"Amantani Island" Isla Amantani by Zanzibargirl

Amantani Island is one of the lesser visited islands located on Lake Titicaca. Its people known as Aimara are dedicated to agriculture around its main town of Amantani. However these days farming is not as necessary as previously for survival since tourism is on the increase as people come here for the chance to stay with a local family. Many families of the island have opened their homes to visitors and tourists who pay to stay and see how they live.

The adobes are very comfy and more than adequate sleeping quaters for the night, plus a great chance to try and get to know some of the locals. They will prepare meals for you and show you up to the main square for a game of soccer at an altitude of 4000 feet (you will be puffing!) and to the summit point which boasts the ruins of a temple to Pacha Mama. Take in a sunset from the top as its a wonderful view. You can circle the temple three times at the top for a wish.

By night families dress their visitors up in local attire and you wear your costume to the town hall for the "Inca Disco". Peruvian folk music is played by a band with flutes and drums and they will teach you some of the traditional dances that they enjoy on the island.

By the end of even just one night you will feel like you have a whole new family as the locals are so welcoming. You form a bond with your "Mama" and "Papa" in such a short time. It really is a rewarding experience so check it out.

• Pros:Immersing into local life, sunset vistas and Inca Disco experience
• Cons:Not a lot of sites really to see on the island, and only 1 night...
• In a nutshell:Home Stay away from Home