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Tourists for the first time have been allowed to take part in the celebrations of the Ancient Inca ritual of Warachikuy in Peru.

Warachikuy marks the passage into manhood and although dating back to the 16th century, it is still considered an important Peruvian ritual.

Around 1,500 people take part in the Warachikuy ceremony in the Sacsayhuaman ruins, near the ancient Inca capital Cuzco, which today is home to 300,00 people.

The ritual itself involves music, dance, physical tests and mock battles, as the young men aim to prove themselves worthy of adulthood.

The first Warachikuy to be witnessed by foreign travellers took place last week, but ceremonies take place throughout the year around Cuzco from the catholic ceremonies of All Saints Day 1 November) and the Feast of the Virgin of the Rosary (10 October) involves processions, banquets and bull fighting to the ancient Santuranticuy market (26 December) and Inti Raymi in June, when sacrifices to the sun god are re-enacted.

Visitors to the area are warned that UV levels in Cuzco are some of the highest in the world due to the city's altitude so hats and sun cream are advised throughout the year.


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