Carnival of Oruro  | BOLIVIA

Carnaval of Oruro celebrates the mixed tradition of European/Spanish conquerors and the
Aymara and Quechua populations of the Andes. Forced to adopt the Catholic practices of their
conquerors the Aymara and Quechua attempted to acquiesce to their European invaders demands while still honor the spirits they were familiar with. Figures like Pachamama, mother Earth are worshipped. While El Tio, who it is said is the Devil is offered gifts of beer and food in the parade. El Tio is also one of the reasons you will see the “dance the Diablada” or the Devil’s Dance during Carnaval de Oruro. It is one of the many folk dances and customs performed during the carnival. Dancers prepare months in advance just as the costumes and floats featured in the carnival are handled with care and precision. It’s a colorful festival with a history rich in mystery and intrigue. It can’t be easily summarized. Carnaval de Oruro must be experienced.