Description of the attraction
Amantani Island is located east of the Kapachika Peninsula, north of Taquile Island in Lake Titicaca. The island has an area of 9.28 sq. Km and has an almost circular shape with an average diameter of 3.4 km. It is the largest island on the Peruvian side of the lake. Its maximum height is the summit of Mount Lakastiti - 4,150 m above sea level, that is, 294 m above the lake level.
The inhabitants of the island, which are about 800 families, are mainly engaged in agriculture, growing potatoes, barley, legumes, as well as breeding cattle and poultry. The male population is also engaged in the manufacture of stone utensils for everyday use and decorative elements for construction, since the Lakastiti mountain has a granite structure, and women are engaged in the manufacture of textiles.
On the island of Amantani, on two mountain peaks, there are the famous ancient temples of the Pachamama and Pachatata Indians. They are closed throughout the year. Entrance to them is allowed annually on January 20. On this day, the entire population of the island is divided into two parts, and each group gathers at the corresponding temple. At a certain time, the groups begin to move towards each other and at the meeting point a representative for the tournament is selected from each group. Traditionally, the victory of the Pachamama representatives foreshadows a bountiful harvest next year.
Some of the families of Amantani Island open their homes to tourists. They offer a place to stay, including meals. A mandatory requirement for such families is the availability of a separate room for tourists with the corresponding requirements of travel companies that help to accommodate visiting tourists. Guests usually bring with them, as a gift, basic food such as cooking oil, rice, fruit or school supplies for the children living on the island. Sweets and sugar are not recommended as regular dental care is rare on the island. Night dance shows are organized for tourists, where they are invited to change into traditional clothes and join the event.
