We stayed 2 nights at the Libertador. It’s a bright, elegantly designed (inside at least) and spacious hotel located right on the lake, with views in the distance of the Uros Islands. We had rented a car and driven from The Sacred Valley, so it was a long drive and we had to drive through Juliaca, which is the armpit of Peru. In fact we had to grease the palm of a cop who stopped us in the traffic and wouldn’t leave us alone. Puno is also not a very attractive city, so it was a huge relief to find ourselves in this large white edifice perched slightly away from the town and on the Isla Esteves.

I can’t imagine that there is a hotel that is better located. The views are tremendous – especially if you insist on taking one that is facing the islands and NOT facing Puno. I asked at the desk to change rooms when I saw the view from the bar and terrace – they are much nicer. There are glass windows all across the room and it is wonderful to leave open the curtains and wake up with the sun rise and see the local Uros people gliding by on their boats.

Service was pretty decent – friendly enough staff, who arranged a boat trip for the next day and, as mentioned, switched our room over promptly. Food was decent. Coca tea supplied throughout the day. Nice terrace to sit and have a drink. They did charge crazy prices for a Pisco Sour, though!

Everyone staying there seemed to be part of a group tour – we were the rare birds that were there independently. If you are not part of a group and want to sit by the window for breakfast you might need to reserve that beforehand. I think we accidentally stole someone’s window table. oops!!

They do have a spa but no time or inclination to use it. I did pop in to have a look but the jacuzzi was empty when I looked.

Oh yes and I forgot to mention. The most comfortable beds ever!!! I wasn’t feeling too well one day (the altitude) and stayed in bed most of the afternoon and evening and it was extremely comforting to be lying there and just gazing out of the window.

This hotel really felt a good deal compared to Sanctuary at Machu Picchu.

VikiBoyko

Stamford