THE CELEBRATION OF THE INTI RAYMY 4d/3n
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the Inti Raymi was the Empire's foremost celebration.
The sun's golden rays shine with a unusual intensity; at least that's the sensation it gives in Cusco - the magnetic center of the world - on the day of the Inti Raymi Celebration of the Sun. Perhaps it's simply a hallucination, an optical illusion or a mirage contrived by the profuse intensity of myths and legends or, maybe, an effect of the magic that pervades the physical limit of the stone walls of the Empire's ancient capital and is absorbed in soul and heart of whoever visits it. And this is because on June 24 it seems as if the city was cloaked in the past and the days of the Tawantinsuyo have returned. Once again, it is Inca who rules; once again, the sun is the Supreme God to whom to pray for abundant harvests and for famine to be vanished.
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the Inti Raymi was the Empire's foremost celebration. It was held during the winter solstice, when the sun is at its furthermost distance from the Equator. The children of the Empire feared that their God, the source of life, would disappear into the vastness of the universe; to prevent this from happening, they implored and begged for him to stay and therefore the Empire would not be overcome by famine.
Day 01: CUSCO.-
In the morning, you’ll be transferred to the Lima Airport for the flight to Cusco (11,000 ft). Upon arrival, we'll go to our hotel and check in followed by a few cups of coca tea to ward off the altitude sickness. Lunch. Ahead of us, we will have a half-day tour of the highlights of Cusco. We will visit the Qorikancha Temple, The Main Square, the megalithic temple of Saqsaywaman, Q'enko, Pucapukara, and Tambomachay. Return to Cusco. Hotel. (B/L)
Day 02: CUSCO - SACRED VALLEY OF THE INKAS (Full Day)
After breakfast you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the Pisaq (9,750 ft)archeological site. You'll be conducted on a guided walking tour around this marvelous templeperched above the dizzying Vilcanota River. Then we’ll visit the Pisaq Andean market. We'll have a buffet lunch and we continue on to Ollantaytambo (9,200 ft). This is a perfect place to appreciate the technology and the vast archeological remnants of Inkas organization. There will be a guided tour. After Ollantaytambo, we'll drive up to Chinchero in our way back to Cusco. Here we’ll visit the colonial church of Nuestra Señora de Monserrate and the archeologicalcomplex. Hotel. (B/L)
Day 03: FESTIVAL OF THE SUN
This is the second largest festival in South America. Hundreds of thousands of people converge on Cusco from other parts of the nation, South America and the world for a weeklong celebration marking the beginning of a new year, the Inti Raymi, or The Festival of the Sun. The Inti Raymi was a religious ceremony of the Inka Empire in honor of the god “Inti” (Sun God), and was the most important Inka Feast celebrated every winter’s solstice. The version is expressed in the original Quechua language. The celebration starts on the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) then continues to the Saqsaywaman (12,140 ft), we will provide you the transportation, guide, entrance and box lunch. Afterwards you will be transfer by car to Ollantaytambo in your way by train to Aguas Calientes. Reception, transfer to the Hotel and overnight. (B/L)
Day 04: MACHUPICCHU
Very early and after breakfast we will start our ramble to arrive to Intipunku or The Sun Gate and we can have the first magnificent view of the terrific striking Machupicchu (7.900 ft), then we will descend to our excursion guided to the beautiful Inka Sanctuary, Our hour-long scheduled visit allows you a calm, quiet visit and lets you enjoy the natural beauty and the magical environment of this masterpiece of the Andean man. You'll be conducted on guided tour. After the scheduled hour, you can explore and relax by yourself. After a morning of wandering through the Sanctuary of Machupicchu, we'll return to Aguas Calientes and have lunch. We'll transfer from Aguas Calientes (6,560 ft) to Ollantaytambo (9,200 ft) by train, and by bus proceed back to Cusco. We'll check into our hotel and spend the night there. Farewell dinner show
INCLUDED
1.All the trips and private ground transportation described in the program, including train Cusco - Machupicchu - Ollantaytambo and transfer by bus Ollantaytambo - Cusco
2.Accommodations in select hotels, based on double or single occupancy with breakfast included and one night at Aguas Calientes
3.All the meals indicated in the program. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
4.Entry to all the sites listed in the program. (Optional visits are the responsibility of the individual)
5.All scheduled excursions with English-speaking guide services
6.First Aid kits and all safety equipment including oxygen tank if needed
7.Personalized attention and assistance
NOT INCLUDED
1.International and domestic airfares
2.Fees, tariffs, or taxes for international or domestic flights
3.Re-entry to tourist attractions
4.Personal Expenses
5.Excess baggage charges
6.Additional nights during trip due to flight cancellations
7.Insurance of any kind
8.Extra food or beverages
9.Tips
10.Other costs not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Festival of the sun party
pax 1
Pax 2,3
Pax 4
Pax 6 +
Pax
4d/3n
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
viernes, 14 de mayo de 2010
VIRGIN OF PAUCARTAMBO FESTIVAL 3 Days - 02 Nights
VIRGIN OF PAUCARTAMBO FESTIVAL 3 Days - 02 Nights
For a few days out of each year the quiet, colonial backwater town of Paucartambo comes to life. It is suddenly overfilled with thousands of visitors, spectators who come to see and be a part of one of South America’s most vibrant and fascinating fiestas.
