Life in the Andes as I saw it

It was the 2nd day on my Lares trek, we came across this beautiful landscape deep in the Andes. Some of the most basic shacks, at the foot of mountains, but still 3000m + above the sea level. These shacks, however basic, can house up to 7 or 8 people in 1 family.

Outside the shack, we've met a young mother and her two children. They haul drinks and snacks from the nearest town/village (which is miles and miles away), so that they can sell some of these to the passing travellers. We actually bought the 6 pack of beer in the photo. Danny actually carried it for the whole day of the hike up through 4800m highest pass. But enjoying them under the most beautiful starlight made everything worth while. But again, i'm only saying it because I never had to carry them.

We met the elder of the house, she was kind enough to invite us in for a visit and chat. The old lady and her family have lived here for generations, they live off the land, growing potato and herding llamas.

As you walk into the shack, I almost felt I have travelled back in time a few hundred years. The shack is small and dark, there is only 1 room and it's shared by 7 family members. There are no electricity, no running water, the ceiling of the hut is covered by wood burning tar as there's not even a chimney in the shack. There're all sorts of things hanging off the ceiling, looks as every cubic centermeter of the room is fully utilised.

As we sat down on the floor, I've noticed dozen of guinea pigs running around, dashing between everyone's legs. They are not pets, living in the andes is a lean operation, everything have to have its purpose.  And these guinea pigs (cuy) are simply dishes and food for the family in the coming days.

In the middle of the room, a wheel barrow loaded with a whole alpaca is ready to be prepared into their next meal.

On the way out, we met on of the child living here, she was full of life, I think the smile on her face shows it all. And it occurred to me, she does not have TV, barbie dolls or playstation, yet she can still be happy.

So what is it that makes them so happy? Is it because they do not know a life style outside, or is it simply because they're content.