Discover the Paucartambo Festival and Tres Cruces

Hotel Pickup: 11:30 AM

Departure:At 12:00 PM, we leave by private transport from Cusco to Paucartambo, the folkloric capital of Cusco. Along the way, we visit Urcos, Urcos Lagoon, and the Ch'ullpas of Ninanmarka.

Arrival in Paucartambo (2830m): The day begins with bell ringing and rocket explosions, followed by a musical reveille. Participate in the "cera apakuy" ceremony, transferring candles to the temple.

Activities

• Attend the central mass and join the grand procession of "La Mamacha" to bless attendees and chase away demons.
• Observe various dance troupes, especially the "Saqras" on the city's roofs and balconies. These Euro-Andean devils wear vibrant costumes and elaborate animal masks with extravagant wigs.
• Enjoy lunch and free time in the afternoon to explore the area.

Evening

• Experience the "bonfire" ceremony, symbolizing purgatory.
• Continue with the grand feast and serenade for the Virgin of Carmen.

Midnight Drive and Tres Cruces de Oro Camp

At midnight, we drive 40 km north of Paucartambo to the Tres Cruces de Oro camp, perched at the edge of the Andes at an altitude of 12,100 feet. This location offers breathtaking views due to its steep drop into the Amazon basin. Tres Cruces is renowned for its spectacular sunrises in June and July, where unique weather conditions create mesmerizing optical illusions.

Sunrise Experience:

• At 5:30 AM, we await the stunning sunrise, a one-of-a-kind natural phenomenon at the entrance of the Manu National Park.

Return to Paucartambo:

• We return to Paucartambo to attend a blessing mass with our guide.
• In the afternoon, the second procession crosses the Carlos III bridge, where the Virgin blesses the four corners.
• The procession is followed by a dramatic mock battle between the "Qollas" from the Andes and the "Antis" from the jungle.
• Participate in a "Qhaswa," a lively communal celebration.

Return to Cusco

• At the designated time provided by our guide, we return to Cusco, concluding the adventure.