I’ve organized more than 150 wellness retreats in the Peruvian Andes, and there’s something all my clients discover: the mountain heals in ways no urban spa can replicate. Maybe it’s the energy of places the Incas considered sacred. Maybe it’s the clean air at 3,000 meters. Or maybe it’s simply that you disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and timeless valleys.

The Peruvian Andes are quickly becoming one of the most coveted wellness destinations in the world, and with good reason. You won’t find generic all-inclusive resort wellness here. You’ll find a deep connection with ancestral practices thousands of years old, natural ingredients that only grow at these altitudes, and a spirituality that permeates every stone, every mountain, every ritual.

Why the Andes Are the Perfect Wellness Destination

Andean peoples have practiced holistic medicine and spiritual connection with nature for millennia. Long before “wellness” was a multibillion-dollar industry, the Incas understood that true health comes from balance between body, mind, and spirit.

What makes Andean retreats unique:

• Altitude transforms you. Breathing at 2,800–3,800 meters (9,200–12,500 ft) forces your body to slow down and become more aware of each breath. It’s built-in meditation. Your body makes more red blood cells, your metabolism shifts, and many people report mental clarity they don’t experience at sea level.
• The energy of sacred places is real. You can be as skeptical as you like, but there’s something undeniable about doing yoga facing a mountain the Incas revered as an apu (protector spirit), or meditating in ruins where ceremonies took place 600 years ago. The Incas chose their sacred sites for reasons modern science is only beginning to understand.
• Ingredients that don’t exist elsewhere. The Andes’ biodiversity is unique: medicinal plants that grow only above 3,500 m, natural hot springs loaded with volcanic minerals, pink Maras salt, and aromatic herbs used by healers since pre-Columbian times.
• Authenticity over commercialization. Unlike many wellness destinations that sell manufactured “cultural experiences,” practices here are real. The shamans leading ceremonies learned from their grandparents. Healing techniques come from uninterrupted traditions centuries old.

The Best Wellness Lodges & Hotels in the Andes

Tambo del Inka — Andes Spa

Location: Urubamba, Sacred Valley

We’ve already discussed Tambo del Inka as a luxury hotel, but Andes Spa deserves its own section in any wellness conversation about Peru.

Facilities (1,500 m²):
• 8 single treatment rooms • 2 couples’ spa suites with fireplace • Full hydrotherapy circuit • Heated indoor pool with massage currents • Outdoor jacuzzis with mountain views • Finnish sauna (80–90 °C) • Turkish steam bath with eucalyptus essences • Relaxation lounge with fireplace and Andean herbal teas • Technogym fitness center • Yoga and meditation studios

Signature treatments:

• Andean Deep-Release Ritual (90 min, $160): Starts with a Maras salt and quinoa body scrub, followed by deep-tissue massage with hot river stones and oils infused with muña (Andean mint) and rosemary; finishes with cranial massage.
• Andean Clay Body Wrap (60 min, $120): Volcanic clay rich in minerals applied body-wide; cocoon wrap for detox; rain shower and sacha inchi (Amazonian omega) oil massage.
• Apus Stone Therapy (90 min, $170): Hot volcanic stones and cold river stones in sequence to stimulate circulation and balance energy—Inspired by Andean duality (warm/cool, sun/moon, masculine/feminine).
• High-Altitude Massage (60 min, $130): Specifically designed to ease altitude symptoms and travel fatigue: key-point acupressure, scalp massage, foot reflexology, aromatherapy with coca and eucalyptus.

Wellness program:
Packages of 3, 5, or 7 days combining: initial wellness assessment; daily spa treatments; yoga classes (hatha, vinyasa, restorative); sunrise guided meditation; mindful valley walks; nutrition consultations; wellness/detox menus at the restaurant.
5-day price: ~$3,500 per person (room, all treatments, classes, wellness meals).
Best for: Full luxury with serious wellness; guests who want top infrastructure (especially the water circuit); couples or groups seeking flexibility.

Aranwa Sacred Valley — Unno Spa

Location: Urubamba, Sacred Valley

Unno Spa at Aranwa is known for one thing no other valley spa has: direct access to natural thermal waters.

