Andean Awakening: A Yoga & Cultural Immersion Retreat in Peru with Nicole Medina
Your TourHero
Nicole Medina
Yoga Teacher, MS Kinesiology, BS Human Nutrition
Passionate about personal growth and experiencing life to its full potential.
Duration
6 days · 5 nights
Travel Date
Sep 1 - 6, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
10 - 12
Transportation
Van, train
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Yoga, food & culture, history, nature
Your Local Guide
Pure! Peru is part of the Pure! Travel Group, a leading DMC specializing in tailor-made services and operating in six South American countries. Each office, including Pure! Peru, has a knowledgeable and highly motivated team ready to provide top-class service, local insight, and exceptional communication. For Peru travel, go through Pure! Peru.
A transformative wellness retreat awaits in the enchanting Sacred Valley of Peru. This immersive, six-day experience takes you on a journey through historic locations, including Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu. Nestled in the heart of the Andes mountains, the retreat's home base is the renowned Willka T'ika wellness center, offering a serene environment that blends seamlessly with the captivating landscape of the Sacred Valley. From here, you'll embark on an array of cultural excursions such as visits to the vibrant Pisac Market, the picturesque Maras salt pans, the unique Moray terraces, and the historic Ollantaytambo ruins.
A fundamental component of this wellness retreat is the daily yoga and meditation sessions designed to harmonize body, mind, and spirit against the backdrop of the tranquil Andean landscape. These practices will prepare you for the day's activities, whether they be explorative tours or interactive workshops. One such workshop focuses on handstand practice, a playful yet empowering exercise that enhances your strength and balance. In addition, the retreat includes enriching activities such as a Peruvian cooking class, a San Pedro Market tour, and a Cusco city tour, culminating in a unique cultural immersion, along with a sacred cacao ceremony, providing spiritual depth and a profound connection to yourself, the group, and the ancient wisdom of the land.
This wellness retreat in Peru offers an extraordinary balance of physical activity, cultural exploration, and personal growth. Join Nicole and friends on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to see the world and grow your yoga practice in a sacred paradise.
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until May 28, 2024. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by May 28, 2024 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip up until May 28, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit amount. After that time, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Your TourHero
Nicole Medina
Yoga Teacher, MS Kinesiology, BS Human Nutrition
Passionate about personal growth and experiencing life to its full potential.
Duration
6 days · 5 nights
Travel Date
Sep 1 - 6, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
10 - 12
Transportation
Van, train
A transformative wellness retreat awaits in the enchanting Sacred Valley of Peru. This immersive, six-day experience takes you on a journey through historic locations, including Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, and the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu. Nestled in the heart of the Andes mountains, the retreat's home base is the renowned Willka T'ika wellness center, offering a serene environment that blends seamlessly with the captivating landscape of the Sacred Valley. From here, you'll embark on an array of cultural excursions such as visits to the vibrant Pisac Market, the picturesque Maras salt pans, the unique Moray terraces, and the historic Ollantaytambo ruins.
A fundamental component of this wellness retreat is the daily yoga and meditation sessions designed to harmonize body, mind, and spirit against the backdrop of the tranquil Andean landscape. These practices will prepare you for the day's activities, whether they be explorative tours or interactive workshops. One such workshop focuses on handstand practice, a playful yet empowering exercise that enhances your strength and balance. In addition, the retreat includes enriching activities such as a Peruvian cooking class, a San Pedro Market tour, and a Cusco city tour, culminating in a unique cultural immersion, along with a sacred cacao ceremony, providing spiritual depth and a profound connection to yourself, the group, and the ancient wisdom of the land.
This wellness retreat in Peru offers an extraordinary balance of physical activity, cultural exploration, and personal growth. Join Nicole and friends on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to see the world and grow your yoga practice in a sacred paradise.
