
Copacabana
bolivia
About Copacabana
Sitting at 3,800m above sea level on the shores of Lake Titicaca, Bolivia's Copacabana was once a quiet fishing village known only for its religious fiestas. Today it's an increasingly popular destination for travellers and is surrounded by rugged scenery and rocky paths walked by alpacas and donkeys. You can learn about pre-Incan cultures or simply savour the flavours of freshly cooked trout from a lakeside stall. Traditional Andean beliefs exist side by side with Catholicism here and you'll see offerings to both the Virgin Mary and the Goddess Pachamama.
Most hostels in Copacabana are perched on steep mountain slopes and overlook the lake's gleaming blue waters. You can stay in an eco-friendly cabin, rooms inspired by Arabic domes or in a hostel on Isla del Sol, a holy island on the lake. Reduce your carbon footprint by choosing Copacabana hostels with vegetarian food or solar-powered heating, or indulge in a little luxury with a Jacuzzi suite. The majority have free Wi-Fi and free breakfast.
Copacabana village is small and centred on the main square, Plaza 2 de Febrero. The main street visitors should know is Avenida 6 de Agosto, which has foreigner-friendly restaurants and bars. Head northeast along the coast for 3km and you'll find Kusijata, a small community with an archaeological museum (look out for the chullpa, an Incan mummy). You could also go hiking to Yampupata, a rural village with views out over Lake Titicaca.
One of Copacabana's most striking sights is the Catedral de la Virgen de la Candelaria, home to a 15th-century statue said to be able to work miracles. At the beginning of February, thousands of pilgrims flock to the town from all over Bolivia and nearby Peru for the Festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria. Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna have sacred Incan sites and a strong traditional culture. For handicrafts to take home, you can browse local textiles at the Museo del Poncho.
To get to Copacabana, you can take a local bus from La Paz. You'll want to stay awake for the spectacular lake views on the 3-hour journey. You can also take a bus from Puno in Peru, a journey of 4 hours, and boats run between Copacabana village and the two islands (del Sol and de la Luna). Walking is the best way to get around the village.
City Info
2 Hostels in Copacabana

Located in Copacabana
Located in Copacabana, 200 m from Inca Gallows, Solsticio hostel features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a bar.
Located in Copacabana
Skylake B&B offers a terrace and restaurant on Copacabana !!
Copacabana is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Copacabana, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Copacabana has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Copacabana offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.
When visiting Copacabana, don't miss the opportunity to:
- Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
- Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
- Connect with other travelers at hostel events
- Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Copacabana