Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, provides a unique ecological setting for the Uros’ floating islands. The sustainability of these islands is directly tied to the health of the lake, which is threatened by pollution and climate change. The Uros’ way of life is an example of human adaptation to a fragile and dynamic ecosystem.
The Uros people (Los Uros), an indigenous group of Peru and Bolivia, have lived on floating islands made from totora reeds for centuries. This tradition began as a defensive strategy, allowing the Uros to evade conflicts with neighboring groups. The islands represent resilience, ingenuity, and a deep symbiotic relationship with Lake Titicaca’s resources. Totora reeds are used not only for island construction but also for making boats, shelters, and even food.
The Uros have adapted their ancestral ways of life to modern economic pressures by welcoming tourists. Many offer guided tours, and sell handcrafted goods. While tourism provides critical income, it has also allowed for external influences that have brought challenges to the preservation of these islands, as well as its people’s cultural identity.