Timeline
- Day 1 · September 1, 2024 · Cusco & Sacred Valley
- Arrive in Cusco
- Private group transfer from airport to accommodation in the Sacred Valley
- ~ 1 hr 30 mins van
- Check-in at Willka Tika
- Free time
- Opening circle
- Welcome dinner
- Day 2 · September 2, 2024 · Sacred Valley
- Morning yoga and meditation
- Breakfast
- Visit Pisac Market
- Tour Ollantaytambo ruins
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Return to accommodation
- Cacao ceremony
- Dinner
- Day 3 · September 3, 2024 · Sacred Valley
- Morning yoga and meditation
- Breakfast
- Vist Maras and Moray
- Return to accommodation
- Lunch and free time
- Handstand Workshop
- Dinner
- Day 4 · September 4, 2024 · Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Cusco
- Early breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
- 6:40 - 8:01 am - Voyager train to Machu Picchu
- Bus up to Machu Picchu
- ~ 30 mins bus
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Lunch at local restaurant in Aguas Calientes
- 2:30 - 3:56 pm - Voyager train to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer to Cusco
- ~ 1 hr 30 mins van
- Check-in at Antigua Casona San Blas
- Dinner at Pachapapa Restaurant
- Day 5 · September 5, 2024 · Cusco
- Morning yoga and meditation
- Breakfast
- San Pedro Market tour
- Cooking class (lunch included)
- Return to accommodation
- Handstand Workshop
- Cusco city tour
- Farewell dinner at La Retama restaurant
- Day 6 · September 6, 2024 · Departure
- Breakfast
- Closing circle
- Check out of accommodation
- Private group transfer to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · September 1, 2024
Welcome to the Sacred Valley – a gateway into the past and the beginning of your wellness adventure
Welcome to your unforgettable wellness retreat in Peru. We’re thrilled to have you join us for six days of yoga, culture, and sacred sightseeing. Upon arrival at the Cusco Airport, you'll be warmly greeted by our team who will arrange a private transfer for you. Sit back and enjoy the stunning panoramic views as you travel through the captivating landscape of the Andes, taking you directly to your accommodation in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
We'll be staying at the renowned Willka T'ika, an exceptional wellness retreat center that combines the magic of the location with the history of the Inca civilization. As you check in, let the serene energy of the place wash over you. The rest of the afternoon is yours to unpack, relax, explore the lush gardens, or perhaps even meditate in the peace of your new surroundings.
As the sun begins to set, we'll gather for an opening circle. This is a time for us to connect, to set intentions for the journey ahead, and to formally open our wellness retreat in the spirit of unity and shared purpose.
Lastly, prepare your senses for a delectable welcome dinner. In the intimate ambiance of Willka T'ika, we'll indulge in an array of sumptuous organic dishes, thoughtfully prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, encapsulating the essence of Peruvian cuisine. We look forward to sharing this transformative journey with you, where an extraordinary wellness adventure awaits!
Day 2 · September 2, 2024
Start exploring the sacred sites of the area in between yoga, meditation, and ancient ceremony
Our day begins at dawn with a peaceful session of yoga and meditation, harmonizing our bodies and minds with the serene energy of the Sacred Valley. The combination of stretching, breath control, and mental focus will awaken your senses and ready you for the day's adventures. From here, we'll nourish our bodies with a delightful breakfast, indulging in a variety of local fruits, freshly baked bread, and more delicious fare to fuel our journey.
The day's exploration commences with a visit to the vibrant Pisac Market, a bustling hub of regional culture where thousands gather to trade agricultural goods and handicrafts. This enriching experience will give you a unique insight into local life, customs, and traditions. Of course, you'll also have the chance to peruse the offerings, perhaps finding a special keepsake to remember your journey.
From Pisac, we'll continue to the remarkable Ollantaytambo ruins. Steeped in history and legend, this site was named after Ollanta, a warrior who dared to love an Inca princess. The best-preserved area, Hanan Huacaypata, showcases elegantly crafted stone walkways, a testament to the ingenuity of the Incas. As midday approaches, we'll break for lunch at a charming local restaurant. Relish the exquisite flavors of Peruvian cuisine, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Afterwards, we'll return to Willka T'ika, where you'll have some free time to rest or explore before we gather for an authentic cacao ceremony. This sacred ‘teacher’ plant will guide us towards opening our hearts and connecting with our higher selves. The ceremony will be led by a shamanic facilitator and accompanied by soul-stirring music. Whether it leads you towards deep relaxation or joyful dancing, come with an open heart and a sweet tooth.
The day concludes with a delectable dinner, providing an opportunity to share experiences, exchange insights, and connect deeper with the group.
Day 3 · September 3, 2024
Explore the Maras Salt Pans and the ancient Moray terraces, then expand your yoga practice during a handstand workshop with Nicole
We'll rise with the sun for a morning yoga and meditation session. As we breathe in the crisp Andean air, we'll harmonize our bodies, minds, and spirits, setting the tone for the day's journey. After our invigorating practice, we'll gather for breakfast, then embark on a thrilling excursion to Moray and Maras. Our first stop is Moray, an archaeological site famous for its remarkable embedded amphitheater. This formation of circular terraces seems to vanish into the interior of the Puna, akin to an artificial crater. Historians believe that Moray was an essential Inca center for agricultural experimentation, a testament to their agricultural wisdom and sophistication.
