A panel of jurists in Cusco are outraged over a video that depicts a woman who appears to scatter human ashes on the sacred grounds of Machu Picchu. The video was originally shared on Tiktok where it went viral before it was removed. The unidentified woman was shown spreading the ashes from a clear plastic bag on one of the terraces in the ancient Inca citadel. After she emptied the bsg, she folded it, then embraced another person, all of which is captured in the video.

This act of desecration to the ancient site shows a shocking irreverance of the sacred Inca grounds and is considered an attack on the cultural heritage of the Inca. The commission in Cusco has warned that it is unacceptable to deposit human remains on archaeological sites and is the ultimate symbol of disrespect for ancestral grounds. 

This is a reminder that regardless of your intentions, performing ceremonies and rituals of any kind are forbidden in all Peruvian public archaeological sites. These areas are open for visitors to explore and learn about the history of the inca culture. It is rude to use the space for personal sacraments.

Are there places near Machu Picchu for conducting private ceremonies?

Yes. Usually these places are on private property in the Sacred Valley or the mountains outside of Cusco. It's best to go through a local person who understands the customs and logistics for finding places and organizing the ritual you desire. It's perfectly acceptable to have weddings, vow renewals, Earth celebrations and offerings to Pachamama. Do it safely and respectfully with the guidance of an informed local citizen. Let me know if you need help with this. We have found several places for ceremonies. And we have a shaman to conduct the rituals.

Embrace and Leave No Trace

Peru is a nature lovers paradise with a provocative backdrop for those travelers inclined to enhance their trips with divine experiences. Whatever you do on your trip to Peru, let the golden rule "Leave No Trace" be your guide for etiquette and conduct. Be a good visitor and ask first. Leave the space the same way you found it.