Sibinacocha Research
Submerged survey and documentation at a high-altitude Andean lake
Overview
The Sibinacocha Research represents a pioneering effort in high-altitude underwater archaeology, conducted at 4,873 meters above sea level in Peru's Cusco region. This multi-year research initiative combines submerged and terrestrial archaeological survey with environmental documentation to understand long-term human-environment interactions in one of the world's highest navigable lakes.
The project employs cutting-edge underwater archaeological methods adapted for extreme altitude conditions, contributing to both regional archaeological knowledge and methodological innovations for high-altitude research. Collaborative partnerships with local indigenous communities ensure culturally sensitive research approaches while building local capacity for heritage management.
My Role
Scientific Diver, Anthropology, and Archaeological Survey
Responsible for conducting underwater archaeological survey and documentation at extreme altitude. Key activities include submerged site reconnaissance, stratigraphic recording, and collaboration with multidisciplinary research teams including archaeologists, conservators, and environmental scientists.
- High-altitude scientific diving operations (4,873m elevation)
- Underwater archaeological documentation and photography
- Integration of terrestrial and submerged survey data
Methods
🤿Submerged Survey & Recovery
- Systematic underwater transect survey
- GPS-guided dive operations
- Artifact identification and mapping
- Underwater photography and videography
📋Context Recording
- Detailed stratigraphic documentation
- 3D positioning and depth measurements
- Environmental context recording
- Digital database integration
- Chain of custody protocols
🤝Collaboration with Archaeologists & Conservators
Archaeological Integration
- Coordination with terrestrial excavation teams
- Artifact analysis and interpretation
- Site formation process documentation
- Cultural resource management protocols
Conservation Protocols
- Field conservation of recovered materials
- Environmental monitoring and protection
- Long-term preservation strategies
- Community-based conservation training
Project Details
Location: Sibinacocha, Cusco, Peru
Altitude: 4,873m above sea level
Duration: Multi-year project (2018-ongoing)
Role: Scientific Diver & Documentation Specialist
Collaborators: Local archaeological teams, indigenous communities
Key Achievements
- Established high-altitude diving protocols
- Documented underwater archaeological features
- Built collaborative community partnerships
- Contributed to regional site inventory
- Developed conservation protocols