Sacred Valley Retreat for Introverts & Sensitive Souls

Urubamba, Cusco, Peru

MR
Melissa Renzi / MNR Retreats, LLC
  • Email address verified
100 reviews
Mar 23 - 30, 2018
Group size: 8 - 12
Sacred Valley Retreat for Introverts & Sensitive Souls
Urubamba, Cusco, Peru

Melissa Renzi / MNR Retreats, LLC
  • Email address verified
100 reviews

$1,699
Deposit: $400
Mar 23 - 30, 2018
Group size: 8 - 12

About this trip

Awaken to the magical beauty of the Andes Mountains on a peaceful yoga adventure specifically for introverts in the Sacred Valley of Peru. 


Explore the magnificence of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu. 


Rejuvenate with soul-nourishing, mindful meditation and movement. 


Connect your spirit through ancient rituals, authentic culture, and meaningful discussion.


Featuring Special Guest Facilitator: Michaela Chung, Founder of Introvert Spring


Join us if you want to connect through a transformational experience that includes stunning natural landscapes, mindful yoga and meditation, locally-grown food, local culture, earth-friendly accommodations, and meaningful discussion.


All of this is with introverts and highly sensitive people in mind (see below).


Retreat guests make lifelong connections and change the way they see the world and themselves. Traveling with us is a life-changing experience.

What defines an introvert retreat?

We allow plenty of alone time to recharge. Traveling with a group can feel overwhelming if you always have to be with other people. We structure our schedules so that you have substantial alone time to do anything your inner heart desires.


We offer self-guided activities. While we offer group activities and shared meals, we offer self-guided options as well. If you want to go on a solo excursion or meditate alone, you got it. No questions asked. Group activities are optional and we set the tone from the start to ensure that everyone can be themselves.


We minimize the small talk. Well, we don't ban small talk, but you will be among like-minded folks that want to connect at a deeper level and understand that small talk can feel draining. We offer group discussions centered on meaningful topics. We encourage quiet hours during certain times of the day, in order to support mindfulness and peace. 


We connect travelers before the retreat. We create private Facebook groups for trip guests to get to know each other before the trip to feel more connected and comfortable upon arrival. 


We create authentic travel experiences. We select locations that we know will offer a genuine connection to the natural beauty and culture of a place. Our experiences allow the time and space to connect to yourself and fellow travelers in a way that honors the introvert in all of us. 


We encourage you to be yourself. We set the stage from the start so that you can decline an activity or leave the dinner table early. We value each person’s individual needs and encourage you to say no when something is not for you. We ask all guests to honor your wishes.

Accommodation

We will stay at Yoga Mandala Sacred Valley Retreat Center, located at the base of sacred mountains Pitisuray and Sawasiray in Arin valley right underneath a beautiful waterfall nestled in the sacred valley of the Incas. Here you will see the native cultures (Quechua speaking) working the land as they have for centuries, with love and simplicity. We are a family that likes to practice yoga and live in harmony with nature, welcoming every type of visitor. Yoga Mandala has been designed to have the least possible impact on the surrounding ecosystem, maintaining a virtual non-polluting operation. The center is eco-friendly, made from local materials, and spacious—providing you with personal privacy and solitude ideal for your own spiritual growth. 


Both double and single occupancy (limited spots) are available for the retreat. You do not need to sign up with a friend for double occupancy. We will pair you up with a compatible roommate. 


Each room is cozy and equipped with single, double and triple beds that are covered with comfortable feather duvets. Each room has private bathroom with hot water all day. 

Food

Yoga Mandala Sacred Valley serves three delicious meals per day with locally-grown, mostly organic ingredients.  Meals are generally vegetarian, but animal protein can be accommodated upon request. Dietary restrictions can be met. 


Your meals while at Machu Picchu (1 dinner, 1 breakfast, 1 lunch) are not included in the trip cost. A boxed lunch will be provided for our 1-day Sacred Valley excursion. 

Location

Yoga Mandala is located just an hour away from Cusco, Peru. A private return shuttle will be provided between Cusco and Yoga Mandala. 


Note that the retreat center is remote and the nearest town, Pisac, is roughly 30 minutes away and a $20 taxi ride. We've included 3 days of group excursions to offer you time to relax at the center or time to visit other sites on your own. There is a nearby waterfall you can hike to in your free time. 

Cancellation Policy

All deposits are non-refundable.

50 percent of trip cost is due by November 30, 2017. 

Remaining balance must be paid 60 days before trip start date.

If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due at the time (prior to departure) we receive written notice of your cancellation.

-More than 90 days before retreat start date, 100 percent of your payment may be applied to another retreat.

-60-89 days before retreat start date, 75 percent of your payment may be applied to another retreat. You will forfeit 25 percent of the price of your retreat.

-15 – 59 days before retreat start date, 30 percent of your payment may be applied to another retreat. You will forfeit 70 percent of the price of your retreat.

-If you cancel 14 days or less before retreat start date, you will forfeit your entire payment.

Packing List

Coming soon! 

Important!

