In the quiet dawn of northern Peru, as the mist rises from the Pacific, apparitions emerge from the sea atop slender boats. These aren't just any vessels; they're Caballitos de totora – ‘little reed horses’ – a testament to a tradition that has endured for over three millennia.
Ancient craft, modern challenges
The fishers of Pimentel Beach are modern-day ‘riders of the sea,’ skilfully manoeuvring these handcrafted reed boats, a legacy of the ancient Moche and Chimú civilizations. These civilizations, renowned for their engineering prowess and artistic mastery, gifted the world with this unique design – a vessel unchanged for 3,000 years, a testament to their maritime ingenuity.
But tradition faces challenges. Modern fishing methods and the dwindling availability of reeds threaten this ancient practice. The Caballito de Totora Fishermen’s Association, established in 1975, is fighting to preserve their heritage while embracing a sustainable future. Their latest endeavour? A digital innovation called TrazApp.
