificent dome.
Plaza Murillo
The central square of La Paz and the historical heart of Bolivian politics and government.
Mirador Killi Killi
A strategically located viewpoint on a hill that offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of La Paz and Mount Illimani.
Nature
More places
Iñak Uyu
An Inca temple on the Isla de la Luna, often referred to as the Palace of the Virgins of the Sun (Acllawasi).
Basilica of Copacabana
An important religious pilgrimage site on the shores of Lake Titicaca, housing the famous statue of the Virgin of Copacabana.
Isla del Sol
The Island of the Sun in Lake Titicaca is the lake's largest island and holds outstanding significance in Inca mythology.
🗺️
Chincana Ruins
A maze-like archaeological site on the Isla del Sol, believed to be an Inca holy place.
Apolobamba Mountain Range
The Apolobamba Mountain Range is a heavily glaciated range and an important refuge for Andean condors and vicuñas.
Puma Punku
Complex within Tiwanaku famous for its massive and incredibly precise megalithic stone blocks.
Gate of the Sun
The Gate of the Sun is a monolithic stone archway featuring mysterious and intricate carvings.
Akapana Pyramid
Large stepped pyramid in Tiwanaku that was once a major ceremonial and religious structure.