Copacabana, a small enchanting village located on the banks of the legendary Titicaca Lake in Bolivia, is the cradle of the Tiwanaku and Inca civilizations. Being the origin of the designation of the famous Copacabana beach in Brazil, this destination rich in history enjoys incredible mountainous landscapes flowing into the lake. Many legends of the Andean peoples have their roots in this magical place, which is now a favorite destination for Bolivians, but also for travelers and tourists from all over the world who visit the country. So, for a successful stay, we present you What to do in Copacabana Bolivia? The 5 must-do activities.   [caption id="attachment_17135" align="aligncenter" width="675"]What to do in Copacabana? The 5 must-do activities in the Titicaca lake Mount Calvario offers a beautiful view of the village of Copacabana and  Titicaca Lake / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

1. The Island of the Sun and the Island of the Moon

During your stay in Copacabana, you have the possibility to visit, and even stay, in one of the islands of the Titicaca Lake. The two flagship islands from the village are the Island of the Moon and the Island of the Sun, both are still inhabited mostly by the Aymara community.  Numerous agencies offer you the possibility to travel by boat to the two islands in one day, but also to spend a night there. After a 1 hour and a half trip from Copacabana, and the 10 bolivianos entrance ticket paid for on each of the islands, you will discover ruins dating from the Inca and pre-Inca times, crafts, restaurants and hotels that cohabit with the locals. Several short hikes allow you to visit the northern part of the island, the other part being inaccessible to tourists due to local conflicts. Guides offer their service once on board the boat, for a guided tour that allows you to discover the history and legends of the islands and the communities that live there.    Travel tip: Immerse yourself in the mysticism of  Titicaca Lake on an  Excursion to Copacabana and Isla del Sol with Daytours4u     [caption id="attachment_17137" align="aligncenter" width="675"]What to do in Copacabana? The 5 must-do activities in the Titicaca lake The island of the Moon is home to the ruins of the Inca temple Iñakuyu, called the Palace of the Sun Virgins. / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

2. The Calvario Mount

The Bolivian symbol of the Titicaca Lake, Mount Calvario overlooks Copacabana on its coast, offering a breathtaking view of the village and the lake. An ascent on stone steps to the rhythm of the 14 stations of the Way of the Cross of Jesus, which guides you to the summit where there is a chapel in honor of the Virgin of Copacabana. At the end of the day, it is recommended to climb up to admire the sunset over the mountains that dominate the lake, offering a fabulous spectacle of nature. The 5th of August is a very important date in Copacabana where thousands of people come on pilgrimage to Mount Calvario in homage to the Virgin, from her other name, the Black Virgin, who is a true symbol of the mixture of Christianity and Andean beliefs. It is a special occasion to visit the village, being full of festivities.   Travel tips: discover the 5 things you should know before traveling to Bolivia!   [caption id="attachment_17136" align="aligncenter" width="675"]What to do in Copacabana? The 5 must-do activities in the Titicaca lake The ascent of Mount Calvary is marked by 14 stations representing the Way of the Cross. / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

3. Horca del Inca

Behind the village of Copacabana, you can admire Mount Kesanani, where you will find Pachataka, better known as Horca del Inca, on its summit. This pre-Inca archaeological site is an astronomical observatory which, at the time, allowed the community to determine the seasons as well as the lunar and solar cycles. An entrance fee of 10 bolivianos is required before starting the ascent on a stone-lined path that also offers superb views of the village and the lake. A journey through time to the heart of a mystical place dating back more than 3,000 years.    Travel tips:  Discover the great architectural richness of the pre-Inca culture with an excursion to the Ruins of Tiwanaku.   [caption id="attachment_17134" align="aligncenter" width="675"]What to do in Copacabana? The 5 must-do activities in the Titicaca lake The archaeological site Horca del Inca contains remains of the past dating back more than 3000 years. / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

4. Aquatic activities

At more than 3,800 meters above sea level, Titicaca Lake is the bigger navigable lake in the world, but also the largest on the South American continent. According to legend, Viracocha, the Inca creator god, arose from  Titicaca Lake creating the world and giving birth to the Andean people. Having become a Must-to-go destination for travelers and tourists from all over the world, Copacabana offers you aquatic activities that allow you to make the most of this sacred lake. You will find along the shoreline, several boats and pedal boats offering you the opportunity to go for a ride on the lake, but also several water games for a moment of pure entertainment with family, couple or friends.    [caption id="attachment_17133" align="aligncenter" width="675"]What to do in Copacabana? The 5 must-do activities in the Titicaca lake Lake Titicaca will surprise you with its activities and beautiful scenery / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

5. Hiking on Iscacota Bay

For a day off the tourist beaten track of Copacabana, a hike of a few hours leaves the village and goes around the bay of Iscacota along the shores of  Titicaca Lake. During this walk, you will be able to admire the different landscapes along the legendary lake and pass through the village inhabited by the Sahuiña community, known for its textile crafts. The path ends with a climb up the mountain to go down to Copacabana. An ideal activity to do in the afternoon allowing you to arrive in time for the sunset on the way back.     [caption id="attachment_17138" align="aligncenter" width="675"]What to do in Copacabana? The 5 must-do activities in the Titicaca lake The Sahuiña community lives on the bay of Iscacota a few kilometers from Copacabana. / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]     These 5 unmissable activities of Copacabana will allow you to discover the destination under its many facets: historical, cultural, entertaining, mysterious and natural. Let yourself be surprised by this incredible destination which is one of the 8 must-see places to discover Bolivia.    

By: Tiffany Flour, soul traveler and web content editor for Daytours4u.