What’s special: The hotel is built over a volcanic hot spring rich in minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium, sulfur). Waters naturally emerge at 38–40 °C and feed directly into the spa circuit.

Facilities:
• Thermal-water circuit with pools at different temperatures (36 °C, 38 °C, 40 °C) • Heated indoor pool (28 °C) • Indoor/outdoor jacuzzis • Dry and steam saunas • Garden-view treatment rooms • Relax zone with heated waterbeds • Silent meditation room

Thermal treatments:

• Thermal Bath with Andean Herbs (45 min, $80): Private tub infused with muña, eucalyptus, and rosemary; includes scalp massage.
• Thermal Hydromassage (30 min, $60).
• Sacred Water Ritual (120 min, $200): Thermal bath, full-body exfoliation, oil massage, and wrap—the ultimate spa day.

Other highlights:

• Maras Salt Stone Massage (90 min, $155): Heated stones carved from Maras pink salt, releasing minerals through the skin.
• Quinoa & Kiwicha Wrap (75 min, $135): Ancient-grain exfoliation plus hydrating oil wrap.

Andean Detox Program:
3- or 5-day programs with unlimited thermal circuit, one treatment per day, detox menus by a nutritionist, morning garden yoga, guided walks, and talks on Andean medicine.
3-day price: ~$2,200 per person (Superior room, all treatments, wellness meals).
Best for: Those prioritizing natural hot springs, travelers with muscle/joint concerns, guests seeking excellent value (more accessible than Tambo del Inka).

Explora Sacred Valley — Integrated Wellness

Location: Urubamba, Sacred Valley

Explora’s approach is entirely different: wellness integrated into the whole experience rather than a traditional menu of treatments.

Philosophy: Wellness comes from movement in nature, not only passive treatments. Their all-inclusive model includes 50+ explorations (hikes, biking, yoga, meditation) led by expert guides. Each morning you choose your activity based on the intensity you want.

Intensity levels:

• Green (gentle): Short walks, restorative yoga, cultural visits
• Orange (moderate): 2–4-hour treks, vinyasa yoga, mountain biking
• Red (intense): Full-day hikes, advanced yoga, technical MTB

Spa: Small (4 treatment rooms), but massages are included in your stay (relaxing, sports/deep tissue, hot stones).
Yoga & meditation: Daily morning yoga; afternoon restorative; guided meditation on select nights (often under the stars); private classes with certified instructors available.
La Ona Spa: Panoramic-view jacuzzi, dry sauna, steam room, heated outdoor pool, fireplace lounge.
Nutrition: All meals included; menus emphasize sustained energy with Andean superfoods (quinoa, kiwicha, maca, cacao); vegetarian/vegan options always; unlimited juices and smoothies; healthy snacks 24/7.
Price: $1,200–1,800 pp/night (3-night minimum). Includes room, all meals, open bar, guided explorations, yoga, massages, spa access.
Best for: Active travelers who center wellness on movement; those who don’t want to think about logistics; small groups or adventurous couples.

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba — Eco-Wellness

Location: Sacred Valley, between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo

Inkaterra is Peru’s most respected eco-lodge brand. Its philosophy: wellness through connection with nature.

Setting: A 17th-century hacienda amid 40 hectares of organic gardens, orchards, and native forest. Only 13 rooms—small, intimate, quiet.

Unu Spa (“water” in Quechua):
• 3 standalone garden treatment casitas • Small heated outdoor pool • Open-air jacuzzi with mountain views • Eucalyptus sauna • Garden meditation area

Native-plant treatments:

• Muña & Chachacoma Massage (75 min, $125): Oils infused with Andean medicinal plants; muña relaxes muscles; chachacoma supports circulation.
• Coffee & Cacao Exfoliation (60 min, $95): Using organic estate-grown beans; followed by pure cocoa-butter hydration.
• Andean Flower Bath (45 min, $85): Tub with petals of native flowers (kantuta, mutuy, retama); ancestral energy-cleansing ritual.

