Titikaca lake, a treasure full of wonders


View of the Titicaca Lake with its typical blue color near the Copacabana town.

Lake Titicaca is one of the most beautiful lakes in South America. It is known as the highest navigable lake in the world and it is also the largest freshwater lake in this part of the world. It is also one of the most ancient lakes in the world with over than three million years of age.

The lake has many islands that generate an exceptional view.
 The lake is located between Bolivia and Peru and its altitude is over 3800 m above sea level and it covers 3200 square miles (8300 square km). The area is frequented by many tourists from all-over the world. The lake is known of having Inca ruins and also many interesting cultures like the Uros who live in artificial islands made of floating reeds as 'totora'. There are plenty of information about them in the internet and elsewhere.
Pre-inca ruins in the "Isla del Sol" Island

This article is focused on the natural beauty of the lake. The ecosystem of the lake is unique, because of a special microclimate generated by its presence. While the highlands are characteristic of a dry and cold alpine climate, the lake and its surroundings are warmer with higher humidity. This allows large populations of water birds and other animals like the famous and threatened Titicaca water frog.

Another view of the lake
In spring the surroundings of the lake are full of flowers.
The micro-climate offers excellent conditions for agriculture and fishing activities.
Quinoa crops in the "Isla del Sol"
Flowers give more beauty to the landscapes

The lake is part of a closed basin (100% of the water is balanced by evapo-transpiration due to strong winds and the high altitude). It is conformed by several lakes and rivers in the highland of Peru and Bolivia. So the environment is very unique and this allows the presence of awesome animals and plants.
Puna ibis. It is a typical example of the birds that may be found on the lake.
It is interesting to note that the touristic guides are indigenous people from the surroundings and the spot may one of the most visited places in the country (Bolivia).
Most of the people are peasants and belong to the aymara's culture.
Dusk in the Copacabana port.

These were some views of the lake and its surroundings, hope you have enjoyed them!


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