Visit the summit of Cerro Calvario, where pilgrims andvisitors come to experience the panoramic views of the landscape and enacttraditional rituals. Situated northwest of Copacabana, this mountain rises fromthe lakeshore and is a popular place from which to watch the sunset andphotograph stunning views of the lake.
The short trail up the hill begins just outside ofCopacabana. Hike up the stony path, past crosses that symbolise Via Crucis (Wayof the Cross) and vendors who sell snacks and hand-crafted souvenirs.
At the top of the hill are the majestic panoramas ofCopacabana and Lake Titicaca. See in the distance the rugged peaks of Isla dela Luna and Isla del Sol. A great time to visit is just before sunset, when therays of sunlight illuminate the water with a soft glow, giving the lake an airof mysticism.
On holy days, such as Good Friday, spiritual leadersperform traditional fortune telling ceremonies. Watch as they enact rituals ofburning incense and place lead in bowls of steaming water. Watch the candlelitprocession of pilgrims as they travel from the Catedral de la Virgin deCandelaria. When the pilgrims reach the summit, they ask the Virgin Mary forforgiveness or an act of kindness. In August, the Andean Goddess Pachamama(Mother Earth) is honoured with offerings of flowers, burning llama foetuses orspraying beer.
The trail to Cerro Calvario starts at the Iglesia deColquepata (Church of Colquepata), a 10-minute hike from the central Plaza 2 deFebrero. Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail takes approximately 30 minutes towalk. The altitude at the summit is 4,000 metres (13,123 feet) above sea level,so rest as you need to. If visiting at sunset, be sure to pack a torch for thewalk back in the dark. During the peak season ask a local if it is safe to walkat night, as the influx of comparatively wealthy visitors attracts thieves fromall over the region.
Another route to the top during daylight hours isalong the waterfront where a steep trail leads up the west side of the hill.