Wellness experiences: Garden yoga (private/semi-private, $50–80 per class); mindful walks with a medicinal-plants expert; farm-to-table harvest in the organic garden; birdwatching (80+ species); ancestral ceremonies with local healers (Pachamama offerings, energy cleanses).
Price: $450–700 per night (room & breakfast; spa and special experiences à la carte).
Best for: Conscious travelers valuing sustainability; intimate, silent retreats; nature lovers; holistic wellness over showy spa luxury.

Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa — Private Spa Casitas

Location: Urubamba, Sacred Valley

A family-run boutique hotel with a unique spa concept: every treatment happens in your own private spa casita.

Spa concept: Instead of multiple rooms in one building, there are 6 individual spa casitas across the gardens. Each has: private treatment room, private shower, changing area, private patio, and (in some cases) a fireplace—offering total privacy.

Treatments:

• Relaxing Massage with Andean Oils (60/90 min, $90/$120): Swedish/medium pressure with coca, muña, and rosemary oils.
• Hot Volcanic Stone Massage (90 min, $140).
• Andean Beauty Ritual (120 min, $180): Facial with natural products + full body massage + foot treatment.
• Maras Salt Body Scrub (45 min, $75).

Yoga & activities: Yoga in a dedicated room or outdoors; Peruvian Paso horse rides (on-site stables); guided valley walks; Peruvian dance show three times a week.
Price: $400–650 per night (room & breakfast; spa and activities à la carte, typically more accessible than big-brand hotels).
Best for: Couples valuing privacy; travelers who feel intimidated by large formal spas; guests seeking warm, authentic boutique experiences.

Ancestral Andean Wellness Practices

Ceremonies with Shamans and Healers

Andean ancestral ceremonies aren’t manufactured “tourist experiences.” They are real spiritual practices kept alive for centuries.

Important context: Andean worldviews see health holistically. Illness isn’t only physical; it can be energetic or spiritual—disharmony with Pachamama (Mother Earth). Healers work on these subtle levels.

Offering to Pachamama (Pago a la Pachamama):
The most common and accessible ceremony. A paqo (Andean shaman) creates an elaborate offering using:
• Coca leaves (sacred plant) • Flowers • Grains (corn, quinoa) • Sweets • Colored wool • Symbolic items
Everything is arranged in a specific pattern on paper while the paqo chants in Quechua. The bundle is then burned so the smoke carries your intentions to Pachamama.

• Why do it: You don’t need to be “spiritual” or believe in anything specific. It’s an act of gratitude and respect for the land hosting you. Peruvians do it before traveling, when buying a home, at New Year, or when asking for something important.
• Where: Most luxury hotels in the Sacred Valley can coordinate a private ceremony. Cost: $80–150 for a small group (4–6 people).

Energy Cleansing with Sacred Plants:
The healer uses aromatic plants (santa maría, rue, rosemary, eucalyptus) to “comb” your energy field while chanting Quechua prayers. It may sound esoteric, but many—even skeptics—report feeling tangibly “lighter” afterwards.
Where: Offered at Inkaterra, Sol y Luna, and via private operators. $50–80 per person.

Coca Leaf Reading:
Andean divination using coca leaves to read your energy, imbalances, and future direction. The paqo casts the leaves on a sacred textile and interprets their fall. Treat it as cultural insight or spiritual guidance—your choice.
Where: Mercado de San Pedro in Cusco (simple versions, $10–20). For a serious experience, ask your hotel for a vetted practitioner.

IMPORTANT — What I don’t recommend:
Ayahuasca ceremonies in Cusco. Although ayahuasca is Amazonian, it’s become trendy in Cusco among tourists. Many fake “shamans” offer risky ceremonies. If you truly want to experience ayahuasca:

1. Do it in the Amazon (its original context).
2. At a serious, reputable center.
3. With medical screening
4. Never in a casual or touristy setting.
   There are reports of robbery, assault, and psychological crises in sketchy ceremonies in Cusco. Not worth the risk.

