Articles Directory | Free Articles | New Articles Daily | Lake Titicaca: Getting To Know Peru

A seemingly endless expanse of water that is covered by low lying scudding clouds, Lake Titicaca is a great spot in Peru for enjoying a unique experience. There are many areas that show brilliant archaeological traces from the many ancient cultures - like the Incas and the Tiwanaku - who inhabited this spiritual lake.

According to Incan legend the god Viracocha emerged from the lake to create the world, then went on to create the sun, the moon (born on the islands which now carry corresponding names, Isal del Sol, Isla de la Luna ), and man and woman; and it is to here that the Inkas spirits return after death.

Bolivia and Peru share the lake at a 40% and 60% divide respectively, and if you can it is worth seeing both sides. Copacabana is the place to stay when you are in Bolivia, and this small city has an unbelievable view both of the gateway to Isla de la Luna y Isla de la Sol and the lake. It is also home to Basilica of the Virgin de la Candelaria and although quiet most of the year, the city explodes a couple of times a year for major festivals - Festival de la virgin de la Candelaria, in the beginning of February, and Bolivian independence day over the first days of August.

There are islands that can be visited from Peru, Amantani and Taquile;, where you will be lodged in the home of a local resident. Uros, another community on the lake, is made up of a collection of articifial, reed islands. The Uros are an ancient society who existed well before Incan times and constructed their homes on reed islands as a defence mechanism. While you can go for a day trip when visiting the islands, people often stop when going the ferries to Amantani; or Taquile.

The most developed and largest island is Taquile, and while there are some modern customs life is simple - always think about the cold and be suitably prepared for weather like this; all year round the temperature drops very low at night. The community on Taquile functions in a collectivist fashion, with everyone sharing the islands work and the tourism is similarly managed as families takes turns hosting guests. A most admirable old Incan moral code ama sua, ama llulla, ama qhilla, (do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy) is still a firm part of the community.

It is an unforgettable experience exploring the island's rocky terraces and deserted strips of beach and as the evening falls, watching thunder storms build up and explode spectacularly over the lake. The herb, muña which grows wildly makes an excellent tea, which along with some mate de coca (tea of coca leaves) will alleviate the effects of the altitude. It also makes a perfect finish after you have lunched what is quite likely to be the best trout you have ever tasted.

Ahead of departing these islands, regardless of the 10 - One of the essentials is swimming in the 14 degree lake. Many locals believe that the water holds various healing powers, and while this may seem far-fetched - and isn't scientifically proven - you will feel a healthy crispness in your body for many days after.