Quinoa is the staple food of the diet that has nourished the people of the Andean highlands for thousands of years.
Flaming red and golden yellow hues light up the soil: the colours of the quinoa fields that surround the community of Santiago de Agencha.
The land of Santiago de Agencha, on the edge of the Salar de Uyuni salt flat, are perfect for quinoa production: the proximity to this huge deposit of minerals ensures the enviable fertility of the soil.
Walking through the fields you can distinguish between the different varieties of quinoa grown and the extraordinary combination of colours that characterises the landscape when the crops are ready to be harvested.
In a world where the balance between human action and the natural development of the environment is still untouched, the orderly regularity of the furrows gives an impression of serenity and harmony to the landscape.
Ancient customs and contemporary practices
But quinoa isn’t just a plant, it’s also a real intangible heritage: the "golden grain" is linked to the knowledge, traditions and agricultural practices that are lost in the mists of time.
In Santiago de Agencha, even today, farm labouring is still traditionally divided between men and women within the households. The men carry the farm equipment and implements, while the women do the planting, which can only take place at one condition: obtaining the permission of Mother Earth. Which is why, before sowing the crops, men and women engage in a ritual consisting of a table of offerings in honour of Pachamama, requesting Mother Earth for her permission to cultivate her fields and asking her to ensure a good harvest.
How is the table to Pachamama prepared? A small fire is lit over which herbs, grains, and sweets are burned; while the flames consume the offerings the locals pay homage to the land.
In addition to the division of labour within the family groups, the households that make up the community of Santiago de Agencha, also provide mutual aid to each other, a practice that has its roots in the area's pre-Hispanic past and which has helped farming since ancient times. This way, the households set up a quinoa sowing rota, with each household helping the others according to a collaborative approach. A centuries-old community practice that lives on here and in other areas of the country and is commonly known as ayni.
Quinoa growing is not just about hard work but is also a reason for celebrating by the households of the community, who gather and share a lunch in the fields. A good opportunity to enjoy nature and take a break.
Contact us to discover and experience the ancient traditions associated with growing quinoa in the fields of Santiago de Agencha with the members of the community.
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear warm and windproof clothing, comfortable shoes, hat, sunglasses and to bring sleeping bag.
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Weekend
Where
Santiago de Agencha community, Colcha k municipality, Potosí department.
Transportation
By private transport
From Uyuni crossing the salt flat towards the embankment near the Chuvica Community; from this point you can access the Community of Santiago de Agencha; a 4x4 vehicle is necessary.
However, it is highly recommended to cross the salt flat in the company of an expert driver to avoid getting lost.
By public transport
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, sunscreen and medications for altitude sickness.
During your visit remember to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.