Natural Hot Springs

• Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo): The town is literally named for its hot springs. Public baths (~$5) with several pools at different temps (38–44 °C). Genuine thermal water—great for tired legs—but typically crowded post-Machu Picchu.
• Lares: Three hours from Cusco, Lares has more authentic, mountain-view outdoor pools. Mineral-rich water (around 42 °C). Day tours from Cusco $80–120 often include community weaving visits. Ideal post-Lares trek.
• Cocalmayo (Santa Teresa): Near Machu Picchu (alternative route). Three large cement pools with constantly flowing water (40–44 °C), surrounded by jungle and mountains. Entry about $3. Basic but clean, beautiful setting.

Traditional Andean Medicine

• Coca Tea: The first thing you’ll be offered on arrival at altitude—and it works. Coca is not cocaine; whole leaves contain mild alkaloids that help with:
  Altitude symptoms • Digestion • Gentle energy • Concentration
  Used by Andean peoples for 5,000+ years. Widely available in hotels, restaurants, markets; you can also chew leaves (more potent than tea).
• Muña (Andean mint): Grows above 2,800 m. Used for stomach upsets, inflammation, muscle relaxation, and sleep; found in teas, essential oils, spa products.
• Hercampuri: Very bitter herb used by healers to cleanse the liver and lower cholesterol. In Cusco’s San Pedro market you’ll see morning hercampuri juices (~$1). Tastes awful; locals swear by it.

Yoga & Meditation in the Andes

Dedicated Yoga Retreats

Samadhi Yoga & Meditation Center (Pisac):
3/7/14-day retreats fully focused on yoga and meditation.
Program: 2 daily yoga classes (hatha, vinyasa, yin), morning & evening meditation, pranayama workshops, yoga philosophy, mindful hikes. Hillside setting with Sacred Valley views. Simple but comfortable rooms. Organic vegetarian food.
Price: From ~$800 for 7 days (shared room, all meals, classes). Private retreats available. Level: All levels welcome, geared toward serious practitioners.

Yoga Space Cusco (Cusco city):
Boutique studio offering daily drop-ins ($12–15), weekly passes, privates ($50–70), and weekend workshops. International and local instructors; styles include vinyasa, ashtanga, yin, restorative.

Meditation at Sacred Sites

Specially arranged sessions after public hours or at exclusive times:

• Moray: Sit in silence at the bottom of the concentric terraces at dawn or dusk. The natural acoustics amplify breath, chants, or singing bowls.
• Maras Salt Pans: At sunrise, with no crowds, meditating among 3,000+ pink salt ponds reflecting the sky is nearly surreal.
  Private experiences: $150–250 per person (transport, guide, permits, meditation instructor).

Nature-Connection Activities

• Mindful Hiking: Not just “going for a walk”—it’s intentional movement: silent segments, stops for conscious observation (landscape, sounds, sensations), grounding exercises, journaling in nature, and meditations at special spots. Offered by several hotels with mindfulness-trained guides.
• Stargazing (Astrotourism): The Andes have some of the darkest, clearest skies. The Incas were sophisticated astronomers.
  Experiences: With a professional astronomer (telescopes, Andean constellation lore)—$80–120 pp for a 2-hour private session. In Moray or Maras, some operators combine stargazing with dinner under the stars—romantic and educational.
• Forest Bathing: Andean adaptation of shinrin-yoku. Slow, sensory immersion in native woodland. Inkaterra’s 40 hectares of native forest and trails are ideal.

Andean Nutrition & Detox

Ancestral superfoods:

• Quinoa: Complete protein, high fiber, gluten-free. The Incas called it the “mother grain.”
• Kiwicha (amaranth): Even more protein; high in calcium.
• Maca: High-altitude root (grows above 4,000 m) for energy and endurance; Inca warriors ate maca before battles.
• Camu Camu: Amazon fruit with ~60× the vitamin C of oranges.
• Sacha Inchi: Amazon seed; oil rich in omega 3/6/9.
• Aguaymanto (golden berry): Antioxidant-rich Andean fruit.
• Lúcuma: Naturally sweet fruit used in desserts; low glycemic index.