Please note that Semana Santa (holy week) is March 25-31, 2018. While March is a less busy season overall and Semana Santa will not affect our retreat time, it will be busy in Cusco. Please book your hotel reservations in advance and recharge your introvert batteries to prepare for a fun and colorful, but stimulating experience. 

FAQs

Where do I fly into?

Plan your travel so that your flight arrives in Cusco, Peru by morning or early afternoon of the day your trip begins. We will depart in a private group shuttle from Cusco on Day 1 at approximately 3:00/4:00pm. The precise time will be determined once all travelers' flight itineraries are received.


Please plan your return flights so that it departs after 2:00pm on Day 8 to allow enough time. We recommend you plan to spend at least that afternoon and evening in Cusco and depart the next day to enjoy Cusco!


If your travel falls outside of group transfers, you will be responsible for your transportation costs.


Any hot tips on good flight deals?

Yes! It can be cheaper to book two separate flights with one from your departure city to Lima and another from Lima to Cusco. 


If your dates are flexible, both Google Flights and Kayak.com offer features for searching with flexible dates. The Hopper app may also be a useful tool. You put in your dates and it will tell you whether flights are likely to increase, decrease, or stay the same. 


Is Cusco part of our itinerary?

We will not be touring Cusco during the retreat. However, it is a magnificent city to visit. Because of its high altitude, we recommend you visit Cusco at the end of your trip rather than before it so that you have time to acclimate.


How will the altitude affect me? 

Every traveler is different with respect to how their bodies respond to elevation change. You can acclimate more easily if after landing in Cusco you spend the first night or two in the Sacred Valley as the altitude is significantly lower. For example, the altitude of Urubamba is 9420 feet in comparison with that of Cusco which is located at 11,154 feet. Travelers may experience some fatigue, sleeplessness and shortness of breath with exertion during the first 24 hours. This can be minimized by drinking lots of liquids including coca tea, avoiding alcohol, and not overexerting yourself the first day. If you have any medical conditions, it is recommended that you discuss the effects of altitude with your physician before traveling. 


Do you have hotel recommendations in Cusco?

Tierra Viva San Blas is recommended by both the retreat center and our local guide. Their prices are a bit higher, but they include a full breakfast and airport transfer. This is will be our departure point on March 23rd at 3pm. You might also check TripAdvisor or Airbnb for additional options. 


What is the climate like?

November to April is considered to be the rainy season in the Sacred Valley. January receives the heaviest rain and rain is minimal in March and April. When it does rain, it typically does not last all day and the green lush valleys are spectacular. Daytime temperatures in fahrenheit are typically in the 60s and nighttime temps can drop down to 40s. Please pack accordingly.  


What is the level of difficulty for planned excursions?

Machu Picchu can be challenging for some, as it has many stairs and is steep in some parts. That said, we can take it slow and easy to accommodate various levels of fitness. Huayna Picchu is not for those with serious vertigo and requires a high level of physical fitness. Tours such as the ruins at Ollantaytambo, Maras, and Moray require minimal walking. 

What’s included

  • 7 Nights Accommodation
    at Yoga Mandala Sacred Valley
  • 3 Healthy Meals Per Day
    Vegetarian - specify dietary needs
  • 2-Day Machu Picchu Trip
    Transport, train, hotel, entrance to Machu Picchu/Huayna Picchu, guide, visit Ollantaytambo ruins, "boleto turistico" (covers cost of other sacred sites)
  • 1-Day Sacred Valley Tour
    Transport, guide, and entrance to Chinchero Weaving, Maras Salt Mines, Moray Agricultural Site, Inca Temples
  • Private Transfer
    To/from Cusco to Yoga Mandala Sacred Valley
  • Meditation & Yoga
    Guided hatha vinyasa yoga and guided meditation (most days)
  • Discussion Circles
    Evening discussions on meaningful topics (when schedule permits)
  • Despacho Ceremony
    Shamanic ritual to create balance and harmony with the natural world

What’s not included

  • Airfare
    to/from Cusco
  • Travel insurance
    highly recommended
  • Meals at Machu Picchu
    1 dinner, 1 breakfast, 1 lunch
  • Tips
    $20-$30 total for all staff
  • Additional services
    massage, excursions, souvenirs, etc.

Available Packages

Double Occupancy-payment plan available

Share with a friend or we will pair you up with someone!

$1,699
Deposit:$400
Single Occupancy-payment plan available

Private room with queen bed. Limited rooms with private bathrooms available. Please inquire if this is important to you. 

$2,099
Deposit:$400
$1,699
Deposit: $400


Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive at Yoga Mandala for Opening Circle

All guests will need to arrive in Cusco by 3:00 p.m. A private shuttle will transport us to Yoga Mandala Sacred Valley Retreat Center in the Urubamba Valley. We will arrive at about 4:30 for a welcome snack and then have time to settle in before our opening circle at 6:00. The circle will include introductions, intentions, and some gentle stretching and meditation to move our bodies and ground after traveling. We will then have our welcome dinner at 7:30.

