Day 14 in Peru: a taste of Peruvian Agriculture

Today we visited Awanakancha, home of a llama and alpaca farm as well as a hand woven textile store.  We learned about the different breeds of llamas and alpacas raised in Peru 

We feed the llamas and alpacas during our visit. 

 We then learned about how the wool is dyed to get bright vibrant colors.  Many plants and seeds are used to create these colors. 

There were many women hand weaving textiles.  It can take up to 1 year to complete the beautiful handiwork.   We also had the opportunity to purchase items from a gift shop made with alpaca wool. 

During our visit to this farm we learned about some of the crops raised in Peru.  There are over 5000 varieties of potatoes.  These potatoes are dried down and can be kept for up to 20 years.  To rehydrate them, they are placed in boiling water for three minutes. 

As we were loading the bus, a few of us were sprayed by silly string by a passing car.  Our tour guide informed us of the festival that takes place this time of year called Carnival.  It is a competition between men and women that usually involves water.  At the end of the festival there is a big meeting and a water competition.

We proceeded to Ollantaytambo -Sacred Valley of the Incas.   This is an Incan military, religious, and agricultural center located on the top of the mountain. 

Submitted by Tracey Walsh