For five days, ( starting on the 15th of July), thousands of devotees hold festivals in honor of the Virgin del Carmen, known locally as Mamacha Carmen, patron saint of the mestizo population. Dance groups, all magnificently masked and costumed in accordance with their respective customs, accompany the Mamacha in a huge parade, gaily dancing down the city streets. Behind them the entire population of the town gathers quietly, forming itself into a pious mass bearing candles, flowers and other offerings. It is a colorful mix of Andean pre-Columbian ceremonies and Catholic religion in which many ancient gods and rites are honored. The Virgin del Carmen (the virgin of Mount Carmel) is a particular apparition of the Mother of Jesus. Images of the Virgin always show her dressed in brown and tan, wearing a flat crown, and holding the Infant Jesus; both of them hold scapulars in their hands. It is said that all those who die while wearing the blessed scapular of the Lady will be saved from the fires of Hell, no matter how great their sins. The Spanish introduced the custom of paying homage to the Virgin. The festival comes from the Old World, where the Virgin was honored in seaports as Stella Maris. The tradition has its origins in the Old Testament, when the prophet Elias retreated to a cave in Mount Carmel in Israel. Many centuries later, hermits following in Elijah's footsteps asked for the protection of the Virgin of Carmen. Mariners and fishermen everywhere soon adopted her as their patron saint. There is a legend that tells of how the festival first came to Paucartambo: long ago, every year during the first days of July, a wealthy woman called Felipa Begolla would always come to Paucartambo to trade goods. She would come with her mule train laden with goods from her homeland, which she exchanged for Paucartambo’s produce.One year on July 16th, while she was unpacking her bundles, Felipa found the head of a beautiful woman radiating rays of light lying among the pots and pans. When she tried to cry out, she found that she could not speak, and when she tried to run she was unable to move. Then the lovely head spoke to her, calming her fears and telling her that her name was Carmen.Felipa put the head on a fine silver dish that she had been carrying with her to trade and, as the head glowed brilliantly, a crowd of muleteers and neighbors gathered around it. A carpenter was commissioned to carve a wooden body for the head and, mounted on an elaborate litter, the Virgin was carried to the local church where her miraculous image was placed on one side of the main altar. On July 16th, now the main day of the fiesta, the Virgin, beautifully adorned, is borne aloft in a fantastic procession through the streets to bless those present and scare away demons. Some of the dancers –the Saqras- in a representation of the never-ending battle between the forces of good and evil, daringly perform gymnastic feats on the housetops, showing off their colorful Inca and colonial garb while they try to seduce the Virgin, crying out as if in pain and trying to avoid her impassive stare. Afterwards, a symbolic battle is staged amongst the devout dancers and the demons, with the traditional victory of the faithful.On the 17th, a feast is held that includes the dead. All the people of the town go to the cemetery to visit their dead relatives and friends. They carry food and drink to celebrate beside the graves.Preparations for the fiesta begin weeks before July 14th, since, on that day and the ones that follow it, everybody is dedicated to celebrating and honoring their patron and do not have time to work.In particular, the 16 groups of dancers, or comparsas, are kept quite busy learning and rehearsing their strict choreography over the few weeks before the celebration. They all represent semi-mythical characters, derived from Peruvian historical folktales and legends, such as malaria victims, Ukukus (half man half bear), condor-men and warlike jungle Indians. On horseback or on foot they reel through the streets throughout the fiesta. A few examples of the different comparsas (participants)
Tres Cruces sits at the edge of the Andes Mountains with a spectacular, never-ending view of the flat Amazon. Sunrise in the months of June and July are characterized by bizarre double-images and the optical illusion of the sun bouncing around during sunrise.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - PAUCARTAMBO
Early morning transfer by private transportation from Cusco to Paucartambo village visiting areas such as Urcos and the Ch'ullpas of Ninamarka. About 10.00 am we arrive at Paucartambo(13,200 ft), lodging in a shared accommodations and taking a rest. Then we have a walking tour with our private guide sorrunded by thousands of devotes and visitors. Next we have a buffet lunch with typical cuisine. Later in the afternoon we can observe the sixteen colorful “comparsas”, dancing in honour of the Mamacha del Carmen. After lunch, a riotous firework display is held in the main square, during which the Qhapaq Qolla, the Ch’unchos and the Saqras dance wildly like some medieval vision of hell called “Fogata”. The fogata ('fire') is staged in the night, a representation of Purgatory which continues with a big fiesta and serenade to the Virgen del Carmen. At around midnight, in an emotional gathering, all the comparsas meet again - this time without their elaborate costumes - to solemnly serenade the Virgin in front of the closed doors of the church. (L/D)
Day 02: PAUCARTAMBO - TRES CRUCES DE ORO
After breakfast we attend Central Mass following the great procession of “La Mamacha” to bless those present and scare away demons. We’ll see the different comparsas and specially the “Saqras” who occupy the rooftops and balconies of the town; these are Euro-Andean devils, dressed in vivid rainbow-colored costumes and elaborate animal masks crowned with extravagant wigs. Then we eat lunch. The afternoon is free for enjoying and exploring the site. We have dinner, and then we make our way towards the camp Tres Cruces de Oro, 40 km north away from Paucartambo, which is situated on the very edge of the Andes mountains at a height of 12,100 feet. From Tres Cruces, there is a steep drop into the Amazon basin, which means the view is incredible. It’s most famous for the sunrise in the months of June and July because special climatic conditions mean that there are optical illusions. (B/L/D)
