Dawn reenactment on Lake Titicaca on reed boats.
Events
Departure of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo
The Departure of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo reenacts the Inca foundation myth on Lake Titicaca: at dawn, the mythical couple emerges on reed boats, receives offerings, and begins a ritual parade toward downtown Puno. With sikuri music, dances, and historical narration, the ceremony opens Puno’s Anniversary Week and brings together myth, lake, and city in a single event.
Contact usAbout the event
The Departure of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo reenacts the Inca foundation myth on Lake Titicaca: at dawn, the mythical couple emerges on reed boats, receives offerings, and begins a ritual parade toward downtown Puno. With sikuri music, dances, and historical narration, the ceremony opens Puno’s Anniversary Week and brings together myth, lake, and city in a single event.
Dawn reenactment on Lake Titicaca on reed boats.Ritual street parade from the pier to the historic center.Mythic narration with sikuri music and dance troupes.
LocationTiticaca, Puno
Best seasonThe night of November 3 and the morning of November 4 (Puno Anniversary Week): arrive before dawn to watch the departure on the lake and stay on for the main ceremony in the square.
Design assistance
Key highlights
What you'll experience at Departure of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo
Ritual street parade from the pier to the historic center.
Mythic narration with sikuri music and dance troupes.
Offerings and greetings to Pachamama and the lake.
Symbolic proclamation in the main square with authorities and ensembles.
Notable moments
Suggested agenda
Ceremonial dawn on the lake
Landing and parade of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo
Main ceremony and proclamation in the square
Sikuri performances and light-dance shows
Handicraft and food fair in the city center
Where it happens
This is how Departure of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo feels
The crowd gathers along the waterfront and port, then follows the parade; it is an emotional, highly photogenic event, filled with band music and the smell of coffee and hot chocolate from local stalls.
Joining Departure of Manco Cápac and Mama Ocllo?
Tell us your ideal dates and we'll arrange VIP access, transfers, and local hosts.