Lake Titicaca Peru
Lake Titicaca is a name which is synonymous with Peru and the Inca civilization. Set in the lap of the Andes, the lake is magnificent in its beauty. The lake is situated at a height of around 12,500 feet, above the sea level, and is said to be the only navigable lake, to be found at such a high altitude. Lake Titicaca is also acclaimed to be the largest lake in South America. The lake is situated at the border of Peru and Bolivia, and it is said that the Bolivian Navy used the lake for drills and combat exercises. The part of the lake which lies in Peru has a small settlement on its banks, known as Puno. It is a lovely and picturesque place, where the population is largely dependent on the Lake Titicaca.
Lake Titicaca is very revered in the history and mythology of the Incas. The Incas consider themselves the descendants of the Sun and it is said that on the banks of the Titicaca, the first Inca Emperor was born, who later founded the Inca civilization. The conception of the name of the lake is shrouded in mystery and there are only theories regarding the possible meaning of the name of the lake. The most probable translations of the word Titicaca is “Rock Puma” and “Crag of Lead”. It’s called “rock puma” as the lake looks like a puma chasing a rabbit. Lake Titicaca is made up of two sub-basins which are linked to each other by the narrow Strait of Tiquina. In Peru, the larger lake is called Lago Grande, while the smaller one is known as the Lago Pequeño. Apart from these names, there are many other local names by which this sacred lake is known. In the Lago Grande lies the deepest part of the lake which is said to be 930 feet. The regular depth of the lake is said to be 350 feet. The waters of the Lake are quite calm as it is flanked by tall mountains on all sides, thereby protecting it from winds. The melting snows of these lofty mountains also keeps Lake Titicaca well supplied with water. On a clear day, the lake looks crystalline blue and the placid waters seem to be reflecting the very sky.
Lake Titicaca gets its water from rainfall and melted snow. The Glaciers in the regions of Sierra and Altiplano feed the five major rivers that perennially feed the lake. There are many smaller rivers which also flow into the lake. As the lake is situated so high and also because it is fed by primarily melting snow, the waters are always icy cold. Lake Titicaca is also known for the number of islands that are found in the lake. There are nearly forty one of such islands spread across the lake. The island of Isla del Sol is one of the bigger islands, found in the lake. This is where the first Inca Emperor was said to be born. Another important island of Lake Titicaca is the island of Uros. This island is not famed for its size but because of the fact that it is made of tortora reed. These floating islands are home to thousands of natives who primarily depend in the Lake for their livelihood. In the recent years, with Peru becoming an attractive tourism destination, the natives are now largely dependent on the tourism industry, as well. Taquile is one of the larger of the islands and also one of the most beautiful. Tours to these islands are conducted every day, which involves many hours of sailing in the Lake. The entire experience of visiting these islands and sailing in the lake is none like you have ever known.
In order to enjoy the beauty of Lake Titicaca, you need to live in the lake side town of Puno. The town is fairly simple one and depends mainly on the lake and the tourists that it attracts. Puno is an ancient town, which is mentioned in many folklores of Peru. There are many hotels in Puno, both luxurious and budget. Spend some days lounging around in this quaint little town on the edge of this magnificent lake. It will be the experience of your lifetime.
The lake and it history
Lake Titicaca is very revered in the history and mythology of the Incas. The Incas consider themselves the descendants of the Sun and it is said that on the banks of the Titicaca, the first Inca Emperor was born, who later founded the Inca civilization. The conception of the name of the lake is shrouded in mystery and there are only theories regarding the possible meaning of the name of the lake. The most probable translations of the word Titicaca is “Rock Puma” and “Crag of Lead”. It’s called “rock puma” as the lake looks like a puma chasing a rabbit. Lake Titicaca is made up of two sub-basins which are linked to each other by the narrow Strait of Tiquina. In Peru, the larger lake is called Lago Grande, while the smaller one is known as the Lago Pequeño. Apart from these names, there are many other local names by which this sacred lake is known. In the Lago Grande lies the deepest part of the lake which is said to be 930 feet. The regular depth of the lake is said to be 350 feet. The waters of the Lake are quite calm as it is flanked by tall mountains on all sides, thereby protecting it from winds. The melting snows of these lofty mountains also keeps Lake Titicaca well supplied with water. On a clear day, the lake looks crystalline blue and the placid waters seem to be reflecting the very sky.
Islands of Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca gets its water from rainfall and melted snow. The Glaciers in the regions of Sierra and Altiplano feed the five major rivers that perennially feed the lake. There are many smaller rivers which also flow into the lake. As the lake is situated so high and also because it is fed by primarily melting snow, the waters are always icy cold. Lake Titicaca is also known for the number of islands that are found in the lake. There are nearly forty one of such islands spread across the lake. The island of Isla del Sol is one of the bigger islands, found in the lake. This is where the first Inca Emperor was said to be born. Another important island of Lake Titicaca is the island of Uros. This island is not famed for its size but because of the fact that it is made of tortora reed. These floating islands are home to thousands of natives who primarily depend in the Lake for their livelihood. In the recent years, with Peru becoming an attractive tourism destination, the natives are now largely dependent on the tourism industry, as well. Taquile is one of the larger of the islands and also one of the most beautiful. Tours to these islands are conducted every day, which involves many hours of sailing in the Lake. The entire experience of visiting these islands and sailing in the lake is none like you have ever known.
The town of Puno is Amazing
In order to enjoy the beauty of Lake Titicaca, you need to live in the lake side town of Puno. The town is fairly simple one and depends mainly on the lake and the tourists that it attracts. Puno is an ancient town, which is mentioned in many folklores of Peru. There are many hotels in Puno, both luxurious and budget. Spend some days lounging around in this quaint little town on the edge of this magnificent lake. It will be the experience of your lifetime.
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