Day 03: PAUCARTAMBO - CUSCO
Wake up before dawn and then we set out to see one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in the world: the sunrise at Tres Cruces de Oro (12,100 ft), where the Sun "dances" in the sky, or the Sun “plays” in the sky. We eat some snacks and we return back to Paucartambo. Breakfast. This day we attend with our guide the Blessing Mass. In the afternoon the image of the Virgin is carried through the narrow streets of the village to the venerable colonial-era bridge named Carlos III, surrounded by all those who have attended the festival, standing or kneeling tightly-packed and respectfully silent, the Qhapaq Qolla and Qhapaq Negro address the Virgin in a moving song of farewell. On this place the Virgin imparts her blessings to the fourth regions (suyos). Ended the procession continues the spectacular “guerrilla” between the group of the Qollas of the Andes and the Antis of the jungle who do mock-battle in a hilarious slapstick encounter recalling the wars between Qollasuyo and Antisuyo in the time of the Inkas. Finally the comparsas venture forth for the last time to dance the traditional Kachapari or farewell, closing for another year this magic feast. Return to Cusco. (B/L)
End of our services
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Paucartambo - Tres Cruces - Paucartambo - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.One night in basic accommodations in Paucartambo village with breakfast included
3.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
4.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
5.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
6.Full camping equipment for the 2nd day: large tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs and kitchen tent
7.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Insurance of any kind
6.Personal Expenses
7.Tips
8.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least 2 days prior to trek departure
SEASON
•15th or 16th17th July
Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Ask. - info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Paucartambo festival
pax 1 550.00
Pax 2,3 380.00
Pax 4 330.00
Pax 6 + 300.00
Pax
3 D/2n 550.00 380.00 330.00 300.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
For a few days out of each year the quiet, colonial backwater town of Paucartambo comes to life. It is suddenly overfilled with thousands of visitors, spectators who come to see and be a part of one of South America’s most vibrant and fascinating fiestas.
For five days, ( starting on the 15th of July), thousands of devotees hold festivals in honor of the Virgin del Carmen, known locally as Mamacha Carmen, patron saint of the mestizo population. Dance groups, all magnificently masked and costumed in accordance with their respective customs, accompany the Mamacha in a huge parade, gaily dancing down the city streets. Behind them the entire population of the town gathers quietly, forming itself into a pious mass bearing candles, flowers and other offerings. It is a colorful mix of Andean pre-Columbian ceremonies and Catholic religion in which many ancient gods and rites are honored. The Virgin del Carmen (the virgin of Mount Carmel) is a particular apparition of the Mother of Jesus. Images of the Virgin always show her dressed in brown and tan, wearing a flat crown, and holding the Infant Jesus; both of them hold scapulars in their hands. It is said that all those who die while wearing the blessed scapular of the Lady will be saved from the fires of Hell, no matter how great their sins. The Spanish introduced the custom of paying homage to the Virgin. The festival comes from the Old World, where the Virgin was honored in seaports as Stella Maris. The tradition has its origins in the Old Testament, when the prophet Elias retreated to a cave in Mount Carmel in Israel. Many centuries later, hermits following in Elijah's footsteps asked for the protection of the Virgin of Carmen. Mariners and fishermen everywhere soon adopted her as their patron saint. There is a legend that tells of how the festival first came to Paucartambo: long ago, every year during the first days of July, a wealthy woman called Felipa Begolla would always come to Paucartambo to trade goods. She would come with her mule train laden with goods from her homeland, which she exchanged for Paucartambo’s produce.One year on July 16th, while she was unpacking her bundles, Felipa found the head of a beautiful woman radiating rays of light lying among the pots and pans. When she tried to cry out, she found that she could not speak, and when she tried to run she was unable to move. Then the lovely head spoke to her, calming her fears and telling her that her name was Carmen.Felipa put the head on a fine silver dish that she had been carrying with her to trade and, as the head glowed brilliantly, a crowd of muleteers and neighbors gathered around it. A carpenter was commissioned to carve a wooden body for the head and, mounted on an elaborate litter, the Virgin was carried to the local church where her miraculous image was placed on one side of the main altar. On July 16th, now the main day of the fiesta, the Virgin, beautifully adorned, is borne aloft in a fantastic procession through the streets to bless those present and scare away demons. Some of the dancers –the Saqras- in a representation of the never-ending battle between the forces of good and evil, daringly perform gymnastic feats on the housetops, showing off their colorful Inca and colonial garb while they try to seduce the Virgin, crying out as if in pain and