About this trip
Sacred Waters and Hidden Gems is a cultural tour and yoga retreat off the beaten path
in and around the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru. From highland lakes, to tropical waterfalls and glacial hot springs, we will explore the roads less traveled, guided by enthusiasts of traditional Andean culture and cosmology. This journey invites us to marvel at Incan and pre-Incan stonework and waterways dedicated to astronomical observation and agrarian practices, and enjoy the myriad of culinary delights Peru has to offer. It is a unique and colorful experience that aims to bring us closer to the water that sustains life, and to connect more deeply with our essence that knows the Earth to be sacred.
We'll admire sacred archaeological sites, colorful markets, breathtaking scenery, and delve into the rich culture of the Quechua Indians, the Inca descendants, in a very personal relationship with the land, the people, and their customs. One event that makes the trip truly unique is a visit to the traditional highland community of Amaru, where we will participate in their communal workday, share a meal, enjoy weaving demonstrations, music and dancing – a cultural exchange that deepens the appreciation of Quechua history and social life.
Our hosts, Roman and Fielding Vizcarra, owners of the Pisac Inn and Peru Cultural Journeys, dedicate their lives to the celebration and promotion of traditional Andean culture. Meals are provided by the Pisac Inn’s restaurant Cuchara de Palo, celebrating the wealth of Peruvian Cuisine, and dedicated to organic, locally sourced and fresh ingredients. Peru’s ancient agrarian tradition resulted in an abundant diversity of products, full of flavors, colors and aromas that have won special recognition for Peruvian Culinary Art as one of the most exquisite and sophisticated on the planet.
Throughout our travels the yoga sessions will allow time for reflection and integration of our incredible experiences, but if you or your travel companion do not practice yoga, you can still join the tour and use the yoga time to spend at your leisure. The daily yoga practice ranges from an invigorating vinyasa sequence, to a restful, restorative session, depending on the other activities of the day and the needs of the group.
This Andean cultural journey combined with a yoga retreat sets the stage for a profound cultural and personal experience. The woven itinerary, accommodations, and meals celebrate the Andean perspective. Our participation in this tour directly supports sustainability of ancient, time-honored practices in the modern world.
What’s included
- Accommodation7 nights at the Pisac Inn, one night at the Eco-lodge in Santa Teresa.
- MealsThe Cuchara de Palo Restaurant caters our pic-nic lunches and provides all meals at the Pisac Inn.
- Yoga ClassesSonya Luz Costanza guides the yoga classes.
- Ground TransportationOn all of our excursions we will have a private tour van. Transportation from and back to the airport is also included.
- Entrance to SitesThe price of admission to all archeological sites and hot springs is included.
- Guidance Through SitesWe will have a professional guide to explain the history and significance of the agricultural terraces, intricate stonework, and astronomical observatories we'll visit.
- Taxes and feesSales tax and administration fees are included.
What’s not included
- AirfareYou are responsible for arranging your own air transport to Cusco. Arrive on the morning of May 3. We will pick you up in our private van from the airport or hotel in Cusco if you arrive earlier.
- Travel InsuranceWe strongly reccomend each passenger purchase travel insurance.
- Meals Eaten OutThere will be 4 meals taken in restaurants outside the Pisac Inn.
- Spa TreatmentsMassage, herbal baths, and saunas at the Unucha Spa are not included in the tour price.
- GratuitiesYou may wish to tip the driver of our van, massage therapist, spa attendant, hotel staff, our guide, or others along the way.
- Personal ExpensesThere are many opportunities to buy local weavings and crafts directly from the artisans, and at the Pisac Market and stores in Cusco. Other expenses may include toiletries, extra snacks, or alcohol.
- Credit card feesIf you choose to pay by credit card an additional fee will be applied. If you choose the option to pay directly from your bank there are no fees.
Available Packages
Register by December 1, 2024 to get the early bird price. A $1200 deposit required for registration, which is not refundable after February 1, 2025. Before February 1, deposits can be refunded less a $500 registration fee. Full payment is required by February 1, 2025.
A $1200 deposit required for registration, which is not refundable after February 1, 2025. Before February 1, deposits can be refunded less a $500 registration fee. Full payment is required by February 1, 2025.
Available options
Itinerary
Take a morning flight to Cusco, the navel of the world, land in the heart of the Andes and be greeted at the Cusco airport to begin your journey. Enjoy a spectacular 45-minute scenic drive to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Outside of Cusco explore the pre-Columbian sacred spring of Tambomachay. You will be captivated by the introduction to Andean astronomy and sacred geometry, the foundation of Andean culture that will be expanded on each day of your journey. Revel in the striking beauty of the snow-topped peaks, mountainsides delineated by Inca terraces, and fields that cover the valley floor. Arrive to Pisac with lower altitude and small-town charm. Settle into your room at Pisac Inn and enjoy a cup of coca tea to help you acclimate. Savor your first in a series of delicious meals spun into a select set menu to explore the diversity and richness of Peruvian Cuisine. Take the afternoon to wander the cobblestone streets of Pisac on your own. Late afternoon yoga followed by evening reception and fireside dinner.
Hotel: Pisac Inn Meals: L, D