DEEP INTO THE MOUNTAIN

Villagers in San Pedro de Pichanz have several ways to protect themselves from getting lost, tired, or confused in their journeys into the mountains. They usually chew coca leaves while walking, and they smoke tobacco before crossing a river. Tobacco smoke also helps as a mosquito repellant; they typically make the cigarettes themselves. They also have the custom of painting a dirt cross on their forehead. This protects them from the dangers that they can come across. It's impressive to imagine farmers taking these walks every day. Juan Martin is a proud Cepro Yansehsa member, and his estate is called "The Falcon," perhaps alluding to the clear and broad perspective this animal has in order to survive.