Every first Friday of the month, after a good week of Spanish classes at the Carmen Vega School, locals and visitors gather at La Troje, one of Cochabamba’s most iconic spots, to celebrate a tradition deeply rooted in Andean culture: the K’owa, an offering to Pachamama, Mother Earth.
It’s a moment of connection, gratitude, and sharing — a truly unique experience if you want to feel the heart and soul of Bolivia.
🔥 An Offering to Thank and Ask for Pachamama’s Blessings
The K’owa is an ancient ritual honoring Pachamama for everything she provides: life, health, food, prosperity, love... while asking for her protection in the month ahead.
Around a large fire, everyone is invited to choose a few coca leaves — a sacred Andean symbol — and place them in the offering.
These leaves, along with other elements (alcohol, incense, candies, confetti, or small symbolic items), are then burned in the fire to send prayers and wishes up to the heavens.
The crackling flames, the rising smoke, and the scent of herbs and coca create an atmosphere that feels both mystical and heartwarming.
🎶 Music, Dance, and Collective Joy
The K’owa is far from a quiet or solemn ceremony — it’s a vibrant celebration! Traditional music groups play Khantus, a powerful Andean style filled with the sounds of flutes and drums.
Before long, the rhythm takes over, and everyone starts dancing the Wititis, a joyful and colorful group dance.
Traditional clothes, smiles, and music echoing through La Troje make this moment a true celebration of life and community.
🍲 A Taste of Tradition: Chicha and Local Flavors
Like every Bolivian festivity, the K’owa wouldn’t be complete without great food and chicha!
Around the fire, you’ll find food stands serving all kinds of local dishes — anticuchos, salteñas, api con pastel, or Bolivian-style grilled meats.
But the real symbol of sharing is the chicha, a fermented corn drink served in large clay jars.
Here, you don’t drink alone — each jar is shared using a single tutuma (a hollowed-out gourd).
Tradition says the first person to drink must say “¡Salud!” and name a friend, take a full sip, refill the tutuma, and hand it to the person they just mentioned.
And so, the jar goes around, laughter mixes with music, and the celebration continues deep into the night.
🌎 A Living Tradition You Can’t Miss
Joining the K’owa at La Troje means stepping into the spiritual and festive heart of Bolivia.
This ritual, passed down through generations, beautifully blends respect for tradition, a sense of community, and pure joy.
You’ll leave with the scent of smoke on your clothes, a smile on your face, and maybe a little bit of Pachamama’s gentle energy in your heart 💛.