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The Uro people, who predate the Inca civilization, comprise three groups: the Uru-Chipayas, Uru-Muratos, and Uru-Iruito. They live in family groups on more than 40 islands they created themselves on Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, located in the Altiplano Mountains of the Andes on the border of Peru and Bolivia.
Scientists believe their first settlement was on the shores of Lake Titicaca in Bolivia, but the Uro floating village gradually moved toward the city of Puno, Peru.
Floating islands and houses made of reeds on Lake Titicaca. Photo: FlickrCubamagica.
In the past, the Uro people's floating islands were not located as close to the shores of Puno as they are today. They expanded their community to various parts of Puno Bay. However, the water level of Lake Titicaca in the bay was too low, forcing them to move closer to the shore, towards Estevez Island. Another group moved to the Huili River, one of the sources of Lake Titicaca, to ensure the depth below the surface of the floating islands was 15 meters.
Using natural materials like totoras plants, the Uro people have built artificial islands in the lake surrounding the city of Puno, in southern Peru. When totoras plants decompose, they produce gas, which cannot escape. Gradually, these gas-filled root systems accumulate, forming floating islands. Over time, the villagers have also woven reeds into the roots to thicken and strengthen the island surfaces, preventing them from disintegrating. Many of these reed houses are built on the islands, and the Uro people need to weave mats every two weeks to withstand the lake's waves.
Colorful hand-embroidered carpets of the Uro people. Photo: Flickr campits.
Although the Uro people still preserve and live by their traditional, rudimentary activities such as fishing, hunting wild birds, and making handicrafts, they have now learned to combine these with tourism services. The islands floating on Lake Titicaca are gradually becoming an attractive and unique destination for both domestic and international tourists.
The Uro people show visitors their colorful houses and handicrafts, and sing their folk songs. Visitors are transported in boats made of reeds, which the Uro call "Balsa de Totora." They also use some modern appliances, such as engines for the boats and solar panels to power televisions and radios.
Today, tours to the floating islands of the Uro people are often included in one-day tours to Taquile Island, or two-day tours to Amantani and Taquile. These two islands promise to become the most attractive destinations when visiting Lake Titicaca. It only takes 12 minutes by boat from Puno to explore these unique floating islands. The Uro people are always open and friendly, welcoming visitors, and tourism has clearly become a part of their lives.
Source: VnExpress