Our journey continues to Maras, a charming community known for its picturesque church dating back to the colonial era. But the true highlight of Maras is the remarkable salt pans, a mesmerizing labyrinth of ponds that shimmer under the sun, a captivating spectacle for all, particularly photography enthusiasts. After immersing ourselves in the intriguing history and breathtaking views, we'll return to our accommodation for a delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, we'll shift gears to focus on our physical wellness with a handstand workshop. Regardless of your level of experience, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to challenge your body, increase your strength, and have some fun. Remember, it's about progress, not perfection! After the workshop, you'll have some free time before dinner. Use this respite to relax, explore the property, journal, or perhaps practice your newly-learned handstand skills.
Day 4 · September 4, 2024
Travel to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, and enjoy a guided tour of this magnificent historical site
Today marks an extraordinary chapter in our wellness retreat as we journey to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This ancient Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes mountains is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.
We'll rise early and savor our last breakfast at the enchanting Willka T'ika before checking out. From here, we’ll transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station, the starting point for our Machu Picchu adventure. Our journey begins aboard the 6:40 am Voyager train, an experience designed to connect you with the beautiful Andean landscapes. As we traverse the Sacred Valley, let your senses be invigorated by the breathtaking scenery of towering mountains and verdant fields.
Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, we’ll take a bus ride up the mountain. As we ascend, the world will seem to fall away, leaving us in a realm of clouds and ancient grandeur. A knowledgeable guide will lead us through the enigmatic ruins of Machu Picchu, sharing the many theories about these stone structures left behind by the Incas. This sacred site offers much more than history – it provides a unique space for introspection and connection to our ancestors and the Earth.
Following our guided tour, we’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes, where a delightful lunch awaits at a local restaurant. Our adventure concludes with a relaxing journey aboard the 2:30 pm Voyager train, providing one last chance to marvel at the Andean landscape.
We’ll arrive back in Ollantaytambo around 4:00 pm, where our transfer will take us to the former Inca capital of Cusco. We’ll settle into our new accommodation and enjoy a group dinner at Pachapapa Restaurant.
Day 5 · September 5, 2024
Savor the flavors of Peru with a hands-on cooking class, and learn about the vibrant history of Cusco on a guided tour
Prepare yourself for our final day brimming with engaging activities, fascinating cultural experiences, and soulful connections. As the sun rises, we'll unite for our morning yoga and meditation session. This final group practice will ground us for the day ahead and deepen our collective bond. Post-practice, we'll gather for breakfast, then head to the lively San Pedro Market, the beating heart of Cusco's local life. Here, you'll witness a kaleidoscope of colors and aromas as vendors showcase a diverse array of regional produce, traditional crafts, and Andean textiles. This visit provides an authentic glimpse into local living and customs, offering an enriched understanding of Cusco.
Our time at the market sets the stage for our next activity – a delightful Peruvian cooking class. Guided by a local chef, we'll learn to create traditional dishes using the fresh ingredients sourced from the market. This hands-on experience will not only enrich your culinary repertoire but also offer a unique connection to Peruvian culture. The meal we prepare will serve as our lunch, a chance to relish the fruits of our labor.
After our culinary adventure, we'll return to our accommodation for a bit of downtime before another handstand workshop. This session offers a playful yet focused space to strengthen your physical balance and resilience.
As the afternoon wanes, we'll embark on a tour of Cusco City. From ancient ruins to colonial architecture, this tour offers insights into Cusco's rich tapestry of history and culture. The tour culminates with a heartfelt farewell dinner at La Retama restaurant, known for its exquisite Andean cuisine and lively music. As we gather around the table, we'll reflect on our shared journey, express gratitude, and celebrate our growth.
Day 6 · September 6, 2024
Bid farewell to Peru and a life-changing wellness adventure with Nicole
Today marks the end of our remarkable wellness journey in the heart of the Andes. While we say goodbye to the Sacred Valley, we also carry the wealth of experiences, wisdom, and connections cultivated during our time together.
Our final day begins with breakfast. As we break bread for the last time in this mystical landscape, let's relish the tastes, sights, and sounds that have been our backdrop for these transformative days. Following breakfast, we'll gather for a closing circle. This sacred space is a moment to reflect on our journey, share insights, and express gratitude.
Finally, a private transfer will take us back to the Cusco airport, signaling the end of our shared journey. As you embark on your homeward or onward journey, remember that this isn't just an ending, but also a new beginning, carrying forward the wellness practices, personal insights, and deep connections made during our time in the Sacred Valley. Safe travels and be well!
