Journey to Pacchanta

Route: Cusco → Pacchanta

After breakfast, we depart the Sacred Valley and begin a three-hour trip to the distant Andean village of Pacchanta (3,800 meters / 12,464 feet). Along the way, we pause to visit the stunning Sistine Chapel of Cusco. It’s a hidden masterpiece of both colonial art as well as history. As we continue on, we pass through customary villages such as Urcos, Cattca, and Ocangate, each offering a glimpse into the rich culture of and daily life in the highlands.

The scenic drive then unfolds just like a living postcard, revealing all of the majestic Cordillera Vilcanota, along with its snow-capped peaks plus enormous open landscapes. As we gradually draw ever closer, the large, towering presence of Ausangate Mountain, truly one of the most sacred peaks located in Andean cosmology, majestically dominates all of the horizon.

After getting to Pacchanta (4,400 meters / 14,432 feet), we relax in hot springs, where the warm, mineral-rich waters provide peace. Surrounded by stunning views of Ausangate right at the valley’s edge, we soak in the stillness of the mountains, allowing the energy of this sacred land to fill us with a deep sense of connection as well as tranquility.

Overnight in Pacchanta: Local Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ausangate with Wachuma

Route: Pacchanta → Ausangate  → Pacchanta

We commence our day with a special breakfast, readying both body and spirit for a deep adventure into the core of Apu Ausangate’s holy landscapes.

We walk, following the ancient paths of our ancestors. Mama Coca, a revered plant, has guided Andean travelers for centuries in the company of such paths. Our adventure truly leads each of us to the Apacheta, a sacred passage between mountains and valleys, where we offer prayers and gratitude to the powerful Apus (mountain spirits) and Mamacochas (sacred lagoons), seeking their blessing and protection.

From here, we descend to the crystalline waters of Otorongo Cocha as well as Ancash Cocha, where we take a moment for purification plus renewal. Immersing ourselves in with the energy of these sacred lagoons, we align with the powerful presence of Apu Ausangate, allowing its ancient wisdom to cleanse and revitalize us.

After this truly transformative experience of our lives, we then return back to the community of Pacchanta. In Pacchanta, a nourishing lunch now awaits us all. Here, we also have the chance to appreciate authentic Andean textiles, witnessing the artistry and cultural heritage twisted into each thread.

For those people who feel called, today offers an additional opportunity to work with San Pedro (Wachuma), a revered teacher and healer plant. Used for centuries throughout Andean traditions, San Pedro is known quite well for its ability to heal the heart, bring clarity, as well as guide personal transformation. Under the careful guidance of a truly experienced master, this most sacred ceremony provides a very safe and deep space so as to reconnect with ancestral energies, release any emotional burdens, and embrace a true path of healing and also renewal.

Overnight in Pacchanta: Local Homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Return to Cusco

Route: Pacchanta → Cusco → Thank you Pumadventures

After breakfast, we proceed onward to Lucio’s Temple, a holy shrine where we will extend our last thanks and say goodbye to Master Ausangate. In this quite deep moment, we surely honor the connection we have forged with the mountains. We honor, too, the waters and the ancient energies that have guided our adventure.

After a nourishing lunch, we begin our return to Cusco, carrying with us the wisdom, clarity, as well as renewal gifted by this sacred land.

Overnight in Cusco: 3*, 4* or 5* accommodation
Meals: Breakfast.