Latin America

Mrs. P., Mrs. T., and Jose left early in the morning with a boat to visit the famous floating islands of the Urus.  The Urus used to live around the shores of Lake Titicaca, but started hiding on floating islands when over 600 years ago they heard the Incas were expanding their empire.

Floating islands are real floating islands.  The Urus make them out of reeds that grow wild in the lake.  They pack the reed one on top of the other, tie them tightly with rope, and anchor them to the ground of Lake Titacaca.  Their island, their homes, and their boats are all made out of reed.  It is an amazing thing to see.  Once we stepped off the boat onto the island, it was a strange feeling knowing that we were walking not too far from the water.

About five to eight live on one island.  When they as a community get together, they rope the islands together for celebrations and fiestas.

Our feet were sinking into the reed with every step we took.  It was a very odd feeling, but we did not get wet.

Miguel, our guide, showed us many different things and how the Urus are able to use them in their daily lives. We even were able to taste the white part of the reed. Very refreshing! Mmmhhh

We met a wonderful and friendly Uru woman named Maritza.   Maritza showed us her one room house,  the cuy (guinea pig) coup, and her crafts she and her husband made.

Maritza especially liked Jose.  She found a special hat for him to wear.

Doesn’t this pair look cute together?

Before we left the floating islands, we had a ride in one the reed boats and enjoyed the peace and quiet as we floated around other islands.

We were able to take a peek into the lives of people, that has not changed much in hundreds and hundreds of years.