The community of Paramis is a model of rural community-based tourism on the Capachica Peninsula in Puno. Nestled at 3,819 meters above sea level on the shores of Lake Titicaca, it offers an authentic and peaceful alternative to the more frequented islands. Managed by the Asociación de Promoción Turística "El Valle de Páramis", the experience immerses you in the daily life of Quechua families, between agriculture, artisanal fishing, and preserved traditions.

📍 Location and Access to Paramis, Lake Titicaca

Paramis is located about 67 km from Puno and only 7 km southeast of the center of Capachica, the district's capital.

🚌 How to Get to Paramis from Puno?

• From Puno: Take a public transport from the paradero near the Bellavista market (Jr. Lampa) to the center of Capachica (1h30 journey). From there, a mototaxi or taxi takes you to Paramis in 25 minutes.
• From Juliaca: From the airport or bus terminal, go to the paradero for Capachica (1h journey). Complete the journey by mototaxi/taxi.
• Tip: It is recommended to contact the local association before your arrival to facilitate logistics. A responsible tourism agency can also organize the transfer.

🤝 Immersion and Homestay in Paramis

The heart of the experience is the homestay in traditional adobe houses, offering a real insight into the Andean way of life.

🏠 Accommodation and Services in Paramis

• Capacity: Approximately 24 people housed in 10 simple rooms (single or double beds) with local families.
• Comfort: Simple and authentic facilities. Toilets and showers are shared. Hot water is provided for washing.
• Food: Meals (half-board or full board) are prepared and shared with families or served in a rustic community restaurant with lake views. Enjoy typical dishes like Puchero or Cuy con Papas.
• Guiding: Members of the local association provide guidance in Spanish for activities and circuits.

👨‍🌾 Daily Life and Agricultural Activities

Participate in the rhythm of the Quechua community:

• Agricultural Work (Faenas agrícolas): Participation in field work (plowing, sowing, harvesting) of potatoes, quinoa, beans, depending on the season.
• Traditional Crafts: Observation or initiation into backstrap loom weaving (telar de cintura), adobe making, or discovering local medicinal plants.
• Cultural Exchange: Informal sharing, learning words in Quechua, discovering traditions and the Andean worldview centered on Pachamama (Mother Earth).

🥾 Hikes, Viewpoints and Nature

The Capachica Peninsula offers magnificent landscapes:

• Hiking: Trails to natural viewpoints (like the Siale viewpoint) offering 360° panoramic views of Lake Titicaca, the islands (Amantaní, Taquile), and the peninsula.
• Other Nature Activities: Possibility of horseback riding, mountain biking (MTB), or visiting minor archaeological sites in the surroundings.

🛶 Activities on Lake Titicaca

• Artisanal Fishing: Accompany local fishermen early in the morning on their "peque peque" (wooden boats) for a traditional outing.
• Boat Rides: Rowing or sailing boat rides along the tranquil shores of the peninsula.
• Ceremonies and Spirituality: Depending on occasions and requests, possibility to participate in ritual ceremonies or moments of "recepción de energías" (reception of positive energies) in connection with nature.

💰 Budget and Booking

• Cost: A one-night stay with half-board (accommodation + meals) typically costs between 80 and 150 Peruvian soles per person (≈ $20-40 USD), varying by season and included activities. Payment is often made directly to the association or family.
• Booking: It is imperative to book in advance by contacting the Asociación de Promoción Turística "El Valle de Páramis" directly (via social media or a local agency) to secure your spot and organize the welcome.

🗓️ When to Visit Paramis? Climate and Season

• Ideal Period: The dry season, from April to October, offers sunny days, cold nights, and dry trails, optimizing hiking and views.
• Climate: Cold high-altitude climate (Altiplano). Temperatures vary greatly between day (sunny, 15-20°C) and night (often close to 0°C). Plan for altitude acclimatization (3,819 m) after staying in Puno or Cusco.

🎒 Practical Tips and What to Pack

• Health & Altitude: Take time to acclimatize, drink plenty of water, chew coca leaves, and avoid intense exertion in the first days.
• Luggage: Pack warm clothes in layers (thermal underwear, fleece, windproof jacket), a hat, gloves, a warm sleeping bag (nights are freezing), a headlamp, sunscreen, and sunglasses (intense sun).
• Respect and Exchange: Have a respectful and curious attitude. Ask for permission before photographing people. Consider bringing small useful gifts for your hosts (school supplies, fresh fruit from the city).

🗺️ Sample Itinerary Including Paramis

"Titicaca Authenticity" Circuit (3 days / 2 nights):

• Day 1: Arrival in Puno. Free afternoon to visit city sites (Cathedral, museum). Night in Puno for acclimatization.
• Day 2: Morning transport to Capachica. Settle into your homestay in Paramis. Afternoon dedicated to community activities (agriculture, weaving). Evening shared with the family. Night in homestay in Paramis.
• Day 3: Early morning hike to a viewpoint for sunrise over the lake. Return to Puno late morning, possibility to visit the floating Uros Islands in the afternoon.