Uros Floating Islands.

Constructed entirely from buoyant totora reeds, the Uros Floating Islands are a cluster of over 50 man-made platforms drifting on Lake Titicaca. Originally built centuries ago as a mobile defense system against aggressive neighbors, these artificial islands are still maintained by the indigenous Uros people, who constantly layer fresh reeds to prevent the structures from rotting. Visitors departing by boat from Puno can step onto the springy, sponge-like ground to see how the community weaves its homes, watchtowers, and distinct banana-shaped boats from the very same plant. While the daily tours have become highly commercialized, the chance to witness this unique, high-altitude way of life—or even book an independent overnight stay—remains a singular Andean experience.