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Andean Retreat:
14 Days - A Deep Journey Through Peru's Heart

Arrival in Lima

DAY 1

Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a Luxe Andes Peru representative, who will assist with VIP transfer to your luxury hotel in the exclusive Miraflores district. Once at the hotel, you’ll receive all necessary information for your transformative Andean retreat and personalized assistance with the check-in process. Use this day to acclimatize and enjoy your boutique hotel’s amenities. If your arrival is early, we recommend exploring the vibrant Miraflores district, visiting the romantic Love Park with its spectacular Pacific Ocean views, or enjoying a welcome dinner at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants. This first night is fundamental for rest before beginning your odyssey through the most spectacular landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.

Flight to Arequipa - City Tour

DAY 2

Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Arequipa, the “White City” built entirely with volcanic ashlar stone. Upon arrival at Arequipa airport (2,335m), you’ll be welcomed by your specialized guide and transferred to your boutique hotel in the historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After check-in and a brief rest for initial acclimatization, begin a complete tour of this colonial jewel. Visit the impressive Main Square surrounded by the Cathedral and ashlar portals, the fascinating Santa Catalina Monastery (a city within the city with colorful streets, squares and cells), and the Yanahuara viewpoint with panoramic views of Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. The afternoon includes a visit to the traditional San Lázaro neighborhood and free time to explore Arequipa gastronomy, famous for dishes like stuffed rocoto and adobo.

Free Day in Arequipa

DAY 3

This free day is designed for gradual acclimatization and personal exploration of Arequipa at your own pace. You may choose to relax at your hotel, enjoying views of surrounding volcanoes, or explore deeper aspects of Arequipa culture. Optional activities include: visit to the Andean Sanctuaries Museum to meet “Juanita,” the world’s best-preserved Inca mummy; exploration of local markets like San Camilo; textile workshops in Sachaca; or short excursions to Arequipa countryside to visit colonial mills and enjoy rural Andean life. You may also choose spa treatments, meditation, or simply contemplate volcanoes from panoramic terraces. This preparation day is essential before delving into Colca Canyon depths.

Colca Canyon

DAY 4

Very early morning, begin the journey to majestic Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest and home to the majestic Andean condor. The approximately 3.5-hour journey will take you through spectacular Andean landscapes, passing through Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve where you’ll observe vicuñas, alpacas and flamingos in their natural habitat. Cross the journey’s highest point at 4,910 meters at the volcanoes viewpoint, where you can appreciate a panoramic view of surrounding snow-capped peaks. Arrive in Chivay town, check into your hotel with valley views, and after lunch visit La Calera natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing and acclimatizing to altitude while enjoying spectacular canyon views. The afternoon includes a gentle walk through town to learn about local traditions and enjoy dinner with organic valley ingredients.

Colca Canyon - Transport to Puno

DAY 5

Wake early to experience one of South America’s most impressive natural spectacles at Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. From this strategic point, observe the majestic flight of Andean condors taking advantage of thermal currents emerging from the canyon, while contemplating the depths of this natural abyss reaching over 3,400 meters deep. After this unique experience, visit traditional Colca Valley towns like Pinchollo, Maca, and Achoma, where you’ll observe pre-Inca agricultural terraces still in use and preserved colonial architecture. After lunch with valley specialties, begin the journey to Puno (approximately 6 hours) through Peruvian altiplano, crossing landscapes of immense plains, wetlands, and distant views of snow-capped mountain ranges. Arrival in Puno at nightfall and accommodation at your hotel with Lake Titicaca views, where you can rest and prepare for the next day’s lacustrine experience.

Titicaca Full Day

DAY 6

Early morning, after breakfast, begin a unique experience on the world’s highest navigable lake. Board a private boat to explore fascinating Uros Floating Islands, built entirely with totora reeds, where you’ll learn about ancestral traditions of this lacustrine people and their ingenious system of living on water. Continue sailing to Taquile Island, inhabited by a Quechua community maintaining alive their textile and cultural traditions, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Here you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch with local products while contemplating panoramic views of the Incas’ sacred lake. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in community activities, learn about their ancestral customs of reciprocity (ayni), and acquire authentic textiles made with millennial techniques. Return to Puno at sunset includes moments of contemplation over sacred waters as the sun sets behind Bolivian mountains.

