The Uru People

indigenous cultures · Lake Titicaca · floating islands · South America

Floating island builders. The Uru people live on about 120 self-made floating islands in Lake Titicaca, a huge lake between Bolivia and Peru. These islands aren't natural, they're constructed and maintained by the Uru themselves.

Made from reeds. The islands are built from totora reeds that grow in the lake. The Uru gather and layer these reeds to create solid ground where they can live, farm, and raise their families.

Three distinct groups. The Uru people are divided into three main groups: the Uru-Chipaya, Uru-Murato, and Uru-Iruito. Each group has its own traditions and lives in different areas around Lake Titicaca and the Desaguadero River.

Ancient Lake Titicaca home. Lake Titicaca is one of the highest lakes in the world, located in the Andes mountains. The Uru have adapted to this unique environment for centuries, making it their homeland.