The artisans of the Qaqachaca ethnic group are famous for crafting textiles: a knowledge inherited from their ancestors and still practised with passion today.
Unique fabrics that tell the story of daily life in Livichuco and the extraordinary nature that surrounds the village.
The community of Livichuco is located in the municipality of Challapata, department of Oruro. Here they make famous handcrafted textiles with animal figures and plant motifs that imitate the flora of the region. The artisans draw inspiration from natural beauty to embellish their garments dyed with natural colours made from herbs, plants and other locally sourced materials.
At Livichuco you can appreciate the entire process of fabric production, thanks to the stories and practical demonstrations of the artisans who are happy to share their knowledge and culture with travelers. Here you can learn every detail about crafting textiles, from the shearing process, the first step in obtaining quality fabrics, to the selection of the yarns, washing and spinning them, and then preparing the natural dyes – using centuries-old techniques – and, finally, weaving the garments. The use of specific tools, such as the distaff, and of instruments such as ground looms, which are absolutely necessary for weaving warm caps or aguayos, the typical rectangular cloths used throughout the plateau region to carry objects, besides sweaters and many other accessories; all unique objects for their handcrafted value.
At the end of the visit you can buy the items made during the demonstrations: garments and accessories that help preserve Livichuco's craftsmanship and textile culture, the best memory of your experience in this community.
Services
- Local guides available in Spanish
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear warm clothing, suitable for windy weather conditions, comfortable footprint shoes, cap, hat, and to bring sunglasses and a camera.
Where
Livichuco Community, Municipality of Challapata Department of Oruro
Transportation
By private transport
From La Paz or Oruro on Highway 1 towards the city of Challapata; then head along the main road towards Potosí and take the detour towards the Community of Livichuco; in this last section the road is dirt. The duration of the trip is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Challapata.
By public transport
There is no public transportation available.
Visiting Rules
For your health and the health of local population, remember to comply with all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: wear a mask and carry hand sanitizer, plus a first aid kit, with sunscreen and medications for altitude sickness.
During your visit remember to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.