trying to avoid her impassive stare. Afterwards, a symbolic battle is staged amongst the devout dancers and the demons, with the traditional victory of the faithful.On the 17th, a feast is held that includes the dead. All the people of the town go to the cemetery to visit their dead relatives and friends. They carry food and drink to celebrate beside the graves.Preparations for the fiesta begin weeks before July 14th, since, on that day and the ones that follow it, everybody is dedicated to celebrating and honoring their patron and do not have time to work.In particular, the 16 groups of dancers, or comparsas, are kept quite busy learning and rehearsing their strict choreography over the few weeks before the celebration. They all represent semi-mythical characters, derived from Peruvian historical folktales and legends, such as malaria victims, Ukukus (half man half bear), condor-men and warlike jungle Indians. On horseback or on foot they reel through the streets throughout the fiesta. A few examples of the different comparsas (participants)
Tres Cruces sits at the edge of the Andes Mountains with a spectacular, never-ending view of the flat Amazon. Sunrise in the months of June and July are characterized by bizarre double-images and the optical illusion of the sun bouncing around during sunrise.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - PAUCARTAMBO
Early morning transfer by private transportation from Cusco to Paucartambo village visiting areas such as Urcos and the Ch'ullpas of Ninamarka. About 10.00 am we arrive at Paucartambo(13,200 ft), lodging in a shared accommodations and taking a rest. Then we have a walking tour with our private guide sorrunded by thousands of devotes and visitors. Next we have a buffet lunch with typical cuisine. Later in the afternoon we can observe the sixteen colorful “comparsas”, dancing in honour of the Mamacha del Carmen. After lunch, a riotous firework display is held in the main square, during which the Qhapaq Qolla, the Ch’unchos and the Saqras dance wildly like some medieval vision of hell called “Fogata”. The fogata ('fire') is staged in the night, a representation of Purgatory which continues with a big fiesta and serenade to the Virgen del Carmen. At around midnight, in an emotional gathering, all the comparsas meet again - this time without their elaborate costumes - to solemnly serenade the Virgin in front of the closed doors of the church. (L/D)
Day 02: PAUCARTAMBO - TRES CRUCES DE ORO
After breakfast we attend Central Mass following the great procession of “La Mamacha” to bless those present and scare away demons. We’ll see the different comparsas and specially the “Saqras” who occupy the rooftops and balconies of the town; these are Euro-Andean devils, dressed in vivid rainbow-colored costumes and elaborate animal masks crowned with extravagant wigs. Then we eat lunch. The afternoon is free for enjoying and exploring the site. We have dinner, and then we make our way towards the camp Tres Cruces de Oro, 40 km north away from Paucartambo, which is situated on the very edge of the Andes mountains at a height of 12,100 feet. From Tres Cruces, there is a steep drop into the Amazon basin, which means the view is incredible. It’s most famous for the sunrise in the months of June and July because special climatic conditions mean that there are optical illusions. (B/L/D)
Day 03: PAUCARTAMBO - CUSCO
Wake up before dawn and then we set out to see one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in the world: the sunrise at Tres Cruces de Oro (12,100 ft), where the Sun "dances" in the sky, or the Sun “plays” in the sky. We eat some snacks and we return back to Paucartambo. Breakfast. This day we attend with our guide the Blessing Mass. In the afternoon the image of the Virgin is carried through the narrow streets of the village to the venerable colonial-era bridge named Carlos III, surrounded by all those who have attended the festival, standing or kneeling tightly-packed and respectfully silent, the Qhapaq Qolla and Qhapaq Negro address the Virgin in a moving song of farewell. On this place the Virgin imparts her blessings to the fourth regions (suyos). Ended the procession continues the spectacular “guerrilla” between the group of the Qollas of the Andes and the Antis of the jungle who do mock-battle in a hilarious slapstick encounter recalling the wars between Qollasuyo and Antisuyo in the time of the Inkas. Finally the comparsas venture forth for the last time to dance the traditional Kachapari or farewell, closing for another year this magic feast. Return to Cusco. (B/L)
End of our services
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Paucartambo - Tres Cruces - Paucartambo - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.One night in basic accommodations in Paucartambo village with breakfast included
3.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
4.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
5.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
6.Full camping equipment for the 2nd day: large tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs and kitchen tent
7.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Insurance of any kind
6.Personal Expenses
7.Tips
8.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least 2 days prior to trek departure
SEASON
•15th or 16th17th July
Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Ask. - info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Paucartambo festival
pax 1 550.00
Pax 2,3 380.00
Pax 4 330.00
Pax 6 + 300.00
Pax
3 D/2n 550.00 380.00 330.00 300.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
PILGRIMAGE TO THE LORD OF QOYLLURIT'I 5 Days /4 Nights
PILGRIMAGE TO THE LORD OF QOYLLURIT'I 5 Days /4 Nights
The sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllurit'i (Snow Star) is located in the foothills of Mount Sinaq'ara 136 km from Cusco at 15,000 feet of height. This is one of the great pilgrimages bringing together people of the Andes since ancient times.
