Bolivia Part 5 - Copacabana and Isla del Sol

After some ups and downs in Bolivia over the past few weeks, it was time to move on back to Peru, but not before a stop on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca for a day or two. I was looking forward to a nice bed and shower after dossing on the floor of the flat of a couple of French girls I met in Peru who were working in La Paz. While it was great to hang out with some people who knew La Paz well, and save some money for a night or two, unfortunately there was problems their shower and toilet, and one night I didn't have their phone number or key and waited outside in the cold with no shoes for a few hours... So when I arrived in Copacabana (in Bolivia, not the famous beach in Rio!) I checked into the Hotel Mirador (Spanish for lookout) and had this fantastic view of the lake, for just $AU9 a night!

The view from my hotel window.

The Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca is far prettier than the Peruvian side. Copacabana is a quaint little fishing-type village that makes you feel like you are by the side of the ocean somewhere in Mediterranean. But much cheaper - a 4 course dinner cost about $AU2.50! There was even a singer/guitarrist playing in the restaurant, but most people were watching over his shoulder to the tv where the Copa America soccer was being shown.

Isla del Sol

Crystal clear water - but damn cold!

The next day I caught the world's slowest boat to Isa del Sol (Island of the sun), where according to Inca legend, the first Inca was born. There was a few interesting ruins and some spectacular scenery - the water was crystal clear and looked so appealing, apart from the fact that it was absolutely freezing. It was a nice day to spend walking around the island and soaking in the rays and the beauty of Bolivia on my last day in the country. I'll let the pics tell the story:

The ruins on Isla del Sol where legend says the Inca empire began.

Looking back from Isla del Sol to the Bolivian mainland and the Andes mountains.

A small fishing port - check out the size of the reed sailing boat on the beach!

My last sunset in Bolivia - a beauty!