Just a few miles from Ollantaytambo, in the province of Urubamba in Cusco, is the community of Patacancha. This magical place is characterized not only by its living culture rich in Andean traditions but also by its unique, colorful, and noteworthy textile culture, in which the local people dress every day in garments made from materials extracted from nature. This permits us to turn back the clock and enjoy the full splendor of a culture which, in spite of the passing years, preserves its essence and keeps the quality of its folk art alive.
When we decide to submerge ourselves in this tiny paradise, we can share its traditions up close and personal and become part of it. We can share its traditional cuisine; participate in its daily rhythm of work and rest; and be witnesses of a traditional, local marriage. This “taking part in” teaches us to see with the heart. When we watch a wedding in Patacancha, we can observe a special ceremony, one which includes the love not only between the two people getting married but also for all who wish to be a part of it. If any tourists wish to reaffirm their love for each other or even get married in this very romantic, very traditional way, they can find themselves transported back to the moment in which their own never-ending love began.
Throughout the years, we have felt very committed to the community of Patacancha, since the majority of our field personnel who accompany tourists on the many treks that we offer are part of this community. Because of this, we don’t only promote this place to generate greater income for its residents, but we also give them training on environmental awareness and protection, and we provide them with social services and medical care.