Question: What shapes and animals did the Incas depict in the Milky Way? Answer: The Incas depicted a shepherd, a fox, a partridge, a toad, a serpent and a llama with a baby llama amongst other shapes in the Milky Way, which they referred to as “Mayu” (or “river”). Rather…

Qoyllur Rit’i

  Peru is famous for its rich culture and colorful festivals, Qoyllur Rit’i festival is an impressive high-altitude pilgrimage in the Cusco region. Qoyllur Rit’i Festival This festival is held annually on the north face of Ausangate mounta, on the Sinakara glacial mountain. A world-renowned pilgrimage, it involves a rigorous…

By Simon Question: Why do local people in the Cusco region refer to Mount Salkantay as “Apu Salkantay”? Answer: Many locals of the Cusco region refer to Salkantay as “Apu Salkantay” as this is a term of reverence and worship. “Apu” literally means “Spirit of the mountain” or “mountain god”….

by Simon One of the most important aspects of Aracari’s mission is that we give back to the communities that we visit, and that we make sure that any of our guests who want to donate  arrive in the places that need them most. This was the purpose of my…

The Question: Did Inca royalty really marry their sisters? The Answer: The short answer is, yes, it is true that in late times of the Inca Empire, Inca royalty did marry their sisters.  The long answer and the reasoning for this incest is very much disputed and, even more so,…

The Inca site of Pisac

Pisac Ruins Pisac ruins is one of the highlights of the Sacred Valley. The Inca site of Pisac is well-known for agricultural terracing, which sweeps around the south and east flanks of the mountain in vast, graceful curves, almost unbroken by steps. A fortress city The Pisac ruins, the largest fortress city…