"A little too early or too late in Copacabana" Top 5 Page for this destination Copacabana by richiecdisc

Copacabana Travel Guide: 146 reviews and 293 photos

A little too early or too late in Copacabana - Copacabana

Some places creep up on you and are such a pleasant surprise that traveling takes on more meaning than a mere aim and conquer mentality. It is typical to choose a destination, research it, and culminate the process by going and doing all the "things" you set out to do. Expectations are met, surpassed or fallen short of but always play a part in the perception of such places. South America has its share of destinations that take over your imagination long before you arrive but often it is the ones you did not plan on that get inside you. Copacabana in Bolivia was one such place for me. Much like Puno in Peru, it is a place you nearly have to pass through when traveling between the two countries en route of Lake Titicaca. But that is where the similarity ends. Copacabana does not overwhelm you; it seeps into you with a quiet restraint and quiet timeless streets. It's incredibly clean by South American standards and though obviously a tourist destination, it retains a true local flavor. Indeed, you can tell that Bolivians come to Copacabana because it is so special. A longtime sacred site of first the Tiwanaku and then the Incas, the city enjoys religious pilgrimages to this day with its Stations of the Cross. With Lake Titicaca at its doorstep and a mild sunny climate, it's a place you can certainly lose yourself for a few days. Sometimes that's more fun than doing "things" anyway.

Last visit to Copacabana: Oct 2002
Intro Updated Nov 16, 2003
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Reviews (34)

Doreen changing her film, did she bring enough? - Copacabana

loading your camera What to Pack (1)

Wide angle is great for the massive Lake Titicaca and a circular polarizer is nearly indispensable with the high... more travel advice

pristine beaches on Isla del Sol - Copacabana

run around naked if you want.... Off The Beaten Path (1)

Yeah, yeah, yeah...you probably expected some pics of us frolicking sans clothes but with no time to spare on our... more travel advice

Ina stairs leading to the southern port - Copacabana

literally the footsteps of the Incas Things to Do (8)

According to legend, la Isla del Sol is the birthplace of the first Inca, Manco Capac and his sister-wife, Mama Occllo.... more travel advice

perfect climate for massive cacti on Isla del Sol - Copacabana

hiking Isla del Sol Things to Do (8)

Of course, if you stay on the island, you will want to do some hiking. Though it is hilly, once you make the ascent,... more travel advice

Favorites (2)
See All impulses can be nice
Local Customs (3)
See All think globally, drink locally
Sports & Outdoors (1)
hiking is a great sport!
Shopping (3)
See All local crafts on Isla del Sol
Transportation (5)
See All fishing boats double as transport

Warnings and Dangers (3)
See All carry water!
Tourist Traps (1)
llama photos at a price
Nightlife (2)
See All there are some nice places for a coffee...
Restaurants (2)
See All locals' restaurants
Hotels (2)
See All views of the locals

Comments (13)

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Jim_Eliason Feb 26, 2011 at 2:35 PM

Nice tips!
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BorderHopper Jun 18, 2007 at 3:07 PM

Hey my old friend...good to see you still have many good comments on beer. Your tips will be very helpful...wonderful page on Copacabana. Me, my wife, and son will be there in October & the info you've provided will surely help us along the way.
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ryuhome Sep 21, 2005 at 6:19 AM

This is a very well written as well as informative page. I'd really love to make this my next travel destination.
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AlbuqRay Aug 13, 2003 at 5:52 PM

Excellent, well-written introduction and tips with great pictures! The best I have seen on VT. Thanks for sharing. I must read all the rest of your experiences. They will definitely help me at the end of September.
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Sharrie Aug 8, 2003 at 8:58 PM

Love your intro. It works with people as well. Hey, u didn't go naked here? lol... U did it in the past, why not this time? ;-) Think globally?! U never fail to surprise ;->
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frankcanfly Mar 28, 2003 at 7:41 AM

An excellent page, I'm considering a trip to this region next month. Your insight and attention to detail is as great as usual. Thanks for convincing me to come here.
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acemj Mar 16, 2003 at 12:47 PM

I agree with you about the markets. I love just strolling through and checking out all the goodies. Another great page, Richie.
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R.Dettmann Mar 15, 2003 at 6:18 AM

WOW such amazing pictures! I really need to go there as well! South America is so great! The mountains, the jungel, the people and the dancing, hahahah
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ExGuyParis Mar 4, 2003 at 9:42 AM

As usual, a visit to your page is a sheer delight. Amazing stories and photos. The photo of "surreal" Laguna Colorada on your home ^page is incredible!
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DoreenDe Feb 20, 2003 at 10:31 AM

eggsandwiches and just fruits...yummi...