Here, a native community of some 350 families still lives with the traditions of the XIV century that respect the principals of an Incan way life.

Here, to time's dismay, the three golden rules of the Empire of the Sun persist: Ama suya, Ama quella, Ama llullia: do not steal, do not lie and do not be idle.

Here, contact with other cultures has not been able to destroy a profoundly Incan identity.

With its moving history, this island of modest dimension has grown roots that plunge diwn to the source itself of this civilization. And, while the Spanish colony imposed the heavy burden of slavery on the island, it could not destroy the values and the customs of the natives.

From their tormented past, the inhabitants have conserve the determination and courage to confront all adversity with a balanced and jovial humour.
So, if there is a fundamentally common character on Taquile, it is without a doubt one with a joy for life, good humour, smiles and warmth towards others.

Here there are no planes, no trucks, cars, motorcycles... It is by foot, along narrow trailsmade of lined up stones, that the visitor allows himself to penetrate the surprising ambiance that envelops the islet. The principal characteristic of Taquile resides in the fact that the island has conserved over the centuries a large number of customs from the old lacustrine population.

Unique agricultural products, made possible by the micro-climate...

Exceptional handicrafts that are set apart from their kind...

Traditional dances and music...

All the magic of ancient rites allied with the calm, the serenity of all places...

The harmony of the man and earth...

Taquile breathes out like a haven of peace
in the agitation of our world at this century's end.

To live on Taquile is to penetrate into the marvellous union of the Earth and Man.

It is a rediscovery of the unity and the equilibrium between things and beings.

It is relearning to live...