CHAKANA RITUAL

This ritual is performed to ask for the protection of South American camelids, and takes place in spring, when the Llamas and Alpacas are preparing to give birth.

Community members draw a chakana -an Andean sacred symbol- on the ground and place offerings around it, such as food, drinks and symbolic objects (flowers, aromas, etc.). Then, they light incense and, accompanied by drum beats, sing and express gratitude to their gods.