14-15th February 2015 Isla Del Sol, Lake Titicaca, Copacabana - Bolivia
I knew almost nothing about Bolivia, except that it was named after Simón Bolívar, the man who played a key role in Latin America's successful war of independence against the Spanish Empire.
Bolivia is the poorest country in South America, but I've seen beautiful, ever- changing landscapes and colourful culture which I didn't expect.
I have spent 10 colourful days in high altitude areas; Bolivia lies among the highest mountains and is the most closed-off country as well. More than half of the population are Indians and still preserves ancient traditions and beliefs. The people were friendly and welcoming, in the desert areas less kind though. I don't like taking close photos of people living in poor conditions, but from the bus it felt less indiscreet and shot a few ones about their life in the suburbs, selling their goods. These could have been taken also in Peru... Also some pics attached from the road and bus terminals.
Copacabana. Yes, it has the same name as the beach of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. They say that one of the most famous beaches in the world was named in honour of the sanctuary there. This little, pleasant Bolivian town is also above 3,400 meters, no wonder I felt again breathless as I was climbing up to my place. The city with its bay is prettier than Puno and the food is cheaper. The Internet was very slow (evening there is no internet available in the whole town) and it was cold during the evenings. I couldn't wait to get to the Atacama Desert in Chile to get again some summer feeling...
Copacabana is the launching point to visit the sacred Island of Sun, the 'Isla del Sol'. The biggest island of Lake Titicaca was one of the most important religious sites in the Andean world in the 15-16th century: it is considered to be the place where the Sun and Moon were born and where the Inca civilization arose.
The Northern part's hiking trails of the island go through archaeological sites and has a magnificent scenery. I had only 3 hours there, so just went to see a labyrinth-like building with its temple (once treasures were guarded there); the sacral table, the Sacred Rock. From there you can see the shores of Puno, Peru too. This area has a very good energy, felt really good being there.
The island's tourism started to develop 10 years ago, before it was populated by locals only who lived mainly from fishing, and now tourism is more significant - many tourists spend several days there.
The southern part is famous for its Inca Steps, and has a special atmosphere too; also worth for a visit. Between the northern and southern coast of Isla del Sol we went by boat, giving me some more time to submerge in the forms of that days clouds. Already above the northern part of the island I have seen amazing shapes, fine forms like birds, faces, animals. I love watching clouds, to see forms in shadows, in materials, but I guess I am not the only one.