Peru, a country with a rich history and breathtaking landscapes, hosts an impressive biocultural diversity. From the majestic Andes in the highlands to the lush rainforests of the Amazon basin, Peru offers a wide range of ecosystems and habitats. The flora is characterized by a variety of plant species, including countless medicinal plants in the Amazon region, as well as endemic flowers and cacti in the dry desert regions. The fauna is equally diverse, with an abundance of exotic birds like macaws and toucans in the rainforest, as well as large mammals such as pumas and tapirs. Peru's indigenous peoples, such as the Quechua and the Asháninka, have developed a close relationship with nature over centuries, preserving traditional knowledge about the use and protection of the environment. Despite challenges posed by deforestation, mining, and climate change, the protection and preservation of this diversity remain crucial for Peru's future and the well-being of its people and all humanity.
In the sacred valley of the Incas are these salt ponds. Traditionally, the salt mines have been available to any person of the community wishing to harvest salt. The size of the salt pond assigned to a family depends on the family's size.
My first stopover was in Paracas, where I stayed for a few days. I got off the bus early in the morning, where a friendly taxi driver greeted me directly. Actually, I wanted to walk, but the price was too cheap to say no. We drove along the paved road. I had no idea what kind of area my hostel was in. When we left the paved road and drove through a slum populated by stray dogs, I thought this was just the way to the hostel. But we stopped in the middle of it. I lit a cigarette and let the impression sink. After a few puffs Nicolas came out the door and greeted me warmly. I was 4 hours early but that wasn't a problem. His wife Mary immediately made me a fresh breakfast while Nicolas prepared my room. It was a very nice and maintained hostel. Not for high standards, but with a lot of love and attention. The first impression of Paracas immediately lost importance and I was glad to have such a nice accommodation. Tourism in Peru is just beginning to develop. But that's also its special charm.
The American oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) at the beach of Paracas, Peru.🏖 ☝It has a longer bill than the European oystercatcher (H. ostralegus). The American wears a brown coat, the European a black one.
On the beach of Paracas you have always seen this pelican. He's fed by the people so that he can serve as an attraction. It's not good for the environment to feed wild animals. Otherwise you can't blame the people. I think it was a brown pelican and not a Peruvian pelican.