Your Organizer


MR
Melissa Renzi / MNR Retreats, LLC
100 reviews
Melissa Renzi (she/her) is a Licensed Social Worker & Yoga Teacher who has been organizing retreats since 2016. She believes that highly sensitive introverts can travel and experience the world as it is without overwhelm when we have supportive structures that move at a slower pace and group agreements that remove social pressures. At the forefront of Melissa's vision is creating space for sensitive people to feel seen while uncovering their strengths as agents of healing for themselves and communities.

Reviews

This was truly an amazing retreat. I loved the mix of activities, full days, togetherness, and quiet time to ourselves. The yoga classes were so special, so restorative, and I loved the accessibility options for the harder poses. The cultural immersion was something that on paper already looked really cool, but I had no idea how powerful and impactful it was going to be. I feel changed as a person in ways that I can't quite describe yet. A truly incredible, magical experience. The cultural immersion was a stand-out for sure, from including a wonderful local guide to the activities with local businesspeople thriving in their lives and communities. I had never done an international retreat, so it was a one-of-a-kind experience for me. I also had never traveled with a group of previously-unknown people, but the fact that we were all highly sensitive and/or introverts made it a LOT easier to interact with people and feel like I could be myself. I honestly didn't dislike any of the activities. Even though the trek up the steps to the retreat center was challenging, the AMAZING VIEWS were truly worth the uphill climb. I'm still processing it all and don't know if I can put it into words what I'm taking away from the experience, even though it's been a few weeks. I think my perspective about other cultures and lifestyles has expanded just a little bit, though I'm not sure exactly how that has or will continue to impact me as a person, especially on a day-to-day basis in how I act or feel toward different things. If I ever did want to do another experience like this, I would definitely want to sign up with Melissa. She did an amazing job at coordinating everything, accommodating everyone, and the flow of events and activities was impeccable!
By Wise N for Guatemala Retreat for Introverts & HSPs on Mar 01, 2025
This trip included wonderful people, fantastic weather, amazing food and experiences, and restorative yoga. We had the opportunity to meet a coffee farmer and his family, visit their home and farm, and learn about coffee growing and processing. While eating a delicious lunch and drinking the fresh coffee we'd helped process, we learned about direct trade in the coffee industry, and how we can support these farmers once we get home. We also visited a weaving cooperative and learned about the weaving process. We shopped for beautiful woven items, learned how this cooperative supports women to sell their beautiful woven wares, and learned how we can support this cooperative from home. We took part in a Guatemalan cooking class and learned the amazing story of the single mother who grew her cooking business from nothing and during COVID gained a worldwide following on social media. She now employs other single mothers and founded an organization to support children to attend school. Anita took us to the local market to buy fresh food. It was fun to visit the local market, see the people and their wares, and give them our business. At Anita's direction, we made and ate a very delicious Guatemalan meal while admiring views of Lake Atitlan and enjoying Anita's charismatic personality. This trip provided opportunities to meet and connect with Guatemalans and see how they live. Yet this trip was not overscheduled, with free days between these outings to relax and reflect or head off on our own adventures. The resort we stayed at was wonderful, with amazing views of Lake Atitlan and nearby volcanoes, and served excellent food. The travel group was an amazing group of people, including two fantastic facilitators. I highly recommend this trip. One note for those who have mobility challenges: Be prepared for cobblestone streets and steep steps without railings can take a big toll on the body.
By Jennifer P for Guatemala Retreat for Introverts & HSPs on Feb 26, 2025
What a TRULY incredible trip! I've done small and largish group travel before and this has been by far my favorite experience. The small group helped keep things manageable - I feel like I was actually able to get to know people even though we only had a week together. The thing I appreciated the most was Melissa's commitment to accessibility and inclusion - I have mobility issues and I never felt like I couldn't something because of it, especially the yoga classes. I have been practicing yoga on and off for about 18 years and I have NEVER had a yoga teacher as invested in making yoga this accessible as Melissa. She also took great care to find workarounds and assistance for anyone that needed it. This level of intentionality was also very present in our whole group, and it made for a really lovely way to travel. Taking this particular trip was also a really great introduction to Guatemala, as this was my first time. I feel like I was able to get a good sense of the place without feeling overwhelmed by a packed itinerary of sightseeing. I appreciate the relationships Melissa has cultivated in the places we visited and I feel like we were able to support some great people and their communities. Lastly I loved that she creates space for reflection and is genuine in her intention for participate in whatever ways they can and want to. For me, this meant I had the space to truly decompress and rest, while also having some enjoyable and memorable experiences. I can't wait to do another retreat with Melissa when time and funds next allow.
By Jackie P for Guatemala Retreat for Introverts & HSPs on Feb 25, 2025
It was a fantastic trip that was immersive into the culture and people of Guatemala! Melissa created a wonderful community of supportive participants that really enhanced the retreat experience!
By Elizabeth F for Guatemala Retreat for Introverts & HSPs on Feb 18, 2025
I highly recommend this retreat. Melissa is a knowledgeable and caring facilitator, and she set up some memorable cultural experiences for our group!
By Connie S for Guatemala Retreat for Introverts & HSPs on Feb 16, 2025
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