The Ica Region in Peru, known for its impressive desert landscapes and rich cultural history, also exhibits remarkable biocultural diversity. From the endless sand dunes of the desert to the fertile valleys along the Ica River, this region offers a variety of ecosystems and habitats. The flora includes adaptable plant species like succulents and cacti in the dry desert regions, as well as a variety of agricultural crops like grapes, asparagus, and olives in the valleys and oases. The fauna is also diverse, encompassing endemic species like the Peruvian desert fox and the Andean fox, as well as a wealth of bird species like the Andean condor and the Chilean flamingo. The people in the Ica Region have developed a close relationship with nature over time and preserve traditional knowledge about the use and protection of the environment. Despite challenges from climate change and land use, protecting and preserving this biocultural diversity remains crucial for the future of the Ica Region and the well-being of its inhabitants.
🌊The Islas Ballestas are a group of small islands. They are part of a nature reserve and home to numerous animal species.🐧💩 Thousands of seabirds produce guano here. This is caused by the reaction of bird droppings and limestone and is traditionally used as a fertilizer 🚜, but also in the production of explosives💣. The word guano comes from Quechua, where it's called "wanu". 🤓 Responsible for the chemical reaction is the nucleobase guanine contained in the bird's urine.
The Islas Ballestas are a group of small islands. They are part of a nature reserve and home to numerous animal species. It was cool and a bit foggy, which are the best prepositions to see all the animals. For example, sea lions! When it gets hot during the day, they disappear in the ocean.
Maybe only in this one photo is hidden such a mystery. Maybe in each one. Whoooo knows? 😜😜😜 You can find this quite well at the beginning of my gallery. Tomorrow I'll be active here for one month. 😮 ✌
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.