Detox programs: 3–7 days, typically with nutrition consults.
Sample day:

• Breakfast: Camu camu–aguaymanto–lúcuma smoothie; quinoa bowl with fresh fruit; muña or lemongrass tea.
• Lunch: Quinoa salad with organic vegetables; mushroom “ceviche” (vegan leche de tigre); steamed trout with herbs.
• Dinner: Andean vegetable soup; quinoa “quinotto” with mushrooms; coca tea.

Specialized Wellness Retreats

• Writing & Creativity Retreats: For artists and writers seeking mountain inspiration. Private work time, unstructured days, nature as muse, yoga/meditation for creativity, meals included. 1–4 weeks; pricing varies by lodge.
• Silence Retreats: Full silence for 3–10 days in remote lodges. Not for everyone, but transformative for those who commit.
• Couples’ Retreats: Focused on reconnection, communication, intimacy. Couples’ massages, partner yoga, vow-renewal ceremonies, private romantic dinners, and relationship-strengthening activities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wellness Retreats

Is it safe to do yoga and physical activities at this altitude?

It depends on your acclimatization. Recommendations:
Days 1–2: Only gentle activities (restorative yoga, short walks, spa)
Day 3+: You can gradually increase intensity

Signs you should stop:

• Severe headache
• Nausea
• Extreme dizziness
• Severe shortness of breath

Yoga practice at altitude:

• Inverted postures (headstands, shoulder stands) can be more challenging
• Breathing is more mindful (that’s good for practice)
• The ego drops automatically (you can’t push like at sea level)

If you have cardiac or respiratory conditions, consult your doctor before traveling.

Are spa treatments safe? What is their hygiene level?

Luxury hotel spas (Tambo del Inka, Aranwa, Explora, Inkaterra, Sol y Luna) follow strict international standards:

• Clean sheets for each client
• Quality oils and products
• Certified therapists
• Rooms disinfected between clients

They are as safe and hygienic as spas in the United States or Europe.

Are ceremonies with shamans “real,” or are they just for tourists?

It depends entirely on where and with whom.

Authentic ceremonies:

• The shaman is from an Andean community and speaks Quechua
• The ceremony follows traditional protocols (not invented for tourists)
• It is conducted with respect and seriousness (not a “show”)
• Usually coordinated by reputable hotels or specialized agencies

Red flags of fake ceremonies:

• Aggressive advertising on Cusco streets
• Exaggerated promises (“your life will change,” “you will clear all your karma”)
• Very cheap or excessively expensive prices
• Party/casual atmosphere
• Pressure to buy products afterward

My recommendation: If your hotel or a serious operator offers a ceremony, it is probably legitimate. If someone on the street offers you something, it probably isn’t.

Do I need prior experience in yoga or meditation?

For most experiences, no. Luxury hotels and yoga studios in Cusco/Sacred Valley welcome all levels.

For absolute beginners:

• Tell the instructor before class
• Choose classes marked “all levels” or “beginners welcome”
• Private classes are ideal for learning the basics
• Restorative/yin yoga are more accessible than vinyasa/ashtanga

For advanced practitioners:

• Cusco has excellent instructors in all styles
• Several studios offer teacher trainings
• Practicing at altitude adds a new dimension to your practice

How much time do I need for an effective wellness retreat?

Minimum: 3 nights/4 days

• Day 1: Arrival, gentle acclimatization
• Days 2–3: Full wellness activities
• Day 4: Departure

Ideal: 5–7 nights

• Time to acclimate well
• Establish a routine (morning yoga, spa, meditation)
• Truly disconnect and relax
• See changes in energy and well-being

Deep immersion: 10–14 nights

• For those seeking real transformation
• Time for a full detox
• Deepen practices
• Combine Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu

Can I do a wellness retreat combined with regular tourism?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s the most common.

Example of a balanced itinerary (7 days):

• Days 1–2: Lima (city tour, top restaurants)
• Days 3–5: Sacred Valley (wellness focus: spa, yoga, nature)
• Day 6: Machu Picchu
• Day 7: Cusco and return flight

The Sacred Valley is perfect as a wellness base because:

• It’s close to Machu Picchu (30 min to Ollantaytambo)
• It has the best spas and retreats
• The altitude is manageable (2,800 m vs. Cusco’s 3,400 m)
• The environment is naturally relaxing

Are wellness retreats only for women/couples, or can men go alone?

