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Quello Cocha (Arequipa)

Coordinates: 15°13′22″S 72°30′17″W / 15.22278°S 72.50472°W / -15.22278; -72.50472
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Quello Cocha
Quello Cocha is located in Peru
Quello Cocha
Quello Cocha
Peru
Highest point
Elevation4,800 m (15,700 ft)[1]
Coordinates15°13′22″S 72°30′17″W / 15.22278°S 72.50472°W / -15.22278; -72.50472
Geography
LocationPeru, Arequipa Region, Condesuyos Province
Parent rangeAndes

Quello Cocha (possibly from in the Quechua spelling Q'illuqucha or Q'illu Qucha; q'illu yellow, qucha lake,[2] "yellow lake") is a mountain in the Andes of Peru, about 4,800 m (15,748 ft) high. It is located in the Arequipa Region, Condesuyos Province, Cayarani District. Quello Cocha lies east of a lake named Tintarcocha (Tintarqucha).[1]

Geography

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Quello Cocha is located in the Andes mountains, within the Arequipa Region of southern Peru. It is surrounded by high-altitude terrain and indigenous flora, typical of the Andean ecosystem. The lake’s unique color, often attributed to mineral content in the water and soil, makes it a distinctive feature in the region’s landscape. [3]

Etymology

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The name "Quello Cocha" derives from the Quechua language, with qellu meaning "yellow" and qucha meaning "lake," describing its yellowish waters. The indigenous name reflects the cultural and linguistic heritage of the region, where Quechua influences remain strong.


Cultural Significance

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Quello Cocha holds cultural significance for the indigenous communities in the region, who regard it as part of the natural heritage of the Andes. The lake is included in local folklore and is sometimes visited by communities during traditional ceremonies or festivals.

Ecology

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The ecosystem around Quello Cocha includes high-altitude Andean flora and fauna. Typical plants include species adapted to the harsh mountain climate, while wildlife sightings may include native bird species and occasional visits from highland mammals. Efforts to preserve the local ecosystem focus on maintaining water quality and protecting native species.

Tourism

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Though not a major tourist destination, Quello Cocha attracts some visitors interested in natural landscapes and Andean culture. Travelers often combine visits to Quello Cocha with tours of Arequipa and other high-altitude attractions in the region.

Access

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Reaching Quello Cocha typically requires travel through the mountainous terrain of the Arequipa region. Roads are limited, and access may involve guided tours or treks, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with the Andean environment.

See Also

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References

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  1. ^ a b escale.minedu.gob.pe - UGEL map of the Condesuyos Province (Arequipa Region)
  2. ^ Teofilo Laime Ajacopa (2007). Diccionario Bilingüe: Iskay simipi yuyayk’anch: Quechua – Castellano / Castellano – Quechua (PDF). La Paz, Bolivia: futatraw.ourproject.org.
  3. ^ "Natural Heritage of Peru: Lakes of the Andes". Peru Travel Guide. Retrieved 2024-11-10.
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