All the "nations" around Ausangate Mountain sent their "gift" or delegation of dancers and musicians which are offered both for the Cristo de las Nieves and for the Sacred Mountain. In this way they show their gratitude and ask for a bountiful harvest, livestock protection, welfare and health. At present, this Indian-Catholic event is held each year since 1780, just before the catholic celebration of Corpus Christi, bringing thousands of pilgrims and visitors to maintain and renew the traditions, faith and worship to the Lord of Qoylluriti; always accompanied by the pilgrims, native dances and the inevitable Pablitos or ukukos (half man and half bear), magical beings who mediate between men and the spirits of the mountains. This character is just as responsible for carrying a symbolic piece of ice from the mountain that will renew the waters and rivers of their own group or nation.
The trip we offer is the same pilgrimage practiced by the peoples of this land.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - MAWAYANI
We leave the city of Cusco in a private bus, and drive along Cusco - Puerto Maldonado highway heading Mawayani (13,000 ft). On the way we’ll visit the Inka site of Tipón and the pre-Inka archeological complex of Piquillacta as well as Urcos, where we visit a beautiful lake with the same name. Lunch. We go on passing by Cattca, Ocongate, Tinqui and finally Mawayani after an approximated seven-hour drive. Late in the afternoon, we have the chance to visit the local market, before having dinner at our camp nearby. (L/T/D)
Day 02: MAWAYANI - SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I
At 3.00 am we begin one of the most important pilgrimages of the Andes towards Lord of Qoylluriti Sanctuary(15,000 ft), located in a breathtaking spot and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We slowly hike though an uphill trail along which we will encounter 14 crosses that are venerated on the way; the last one is already located at the Sanctuary. Upon arrival, we will be accommodated at our camp, take a rest and then we’ll have breakfast. Afterwards we will visit the chapel with hundreds of indigenous peoples, visitors and the gangs of dancers and musicians. Lunch. In the afternoon we’ll visit the "Alacitas" market. This is a very curious display in which one buys miniature goods such as cars, houses, cattle, university titles and others, that is only valid during the Qoyllurit’i festivity, according to one’s real wishes. The legend says that whatever you accomplish in this “ritual”, will come true thanks to the power of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i. We stay overnight and then have dinner. (B/L/T/D)
Day 03: LORD OF THE SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - SINAQ'ARA
This day is fully spent at the sanctuary. We will attend the Soul Mass at the sanctuary atrium. We ascend to foothills of Sinaq'ara mount to observe the arrival of Ukukus carrying and sharing a sacred piece of ice. This is a good place to have wonderful views of the festivity itself. We will return to our camp. Lunch. The afternoon is reserved for other activities, for all wanting to join them: the procession of the Lord of Tayankani and the Virgin, several dancing performances, mass at the Sanctuary and the singing to the Lord. At night, after dinner, we enjoy the spectacular “Burning of Castles”, in which wooden construction with fireworks are burned. (B/L/T/D)
Day 04: SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - TAYANKANI
After an early wake up, we pack our bags and get ready for the pilgrimage. We wait and attend the Blessing Mass at 10.00 am and at noon we leave in the so-called “24 hour procession”, together with the rest of pilgrims. The procession leaves from the Sanctuary and runs through Calvario, Machucruz, lagoon Kumukasa and Alqamarina sectors, until reaching Yanacocha, where we arrive at around 06.00 pm. We then take a break for three or four hours and we start again walking during the night towards Tayancani. Visibility is not a problem because the moonlight on this time of the year is enough for the night hike. (B/LT/D)
Day 05: TAYANKANI - CUSCO
Breakfast. After a spectacular night pilgrimage through the Andes, we wait for sunrise, the impressive “Sun Greeting” ceremony. This is a really impressive and moving experience where two of the most important indigenous communities descend in two giant lines from the mountain to encircle one specified area called Intilloqsemunapata (the place where the sun shows itself). Next we descend to Tayancani and attend the blessing mass at this inhospitable and magical place. We continue on hiking up a mountain pass and then down to Ocongate, where we have lunch. In the afternoon, we board our private transportation back to Cusco. (B/L)
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Mawayani and Ocongate - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
3.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
4.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
5.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
6.Full camping equipment: large igloo tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen tent, basic toilet facilities & a tap at each camp
7.Horsemen, cookers and horses (to carry tents, food, cooking equipment and personal luggage)
8.Accommodation for our crew
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Excess baggage charges
6.Insurance of any kind
7.Personal Expenses
8.Tips
9.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We suggest staying at high altitude above 9,500 ft in Cusco or another high altitude city for at least two to three days before undertaking the trip (Review Tour extensions)
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least two days prior to trek departure
•You can choose Lord of Qoyllurit’i 03 Days – 02 Nights
•Campsites are subject to change according to the designation as well as to our guide’s criteria and the group progress
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Piligrimage to the lord of qoylluritti
pax 1 600.00
Pax 2,3 450.00
Pax 4 400.00
Pax 6 + 370.00
Pax
5d/4n 600.00 450.00 400.00 370.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
The sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllurit'i (Snow Star) is located in the foothills of Mount Sinaq'ara 136 km from Cusco at 15,000 feet of height. This is one of the great pilgrimages bringing together people of the Andes since ancient times.
