2013 Nov. Lake Titicaca. Uros. Taquile.

Lake Titicaca, located in the Andes on the border of Peru and Bolivia, is the largest lake in South America, and the highest navigable lake in the world with a surface elevation of 3,812m (12,507ft).

A short boat ride from Puno, we arrive in Uros, which is a group of 44 or so artificial islands made of floating reeds (totora). The purpose of the island settlements was originally defensive, and if a threat arose they could be moved.

A demonstration by the indigenous inhabitants on how their islands were built using totora reeds. Much of the Uros’ diet and medicine also revolve around the same totora reeds used to construct the islands. The white part of the reed when pulled from the lake, is a primary source of food, that also provides iodine, relieve pain, and also ease hangovers.

Took a ride on the traditional boats of the indigenous people.

After Uros, we visited Isla Taquile, about 45km from Puno, on which there are numerous pre-Inca and Inca ruins and Inca terracing. Taquileños are also known for their fine handwoven textile and clothing, which are regarded as among the highest-quality handicraft in Peru. In 2005, UNESCO proclaimed Taquile and Its Textile Art “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”.

Taquileños run their society based on community collectivism and on the Inca moral code ama sua, ama llulla, ama qhilla, (Quechua for “do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy”).

Majority of the inhabitants are Catholic. They adapted this religion, harmonizing their ancient culture with Christian culture. Mother Earth (Patchamama) is the principal Andean deity who controls harvesting and fertility.

The island is divided into six sectors for crop rotation purposes. The economy is based on fishing, terraced farming horticulture based on potato cultivation, as well as tourism.

A little nice touch at the hotel in Puno. I must say that hospitality and service quality in Peru generally was impressively good, although the infrastructure may not be as developed. People are friendly, service is sincere, and logistic coordination despite the lack of advanced technology was very smooth.