Cusco people, the descendants of the great Inca Civilization inherited valuable and rich traditions. They learn to see the mountains, some of them called “Apus” as sacred and a significant part of their beliefs. In our section
“Peruvian Legends,” join us as we explore, legends and myths about these snow-capped Andes mountains that still fascinate visitors.
The Apu’s Significance in Andean Culture
The closest meaning in english for apu is “the one with high hierarchy,” while other people render it as “ god” “guardian” or “mountain spirit.” According to Inca mythology, Apus was key in Inca beliefs, as they were the link between god and humans.
Apus also had a special relationship with the “Pachamama” or the Inca earth goddess. The apus also took care of the crops, stock, and sources of life that Andean people considered essential to live. People were supposed to respect apus, otherwise, natural disasters such as landslides, avalanches, or earthquakes may occur.
Some well-respected apus are
– Ausangate Apu: The life provider
– Salkantay Apu: The protector lord
–Veronica Apu: The Sacred Valley’s Female Apu
Apu Ausangate: The Life Provider
Among the apus, Ausangate is a truly special mountain. Standing tall at nearly 6,400 meters (over 20,900 feet), Ausangate is not just a mountain; it represents the strength and kindness of nature. Local legends tell us that Ausangate brings healing and abundance.
Traditional healers and community elders share wonderful stories about how the mountain’s energy has helped people recover from illnesses and has brought much-needed rain to dry fields. In the following lines, we’ll share with you a story about this towering mountain.
The Legend of the Brothers Ausangate and Salkantay
According to the Inca culture tradition, Salkantay, and Ausangate were two brothers living in Cusco. When their people faced a severe drought, they decided to embark on a journey to find help. Salkantay headed north and discovered the lush jungle, where he found true love with Verónica.
Ausangate went south to the highlands. There, he found a treasure of food, including camelid meat, corn, and potatoes. Although he happily sent these back to nourish their community, his brother, Salkantay found love in “Veronica”, another major apu nearby. With time, both brothers became apu Ausangate and Salkantay.
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate Legend
Besides beholding this imposing mountain, one of the visitors’ favorites is exploring the 7 lakes of Ausangate. This lake circuit will surely take your breath away as you discover distinctive and characteristic bodies of water. This time the legend has it that Ausangate Apu went through hardships by the nearby villagers.
He felt so downhearted that he started to cry. As he was shedding tears, these transformed into bodies of water, and later into the seven lakes of Ausangate. It’s short but a beautiful tale that still is shared by both, locals and cusqueños!
Apu Salkantay: The Protector Lord
Just off the popular tourist paths, you’ll find the beautiful realm of Apu Salkantay. This mountain spirit has a legend as lively as the stunning landscape surrounding it. The name “Salkantay” means “wild” or “untamed,” which perfectly captures the mountain’s exciting and unpredictable nature.
Apu Salkantay is seen as a protector and guide for all who travel here. He challenges adventurers but also provides support during tough journeys. The famous Salkantay Trek, which leads to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, reflects this idea beautifully.
Folklorists think the tales of Salkantay enrich culture and provide advice for tough times. These stories empower local communities. They help people deal with the ups and downs of mountain life. Even the toughest journeys are filled with hope and strength.
Apu Salkantay Myths and Legends
One legend says Salkantay is a spirit that protects local communities and nature. People believe that its imposing presence shields the region from dangers and brings fertility to the land. Locals love sharing stories about Salkantay.
For example, they say it helps during tough times, protects them, and brings prosperity. Another popular legend tells of a hidden treasure buried deep within Salkantay. The tale says that during the Inca Empire, Inca rulers concealed vast riches in secret caves along the mountain’s slopes. For hundreds of years, adventurers have looked for this lost treasure, but no one has found anything.
Apu Veronica: The Sacred Valley’s Female Apu
Apu Veronica stands alongside the impressive figures of Ausangate and Salkantay, offering a nurturing and caring aspect of Andean spirituality. As her name implies, is the only “Female Apu” of all, that’s why we’ll refer to her as she. As the protector of fertility and growth, Apu Veronica plays a vital role in local lore.