All the "nations" around Ausangate Mountain sent their "gift" or delegation of dancers and musicians which are offered both for the Cristo de las Nieves and for the Sacred Mountain. In this way they show their gratitude and ask for a bountiful harvest, livestock protection, welfare and health. At present, this Indian-Catholic event is held each year since 1780, just before the catholic celebration of Corpus Christi, bringing thousands of pilgrims and visitors to maintain and renew the traditions, faith and worship to the Lord of Qoylluriti; always accompanied by the pilgrims, native dances and the inevitable Pablitos or ukukos (half man and half bear), magical beings who mediate between men and the spirits of the mountains. This character is just as responsible for carrying a symbolic piece of ice from the mountain that will renew the waters and rivers of their own group or nation.
The trip we offer is the same pilgrimage practiced by the peoples of this land.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - MAWAYANI
We leave the city of Cusco in a private bus, and drive along Cusco - Puerto Maldonado highway heading Mawayani (13,000 ft). On the way we’ll visit the Inka site of Tipón and the pre-Inka archeological complex of Piquillacta as well as Urcos, where we visit a beautiful lake with the same name. Lunch. We go on passing by Cattca, Ocongate, Tinqui and finally Mawayani after an approximated seven-hour drive. Late in the afternoon, we have the chance to visit the local market, before having dinner at our camp nearby. (L/T/D)
Day 02: MAWAYANI - SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I
At 3.00 am we begin one of the most important pilgrimages of the Andes towards Lord of Qoylluriti Sanctuary(15,000 ft), located in a breathtaking spot and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We slowly hike though an uphill trail along which we will encounter 14 crosses that are venerated on the way; the last one is already located at the Sanctuary. Upon arrival, we will be accommodated at our camp, take a rest and then we’ll have breakfast. Afterwards we will visit the chapel with hundreds of indigenous peoples, visitors and the gangs of dancers and musicians. Lunch. In the afternoon we’ll visit the "Alacitas" market. This is a very curious display in which one buys miniature goods such as cars, houses, cattle, university titles and others, that is only valid during the Qoyllurit’i festivity, according to one’s real wishes. The legend says that whatever you accomplish in this “ritual”, will come true thanks to the power of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i. We stay overnight and then have dinner. (B/L/T/D)
Day 03: LORD OF THE SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - SINAQ'ARA
This day is fully spent at the sanctuary. We will attend the Soul Mass at the sanctuary atrium. We ascend to foothills of Sinaq'ara mount to observe the arrival of Ukukus carrying and sharing a sacred piece of ice. This is a good place to have wonderful views of the festivity itself. We will return to our camp. Lunch. The afternoon is reserved for other activities, for all wanting to join them: the procession of the Lord of Tayankani and the Virgin, several dancing performances, mass at the Sanctuary and the singing to the Lord. At night, after dinner, we enjoy the spectacular “Burning of Castles”, in which wooden construction with fireworks are burned. (B/L/T/D)
Day 04: SANCTUARY QOYLLURIT'I - TAYANKANI
After an early wake up, we pack our bags and get ready for the pilgrimage. We wait and attend the Blessing Mass at 10.00 am and at noon we leave in the so-called “24 hour procession”, together with the rest of pilgrims. The procession leaves from the Sanctuary and runs through Calvario, Machucruz, lagoon Kumukasa and Alqamarina sectors, until reaching Yanacocha, where we arrive at around 06.00 pm. We then take a break for three or four hours and we start again walking during the night towards Tayancani. Visibility is not a problem because the moonlight on this time of the year is enough for the night hike. (B/LT/D)
Day 05: TAYANKANI - CUSCO
Breakfast. After a spectacular night pilgrimage through the Andes, we wait for sunrise, the impressive “Sun Greeting” ceremony. This is a really impressive and moving experience where two of the most important indigenous communities descend in two giant lines from the mountain to encircle one specified area called Intilloqsemunapata (the place where the sun shows itself). Next we descend to Tayancani and attend the blessing mass at this inhospitable and magical place. We continue on hiking up a mountain pass and then down to Ocongate, where we have lunch. In the afternoon, we board our private transportation back to Cusco. (B/L)
INCLUDED
1.All the roundtrip Cusco - Mawayani and Ocongate - Cusco by private ground transportation
2.Excellent meals as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, T=Tea time)
3.Fully guided sightseeing during the trip
4.English speaking professional guide services included guide assistant
5.First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank if needed
6.Full camping equipment: large igloo tents for 2 people, Double thickness foam mattress, dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen tent, basic toilet facilities & a tap at each camp
7.Horsemen, cookers and horses (to carry tents, food, cooking equipment and personal luggage)
8.Accommodation for our crew
NOT INCLUDED
2.Sleeping bags
3.Personal equipment
4.Extra food or beverages
5.Excess baggage charges
6.Insurance of any kind
7.Personal Expenses
8.Tips
9.Others not specified
RECOMMENDATIONS AND NOTES
•We suggest staying at high altitude above 9,500 ft in Cusco or another high altitude city for at least two to three days before undertaking the trip (Review Tour extensions)
•We can provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least two days prior to trek departure
•You can choose Lord of Qoyllurit’i 03 Days – 02 Nights
