Tapay is located in the province of Caylloma, in the southern part of Peru. A town that is characterized by having inhabitants that produce fruit trees, the Witiwiti dance, their typical clothing and the Jaccatapay ruins.
Folklore in Tapay
The Folklore of this district is one of the highlights of this beautiful and ancient town, as it is the place of origin of the Witiwiti dance. A dance that was done in order to recreate the romantic and warlike history of the political alliance made between Mayta Cápac and the ruler of the Collawas; fact that materialized with the marriage of the Inca sovereign with the princess Mama Yacchi.
Currently, this dance is reflected in the “Machuwititis” in Tapay. A playful, romantic and carnivalesque dance. A dance that can be seen during religious festivities and carnivals. During these festivities, the dancers gather in the center of the square while they unleash their joy to the rhythm of the music.
This dance is practiced as a group; because the men are a representation of the Inca soldiers and the women represent the companions of the Collawa princess. However, the warrior aspect also prevails when men form groups that simulate an army.
This traditional festival generally takes place during the festival of the Blessed Virgin of Candelaria, during the first 5 days of February, in the district of Tapay.
The Wititi dance was recognized in 2015 by UNESCO as one of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. A dance of pre-Hispanic warrior origin and in which men wear female skirts with the premise: “To deceive enemies, men dressed as women so that the enemy would trust and at the appropriate time draw their strength to defeat the opponent. ”.
Tapay Gastronomy
Some typical dishes that you can find in Tapay, being part of the Colca Valley, is alpaca and trout. The mazamorra made with purple corn, lucuma and sancayo is also a delight. One of the drinks that stands out the most in this district is its delicious apple wine.
Archeology
Tapay presents some ruins called Jacatapay and that was formerly the center of this town, but that was destroyed by an earthquake many years ago. A little explored place, so it is necessary to look for a local guide to guide us on this journey. This populated center is walled with stones and presents an architecture made with stones.
How to get to Tapay?
To get to this town you must leave from the city of Arequipa by bus to Cabanaconde. A little before arriving at Cabanaconde, you must get off at the Pampa de San Miguel, where you will have to do a trekking route downhill on foot for a time of 1 to 3 hours until you cross the river, later this journey continues for 1 2 hours uphill on foot or by mule. Tapay is in the very center of the Grand Colca Canyon.