It’s not every day you come across a community living on floating islands. Lake Titicaca, set in between the border of Peru and Bolivia, is the world’s highest lake but not only that – it is also believed to be the birthplace of the Inca people. The 44 or so floating islands inhabitants include the Uros people, and the islands are mainly constructed by reeds. It is a fascinating way of life, with a culture completely unique to Peru’s ancient traditions and history.
They built a floating village hundreds of years ago when the Incas expanded into their land.
And make a living from fishing & selling their reed handicrafts to travellers.
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There are over 60 little floating villages throughout Lake Titicaca that the Uros people have constructed naturally.
The islands are fixed to the bed of the lake to stop them from moving.
And their reed boats are even operated by motor to transport tourists around.
There are two main groups of the Uros people – the Quechua and the Aymara-speaking people.
Most get their food from the lake, which means their diet consists mostly of fish, potatoes and quinoa.
Their food is cooked with fire placed on a pile of stones.
They are self-sufficient, weaving their own clothes & material.
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The Uros islands are 3810 metres above sea level & 5 km’s West from the Puno port.
And are made out of totora reeds weaved together to create layers. As these rot from the bottom, the new layers are added to the top.
Once the Uros women are ready to settle down, they begin wearing colourful pompoms on their hats to announce that they’re ready to marry.
