Andean Ancestral Ritual in La Paz
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4h
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About this experience
Discover the hidden mysteries of Andean culture by participating in an ancestral offering ritual to Pachamama. This ritual has been passed down through generations and has remained a living tradition to this day.
First, you will visit the Witches' Market, where you will purchase the ingredients for the ritual. There, you will meet the "chifleras," wise women and healers who prepare the offerings for Pachamama.
Afterward, you will dine on a traditional "Apthapi" banquet of meat (charque) and different types of potatoes, a tradition in the Andes region.
Finally, you will participate in the ceremony in which you will prepare a "mesa" (sweet offering) for Pachamama and place it on the fire for the ritual. You will pray for health and fortune until the flames of the fire turn the offering to ashes. To close the ritual, you will receive the smudging of incense.
Available options
Ancestral Andean Ritual in La Paz
Pickup included
Dinner and Ritual
Duration: 3 hours: 2 hours<br/>Apthapi (andean style banquette)<br/>private transportation<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Alcoholic Beverages
Public transportation
Dinner
Supplies for Andean ritual
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The guide will accompany you on a tour of the Witches' Market. He will tell you about Andean traditions and explain how to purchase a traditional "mesa" (offering) for the Andean ritual to Pachamama.
The guide will show you the shop of a renowned "chiflera" (Andean healer) where you can purchase the "mesa" for the ritual.
At the Witches' Market, you can also purchase handicrafts if you wish.
2
The guide will take you by shuttle to the southern part of the city, where you will dine an Apthapi (a traditional feast from the Andes region) at the guide's home.
Apthapi is prepared with charque (dried beef), a variety of potatoes, cheeses, corn, and llajua (hot sauce).
The guide will also serve you a hot drink called Té con Té. This is a sweet drink containing a distilled Bolivian liquor known as Singani.
The guide will tell you all about this traditional feast and its importance as part of the Andean ritual of offering to Pachamama.
3
The guide will lead you to the patio of the house in Los Rosales neighborhood to perform the ceremony of offering the table to Pachamama.
The guide will explain all the steps to follow to prepare the table, from selecting sacred leaves and placing sugar and cinnamon on top to pouring alcohol over the table.
Once it's ready, with the help of the guide, you can place the table on firewood to light the fire.
As the fire consumes the offering, the guide will tell you stories of how his mother and grandmother passed on their ritual knowledge to him and will explain the importance of each new generation preserving and passing on this ancestral knowledge.
You will conclude the ceremony by receiving a smudging of incense from the guide.
What's not included
Souvenirs and/or gifts
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About La Paz
La Paz is the highest capital city in the world, offering a unique blend of indigenous and colonial culture. It's known for its dramatic Andean landscapes, vibrant markets, and rich history, making it a compelling destination for adventurous travelers.
Top Attractions
Mi Teleférico
A unique cable car system offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It's an efficient way to get around and a major attraction in itself.
Transportation/Attraction
Varies
Budget
Plaza Murillo
The main square of La Paz, surrounded by important government buildings and historic sites. It's a central point for understanding the city's political and historical significance.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas)
A unique market selling traditional remedies, herbs, and other items used in local folklore and traditional medicine. It's a fascinating glimpse into the city's indigenous culture.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, items for sale vary in price
Valle de la Luna
A surreal lunar-like landscape formed by erosion, located just outside of La Paz. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography, offering a unique natural experience.
Nature
Half day
Budget
Museo Nacional de Arqueología
A comprehensive museum showcasing Bolivia's rich archaeological heritage, including pre-Columbian artifacts and exhibits on indigenous cultures.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salteñas
A type of savory empanada filled with meat, vegetables, and sometimes cheese. It's a popular street food and a must-try in La Paz.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Pique a lo Macho
A hearty dish made with beef, fried potatoes, eggs, and a spicy sauce. It's a popular late-night snack or meal.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian options
Silpancho
A dish consisting of a thin beef patty topped with rice, fried egg, and onions. It's a flavorful and filling meal.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian options
Anticuchos
Grilled beef heart skewers, often served with a spicy sauce. It's a popular street food and a taste of Bolivian cuisine.
Snack
Contains meat, can be made with chicken or other meats
Popular Activities
Mountain biking on Death Road
Hiking in Valle de la Luna
Trekking to Lake Titicaca
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Strolling through Sopocachi
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Exploring the Witches' Market
Visiting museums and historic sites
Best Time to Visit
May to October (Dry season)
The dry season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The skies are clear, and the temperatures are pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.
5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
41°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish, Aymara, Quechua
- Widely spoken: Spanish, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)
Time Zone
GMT-4
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
La Paz is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use official taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- El Alto International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal de Buses La Paz
Getting around
Public transport
La Paz has a unique cable car system that connects different parts of the city. It's efficient and offers stunning views.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Taxis La Paz
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sopocachi
San Pedro
Zona Sur
Day trips
Tiwanaku
72 km (45 miles) • Full day
An ancient archaeological site dating back to the Tiwanaku culture, offering a glimpse into Bolivia's rich pre-Columbian history.
Lake Titicaca
140 km (87 miles) • Full day or overnight
The world's highest navigable lake, offering stunning landscapes and cultural experiences with the local indigenous communities.
Death Road (North Yungas Road)
75 km (47 miles) • Full day
A thrilling mountain biking experience on one of the world's most dangerous roads, offering stunning views and an adrenaline rush.
Festivals
Alasitas Fair • January 24
Gran Poder • May or June (varies)
Carnaval de Oruro • February or March (varies)
Pro tips
- Acclimate to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
- Use the Mi Teleférico cable car system for efficient and scenic transportation
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals
- Visit the Witches' Market for a unique cultural experience and to purchase traditional remedies
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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