Things To Do
in Puerto Acosta

Puerto Acosta is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Titicaca in Bolivia. It serves as an important fishing and agricultural hub, known for its stunning lake views and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience local traditions, vibrant markets, and the warmth of the local community.

The town is also a gateway to exploring the natural beauty and historical sites of the surrounding area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Town and Lake
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, then visit the central plaza to soak in the local atmosphere and view the colonial architecture.

afternoon
:

Take a boat tour of Lake Titicaca, exploring nearby islands and enjoying the breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.

evening
:

Have dinner at a lakeside restaurant, trying local fish dishes, and enjoy a relaxing evening walk along the waterfront.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Nature
morning
:

Visit the local market to experience everyday life and sample street food like salteñas and empanadas.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cultural workshop, learning about traditional weaving or pottery from local artisans.

evening
:

Enjoy an authentic Bolivian dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by a local music performance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$5-$10
Coffee$1-$2
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🏨Hotel per night$20-$50
🥤Bottle of water$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning views of Lake Titicaca
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Some language barriers for non-Spanish speakers
  • Public transportation can be sporadic
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Puerto Acosta

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Titicaca

Capture stunning sunrise and sunset views over the expansive lake, with reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Central Plaza

The vibrant heart of Puerto Acosta, where you can photograph colonial architecture and local life.

Isla del Sol

A nearby island rich in history and natural beauty, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Acosta

Puerto Acosta offers a delightful array of traditional Bolivian cuisine, emphasizing fresh local ingredients and unique flavors.

Puerto Acosta Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Trucha a la Parrilla

Grilled trout, a specialty of the Lake Titicaca region, often served with potatoes and fresh vegetables.

Must-Try!

Salteñas

Savory pastries filled with meat, potatoes, and spices, perfect for a quick snack.

Empanadas

Baked or fried pastries stuffed with various fillings, popular as street food.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central

The central market where you can find a variety of local produce, snacks, and street food vendors.

Street Vendors

Various street vendors offer delicious local snacks like salteñas and fresh fruit juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Puerto Acosta is characterized by a highland tropical climate, with warm days and cool nights. The rainy season runs from November to March, while the dry season lasts from April to October. Temperatures can vary, but daytime highs range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while nights can drop to around 5°C (41°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, and it is polite to greet locals with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'.

Dress Modestly

When visiting local communities or religious sites, dressing modestly is appreciated.

Respect for Traditions

Show respect for local customs, especially during traditional festivals and rituals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puerto Acosta is generally safe for travelers, but it's advisable to take common safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious with street vendors. Always stay informed about the local area and follow any advice from local residents.

Tipping in Puerto Acosta

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment; credit cards are accepted in larger restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Warm temperatures and occasional rain; ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the lake.

Autumn (March - May)

Mild weather with clear skies, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter (June - August)

Cool temperatures with crisp air; the dry season makes it great for exploring the outdoors.

Spring (September - November)

Gradually warming weather, ideal for cultural festivals and local events.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Acosta at Night

Puerto Acosta has a modest nightlife scene, primarily centered around local bars and restaurants. Most establishments close by midnight, but you can enjoy live music and traditional dance performances on weekends, showcasing Bolivian culture.

Hiking in Puerto Acosta

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Isla del Sol Trail

A scenic hike on Isla del Sol, offering breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding mountains.

Cerro Calvario Trail

A moderately challenging hike that leads to a viewpoint overlooking Puerto Acosta and the lake.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Acosta by plane.

Juliaca Airport (JUL)

Located approximately 90 km from Puerto Acosta, this airport services domestic flights and connects to major cities in Peru and Bolivia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Acosta is a small town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, markets, and eateries are within easy walking distance. Sidewalks are generally available, but some areas may require caution due to uneven surfaces.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to various indigenous groups, including Aymara and Quechua people, who contribute to the area's rich cultural heritage.

Local Farmers and Fishermen

Many residents rely on agriculture and fishing for their livelihoods, maintaining traditional practices and contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is incredibly popular in the region, with local teams often competing in community leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with many locals enjoying rides around the lake and surrounding hills.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puerto Acosta is minimal, primarily consisting of local vehicles and pedestrians. Public transportation includes minibuses and shared taxis, which are affordable and connect the town with nearby areas. However, they may not operate on a strict schedule.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Acosta.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to confirm with staff.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Puerto Acosta is limited, with basic medical facilities available. For serious medical needs, traveling to larger cities like La Paz is advisable. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary.

Discover Bolivia

Read more in our Bolivia 2025 Travel Guide.

Bolivia Travel Guide