Train to Cusco

DAY 7

After breakfast, transfer to Puno train station to board the exclusive Titicaca Train, a luxury railway experience taking you through the most spectacular landscapes of Peruvian altiplano to Cusco. During this approximately 10-hour journey, enjoy panoramic windows offering incomparable views of the Andes, traditional villages, and altiplano immensity. The train features elegantly decorated cars, gourmet lunch service onboard including Andean specialties, and an observation car from where you can appreciate the transition from vast altiplano plains to Andean valleys. During the route, cross the journey’s highest point at 4,319 meters above sea level at La Raya, where you can observe vicuñas and alpacas in their natural habitat. Arrival in Cusco and transfer to your luxury hotel in the historic center, where you can rest after this contemplative transition day.

Free Day in Cusco

DAY 8

This free day in Cusco is fundamental for acclimatization to 3,400 meters altitude and spiritual preparation before exploring Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. You may choose to rest completely at your hotel, enjoying spa treatments, massages with Andean techniques, or simply contemplating colonial architecture from your room. Alternatively, make light explorations of the historic center, visiting the Cathedral with its colonial treasures, Qorikancha (Sun Temple) showing Inca architectural sophistication, or San Blas artisan neighborhood with its traditional workshops. You may also participate in blessing ceremonies with coca leaves, Andean meditation sessions, or basic Quechua classes. This day is essential for spiritually connecting with the ancient Inca capital’s energy and mentally preparing for the sacred experiences awaiting you.

Sacred Valley - Pisaq Ruins, Pisaq Market, Ollantaytambo - Hotel in Urubamba

DAY 9

Early morning, head to Sacred Valley, descending to a more comfortable altitude to continue your immersion in Andean culture. Begin visiting impressive Pisaq ruins, a ceremonial and military complex crowning a mountain with perfectly preserved agricultural terraces and spectacular panoramic views of the winding valley. After archaeological exploration, descend to vibrant Pisaq market, considered one of Sacred Valley’s most authentic artisan markets, where you can interact with local communities, participate in cultural exchanges, and acquire traditional textiles made with ancestral techniques. After buffet lunch with valley organic products, continue to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town, where you’ll explore its imposing fortress and walk through its original cobblestone streets maintaining Inca urban layout. At day’s end, settle into your boutique hotel in Urubamba, strategically located in Sacred Valley’s heart for a complete immersive experience.

Maras, Moray, Salt Terraces - Hotel in Urubamba

DAY 10

After breakfast, dedicate this full day to exploring Sacred Valley’s most mystical wonders, sites revealing the Incas’ deep connection with nature and their advanced scientific knowledge. Begin visiting Moray, the enigmatic Inca agricultural laboratory with its concentric circular terraces creating microclimates to experiment with different crops at various altitudes. Continue to fascinating Maras salt terraces, where thousands of salt terraces have been exploited since Inca times, creating a surrealistic landscape of white mirrors dramatically contrasting with surrounding mountains. After gourmet lunch with panoramic views, have time for meditation and contemplation at these sacred sites, participating in gratitude ceremonies to Pachamama (Mother Earth) guided by local masters. The afternoon includes workshops on Andean agriculture, food preservation techniques, and Inca cosmovision related to these ceremonial sites. Return to your hotel in Urubamba for a night of deep reflection.

Train to Machu Picchu

DAY 11

After breakfast, transfer to Ollantaytambo train station to board the luxury train to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu’s base town. During this scenic approximately 1.5-hour journey, enjoy panoramic windows offering spectacular views of the Urubamba River winding through cloud forest, with mountains covered in lush vegetation and gradual transition from Sacred Valley to cloud forest. The train will take you through different microclimates and ecosystems, where you can observe gradual changes from Andean to tropical vegetation. Arrival in Aguas Calientes and accommodation at your boutique hotel, where you can relax in the town’s natural hot springs, participate in purification ceremonies, and spiritually prepare for tomorrow’s encounter with Machu Picchu. The afternoon includes guided meditation, mental preparation for the next day’s sacred experience, and a special dinner with cloud forest ingredients combining Andean and Amazonian culinary traditions.

