The drive from Lima to Selva Alta, also known as the high jungle of Peru, is a captivating journey that takes you from the coastal desert to the lush and verdant landscapes of the Andean foothills and eventually into the Amazon rainforest. This route showcases Peru's incredible diversity in both geography and climate. Let's embark on this virtual road trip and explore the changing landscape along the way:
Starting Point: Lima
Our journey begins in Lima, the capital city of Peru, situated on the country's arid Pacific coast. The landscape here is characterized by barren sand dunes, coastal cliffs, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Lima's vibrant culture and bustling streets serve as the gateway to our adventure.
Coastal Desert
As you head south from Lima, you'll traverse the coastal desert, where the landscape is marked by rolling sand dunes, occasional oases, and small fishing villages along the coastline. The climate remains dry and arid, and you may pass through agricultural areas known for cultivating crops like asparagus and grapes.
The towns of Chincha Alta and Pisco are notable stops along this leg of the journey, known for their historical and culinary attractions.
Nasca
Continuing southward, you'll arrive in Nasca, home to the famous Nasca Lines. The Nasca Lines are enormous geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, depicting various animals and geometric shapes. This region showcases the intriguing melding of a desert landscape with the ancient mysteries of Nasca culture.
Acarí Desert and Andean Foothills
As you drive further south and east, you'll begin to ascend into the Andean foothills, leaving the arid coastal desert behind. The terrain becomes more rugged, and you'll encounter dramatic cliffs and canyons. The climate becomes cooler and more temperate as you approach Puquio, a town situated in the high Andes.
Selva Alta
From Puquio, you'll embark on a breathtaking journey into the Selva Alta, or the high jungle. The landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation as you descend into lush, tropical forests. The road winds through verdant valleys, crossed by pristine rivers and waterfalls.
The high jungle region is characterized by its mist-covered hills, vibrant vegetation, and diverse wildlife. You'll notice a significant increase in humidity and temperature as you make your way deeper into the rainforest.
Final Destination: The High Jungle
Your drive culminates in the high jungle, where you'll find charming towns like Oxapampa and Villa Rica. These areas are known for their coffee plantations, biodiversity, and rich indigenous culture. The high jungle offers opportunities for eco-tourism, wildlife observation, and exploring the vibrant traditions of the native communities.
The journey from Lima to Selva Alta is a remarkable exploration of Peru's geographical diversity, taking you from the coastal desert to the high Andes and ultimately into the lush embrace of the Amazon rainforest. Along the way, you'll witness dramatic changes in climate, vegetation, and culture, making it a truly unforgettable road trip through this multifaceted country.
Reflection
How are Peruvian teachers being trained to adapt, and overcome, the challenges that lie at the intersections of language, culture, and resources?
Several teachers at COAR Pasco came to this school in the small community from Lima. Having experienced life and education in a large, densely populated city, they made the change to the quieter lifestyle and the COAR system. They are diversity of this landscape personified. They embody education strives to do around the world - to traverse the difficult landscapes of communication, ideas, progress, and belonging. They adapt, as educators do, to not only the needs of their students, but to the needs of their own personal growth.
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