Qoyllur Rit’i, also known as the Star Snow Festival is one of the most traditional and largest of the Andean spiritual festivals, and it’s increasingly becoming very popular with adventurous travelers who are seeking authentic and culturally rewarding experiences in Peru. The event is so much a part of the local culture that in 2011 UNESCO added Qoyllur Rit’i to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Since then, it is increasingly coming onto the radar of intrpeid travelers.
Likely a part of any journey to witness this incredible festival is taking the road to Apu Ausangate. This trek is one of Peru’s most revered for those travelers with stamina and a curious thirst for experiences few other have. The journey is both challenging and rewarding and best made by those who are prepared.
About The Qoyllur Rit’i Pilgrimage
There is much to know about the origins of Qoyllur Rit’i, or the Star Snow Festival as it is also known. This truly unique event exemplifies the intertwining of both Christian and pre-Columbian pagan beliefs—which for modern Peruvians, these long held traditions go hand in hand.
At its root, the indigenous peoples of the Andes are celebrating the reappearance of the Pleiades constellation which disappears in April and once again returns into view in June. Coinciding with the full moon, the annual celebration and procession signifies the New Year and the upcoming harvest.
At the same time, there is another aspect to Qoyllur Rit’i with a legend surrounding a boy named Mariano who was sent into the mountains to tend to the family llamas, or alpacas. The story goes something like this.
Mariano was at far away and at a very high altitude while he was tending to the animals. After some time, he finds himself in harm’s way. As he was suffering, along comes a mysterious and strangely dressed boy whom he befriends. This young boy with the fancy clothes—he miraculously provides Mariano with clothes, food and companionship.
As the story goes, Mariano takes his new friend to an archbishop who is equally enchanted by the boy’s clothing. When the bishop reaches out to touch the boys clothing, the boy turns a into a burning bush with the face of Christ in it, or a crucifix, which in either case, it causes Mariano to die and he is then buried under a rock.
When and Where is Qoyllur Rit’i?
The pilgrimage begins in the town of Mahuayani in the Sinakara Valley of the Cusco region on the day of the Holy Trinity which falls on June 12th in 2022. Despite the fact that this is wintertime in Peru, this is also a time of year when many Peruvians are moving about and loads of international travelers are visiting Peru for the numerous festivals taking place throughout the country.
What To Expect at Qoyllur Rit’i?
Peruvians from several ethnic groups will participate in the event over three days. They are divided into “nations” depending on the villages where they originate from. On the first day of Qoyllur Rit’i, thousands of pilgrims will begin making the journey to the Santuario del Señor de Qoyllorit’i—leaving from the village of Mahuayani.
The procession of pilgrims will weave through through the Andes, traversing icy trails and glacial streams until they reach the sanctuary. After arrival at the sanctuary, people will engage in spirited dancing, playing music with quena flutes and they will dress in traditional, brightly colored embroidered costumes that represent their people and heritage.
The economic aspects of the festival are also a long held tradition between the different indigenous groups. There will be camps and places for pilgrims to purchase food and supplies and trade their wares.
The celebration comes to a close with a procession winding up at the Qullqip’unqu mountain to pray at the summit. This part of the festivities is off limits to tourists.
Taking part in this event is without doubt one of the more authentic experiences you could have possibly have in Peru, but you will have to put the work in. This is not for the casual tourist to take in. If you have the will, this would be a very rewarding way to spend time in Peru and an excellent way to appreciate the extraordinary way of life for people living in the Andean highlands.
It is possible to get a bus from Cusco to Mahuayani where you can make pick up the journey. It is also possible to drive and finish just the last few miles. No matter how you go, this is not a trek that is easily made and it will also be quite frigid, so a bit of planning is essential. Going with a licensed guide or tour company that specializes in the trek and camping set-up are strongly advised. We would love to help you plan a trip and it’s possible that all of our services are completely free to you, depending on the nature of your trip.