
Traditional Marriage
The Meaning of a Traditional Andean Marriage Ceremony
The Traditional Andean Marriage Ceremony is a sacred union ritual rooted in the cosmology and ancestral traditions of the Andes. Unlike conventional weddings focused solely on legal formalities and celebrations, the Andean marriage ceremony honors the spiritual dimension of partnership, bringing together two individuals within the sacred context of Pachamama (Mother Earth), the Apus (mountain spirits), and the interconnected web of life itself. This ritual celebrates not only the bond between partners but also the couple’s connection with nature, community, and ancestral lineage.
Guided by experienced Andean spiritual elders (paqos), the ceremony weaves together ancient customs, symbolic offerings, and intentional blessings — creating a union that is grounded in cultural meaning and spiritual reciprocity.
Trip Summary
- 8:00 am: Transport from the Hote & Meet with AndeanSpirit staff.
- 9:00 am: Introduction of the Paq’o (Maestro), conversation about the ceremonies to be performed and traditional wedding.
- 10:00 am: Ceremony for the unification of energy with coca leaves.
- 10:30 am: Cleasing ceremony.
- 11:00 am: Gratitude Ceremony.
- 12:00 am: Wedding Ceremony
- 1:00 am: Flower essences
- 2:00 pm: Break to sharing food
- 3:00 pm: Dancing and Sharing with Paq’os.
- 4:00 pm: Group photo with Paq’o
- 4:30 pm: Return transport to Cusco hotel.
Itinerary
Traditional Q'ero Wedding
The Q’ero marriage is a spiritual worship, promise or pact that can not be renounced, spoken to Heaven, the Inti Tayta (the Father Sun God of the universe) and the Mother Earth or Pachamama, were guided by spirits, the great protector spirits of the mountains, was the perfect duality between man and woman, they represented the Sun and the Moon. With great kindness they prepared them through sacred ceremonies, purifying, blessing with love and wisdom, uniting their hearts, body, mind and spirit for all eternity. No spiritual Wedding could be broken by word or agreement by man since it was pure, true, sincere, blessed and sacred love.
If the energy that correspond to the three spiritual worlds, such as: the sky – Hanac pacha, the earth – Kay pachaa nd the underworld – uku pacha, defiled them forever; Misfortunes, diseases, suffering, karma and even death according to the gravity of sin as punishment for their betrayal of the covenant. The spiritual Marriage Cusco is no joke or mockery, they have to have intentional responsibility to make the sacred pact.
A Q’ero priest performs prayers and petitions to the tutelary spirits of the Andes in honor of the couple celebrating their union. Couples actively participate in the ceremony; if close relatives are present, they also pray for the couple’s welfare and their offspring. If relatives and godparents are absent, the community will be your relatives and godparents at the Andean wedding.
Notes
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
In the Andean worldview, marriage is a sacred contract between partners, family, and the world around them. The ceremony affirms:
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Reciprocity (Ayni): mutual support between partners and with nature
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Harmony: alignment of hearts, intentions, and life paths
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Balance: emotional, spiritual, and energetic equilibrium
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Community: celebration with family, friends, and spiritual guides
For many couples, this ceremony becomes a transformational experience — a moment of deep cultural immersion, emotional connection, and spiritual awakening.
- Transport from the hotel to the ceremony center -sacred valley.
- Start of connection with coca leaves.
- 01 Paq’o (master) Q’ero & Private service with unique activities
- Presentation and explanation of the Wedding – The ceremony begins with the bride’s dress, then the groom in the traditional way typical of the Q’ero community
- Traditional wedding dance with ancestral music representative of the area and congratulations from all the guests.
- Snack, all the food and, drinks are a simple and delicius vegetarian diet suitable for working with medicinal plants.
- 01 assistant of the ceremony, who male available to patients what they need thoughout the ceremony
- Translation from Quechua/ Spanish to English
- Opportunity to share the experience and lesson learned from ceremonies
- Breakfast and Dinner.
- Marriage rings (gold and silver preferably). Transportation for guests.
- Bottled water, 1 liter per person, is recommended.
- Tips at the discretion of the tour guide and driver of the vehicle.
What to Bring
- A good pair of hiking boots or walking shoes.
- Poncho for those downpours
- A warm jacket
- Good quality sunscreen and a sunhat
- Bring clothes that you can layer
- A water bottle
- A hat, scarf and gloves
- Camera
Pricing List
Prices
| Description | Price per person | |
| Q'ero wedding, complete mystic marriage in the sacred valley (nature one our from Cusco). | $ USD 400.00 | Inquire Now |
| Q'ero wedding, Spiritual Blessing of Rings or Renovation near to Cusco. | $ USD 300.00 | Inquire Now |
| Q'ero wedding, Complete mystic marriage; outside the city of Cusco, Q'ero or Ausangate (2 days) | $ USD 560.00 | Inquire Now |
Recommendations
We keeping a traditional Inca pact or secret, organize, guide, prepare, heal by purifying and connecting the hearts of the bride and groom through sacred medicinal plants (body, mind and spirit) with different Inca ancient techniques, strengthen and unify forever the sacred marital covenant, we work looking for moral values, the perfect unconditional bond between man and woman for their absolute happiness. We do a retreat of complete preparation with all techniques, as it was our ancestors, ritual Andean ceremonies, Wachuma (San Pedro), the purpose is to achieve the perfect duality, being for each other for life. the Inca wedding ceremony is entertaining and wonderful, there is a party, exchange of gifts and garments, with a band of Andean musicians playing throughout the marriage, you would have to experience it to know our magic secret, full of surprises that you would never imagine to happen.
Faqs Traditional Marriage
What is a Traditional Andean Marriage Ceremony?
A Traditional Andean Marriage Ceremony is a sacred ancestral ritual that celebrates the spiritual union of a couple. Rooted in Andean cosmology, it honors Pachamama (Mother Earth), the Apus (mountain spirits), and the principles of harmony, balance, and reciprocity.
Is the Andean Marriage Ceremony legally recognized?
No. This ceremony is spiritual and symbolic, not a legal or civil marriage. Many couples choose it to complement a civil wedding or to honor their spiritual and cultural connection.
Who conducts the ceremony?
The ceremony is led by experienced Andean spiritual elders (paqos), often from indigenous communities such as the Q’ero, who preserve ancestral Inca traditions and ceremonial knowledge.
Where does the ceremony take place?
Ceremonies can be held in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, or other sacred Andean locations surrounded by nature. The exact location can be arranged depending on availability and preferences.
How long does the ceremony last?
The Traditional Andean Marriage Ceremony typically lasts between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the ritual elements included and the level of personalization.
Can the ceremony be personalized?
Yes. The ceremony can be customized with personal intentions, symbolic offerings, music, attire, or participation of family and friends, while respecting Andean traditions.
Do we need prior spiritual or cultural knowledge?
No prior experience is required. The spiritual guide explains each step of the ceremony, making it accessible and meaningful for all participants.
Can family and friends attend the ceremony?
Yes. Family and friends are welcome and often encouraged, as community presence reflects the Andean value of shared celebration and collective support.
What should we wear for the ceremony?
Comfortable clothing is recommended. Some couples choose traditional Andean garments or white attire, but this is optional.
What is included in the ceremony?
The ceremony usually includes ancestral prayers, sacred offerings (despacho), blessings, spiritual guidance, and ritual elements honoring Pachamama and the Apus.
Is this ceremony suitable for same-sex couples?
Yes. The Traditional Andean Marriage Ceremony honors love, unity, and spiritual commitment, and can be performed for all couples with respect and inclusivity.
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