Ep 7. The Huacharia
- TVPG
- October 8, 2010
- 43 min
Beyond Survival With Les Stroud season 1 episode 7 is titled "The Huacharia." In this episode, survival expert Les Stroud travels to the Andes Mountains in Peru to explore the traditional methods of the Huacharia, a group of indigenous people who live in the high altitude regions of the Andes.
The episode begins with Stroud arriving in Lima, Peru, and meeting with his local guide, Giancarlo. From there, they take a flight to the city of Cusco, where they pick up supplies and begin the journey to the Andes.
Once they reach the Huacharia's village, Stroud learns about their unique way of life, which revolves around the breeding and herding of alpacas. The Huacharia use every part of the alpaca, from the wool for clothing and blankets to the meat for food, and even the bones for tools and instruments.
Throughout the episode, Stroud joins the Huacharia in their daily activities, such as herding the alpacas and weaving blankets. He also learns how they use natural materials from the surrounding environment, such as plants and clay, to create pottery and other useful items.
In addition to learning about their survival techniques, Stroud also gets a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs of the Huacharia. They believe in a god named Pachamama, who is the earth mother and provider of all life. They also practice rituals and ceremonies to maintain a harmonious relationship with the land and animals.
As the episode progresses, Stroud faces some challenges while trying to adapt to the high altitude and cold temperatures of the Andes. He also witnesses the effects of climate change on the Huacharia's way of life, as changes in weather patterns have led to the loss of crops and animals.
Overall, "The Huacharia" offers a fascinating look into the unique culture and survival methods of the Huacharia people, who have thrived in the harsh conditions of the Andes for centuries. Through his experiences with the Huacharia, Stroud gains a new appreciation for the importance of sustainable living and respecting the natural world.