•Campsites are subject to change according to the designation as well as to our guide’s criteria and the group progress
Prices (US $):
Private Service
Piligrimage to the lord of qoylluritti
pax 1 600.00
Pax 2,3 450.00
Pax 4 400.00
Pax 6 + 370.00
Pax
5d/4n 600.00 450.00 400.00 370.00
More details at: info-cusco@incalandadventures.com
viernes, 26 de marzo de 2010
martes, 23 de febrero de 2010
THE AUSANGATE GEOLOGICAL HISTORY
THE AUSANGATE GEOLOGICAL HISTORY The Cordillera de Vilcanota has the second largest concentration of glaciers in Perú; it extends in a northerly direction for about 80 km and then in a westerly direction for about 40 km between lat 13°39' and 14°29'S. and long 70°31' and 71°20'W. (fig. 2, table 1). The glacierized area is 539 km2, as estimated from Landsat images. Drainage is eastward to the Atlantic Ocean by Río Vilcanota, Río Paucartambo, Río Inambari, and Río Madre de Dios. The highest mountain is Nevado Ausangate at 6,384 m asl. Hollin and Schilling (1981, p. 191), referring to the work of Mercer and Palacios (1977), note that "on the north side of [Nevado] Ausangate (6,400 m) in the Upismayo Valley, the present glacier front is at about 4,600 m, while the late Wisconsin-Weichselian limit (sometime between 29,000 and 14,000 B.P.) was at about 4,200 m and the lowest Pleistocene limit at 3,650 m." The Quelccaya ice cap (Zamora and Ames, 1977) is the largest single glacier in Perú, the Ohio State University's Institute of Polar Studies, in cooperation with the Government of Perú, carried out extensive paleoclimatic investigations from 1974 to 1984 of this low-latitude ice cap. In 1983, the project drilled two ice cores measuring 164 m and 154 m in length that contained a climati
sábado, 20 de febrero de 2010
Plastic banned at Machu Picchu
Plastic banned at Machu Picchu
Plastic bottle, Machu Picchu - © John Zwinck
Anyone with any sense hates plastic bottles – the non-biodegradable waste they cause and the blighting of the landscape when people carelessly throw them away. And you would think people visiting world famous and historic sites such as Machu Picchu would have more respect – but no, one of the first things I noticed when I visited were dozens of plastic bottles on the way up, and yet more scattered around the ruins.
Pointing fingers is not something that bothers me, so I’ll do it here. Peruvian school children. There was one plastic water bottle that appeared among the ruins after Peruvian school children passed through, and at historic sites across Peru, most of the damage – and the damage is usually extensive or at least very noticeable – is caused by young Peruvians with no respect for their heritage. Lack of respect is also a problem among Peruvian adults, because despite Peru’s vast tourism revenues, its institutions are given next to no funding to protect historic sites from having names graffittied on to them.
At Machu Picchu at least, the war against dumped plastic bottles is about to be quickly and efficiently won. All plastic disposable bottles will be banned from the region all together. From the 17th of April tourists won’t be able to buy them at – or even bring them into – Aguas Calientes or the ruins at all.
“This measure responds to the necessity of avoiding a negative environmental impact caused by the use of these plastic bottles,” explained Edgar Miranda, the mayor of over-priced tourist-trap Aguas Calientes, the town that ridiculously changed its name to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The town’s workers have to work through 18 sacks of plastic bottles that have been properly disposed of each day to separate them from other organics and inorganics that can be recycled locally. Banning plastic bottles altogether is estimated to save 40,000 soles a month in costs to move the waste by train to nearby Cusco.
Aguas Calientes has other plans on the books, namely replacing plastic bags with paper ones and joining forces with private organisations to fight against pollution
Plastic bottle, Machu Picchu - © John Zwinck
Anyone with any sense hates plastic bottles – the non-biodegradable waste they cause and the blighting of the landscape when people carelessly throw them away. And you would think people visiting world famous and historic sites such as Machu Picchu would have more respect – but no, one of the first things I noticed when I visited were dozens of plastic bottles on the way up, and yet more scattered around the ruins.
Pointing fingers is not something that bothers me, so I’ll do it here. Peruvian school children. There was one plastic water bottle that appeared among the ruins after Peruvian school children passed through, and at historic sites across Peru, most of the damage – and the damage is usually extensive or at least very noticeable – is caused by young Peruvians with no respect for their heritage. Lack of respect is also a problem among Peruvian adults, because despite Peru’s vast tourism revenues, its institutions are given next to no funding to protect historic sites from having names graffittied on to them.
At Machu Picchu at least, the war against dumped plastic bottles is about to be quickly and efficiently won. All plastic disposable bottles will be banned from the region all together. From the 17th of April tourists won’t be able to buy them at – or even bring them into – Aguas Calientes or the ruins at all.
“This measure responds to the necessity of avoiding a negative environmental impact caused by the use of these plastic bottles,” explained Edgar Miranda, the mayor of over-priced tourist-trap Aguas Calientes, the town that ridiculously changed its name to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The town’s workers have to work through 18 sacks of plastic bottles that have been properly disposed of each day to separate them from other organics and inorganics that can be recycled locally. Banning plastic bottles altogether is estimated to save 40,000 soles a month in costs to move the waste by train to nearby Cusco.
