SANTIAGO DE HUATA
The story begins in 2004, when Father Leonardo Giannelli, a priest from Umbertide in the Diocese of Gubbio, arrived in Bolivia to begin his mission as parish priest in Santiago de Huata, a small village overlooking the eastern shores of Lake Titicaca, at an altitude of over 3,850 meters.
In this remote area of the Bolivian Altiplano, Father Leonardo found himself leading a vast and complex parish, made up of 55 rural communities.
In his more than 20 years of mission, thanks to the collaboration of various friends, volunteers, and benefactors—mostly from Italy—and in synergy with local authorities and the Aymara indigenous communities themselves, Father Leonardo created a network of pastoral, charitable, healthcare, educational, and sustainable socioeconomic development initiatives.
After Father Leonardo Giannelli returned to Italy, his place was taken by Father Grober Quispe Mamani, a young Bolivian who grew up within the parish's own youth group.
CASA DE RETIRO
Since the Casa de Retiro in Chuquiñapi has been managed by the parish of Santiago de Huata, it has become a vibrant place of hospitality, reflection, and service. Overlooking Lake Titicaca and surrounded by silence and nature, the house offers a space of peace for spiritual retreats, community gatherings, and responsible tourism.
Managed with care and local vision, it has also become a job opportunity for families in the area, enhancing the culture, landscape, and hospitality of the region.
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SAILING AND MOTOR NAVIGATION
From the shores of Santiago de Huata, the parish brought to life a unique project: the construction of catamarans (2 sailing and 1 motor-powered).
Sailing on them means experiencing the lake slowly and deeply, accompanied by those who have always known it.
The project creates jobs, strengthens local identity, and opens new routes for sustainable tourism, respectful of the environment and people.
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ISOLA DEL SOLE
Isla del Sol, located on Lake Titicaca about 2 to 3 hours by boat from Santiago de Huata or Copacabana, is the ideal place to combine culture, nature, and spirituality. Situated at 3,810 meters above sea level, it offers sweeping views of the lake and the Royal Cordillera, as well as a valuable archaeological heritage linked to the origin of the Inca Empire. Its ancient trails, agricultural terraces, and traditional communities create a peaceful and authentic atmosphere for visitors.
The trek that crosses the island from north to south connects Challapampa with Yumani, covering a distance of 8 to 10 kilometers with an elevation gain of about 400 meters, reaching points close to 4,050 meters. The hike takes between 3 and 4 hours and combines gentle ascents with scenic descents, making it a moderately difficult walk.
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CONTACT US
FOR INFO
Santiago de Huata, Provincia Los Andes, La Paz (Bolivia)
(+591) 71224453
Victor
Agency
(+591) 74018297