Sacred Andean Tradition Despacho Ceremony

Welcoming 2026

As I was away for most of January, it feels as if the year is starting in February.  Since landing back in Hout Bay, I’ve felt the pull to acknowledge and set intentions for 2026.  As my Sacred Andean teacher, Kamaq Wageaq, so often reminds us – it’s all about intention.

On Sunday I will be doing a water element despacho. In the Andean tradition, water is an element that brings balance and reminds us that there is always a way around obstacles.

Before the ceremony, we will take time beside the water to slow down and reflect.  What are you calling in for 2026?  In the despacho ceremony, you will set the intention with the support of Water.  Asking the element of water for cleansing, clearing and flow to manifest the intentions you have set for the year ahead.  After the ceremony, the despacho is burnt to release the intentions and prayers of the despacho.

Bring something you treasure or is sacred with you to place on the altar for the duration of the ceremony.  If you are a Mesa carrier, please bring your Mesa.  (A Mesa is a sacred bundle – a portable altar,  containing sacred stones (khuyas) and sacred objects.  The priest holding the despacho uses their despacho for cleansing participants in the ceremony. )

You can bring a plate of food to share afterwards with tea and a donation

The Despacho Ceremony

The Despacho ceremony embodies the principles and symbolism of the Sacred Andean Tradition.

Each symbolic object in this ceremony carries a specific intent for the health and harmony of the individual, community and planet. It is a simple yet profound ceremony that grounds our visions and intentions and expresses our gratitude for the weavings of energy and spirit that support us in moving forward. It is an act of love and a reminder of the connections we share with all beings, elements, spirits and sacred places. It is a wonderful chance to share sacred space, to clear, balance and recharge your energy.

You can read more about the Sacred Andean Tradition and their upcoming residential retreat at https://sacredandeantradition.com/. 

This year’s experiential workshop runs from 26 Feb – 1 March for the Paq’o level 1 and 2 – 3 March for the Pampa Mesayoq Level 2.