Machu Picchu - Train to Ollantaytambo - Transfer to Cusco

DAY 12

This is your Andean retreat’s culminating day. Very early morning, board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu citadel to experience sunrise over this world wonder in an atmosphere of deep spirituality. Your specialized guide in archaeology and Andean cosmovision will lead you through available circuits, revealing not only architectural and historical aspects, but also spiritual and astronomical meanings of this archaeological jewel. Explore the most important sectors like Temple of the Sun, Royal Residence, Temple of the Three Windows, Intihuatana (sundial), and other ceremonial spaces, while participating in gratitude ceremonies and spiritual connection with this sacred site. You’ll have time for personal meditation in different citadel sectors, contemplative photography, and deep absorption of this place’s unique energy. After lunch in Aguas Calientes, board the Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train back to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll be welcomed by your private driver for transfer to Cusco. Arrival and accommodation at your luxury hotel, where you can reflect on this transformative experience.

Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain

DAY 13

After early breakfast, begin your final great adventure to Palcoyo, also known as the “alternative Rainbow Mountain,” a less crowded but equally spectacular option offering a more intimate and spiritual experience. The journey to Palcoyo will take you through impressive Andean landscapes, crossing traditional communities and high mountain ecosystems. Palcoyo offers a more contemplative and accessible experience, with a moderate but rewarding hike to multicolored rock formations created by mineral oxidation over millennia. From Palcoyo viewpoints, enjoy panoramic views of three different colored mountains, stone forest, and on clear days, imposing Ausangate, Cusco region’s highest sacred mountain. After picnic lunch with views of sacred mountains, participate in a closing ceremony giving thanks for all learning and transformation experienced during your retreat. Return to Cusco for a special farewell dinner celebrating your personal growth journey.

Transfer to Airport

DAY 14

After a final breakfast at your hotel, dedicate time to reflection and integration of all experiences lived during your Andean retreat. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have free time for closing activities like conscious shopping at artisan markets supporting local communities, final visits to sites that most impacted you, or simply moments of gratitude in Cusco’s Main Square. Your Luxe Andes Peru representative will accompany you to Cusco airport for your return flight, ensuring your departure is as comfortable as your arrival. We bid farewell with the certainty that you carry not only indelible memories, but a profound transformation achieved through connection with ancestral cultures, sacred landscapes, and Andean wisdom that has permeated every aspect of this retreat designed for personal and spiritual growth in Peru’s heart.

What’s Included

  • Personalized VIP airport assistance and throughout your stay with dedicated representative specialized in spiritual retreats.
  • Accommodation in carefully selected luxury hotels: boutique hotel in Miraflores (Lima), boutique hotel in Arequipa’s historic center, hotel with Colca Canyon views, superior hotel with Lake Titicaca views in Puno, luxury hotel in Cusco’s historic center, boutique hotel in Urubamba (Sacred Valley), and boutique hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • Domestic flights Lima-Arequipa.
  • Premium private transportation throughout terrestrial itinerary, including 4×4 vehicles for Colca Canyon and Palcoyo.
  • Luxury Titicaca Train from Puno to Cusco with gourmet lunch onboard and premium service.
  • Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
  • Private boat for complete Lake Titicaca tour.
  • Complete entrance tickets and permits: Santa Catalina Monastery (Arequipa), La Calera Hot Springs, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley archaeological sites, Uros Floating Islands, Taquile, and Palcoyo.
  • Specialized bilingual private guides expert in history, archaeology, and Andean cosmovision for each destination.
  • Authentic spiritual experiences with local masters, gratitude ceremonies, and Andean wisdom workshops.
  • Daily breakfasts at all hotels.
  • Lunches included with local and organic products (days 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13).
  • Deep cultural experiences with Uros, Taquile, and Sacred Valley communities.
  • Access to hot springs in Colca and Aguas Calientes for relaxation and purification.
  • 24/7 support with direct emergency line.
  • Spiritual retreat kit with meditation materials, detailed cultural information, and local sacred gifts.

