Lake Titicaca

From Puno we took a boat onto lake Titicaca and visited Los Uros (the people on the floating reed islands). One in particular is called the "Isla de los Mormones" because it's populated by several families of who several years ago joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the Mormons). They are very poor and live simply. As we got off the boat they greeted us with smiles and hugs. They explained their way of life and they invited us into their homes. It was an inspiring feeling to be embraced and drawn into their circle of love.

This is a bycicle taxi in Puno. They are everywhere along with motorcycle taxis.

This is the boat we took to get out to Los Uros and Taquile island.

Even as children the people of Los Uros are handy with oars.

They rowed us around their island in their handmade reed boat.

Even their ropes are made of fibers they gather from the lake.

They took us into their homes, dressed us in their clothes, and told us about their lives (e.g. I asked how they protected their children from the dangers of the lake and they shared that they have to be very watchful--a couple of years ago while they were having a meeting one of the little one year olds wandered off the island and drowned).

We sat around on a reed bench and learned about their lives.

Everything in their way of life comes from the waters of Lake Titicaca. They make their islands, homes, and boats out of reeds which they also eat and cook with.

We went to an island called Taquile which is quite primitive (no cars, no bikes, no motors). It's a UNESCO world heritage site where the people are famous for their unique weaving.

Cute little girl was a bit shy.

The village elders taking account of the clothing and school supplies we brought to them.