If you have traveled the roads of Cusco or explored routes such as the Humantay trek, the route to Machupicchu or visited the Sacred Valley., it is likely that you have come across small piles of stones carefully stacked next to the trails. These structures, the Apachetas of Cusco, are much more than simple rock mounds: they are ancestral offerings full of spirituality and meaning. Do you want to know what they represent? In this blog we will explain what they are, their importance in the Andean cosmovision and how travelers can interact with them respectfully.
What Are Apachetas of Cusco?
Andean cultures have long built the famous apachetas- stacks of stones placed one on top of the other- along mountain trails, high passes, and strategic points in the Andes. These structures, which date back to pre-Inca times, symbolize a deep connection with Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus (mountain spirits).
What Are They Used For?
They can serve various purposes, such as:
- Altars of protection and gratitude: Travelers would leave stones as offerings to ask for protection on their journeys and adventures.
- Spiritual connection: They are considered energy points where the Andean people would perform rituals and ask for blessings from the mountain gods.
- Route markers: Many apachetas served as waypoints on ancient Inca roads, so travelers still leave them as a form of signage.
Trivia: Did you know that the term “apacheta” comes from the Quechua words Apachita or Apachecta, meaning “pile of accumulated stones”?
Their Importance in the Andean Worldview
As you may know, Andean culture is deeply connected to its natural surroundings. People believe that nature is alive and filled with energy. The Apus, sacred mountain spirits like Ausangate, Salkantay, and Machu Picchu, are protectors of those who live nearby. Offering a stone to an apacheta is a way to show respect and establish a bond with these guardian spirits.
Offerings to Apachetas
Many travelers still follow the tradition of leaving coca leaves, chicha (fermented corn drink), sweets, alcohol, or even food as a sign of gratitude to Pachamama. Andean communities create despachos as offerings during rituals to ask for protection and blessings.
Where to Find Apachetas in Cusco
You’ll find these sacred altars along many trekking routes in Cusco:
- Warmiwañusca Pass (Inca Trail): The highest point of the Inca Trail, filled with apachetas left by pilgrims and hikers.
- Abra Salkantay (Salkantay Trek): Travelers often perform small rituals of gratitude here.
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): During the ascent, both tourists and locals place stones as a sign of respect to the Apus.
- You can find apachetas at the archaeological sites of Puca Pucara and Tambomachay, located near Cusco.
Here’s a bit of trivia: In some communities, families have cared for the largest apachetas for generations, honoring them as spiritual guardians.
How to Interact Respectfully with an Apacheta de Cusco
If you come across an apacheta during your visit to Cusco, you can show your respect in the following ways:
- Want to leave a stone? Pick one up from the trail and place it on the apacheta as a sign of gratitude and respect.
- Avoid destroying or moving stones: Each stone holds special meaning for the person who placed it.
- Don’t touch the offerings: Many apachetas contain coca leaves, liquors, or food used in ancient rituals.
- Respect the environment: Do not litter or disrupt sacred spaces.
Trivia: In Andean tradition, placing a stone on an apacheta can symbolize making a wish or overcoming a challenge along the path.
Modern Times and the Preservation of Apachetas of Cusco
Tourism in the Andes has led many people- unaware of their significance- to destroy or alter apachetas. Visitors must recognize the cultural and spiritual value of these structures and take action to preserve them.
In Cusco, local communities now organize rituals and ceremonies to keep apacheta traditions alive. They invite travelers to participate in an authentic and respectful way. At the same time, several initiatives actively educate tourists about the vital role apachetas play in the Andean worldview.
Next time you encounter one, remember its importance, show respect, and if you feel called to, leave a stone as a symbol of your own journey through the Andes.
Did you know about the meaning of apachetas before reading this blog? Share your experience and what you think about these fascinating Andean structures!
Karen Pamela Riveros Rojas
