Embark on a 3-day journey that will immerse you in the ancient traditions of the Peruvian Andes, exploring the magnificence of the pilgrimage to the Lord of Qoyllority. Departing from Cusco, the journey begins towards the Ocongate region, where you will start your hike towards the sanctuary guided by local experts. On this first day, you will learn about the deep cultural and religious significance of the event, connecting with the history and the community that supports it.
The second day will immerse you in authentic rituals, dances, and vibrant festivities while camping in the mountain heights. You will actively participate in celebrations that have endured over the centuries, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The experience will culminate on the third day, creating lasting memories and carrying with you the spiritual richness of Peru back to Cusco. This tour offers a unique opportunity to understand and live the essence of the Lord of Qoyllority, enriching your journey with a deep connection to ancestral traditions and the imposing Andean environment.
We will explore the fascinating tradition of Qoyllority, whose Quechua name means "snow star" or "shining snow." The inhabitants of the region honor Taytacha Qoyllority, known as the Replacement Lord of Snow.
This ancestral religious procession, exclusive to the Andean inhabitants, takes place days before the celebration of Corpus Christi. Each small town or clan sends a vibrant delegation of dancers and pabluchas to the Chapel of the Lord Qoyllority, located at the beginning of the Sinakara mountain, in the town of Mahuayani, at 4600 meters above sea level. The pabluchas, representing alpacas, act as intermediaries between the Lord of Qoyllority and the community.
Departure from Cusco begins at 5:00 am, heading towards the picturesque village of Mahuayani during a journey of approximately 3 hours. From there, we start our ascent hike towards the impressive Sanctuary of Qoylloritty, surrounded by imposing snow-covered mountains. Along the steep path, we encounter 14 revered crosses, culminating in the last one which is an integral part of the Sanctuary. Upon arrival, you will be accommodated at our campsite, providing free time to enjoy the afternoon. The activities at the Sanctuary are impressive, as well as the prominent presence of pilgrims who participate in this festival year after year.
This day stands out as one of the most active for pilgrims. We participate in the morning markets of "Alacitas," a peculiar exhibition where miniature products such as trucks, houses, livestock, and even university degrees are acquired. These purchases are made with a currency valid only during the Qoyllority festival, thus fulfilling individual wishes according to tradition. It is believed that everything achieved in this game will come true thanks to the power of the Lord of Qoyllority.
The day continues with the soul mass in the atrium of the sanctuary at 10:00 am, followed by the celebration of the "pablitos" mass at 12:00 pm.
The afternoon is reserved for various activities that everyone is invited to join: the procession of the Lord of Tayancani and the Virgin, several dance performances, another mass at the Sanctuary at 6:00 pm, and the singing to the Lord at 7:00 pm.
As night falls, after dinner, we delight in the "Burning of Castles" spectacle, where wooden constructions are set ablaze with fireworks, followed by "The Dance of the Child." Later, pilgrims head to the snow-covered mountain and glaciers to knock down the crosses until reaching the Sanctuary.
After waking up early at 7:00 am, we pack our bags and prepare to start the pilgrimage. We wait and participate in the blessing mass at 10:00 am. At noon, we enjoy a lunch before descending to the village of Mahuayani.
In the afternoon, we head back to Cusco aboard our private transportation, a journey that will take approximately 5 hours. We plan to arrive around 6:00 pm.
Additional horse: If you encounter problems or are not prepared for the pace of the expedition, you can hire this service. It costs USD 20.00 per one-way trip from Mahuayani to Qoyllorrity, as needed.
Reservations are made in advance with a 30% payment of the total cost. The remaining balance is paid in cash in Cusco during the informational briefing.
Travel packages and programs include transaction fees for the 30% reservation payments.
Tour rescheduling is allowed with proper notice, except for Machu Picchu tours. Passenger no-shows will result in the total loss of the service. Cancellation or withdrawal from the service will not be eligible for a refund.
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