3 Day Qoyllur Riti Camping Festival

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco to Mahuayani

Stop At: Ausangate, Cusco 08002 Peru
We leave Cusco in a private bus (06:00 am.), and drive along the road to Cusco – Puerto Maldonado Tinki direction (3800msnm) and Mahuayani, arriving by 04.00 hrs. about. We stop at Urcos, where we visit a beautiful lake with the same name. Then we go to Cattca, a farming and ranching community where we appreciate the spectacular views of the region, following Ocongate, the district capital of the same name. We’ll arrive at Tinki, the starting point for most migrating to the area of Ausangate, and finally Mahuayani (4600msnm) where we will camp the night. This will be roughly a 5 hour journey.

After Lunch we begin our climb up towards the Qoyllur Rit’i shrine, situated in a stunning area, surrounded by snowy mountains. We hike slowly through an ascending trail along which until we find 14 crosses located in a sanctuary that is revered. Upon arrival, we’ll settle into our campsite. At night we can enjoy the local festivities and costumes.
Duration: 5 hours

No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.

Day 2: Mahuayani to the Sanctuary of Qoyllur Rit’i

Stop At: Ausangate, Cusco 08002 Peru
This is the main day, with all of the traditional Andean festivities. After breakfast, we’ll begin our climb up towards the Qoyllur Rit’i shrine, situated in a stunning setting surrounded by glaciated mountains. The afternoon is reserved for activities such as: the procession of the Lord of the Virgin Tayancani, several dancing performances, and mass at the shrine at 6:00pm. After dinner, we’ll watch the participants burn “castles”, which are elaborate structures made of wood and fireworks. This is followed by “Dancing to the Child” to celebrate the Señor of Qoyllur Rit’i. To finish the evening, the pilgrims ascend the mountain to bring the 14 crosses down to the shrine.
Duration: 8 hours

No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.

Day 3: From the Sanctuary of Qoyllur Rit’i to Tayankani to Cusco

Stop At: Ausangate, Cusco 08002 Peru
We’ll wake up early (2am), pack our bags and prepare for an offering ceremony to the Apus (mountain gods) and Pachamama (the Earth Mother) to prepare ourselves for the pilgrimage. We’ll watch the Blessing Mass at 10:00am and return to Cusco at noon.
* Departure and arrival times are approximate.
Duration: 12 hours

No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.