November 4-12, 2017 – Cusco, Peru (roommate matching available)
Join this small group for a once-in-a-lifetime, customized tour to discover the magical wonders and irresistible culture of Peru. You will hike and explore the magnificent archaeological sites of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu with expert local guides. Meet and participate in activities with local musicians, artists, and healers who will share their traditions and ceremonies with the group. This is an opportunity to truly connect with Pacha Mama (Mother Earth).
What will you explore?
Machu Picchu: Spend two days exploring the famous ruins of Machu Picchu. Arriving by train from the Sacred Valley, exploring the ruins on the afternoon of your first day and hike down with the full moon, staying in the ruins until sunset, one of the quietest times of the day. Return early the following morning in time to witness sunrise over the ruins. The amazing guide, Gaby, will accompany both days, the first afternoon giving a full tour of the central ruins with its ceremonial center, sun-dial, still functioning water channels and impressive stonework, all built in harmony with the surrounding mountains of the high jungle. On the second day, hike some of the most famous trails at Machu Picchu, ascending the Inca staircases to the top of the spectacular Huaynu Picchu, descending down to the main ruins on an awe inspiring ancient trail cut right into the side of the mountain.
Sacsayhuman: Hike above Cusco to visit the zigzagging walls and impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman where you will be introduced to some of the greatest megalithic stonework in the world. Explore the expansive area including the carved boulders and hidden underground caves of Qenqo, and further up, a fascinating area still being excavated, known as “Temple of the Moon”. Gaby will help you understand the significance and theories about the awe-inspiring and sophisticated construction of Sacsayhuaman and beyond.
Pisac: It is larger than Machu Picchu in size, but because it was discovered by the Spanish, it is not as intact as Machu Picchu. But, Pisac is well worth exploring for a full day as there is so much to see and discover including its sun temple area, vast terraces, intact water systems, hill side tombs and famous craft market. Your local guide will help us to engage and connect with our surroundings with an earth offering ceremony at a special spot high in the Pisac ruins.
Chinchero: High above the Sacred Valley at 12,000’ and famous for its women weavers, spend the morning witnessing a weaving demonstration using native plant dyes and techniques; followed by a walk and guided tour of the beautiful Chinchero ruins.
Moray: Admire the magnificent circular terraced basins of Moray considered a sophisticated agricultural experimental center built by the ancient people who inhabited these lands, a perfect place to do a meditation before you get into the Sacred Valley.
While you are staying in the Sacred Valley, near the village of Urubamba, you will do a special guided hike up a mountain valley not often visited by other tourists. There you’ll be able to explore some rarely visited ruins, waterfalls and see how the local Quechua people live high in the mountains.
What’s Included:
* Airfare and transportation to and from the retreat is not included in the cost.
Cost: $3,500 per person double shared
PLUS book by September 15th and receive a $25 Visa Gift Card compliments of Just Spas & Adventures! BOOK early for this destination and it sells out every year!
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