Tarata
Qhapaq Ñan Panel
Exploring the Qhapaq Ñan: The Route from Juli to Tarata and its Andean Treasures
The Qhapaq Ñan: A Heritage that Unites Nations
He Qhapaq Ñan, The Inca Road, which in Quechua means "MAIN ROAD," is a monumental road system. This vast network of roads crosses the territories of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, forming a shared heritage of exceptional value that united the ancient Inca Empire.
The Historical Route: From Juli to Tarata
One of the most significant sections of this royal road is the one that connects Juli (in the province of Chucuito, Puno) with Ticaco (in the province of Tarata, Tacna). In fact, This pre-Hispanic road was registered in 2008, confirming its vital role in the interrelation of the Titicaca plateau with the arid regions of the far south of Peru.
As you travel the Inca Trail Tarata, You're not just following a historical route, but also You appreciate one of the greatest feats of Andean engineering.
Natural Treasures and Andean Biodiversity
As you ascend this section of the Qhapaq Ñan, you will enter landscapes of high altitude and biodiversity, such as those surrounding the Maure River and the Vilacota Lagoon.
The Maure River and the El Barroso Snow-capped Mountain
He Maure The Mauri is an Andean river that originates in the Vilacota Lagoon, at 4,500 meters above sea level in Peruvian territory. Despite its altitude, This river is a key tributary of the Desaguadero, and its basin is distributed between Peru and Bolivia. The imposing El Barroso Snow-capped Mountain It dominates the horizon, serving as a visual landmark.
Here we see the natural power of the area, including the Maure River section.
Wildlife of Vilacota Maure
Besides, In the Vilacota Maure ecosystem, biodiversity is remarkable. Here You will be able to see groups of:
- Wild Alpacas and Vicuñas: essential camelids of the highlands.
- Taruca (Andean Deer): An endemic species of the area.
- SURI: This highland bird is a protected species in the region of the country, and even It was included on one of the coins in the Endangered Wildlife of Peru series.
Colonial Gems on the Route: Temples of the Highlands
The pre-Hispanic route of the Qhapaq Ñan intertwines with the colonial legacy, where small architectural gems rise up in the puna. For example, Near the towns in the area, there are historical temples:
- Pampa Uyuni Church
- Mamuta Church
- Conchachiri Church
These temples They are a testament to the evangelization and cultural fusion that took place in the Andes.
