Qollor’ity: The Sacred Pilgrimage of the Andean Peoples

Qollor’ity, The Sacred Pilgrimage

In the shadow of the sixth full moon every year, a remarkable celebration unfolds high in the Peruvian Andes—a sacred pilgrimage that has been practiced for centuries. Known as Qollor’ity, this UNESCO-protected event is not just one of South America's most significant indigenous festivals; it's also one of its most endangered. With climate change threatening the very glaciers that the pilgrimage venerates, experiencing this awe-inspiring journey now has a sense of urgency.

The Deep Cosmic Connection

The ancient Andean peoples, particularly the Incas, were masters of the sky. Their spiritual and agricultural lives were governed by celestial bodies. The Sun God, Inti, and Mama Quilla, the Moon Goddess, were revered, and the stars themselves were seen as messengers. Perhaps most significant was the constellation Pleiades, or Qollqas in Quechua, meaning “the storehouse.” The visibility of this star cluster signaled the changing of seasons, directly influencing the upcoming harvest. The Qollor’ity Pilgrimage marks the celestial return of the Pleiades, coinciding with the full moon that falls between May and June. This event is more than a celebration—it marks the start of the agricultural new year.

The Origins of the Pilgrimage

The name Qollor’ity, which translates as "the frozen star," perfectly captures the essence of this extraordinary pilgrimage. Each year, over 100,000 pilgrims make their way to the slopes of a sacred glacier at around 5,000 meters above sea level in the region of Cusco, the ancient heart of the Inca Empire. This arduous journey is both a physical and spiritual endeavor, steeped in centuries-old tradition.

The pilgrimage is rooted in the Andean understanding of the cosmos, with a profound connection to the sacred glaciers that are said to hold the essence of the stars. It’s a celebration of the harmony between the Earth, the people, and the skies.

The Celebration of Qollor’ity

The pilgrimage officially begins in Sinakara Valley, where colorful indigenous rituals, combined with Catholic elements introduced during the Spanish conquest, create a mesmerizing blend of cultural expressions. Traditional costumes, vibrant dances, and heartfelt spiritual chants fill the air as the pilgrims make their way to the mountain.

A pivotal moment in the pilgrimage is the blessing of the Lord of Qollority, which takes place in a small church nestled in the mountains. Following the blessing, the most physically and spiritually demanding part of the journey begins: a night vigil at the foot of the glacier, illuminated by the glow of the full moon. Singing and dancing continue well into the night, building a sense of collective energy and devotion. As dawn breaks, a profound silence descends, and the pilgrims kneel in reverence to both the celestial bodies above and the mountain spirits below—a moment that feels timeless and surreal against the backdrop of the glacial landscape.

The Threat of Climate Change

Qollor’ity, The Sacred Pilgrimage

Though the Qollor’ity pilgrimage has endured for centuries, it is now under threat. Climate change has caused the retreat of Peru’s glaciers at an alarming rate, with over half of them lost in the last 50 years. The sacred glacier that pilgrims ascend is no exception, and its shrinking poses a real danger to the cultural practices associated with the event.

One such practice is the role of the Ukukus, or "keepers of the frozen star." These individuals, chosen through dream interpretations, traditionally climb the glacier to gather ice to take back to their villages, a symbolic act meant to ensure a bountiful harvest. With the glacier melting away, this sacred ritual is at risk of disappearing.

In 2011, Qollor’ity was included on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, helping to bring attention to its significance and the urgency of its preservation. But unless urgent action is taken to combat climate change, the future of this pilgrimage, along with the glacier it venerates, remains uncertain.

How to Experience Qollor’ity

While the Inti Raymi is perhaps the most famous Andean festival, the Qollor’ity Pilgrimage is a more hidden treasure, largely unknown to international travelers. However, those seeking a unique, immersive experience can still participate in this sacred journey.

Kind Human, a specialized travel company focused on anthropological and archaeological expeditions, offers a rare opportunity to join this pilgrimage. The 2025 Qollor’ity Pilgrimage, scheduled for June 5-13, will be led by Andres Adasme Tapia, the founder of Kind Human and a world-renowned expert in Andean archaeo-astronomy. This small-group expedition promises an unparalleled experience, as travelers journey alongside local pilgrims, experiencing the rituals, spirituality, and cosmic significance of the pilgrimage firsthand.

If you’re looking to witness this profound blend of nature, culture, and spirituality, this pilgrimage is an opportunity you won’t want to miss—especially before the glaciers of the Andes change forever.

For more information and reservations, contact info@kindhumantravel.com.

A Sacred Journey for the Ages

Qollor’ity is more than a pilgrimage; it is a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between nature, culture, and the cosmos. As we stand at the crossroads of climate change, experiencing this sacred journey not only connects us to the rich traditions of the Andean peoples but also allows us to witness a profound ritual before it potentially disappears forever. This is a travel experience like no other—one that blends the physical challenge of the high Andes with the spiritual energy of a millennia-old tradition.