She is seen as a kind spirit who helps keep the valleys lush and ensures bountiful harvests. Her impact is also clear in rural communities. The land flourishes when times are good, unlike the distant beauty of snow-capped mountains.
Farmers believe that in tough moments, it is Apu Veronica who sends the rains to nourish their crops and uplift the community.
Apu Veronica Legends
La Verónica is a stunning mountain in the Sacred Valley near Ollantaytambo. It was originally called Waynawillca, which means “Sacred Youth.” During the Inca period, this mountain was very important, as the Incas saw her as a protective deity, known as an Apu, and was honored as a guardian of agriculture.
In 1536, after a tough defeat by Francisco Pizarro, Manco Inca had to leave Cusco and seek safety in Vilcabamba. While escaping, he crossed the Málaga Pass, located under the northeastern ridge of Waynawillca. Later, people renamed this mountain as Wakaywillque, which means “Sacred Tear” in Quechua.
The new name reflects the sadness over losing the Inca Empire and the exile of its rulers. Finally, the Spanish linked the Quechua name to the legend of “La Llorona Verónica,” a well-known story in colonial America. This connection helped the mountain gain its current name, La Verónica, which it is still known today.
Other Apus’ Legends
Apu Wanakawri
According to legend, the Ayar brothers emerged from the mountains of Pacaritambo after a great flood had devastated the land. Their names were Ayar Uchu, Ayar Cachi, Ayar Manco, and Ayar Auca, accompanied by their respective wives.
When they saw the poor conditions of the land and the struggles of the people, they decided to embark on a journey from the Altiplano. Their goal was to find a more fertile place where they could thrive. After facing many challenges along the way, Ayar Manco, the last remaining brother, reached Huanacauri, located south of the Cusco Valley.
There, he discovered rich, fertile lands. With ease, he planted his golden staff into the ground, and they chose to settle there. This decision led to the founding of what would later be known as the Inca Empire, or Tahuantinsuyo. Along with his sisters, he established Cusco city, honoring Inti, the sun god.
Apu Winicunca
It’s interesting to note that the mountain we now know as Vinicunca was originally called Winicunca, which means “ long neck hill” Over time, locals changed the pronunciation, but its stunning colors inspired everyone to start calling it the “Rainbow Mountain,” “Mountain of Seven Colors,” or simply “Vinicunca.”
Historically, the Incas referred to certain mountains as “Apus,” believing they held special powers. Among these majestic peaks, Vinicunca stands out, part of the Ausangate Glacier in the Vilcanota Mountain Range. The Incas saw Vinicunca as having a masculine character.
They believed its strong foundations brought an energy that nurtured Pachamama (Mother Earth). This beautiful mountain is located in the district of Pitumarca, in the province of Canchis. Today, locals still see Vinicunca as a sacred mountain, honoring with earth offerings to show their gratitude.
Why These Legends Matter
The legends of the apus are not just stories; they guide Andean communities. They help shape how these people connect with nature. In a place where nature is both tough and beautiful, these myths provide comfort, wisdom, and a way to understand nature’s forces.
They remind us that every element of the landscape—from the soaring peaks to the winding rivers—has a role in the delicate balance of life. These legends offer a great resource for educators, students, and curious travelers, showing how ancient cultures understood the world.
The rituals and stories of Ausangate, Salkantay, Veronica, Wanakawri, and Vinicunca show a deep connection between spirituality and nature, highlighting a way of life where both are intertwined. Understanding these apus helps us see why we should respect nature.
In Conclusion
The apus of Cusco—Ausangate, Salkantay, Veronica, Wanakawri, and Vinicunca—are more than just mountains. They embody a living tradition that views the natural world as sacred and imbued with life. Each one reveals a unique aspect of the natural world.
These legends draw from solid research and centuries of indigenous wisdom, inspiring awe and guiding daily life in the Peruvian Andes. Although these mountains aren’t silent, they tell stories that whisper old lessons about resilience, balance, and how everything is connected.
As you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Cusco, take a moment to look up and listen. The mountains are speaking, inviting you to share in their timeless story. Viagens Machu Picchu invites you to discover the secrets of the vast and striking Andes.
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