THE VICUNA
A Living Legacy of the Andes
The history of the vicuna is emblematic when it comes to species conservation. Once on the brink of extinction, this species has been revitalized thanks to international efforts led by initiatives like Incalpaca and the Inca Group. Not only does it reflect Peru’s natural richness, but it also holds cultural significance dating back to the Incan era, making it an ancestral symbol that encapsulates the essence of Andean biodiversity.
The Incas, renowned textile masters, held the vicuna in high esteem. They created garments blended with threads of gold, exclusively for nobility. Techniques like “Chaccu” combined human skill with respect for nature to corral these animals. However, the arrival of conquerors pushed vicunas to the high Andean altitudes, where they faced centuries of adversity and years of poaching, bringing them to the brink of extinction.
In the mid-1970s, cooperation between Peru and Germany marked the beginning of a remarkable recovery. This alliance, which banned international trade of vicuna fiber, along with reintroduced sustainable shearing practices, allowed the vicuna to thrive. The Inca Group, through Incalpaca, pioneered responsible vicuna management, ensuring their survival through organized “Chaccus” and promoting the motto “Sheared Vicuna, Saved Vicuna” as a conservation strategy.
Today, vicuna garments, known for their unparalleled fineness and thermal properties, are sold in the world’s most exclusive stores, symbolizing the fusion of tradition and sustainability. The Inca Group, heir to a rich textile heritage, continues this work by offering KUNA garments that celebrate the “Gold of the Andes,” keeping the vicuna legend alive.
This renaissance hasn’t only safeguarded the vicuna but has also benefited native Andean communities. Their involvement in protection and fiber transformation ensures fair income and contributes to the social and economic fabric of the region.
The Inca Group invites the world to discover the vicuna’s history and value, a treasure that binds humanity to nature in a relationship of mutual respect and harmony. Visit www.grupoinca.com to explore more about how this ancient textile tradition contributes to a sustainable future.
