Payment to Pachamama

Join us for a fascinating Pachamama reverence ceremony in Cusco and experience one of the most profound traditions of the Andes. Together, we'll thank Mother Earth for the resources she provides, guided by a local shaman. You'll participate in the preparation of offerings with native products such as leaves and fruits. Connect with Andean spirituality and discover respect for Pachamama. Ayahuasca Retreat Cusco will offer you a unique experience not to be missed!

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Payment to Pachamama
1 Day in Cusco

Did you know?

The word Pachamama comes from the combination of "pacha" (earth) and "mama" (mother), and translates as Mother Earth. In Inca mythology, she is a goddess linked to fertility, who watches over sowing and harvesting. She also represents the mountains and is responsible for causing earthquakes.

Pachamama Payment Ceremony

Of course, the Pachamama payment ceremony is of ancestral origin, as it is part of the reciprocity between the material world and the spiritual world.

Pachamama Day is celebrated on August 1st, as it is a holiday dedicated to the veneration of Mother Earth, and she is also a central figure in Andean beliefs.

Commonly known by the population as payments to the earth or to Pachamama, as they are rituals intended to give back to Mother Earth what she has given, we can also aspire to our greatest dreams or desires about life and what we want in our lives. One of the best places to make payments to Pachamama is in Cusco.

What is the payment to Pachamama?

It is a ritual of gratitude performed by Pampamisayoc or Paqo masters, a relationship between Andean people and Pachamama. This ceremony of payment to Pachamama can be performed in two ways:

In homes, families make individual offerings, thus expressing their personal gratitude to Pachamama. These rituals, filled with respect and devotion, strengthen the bond between the land and its inhabitants.
On the other hand, community offerings are held, where Andean priests lead ancestral ceremonies. In this way, they seek to have Pachamama satisfy their hunger and grant blessings to the entire community, ensuring balance and prosperity.

Elements of the Payment to Pachamama and its Meaning

These are the items used to pay tribute to Pachamama:

Andean Blanket: Used to wrap offerings.
Coca Leaves: As a symbol of respect and gratitude.
Chicha: A traditional corn drink, used to thank Pachamama for the fruits of the earth.
Llama Fetus: An offering to ask for protection and fertility from the earth.
Huayruro: As a symbol of protection and good luck.
Sweets: Offered to sweeten the relationship with Pachamama.
Animal Fat: Representing strength and vitality, it symbolizes the giving of the earth's animal resources.
Carnations:Used to decorate the offering, symbolizing beauty and gratitude to nature.
Beer: A beverage offered in gratitude, symbolizing union and the celebration of life.
Wine: Offered to ask for prosperity and good harvests.
Beans: Grains such as beans or lentils, representing abundance and sustenance for Pachamama.
Candles: Lit to illuminate the spiritual path.
Incense: Burned to purify the space and create an atmosphere of peace and respect during the ritual.

How to Make Payment to Pachamama

August 1st is the day Pachamama is fed. To do this, the payment to Pachamama consists first of digging a hole in which a clay pot with cooked food is buried, along with coca leaves, alcohol, wine, cigars, chicha, and even handicrafts, among other items.

It is also traditional for participants to wear black and white cords tied around their ankles, wrists, and necks. These cords are made of llama wool spun in a left-handed manner.

After making the payment to Pachamama, the community expresses their gratitude to Pachamama for providing them with good weather, for caring for the animals, and for the harvests they have obtained. They also take the opportunity to ask her to continue protecting them each year and for continuing to provide food and abundance.

What is Pachamama?

Pachamama was seen as the source of food, water, and natural resources, essential for agriculture, the main economic activity of the Incas. To ensure abundant harvests and the well-being of the community, the Incas performed rituals and offered tributes, key acts to maintain prosperity and social balance.

When should I perform a Pachamama payment ceremony?

Although the Pachamama payment ceremony can be performed at any time, it is traditionally celebrated on the first day of August and throughout the month. According to belief, at this time of year, Pachamama feels hunger and thirst, requiring nourishment and satisfaction.

Who can participate?

Anyone who is part of the Andean community or connected to the region's traditions can participate in an offering to Pachamama.

What role does Pachamama play in Andean culture?

Pachamama is crucial in Andean culture because it symbolizes Mother Earth, who provides life and sustenance to all.

Ancestral Ceremonies in Cusco

Coca Leaf Reading

Andean Wedding

Ayahuasca Ritual

San Pedro Drink or Wachuma

We begin with pickup from your accommodation in Cusco -
Temple of the Moon/Cusilluchayoc.
Afterward, a discussion will follow about the ceremony.
We continue with the offering to Mother Earth for gratitude, love, and work.
This is followed by the T'inca, or thanksgiving to the Andean deities for the favors received.
Finally, we return to your accommodation in Cusco.

Include:

Private transportation
Mystical guide
Local shaman
Offerings for the ceremony
Ornaments for the ceremony

Not Include:

Snacks
Extra expenses
Travel insurance
Food not mentioned

Mineral water.
Camera.
Toilet paper for personal use.
Sneakers and comfortable clothing.
Rain poncho appropriate for the season.
Sunscreen.
Additional gifts.

Here are 5 tips before traveling to make a payment to Pachamama:

First, make sure you wear appropriate, comfortable, and discreet clothing. Choose simple clothes that allow you to move easily, respecting the natural environment and the ceremony.
Second, remember that the ceremony is a deep connection with the earth. Throughout the ritual, it is essential to show respect and a reverent attitude toward Pachamama and the elements involved in the offering.
Bring natural offerings, such as fruits, flowers, and herbs, that represent your gratitude to Mother Earth. Avoid artificial or polluting objects.
It is also essential to follow all the instructions of the shaman and guide who will lead the ceremony. They will guide you through every step, ensuring that you participate appropriately and respectfully.
Finally, make sure you have a clear and positive intention when making the payment. This act should be done with an open heart, asking for blessings for yourself and the earth, sincerely and with good energy.

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