 

What’s Not Included

  • International flights to and from Peru.
  • Domestic flight from Cusco to Lima (quotation available upon request).
  • Specialized travel insurance (highly recommended for altitude activities and spiritual experiences).
  • Tips for guides, drivers, train crew, and spiritual masters (we suggest 15-20% of total cost).
  • Dinners (except those specified in itinerary and farewell dinner).
  • Alcoholic beverages during included meals and at hotels.
  • Optional activities such as Huayna Picchu ascent, additional spa treatments, private ceremonies with shamans, or extra specialized workshops.
  • Personal expenses including conscious artisan shopping, extra hotel services, phone calls, and laundry.
  • Altitude sickness prevention medication and personal first aid kit.
  • Additional ceremonial offerings for private spiritual ceremonies.
  • Specialized equipment such as extra warm clothing for extreme altitudes, trekking poles, or personal meditation elements.

 

Essential Recommendations

  1. Spiritual Preparation: This retreat is designed for deep personal transformation. Arrive with open mind, willingness to participate in ancestral ceremonies, and respect for local traditions. Consider beginning meditation practices before the trip.
  2. Extended Gradual Acclimatization: The itinerary includes transitions from 156m (Lima) to 4,910m (Colca Canyon) and multiple altitude changes. Gradual progression is designed for natural acclimatization, but maintain constant hydration and consume coca tea regularly.
  3. Extreme Altitude Preparation: You’ll reach altitudes up to 4,910m in Colca Canyon and 4,900m in Palcoyo. Consult your doctor about preventive altitude sickness medications. Severe symptoms require immediate descent.
  4. Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Acquire coverage including spiritual activities, extreme altitude medical emergencies, medical evacuation from remote areas, lacustrine activities, and trip cancellation. Verify specific coverage for ceremonial experiences.
  5. Multi-Climate Clothing: This itinerary spans from coastal desert to extreme altiplano. Include: light clothing for Arequipa, high-quality thermal clothing for extreme altitudes, waterproof clothing, trekking shoes, hat, gloves, scarf, and sunglasses with high UV protection.
  6. Moderate Physical Preparation: Though not an extreme trek, walks in Colca, Titicaca, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Palcoyo require basic physical condition. Extreme altitudes demand greater respiratory effort.
  7. Deep Cultural Respect: You’ll participate in sacred ceremonies and visit spiritual sites. Learn about Andean cosmovision, show respect during rituals, and maintain receptive attitude toward ancestral teachings. Always ask permission to photograph in ceremonial contexts.
  8. Specialized Hydration and Nutrition: At extreme altitudes, increase consumption of hot liquids, completely avoid alcohol in Colca and Puno, consume light but nutritious meals, and keep energy snacks available.
  9. Weather Flexibility: Andean weather can change dramatically, especially in Colca and Palcoyo. Extreme conditions may affect itineraries. Maintain flexibility and trust your guides’ experience for safety decisions.
  10. Emotional Preparation: This retreat may generate deep emotional experiences through spiritual connections, sacred landscapes, and ancestral ceremonies. Prepare for moments of intense introspection and possible significant personal transformation.
  11. Special Documentation: Carry passport copies, vaccination certificates if applicable, and travel insurance. Some ceremonial sites may require special registrations or additional permits.
  12. Conscious Packing: Pack items reflecting respect for local cultures. Avoid clothing with non-Andean religious symbols during ceremonies. Include personal meditation elements if you practice regularly.
  13. Limited Communication: Many itinerary areas have limited connectivity, especially during spiritual experiences. Inform family about communication silence periods and trust local team support.
  14. Post-Retreat Integration: Consider keeping a journal during the trip to process experiences. Plan integration time when returning home to maintain the retreat’s transformational benefits.
  15. Traditional Medicine: You’ll be exposed to Andean medicinal plants and traditional healing practices. Inform about pre-existing medical conditions and medications you take to guides to avoid interactions.