South America Travel - Peru’s Tranquil Taquile
Natural beauty and fascinating culture
Thin air blows over the Peruvian altiplano, and while skimming the sapphire waters of the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca, the motor boat emits a high-pitched squeal.
Following this four hour journey from Puno, to the tranquil island of Taquile, we are faced with the daunting, but rewarding, task of escalating the 500 plus uneven stone steps to the island’s summit at 13,000 feet above sea level. Our dirt pathway en route is adorned with stone archways and bordered by local children who run alongside and cheer out words of encouragement.
We are immediately embraced by phenomenal views that stretch as far as our eyes can see. From Taquile’s summit, I gaze over the crystal clear waters of Lake Titicaca where this southeast portion of Peru shares a segment of its shoreline with Bolivia, to the distant mainland where the snow capped Andes create a surreal backdrop.
I am greeted by the welcoming jesters from the Taquilenos and am surprised to find out that their dominant language is still Quechan. Although there is a growing trend of Spanish speaking inhabitants among the younger generations this ancient language of the Inca is still imbibed.
It wasn’t until the 1970s that the Taquilenos opened their island to the tourism industry, attracting adventure seekers, like myself, in search of a reprieve from life’s hectic pace. And although this island paradise doesn’t boast the typical all-inclusive resorts that lure most pleasure seekers, (in fact there isn’t a single hotel room to be had on this dreamscape) I soon discover it offers paradisiacal treasures of a primitive kind. My forty-eight hour stay on the island gives me a quick, but everlasting, memory of a utopic, slow-paced life style that is embodied by the people of Taquile Island.
The accommodation on the island is provided by a group of community members that billet out rooms in their homes. Although I find these rooms modest at best, they offer a comfortable night’s sleep in a traditional adobe house. In spite of the language barrier, the hospitality is gracious, my hosts are most generous, and my needs are met, including extra wool blankets to ward off the chilly altiplano night air.
The island is also outfitted with a couple of restaurants. Even though my billet family offers me dinner with the cost of the room, I choose to have a night on the town and experience some of the Taquile cuisine. With all amenities located centrally, the restaurants are within walking distance of the homestead area. They offer a basic menu of two different meals that reflect the local cuisine, consisting of either chicken or lake trout. I opt for the trout, and am treated to a medley of local tastes prepared in traditional Peruvian style.
Taquile Island’s natural beauty and fascinating culture are the alluring attributes for its many tourists. Being far from the major urban centers, stars illuminate the clear night skies and provide a superb light show, a rare treat for city dwellers like me.
Taquilenos also take pride in their cultural roots and there is a strong emphasis within the community to still wear many traditional textiles, such as ch’ullus. These hats, worn by men, symbolize their marital status and are interwoven with a magnificent spectrum of colors.
Like all small towns throughout Peru, Taquile Island has a thriving market where the islanders sell their wares. For generations the textiles and weavings have been regarded as among the best in Peru. The market place also provides an excellent source of income for the indigenous people who produce these items. It’s hard to leave without at least one or two textiles or weavings. And as I prepare to depart, I realize that my backpack has gained a few pounds.
Although it’s a much simpler task to descend the 500 stairs when it comes time to leave, saying goodbye to this paradise is not. As I board the boat and make my way back on the four hour journey to the lake shore town of Puno, the sun is beginning to set. I watch the deep glow sink behind the Andes, and as it offers a silent symphony of color, it bathes Taquile in a reflective rosy hue.
Even though my experience on Taquile is now forming a significant memory, I know this island will always continue to offer a true taste of tranquility.
Getting there: The entire trip from Puno to Taquile can be done without breaking the bank. For approximately 20 Peruvian soles (roughly $7 US) anyone can discover the meaning of ultimate tranquility.
More information: www.lanchile.com www.perutourism.com
Author : Emily Nixon
| Add your comments |
