The Sacred Valley
Our Quechua guide Johan asking for the blessings of the apus (mountains) and for protection along our steep path, blowing coco leaves into the winds in the direction of the mountain peaks. Many Peruvians carry a stash of coco leaves in their pocket, it has all sorts of traditional uses including religious rituals, being chewed as a stimulant, helping to cure altitude sickness,as an aphrodisiac and as a means of improving longevity.