Everyone is welcome. Wellness has no gender.

Reality:

• Most guests at wellness retreats are women (60–70%)
• But more and more men participate
• Couples are common
• Groups of friends
• Solo travelers of all genders

Luxury spas are completely professional. Men can (and should) enjoy massages, facials, and treatments without any discomfort.

What should I bring to a wellness retreat in the Andes?

Clothing for yoga/activities:

• Leggings or yoga pants
• Yoga T-shirts/tanks
• Light sweatshirt (mornings are cold)
• Non-slip socks for yoga
• Trekking shoes if you plan hikes

For the spa:

• Swimsuit (for jacuzzis, thermal pools)
• Comfortable flip-flops
• Hotels provide robes and slippers

Wellness essentials:

• Your own yoga mat (or use the hotel/studio’s)
• Journal for reflections
• Earplugs (for meditation or if you’re noise-sensitive)
• Reusable water bottle
• Favorite teas (though hotels have plenty of variety)

Technology:

• Consider doing a “digital detox” — leave laptop/tablet
• Phone on airplane mode
• Camera if you want photos without phone distractions

Do NOT bring:

• Too much formal clothing (the vibe is casual)
• Rigid expectations (flow with the experience)
• Work stress (leave it at home)

What is the best time of year for wellness retreats?

Ideal season (April–May, September–October):

• Mild weather (neither very cold nor rainy)
• Fewer tourists than peak season
• More reasonable prices
• Calm energy in the Valley

High season (June–August):

• Perfect weather (dry, sunny)
• More tourists (but wellness hotels filter this)
• Higher prices
• You need to book further in advance

Rainy season (November–March):

• Incredibly green valley
• Afternoon rains (mornings usually clear)
• Fewer people, more peace
• Some trails may be muddy
• Perfect for indoor wellness (spa, yoga in studios)

My personal recommendation: September or October. The weather is beautiful, there are fewer tourists, and prices are fair.

Is it possible to keep the phone disconnected? Is there pressure to be available?

The best wellness retreats actively encourage you to disconnect.

What to expect:

• Wi-Fi available but usually in common areas (not in rooms)
• Some lodges have “technology-free zones”
• No pressure to stay connected
• Staff respect your space and time

Tips for a successful disconnection:

• Tell work/family before traveling that you’ll be only moderately available
• Set a specific schedule (e.g., check emails 30 min/day)
• Use airplane mode
• Leave your laptop at home; bring only your phone for photos

Most people find that after day 2–3, they no longer feel a compulsive need to check devices.

Are wellness retreats expensive? Are there more affordable options?

Wide price range:

Ultra luxury:

• Tambo del Inka, Explora: $1,200–1,800/night all-inclusive
• For 5 days: $6,000–9,000 per person

Mid-range luxury:

• Aranwa, Sol y Luna, Inkaterra: $400–700/night + treatments
• For 5 days: $3,000–5,000 per person

More accessible options:

• Stay in a mid-range hotel ($100–200/night)
• Drop-in yoga classes ($12–15/class)
• Select spa treatments ($80–120)
• For 5 days: $1,200–2,000 per person

Budget DIY wellness:

• Simple hostel/hotel in Pisac or the Valley: $30–60/night
• Yoga classes at Yoga Space Cusco: $12–15
• Hikes on your own (free)
• Healthy food at markets and local restaurants
• Public hot springs: $3–5
• For 5 days: $400–700 per person

Luxury adds value (service, location, quality), but you can create a beautiful wellness experience on a limited budget.

The Peruvian Andes offer something few wellness destinations can match: the combination of authentic ancestral practices with modern luxury infrastructure, all wrapped in one of the most spiritual and beautiful landscapes on the planet.
You don’t come here just for a massage or a yoga class. You come to reconnect with something deeper: with yourself, with nature, with practices that have been healing people for millennia.

Ready for your transformation in the sacred mountains?
At Luxe Andes Peru we design personalized wellness retreats that combine the best spas, authentic ancestral practices, and deeply connective experiences with the Andes that will change the way you see wellness.