Shamans in Cusco

What are Andean shamans?

The shamans in Cusco are individuals specialized in the spiritual and healing practices of Andean tradition. In the Quechua world, they are known as “altomisayoq” (high priest), “pampamisayoq” (medium-level priest), or simply “curanderos.” These specialists act as intermediaries between the human world and the spiritual realm, keeping the ancestral Inca traditions alive.

Ancestral tradition

The shamanic tradition in Cusco has roots that extend long before the Inca Empire. The ancient Andean inhabitants developed a complex belief system based on their connection to nature, the spirits of the mountains (Apus), Pachamama (Mother Earth), and various elements of the cosmos. This wisdom has been passed down from generation to generation through shamans.

Types of spiritual specialists

In the Cusco region, there are different levels of spiritual specialists:

Altomisayoq: These are the highest-level shamans, capable of communicating directly with the most powerful Apus and performing complex ceremonies.

Pampamisayoq: Intermediate-level specialists who primarily work with local energies and healing.

Curanderos: Healers who combine medicinal plants with spiritual rituals.

Coqueros: Specialists in reading coca leaves for divination and diagnosis.

Practices and ceremonies

Cusco shamans perform various ceremonies and rituals:

Despachos: Elaborate offerings that are burned as gifts to the Apus and Pachamama. They include coca leaves, sweets, flowers, llama fat, and other symbolic elements.

Energy cleansings: Purification rituals using coca, flowers, incense, and other elements to eliminate negative energies.

Haywarikuy: A reciprocity ceremony where offerings are shared with spiritual forces.

Plant healing: The use of Andean medicinal herbs combined with songs and rituals.

Sacred elements used

Shamans work with various elements considered sacred:

• Coca leaves: A fundamental sacred plant for spiritual communication
• Kintu: Three perfect coca leaves used in ceremonies
• Conopa: Sacred stones with special shapes
• San Pedro (Wachuma): A sacred cactus used in special ceremonies
• Flowers: Especially carnations and other colorful flowers
• Seashells: Symbols of fertility and water
• Llama fat: An important element in offerings

Training to become a shaman

Becoming a shaman requires years of learning and preparation. Traditionally, some receive the “call” through dreams, visions, or intense spiritual experiences. The process includes:

• Learning from experienced teachers
• Fasting and purification
• Pilgrimages to sacred sites
• Memorization of songs and prayers in Quechua
• Development of energetic sensitivity
• Deep knowledge of medicinal plants

Sacred places

Cusco shamans frequently work in places considered sacred:

Qoyllur Rit’i: A sanctuary where an important annual pilgrimage takes place.

Ausangate: A sacred mountain considered one of the most powerful Apus.

Sacsayhuamán: An archaeological site with great spiritual energy.

Tambomachay: A place dedicated to the worship of water.

Pisaq: A sacred valley with a strong energetic presence.

Role in the community

Shamans play important roles in Andean communities:

• Healers of physical and spiritual ailments
• Counselors in important decisions
• Intermediaries in community conflicts
• Guardians of oral tradition and ancestral knowledge
• Spiritual guides for life ceremonies (birth, marriage, death)

Religious syncretism

During the colonial period, many shamanic practices blended with elements of Christianity. Shamans learned to incorporate Catholic saints, crosses, and other Christian symbols into their ceremonies, creating a syncretism that allowed them to preserve their traditions.

Traditional medicine

Cusco shamans possess vast knowledge of Andean medicinal plants. They use herbs like muña, coca, retama, eucalyptus, and many others to treat various ailments. Their approach is holistic, considering the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of illness.

Current challenges

Modern shamans face several challenges:

• Loss of the Quechua language among new generations
• Urbanization and distancing from traditions
• Excessive commercialization of spiritual tourism
• Competition with Western medicine
• Need to adapt ancestral practices to the modern world

Spiritual tourism

Cusco attracts thousands of visitors interested in Andean spiritual experiences. Many shamans offer ceremonies for tourists, generating income but also raising dilemmas about the authenticity and commercialization of sacred practices.

Cultural importance

Shamans are fundamental guardians of Andean culture. They preserve ancestral knowledge, keep the connection with nature alive, and offer an alternative spiritual perspective in an increasingly materialistic world. Their work contributes to maintaining the cultural identity of Andean peoples.