Vibrantly coloured threads are harmoniously weaved into the symbols and values of the Kallawaya tradition.
A work of art and a form of ancestral communication, the Andean textiles of the Pacha Trek reveal the craft skills of the Andean communities, embellishing garments with symbolic messages and images.
In the areas of the Pacha Trek where the textile craftspeople live, you can easily encounter alpacas and llamas. These Andean members of the camel family are bred by the villagers for two reasons, their nutritious meat and to obtain natural fibres for making textiles, a key activity for the local economy.
On the Pacha Trek, the Kallawaya women continue to this day the weaving traditions inherited from their ancestors according to the original methods and patterns. Spinners transform the alpaca and llama wool into precious yarns, while dyers then dye it with natural animal and plant materials. Finally, the skilled master weavers use their floor looms to create geometric shapes and figures, silhouettes of animals and plants representing the natural world and the stars, images and references to Kallawaya culture and mysticism.
This textile craft combines the knowledge and world view of the Kallawaya people in the making of marvellous fabrics that can be admired and purchased in the villages of Caluyo, Qutapampa, Chacarapi and Chari, in the region of Charazani. Along the Pacha Trek, some villagers have transformed their homes into exhibition spaces to share the fruits of their work with the visitors, displaying aguayos or multicoloured ponchos, woollen decorative ribbons (winchas), hats, sweaters and bags.
These skilfully and carefully woven items are unique and can be purchased in the villages as a souvenir of this experience. Contact us to plan your visit and learn more about Kallawaya textile crafts.
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear use warm clothing and fit for windy weather conditions, comfortable shoes, sleeping bag, hat and sunglasses.
Where
Communities of Caluyo, Qutapampa, Chacarapi and Chari, municipality of Charazani, department of La Paz.
Transportation
By private transport
From La Paz along National Route 16 towards Lake Titicaca until you reach the intersection of the Qutapampa community. The duration of the trip approximately 5 hours.
By public transport
From the El Alto terminal, there are buses that run along the route that leads to the Charazani community; To get to the Qutapampa community where the trek begins, private transportation is necessary.
Visiting Rules
For your health and the health of local population, remember to comply with all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: wear a mask and carry hand sanitizer, plus a first aid kit, with sunscreen and medications for altitude sickness.
During your visit remember to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.