Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
An Alpaca Farming Community

Alpaca farming in Peru fosters economic growth, enhancing education and healthcare access. Modern Peruvian society embraces alpacas as family, showcasing pride in cultural traditions. The seamless integration of humans and alpacas underscores their symbiotic relationship. Weaving, integral to Quechua culture, shapes regional identities and fosters intergenerational communication. However, climate change pressures farmers, altering traditional practices. Warmer temperatures force crops up mountainsides, while mountaintop mining destroys vital pastures, necessitating cultural adaptation.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2023
Date Uploaded: 10.2024
Photo Location: Peru
Camera: LEICA SL2
Copyright: © thibault gerbaldi