Accommodation
Willka Tika
Willka T’ika is an exquisite eco-friendly haven nestled between the city of Cusco and the mighty slopes of Machu Picchu in the Sacred Valley. Winding garden paths lead you through hundreds of flowers, plants and fruit trees, setting you in a peaceful mindset the moment you arrive. You’ll find your shared guest rooms to be constructed from natural materials, decorated by the center’s in-house artist. There’s also a bar and dining area on-site, with library and music rooms available for all. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Twin beds.
Antigua Casona San Blas
Antigua Casona San Blas is located in the artisan's neighborhood of San Blas, a five-minute walk from the historic city center of Cusco. San Blas is Cusco's oldest, continuously lived-in, neighborhood, rich with artisan galleries, quaint coffee shops, and good eats. On site, enjoy beautifully appointed rooms with colonial charm and modern comforts overlooking the gardens creating a tranquil atmosphere. The hotel features a restaurant, spa, and yoga to make your experience in Cusco the best it can be. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Twin beds.
Included
- 3 nights at Willka T’ika Essential Wellness
- 2 nights at Antigua Casona San Blas
- Double occupancy in accommodations
- All meals
- Private airport, accommodation & activity transfers
- 1 group arrival airport transfer
- 1 group departure airport transfer
- Train tickets
- Daily yoga sessions with Nicole
- All activities & tours listed in itinerary
- Entrance fees to locations mentioned in itinerary
Not included
- Flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses not stipulated
- Optional add-ons
- Gratuities
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the cancellation policy section on this itinerary page for specific details.
Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?
Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.
If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.
Do I need a passport for this trip?
A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.
What's included in the price?
Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact hello@tourhero.com.
Available add-on
Single room upgrade
Looking for more privacy? Upgrade to a single room for the duration of the retreat.
Price: USD 205
4 spots left
One-on-one session with Nicole
Price: USD 60
3 spots left
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until May 28, 2024. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by May 28, 2024 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip up until May 28, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit amount. After that time, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
- Said to have been an agricultural experimental station used to adapt crops to different temperatures, Moray is a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca culture. - Unsplash: Pedro Lastra
- There are over 6,000 salt pans here, each one no more than 13 square feet and less than a foot deep! It's an incredible sight to behold. - Unsplash: Fábio Hanashiro
- Willka T'ika - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- Soak in the picturesque views of the ruins, the mountains, and the waterfalls cascading all around you. - Facebook
- We'll stop at the Maras salt mines to learn about their use and enjoy some incredible photo ops. - Unsplash: Alfredo Rates
- You'll also try a pisco sour, considered by cocktail connoisseurs to be a South American classic. - Unsplash: Lorena Samponi
- Welcome to the Sacred Valley — a cradle of ancient history and former home of the Inca empire. - Unsplash: Paul Daly
- Antigua Casona San Blas - Antigua Casona San Blas
- Antigua Casona San Blas - Antigua Casona San Blas
- Willka T'ika - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- The property was constructed from natural materials, decorated by the center’s in-house artist, to make you feel rested and relaxed for the duration of your stay. - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- Willka T'ika is an eco-friendly haven nestled between the city of Cusco and the mighty slopes of Machu Picchu. - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- Say farewell with dinner at La Retama Restaurant, located right in the center of the Plaza de Armas. - La Retama Restaurant
- Enjoy delicious food, live music, and traditional dancing. - Facebook: La Retama Restaurant
- Today's the day! We'll begin our journey to Machu Picchu with a train ride to Aguas Calientes. - Unsplash: Giancarlo Revolledo
- After a mind-blowing day in Machu Picchu, it's back to Cusco to process the day's adventure. - Pixabay: jdbenthien
- Marvel at the Inca terraces of Moray - Unsplash: Pedro Lastra
- Hike to the hillside Incan ruins of Ollantaytambo - Unsplash: Mauro Lima
- Our first stop on this incredible Peruvian adventure is the village of Pisac to tour the local markets. - Unsplash: Hibeth Rodriguez
- Today, we'll learn all about the flavors of Peru. Visit the vibrant San Pedro Market, then head to a cooking studio to prepare a delectable feast, which you will enjoy as your lunch! - Unsplash: Ashim D’Silva
- A cacao ceremony is an ancient ritual that will open your heart and activate your senses, leaving you feeling deeply grounded and connected to your higher self. - Rachael Gorjestani
- Willka T'ika - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- Add-on: Double twin room upgrade - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- Add-on: Single room upgrade - Facebook: Willka T'ika