Qoylloriti Festival: Why Go
Qoyllority is one of the most intriguing festivals in the Andes. While it is linked with the Catholic religion, its roots lie in the ancient Incan principal of uniting man and nature. In Quechuan Qoyllority means "Snow Star" or "Shining Snow", Much of the festival is based around growth and fertility, and the worship of the old mountain spirits is also key. Every June, just before the festival of Corpus Christi, more than 2,000 people congregate in the small town of Qoyllority (4,700m) near the snow line of Mt Ausangate.Processions of colorful dancers and "Pauluchas" converge on the Capilla del Senor Qoyllority - the main church in the area in the small village of Sinakara. You will enjoy ceremonies and traditional dances which are only practiced here in this part of the Andes - a truly unique and unforgettable experience!
