Tour program Tinku

TINKU EN MACHA - (FIESTA DE LA CRUZ)

Discover the most impressive tradition in Bolivia and little-known single “Fiesta de la Cruz.” In the early days of May in Macha. It`s the place where the natives worship and thank the gods, such as the Christian cross and Pachamama for harvest that they generate each year. In this region pre-Inca cultures have merged and Inca Christian influences to create this vibrant tradition. Today, more than six thousand farmers are participating in this ceremony. The fight, which is called “Tinku” is part of the party. Previously, the blood as an offering to Pachamama, today for many of the young participants is a test of machismo. You will see and learn about other traditions and ceremonies such as the preparation of chicha and stomping to the beat of the charango. Rarely seen by foreigners. It is an important celebration for the participants, as you need to show a discreet and respectful attitude (MORE DETAILS IN THE GUIDE BOOKS. LONELY PLANET AND OTHERS)

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Main Program

1st Day (3rd of May) .-06:00 a.m. departure from our hostal EUCALYPTUS after breakfast toward Colquechaca, 4 hours maximum of Potosi. We need to arrive to a community, where starts the “feast of the Cross.” This morning since 10:00 a.m. there is a llama sacrifice in honor to Pachamama and the Christian Cross. It´s part of the tradition. Music and dance throughout the day. You have the opportunity to share food, drinks and dancing with the fighters. Late in the afternoon we leave the community to reach Macha town. Where there is accommodation.
2nd DAY (4th of May).-starts early in the center of Macha.Traditional dances and music.Three hours before noon, fighting or “Tinku” takes place at the foot of the tower Mayku. In the afternoon, more than six thousand peasants reach the population resulting in clashes between communities from different ayllus. The day usually ends with gassing by police to prevent further excesses.
19:00 p.m Return to the city of Potosi (4 hours) with a break for dinner.
Remember to bring: Torch, hat, camera and coca leaves.
INCLUDES:Transport, food, basic accommodation, entrance fee to the community the 3rd of may. (150 Bs).
NO INCLUDES: Entrance fee to Macha (100 Bs. Aprox), extra drinks nor gifts for the farmers.
WE DO THIS TRIP ONCE A YEAR WE OFFER SLIDES SHOW

Second Option

SECOND OPTION
1st Day (3rd of May) .-13:30 p.m. departure from the main office “KOALA TOURS” toward Macha 4 hours maximum of Potosi. That evening after dinner, we will make a tour around the Macha town where the TINKU takes place the next day since 08:00 a.m.
This evening we are able to see the first groups of communities arriving in to Macha Town.
2nd DAY (4th of May).-the day starts early in the morning. The center becomes crowded of the male population of traditional dances and music. At 08:00 more or less fighting or “Tinku” takes place at the foot of the tower Mayku. There isn´t an specific hour to do the TINKU. Sometimes it takes place later and continues in the afternoon. More than six thousand peasants reach the population resulting in clashes between communities from different Ayllus. The day usually ends with gassing by police to prevent further excesses.
We will let you know more details during the lunch time, inside the church and other places. 19:00 p.m. aprox.- We return back to Potosí. After 2 hrs. there is a stop at “Cruce Ventilla” from where it´s possible to catch the bus to La Paz, for those who are going to that direction.
Remember to bring: Torch, hat, camera and coca leaves.
INCLUDES:Transport, food, basic accommodation, entrance fee to the community the 3rd of may. (150 Bs).
NO INCLUDES: Entrance fee to Macha (100 Bs. Aprox), extra drinks nor gifts for the farmers.
WE DO THIS TRIP ONCE A YEAR WE OFFER SLIDES SHOW

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