Attraction Guide: Yavari Museum, Puno, Peru

Yavari Museum Guide

Steamboat Stories: Explore the Yavari Museum Guide

Step aboard a piece of maritime history at the Yavari Museum, a unique floating museum located on the shores of Lake Titicaca in Puno, Peru. The Yavari is a meticulously restored steamship, originally built in England in 1862 and shipped in pieces to Lake Titicaca. This remarkable vessel offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the ingenuity and ambition of those who sought to connect the remote Andean region with the wider world. The Yavari's story is one of incredible logistical challenges and unwavering determination. Commissioned by the Peruvian government, the ship was designed and built in Birmingham, England. It was then disassembled into thousands of pieces and transported by sea to Arica (then part of Peru), then by train to Tacna, and finally by mule and human porterage over the Andes Mountains to Lake Titicaca. The ship was reassembled on the shores of the lake and launched in 1870. For decades, the Yavari served as a vital link for trade and transportation on Lake Titicaca, connecting remote communities and facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas. At the Yavari Museum, you can explore the ship's meticulously restored engine room, cabins, and decks. Learn about the ship's history, the challenges of its construction and transportation, and the lives of the people who worked and traveled on board. The museum offers guided tours that provide in-depth information and bring the Yavari's story to life. While onboard, imagine the bustling activity of a bygone era, and appreciate the engineering marvel that allowed this steamship to navigate the highest navigable lake in the world. While not a culinary destination, the museum often hosts events and activities that may include local food vendors.