Aguas Calientes has other plans on the books, namely replacing plastic bags with paper ones and joining forces with private organisations to fight against pollution
miércoles, 17 de febrero de 2010
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2D/1N
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2D/1N
This is an absolutely unique tour designed for adventure-lovers that combines cross-country and downhill biking along the beautiful four high-Andean lagoons of Pomakanchi, Acopia, Pumapamarka and Asnaqocha. Then you’ll turn to the Inka Bridge of Qheswachaka. This bridge more than 500 years old spans the Apurimaq River (12,800 ft) and is surrounded by spectacular and amazing landscapes of the Vilcanota Range. Finally we’ll have a fantastic river rafting excursion at the Chukiqawana section of the Vilcanota River.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - FOUR LAGOONS - YANAOCA - QHESWACHAKA .-Departure towards the southern Cusco in our private transport right to Lagoon Pomaqanchi, where the first section by bicycle starts for 20 kilometers (cross country). Then we have a picnic lunch. Then we are transferred in our private supporting vehicle to Yanaoca. Next we have a downhill bike ride for about 35 km (downhill) arriving to Qheswachaka Inka Bridges (12,800 ft). We take a rest and then guided visit to the Inka Bridge. Here we camp, then eat dinner and overnight. (L/D)
Day 02: QHESWACHAKA - CHUKICAWANA - KUSIPATA - CUSCO.-After early breakfast we travel by car up to Chukiqawana's bridge which is two and a half hour trip. We'll arrive at the banks of the Vilcanota River. The guides will give us a safety briefing followed by a practice on the river and will provide us with all the proper equipment for this adventure. After this we will have two hours in the water running class II, III and IV rapids until we arrive to Kusipata zone. Later in the afternoon we have lunch and return back to Cusco city(B/L)
INCLUDED
1. All the trips and private ground transportation described in the program
2. All meals indicated in the program. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, T= Tea time D = Dinner)
3. Entry to all the sites listed in the program
4. English-speaking guide services included guide assistant
5. Camping equipment for two days (Tents for sleeping, the mess tent, the kitchen tent, a portable latrine, air mattresses, tents for our staff, folding tables and chairs, mess kits and utensils)
6.Giant – Trek – GT – Giant mountain bikes in good maintenance, mountain bike gear (helmet, gloves, knee guards) and bike technical support and spare parts
7. First Aid kits, emergency oxygen tank if needed and all safety equipment
NOT INCLUDED
1. Extra food or beverages
2. Sleeping bags
3. Insurance of any kind
4. Personal Expenses
5. Tips
6. Other costs not specified
NOTE
•Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Private service throughout the year
Prices
Private Service
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
This is an absolutely unique tour designed for adventure-lovers that combines cross-country and downhill biking along the beautiful four high-Andean lagoons of Pomakanchi, Acopia, Pumapamarka and Asnaqocha. Then you’ll turn to the Inka Bridge of Qheswachaka. This bridge more than 500 years old spans the Apurimaq River (12,800 ft) and is surrounded by spectacular and amazing landscapes of the Vilcanota Range. Finally we’ll have a fantastic river rafting excursion at the Chukiqawana section of the Vilcanota River.
ITINERARY
Day 01: CUSCO - FOUR LAGOONS - YANAOCA - QHESWACHAKA .-Departure towards the southern Cusco in our private transport right to Lagoon Pomaqanchi, where the first section by bicycle starts for 20 kilometers (cross country). Then we have a picnic lunch. Then we are transferred in our private supporting vehicle to Yanaoca. Next we have a downhill bike ride for about 35 km (downhill) arriving to Qheswachaka Inka Bridges (12,800 ft). We take a rest and then guided visit to the Inka Bridge. Here we camp, then eat dinner and overnight. (L/D)
Day 02: QHESWACHAKA - CHUKICAWANA - KUSIPATA - CUSCO.-After early breakfast we travel by car up to Chukiqawana's bridge which is two and a half hour trip. We'll arrive at the banks of the Vilcanota River. The guides will give us a safety briefing followed by a practice on the river and will provide us with all the proper equipment for this adventure. After this we will have two hours in the water running class II, III and IV rapids until we arrive to Kusipata zone. Later in the afternoon we have lunch and return back to Cusco city(B/L)
INCLUDED
1. All the trips and private ground transportation described in the program
2. All meals indicated in the program. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, T= Tea time D = Dinner)
3. Entry to all the sites listed in the program
4. English-speaking guide services included guide assistant
5. Camping equipment for two days (Tents for sleeping, the mess tent, the kitchen tent, a portable latrine, air mattresses, tents for our staff, folding tables and chairs, mess kits and utensils)
6.Giant – Trek – GT – Giant mountain bikes in good maintenance, mountain bike gear (helmet, gloves, knee guards) and bike technical support and spare parts
7. First Aid kits, emergency oxygen tank if needed and all safety equipment
NOT INCLUDED
1. Extra food or beverages
2. Sleeping bags
3. Insurance of any kind
4. Personal Expenses
5. Tips
6. Other costs not specified
NOTE
•Accommodations, transportation, meals, and optional excursions can be arranged
Private service throughout the year
Prices
Private Service
QHESWACHAKA INKA BRIDGDE BIKING 2
* Prices For a Person in US Dollars
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