Itinerary & Prices
All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide’s discretion.
PRICE PER PERSON (USD)
- Double Occupancy:
- $4,180 per person
- Single Occupancy:
- 5,170 per person
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Accommodation for 11 nights in the hotels specified in the itinerary or similar
- Airport transfers in Lima, Huaraz, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and other destinations as indicated
- Domestic flights included in the itinerary, including Lima–Huaraz and Huaraz–Cusco
- Private transportation throughout the scheduled itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guides for the included visits and excursions
- Entrance fees to the archaeological sites, museums, viewpoints, and attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- Train tickets for the Ollantaytambo–Aguas Calientes and Aguas Calientes–Ollantaytambo journeys
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket and transportation as specified in the itinerary
- Meals as indicated each day: breakfasts and lunches, plus the welcome dinner
- Box lunch for the Chonta Viewpoint excursion
- Traditional ceremonies and spiritual experiences specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Visits and experiences included in the program
- Local assistance and coordination throughout the journey
- Support from the Pumadventures team during the program
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- International flights to and from Peru
- Travel insurance
- Visa or immigration-related expenses, if applicable
- Meals and beverages not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Dinner, except for the welcome dinner
- Personal expenses and purchases
- Souvenirs and handicrafts
- Tips for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and ceremonial facilitators
- Early hotel check-in or late check-out fees
- Additional nights or accommodation outside the scheduled itinerary
- Additional activities or excursions not specifically mentioned
- Personal equipment or clothing for hiking and high-altitude conditions
- Alcoholic beverages
- Medical expenses or emergency evacuation costs
- Any service not specifically listed under What’s Included
Important: The itinerary specifically states that early arrival in Lima may require an additional early check-in fee or booking the previous night
A Sacred Journey of Connection, Healing & Awakening | August 10–21
To help you prepare for your journey through Peru, we have put together a few recommendations regarding weather, clothing, altitude, and essential travel items. This trip combines cultural exploration, time in nature, high-altitude destinations, and sacred ceremonies, so being well prepared will help you feel more comfortable throughout the experience.
1. Weather & Climate
August is generally part of Peru’s dry season in the Andes, with sunny days, clear skies, and cold nights. However, temperatures can vary significantly depending on the region and altitude.
- Lima: Mild temperatures, often cloudy or humid, with cool evenings.
- Huaraz, Chavín de Huántar & Hatun Machay: Cool to cold mornings and evenings, with strong sunshine during the day. Temperatures can drop considerably at higher elevations.
- Sacred Valley & Cusco: Pleasant sunny days, but cold mornings and nights. Occasional rain is possible.
- Machu Picchu: Warmer and more humid than Cusco, with the possibility of rain even during the dry season.
Our recommendation: Dress in layers so you can adjust comfortably throughout the day. Always carry a warm jacket, even when the morning starts sunny.
2. Clothing to Pack
We recommend bringing comfortable, practical clothing suitable for changing temperatures and outdoor activities.
- Thermal base layers for cold mornings and evenings.
- Long-sleeved shirts and comfortable T-shirts.
- Fleece jacket or warm mid-layer.
- Insulated jacket for high-altitude destinations.
- Lightweight, waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Comfortable hiking trousers.
- Casual clothing for city visits, travel days, and evenings.
- Warm socks and underwear.
- Sleepwear suitable for cool nights.
- Hat or cap for sun protection.
- Warm beanie, gloves, and a scarf or neck warmer.
- Comfortable clothing for ceremonies, preferably modest and suitable for sitting outdoors.
Neutral, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely is ideal for this journey.
3. Shoes & Footwear
Good footwear is particularly important for the outdoor experiences at Hatun Machay, Chonta, and the archaeological sites.
- Hiking shoes or lightweight hiking boots: Choose comfortable, well-broken-in footwear with good grip and ankle support if preferred.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Ideal for archaeological sites, villages, and city visits.
- Sandals or comfortable indoor shoes: Useful at the hotels.
- Extra pairs of socks: Helpful for keeping your feet warm and dry.
Avoid wearing brand-new hiking shoes during the trip, as they may cause blisters. Some paths can be uneven, rocky, or dusty.
4. Sun Protection
The Andean sun can be very strong, particularly at high elevations, even when the air feels cold.
Please bring:
- Sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- A wide-brimmed hat or cap.
- Lip balm with SPF.
- A reusable water bottle.
We recommend applying sunscreen throughout the day, especially during outdoor excursions.
5. Altitude & Acclimatization
Several destinations on this journey are at high altitude, including Huaraz, the Chavín region, Hatun Machay, Cusco, and the surrounding Andes.
To help your body adjust:
- Drink water regularly.
- Avoid strenuous exercise when you first arrive at high altitude.
- Eat light meals if you feel less hungry.
- Get enough rest and sleep.
- Avoid excessive alcohol.
- Inform your guide promptly if you experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue, or shortness of breath.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Please consult your healthcare provider before traveling if you have concerns about altitude or existing medical conditions. Ask whether preventive medication is appropriate for you.
If symptoms become severe or worsen, seek medical attention promptly rather than continuing the excursion.
6. Passport, Visas & Travel Documents
Please make sure you have the following documents ready before departure:
- Passport: Check that it meets Peru’s entry requirements and is valid for the required period. We recommend having at least six months of validity remaining.
- Visa: Requirements depend on your nationality. Check the applicable Peruvian immigration requirements before traveling.
- International and domestic flight tickets: Keep digital copies accessible.
- Travel insurance: We strongly recommend comprehensive insurance covering medical expenses, emergency assistance, and evacuation at high altitude, as well as trip cancellation where appropriate.
- Emergency contacts: Keep a copy of important contact details.
- Passport copies: Carry a digital copy and keep a separate backup from your original passport.
Please check the latest entry requirements with the relevant Peruvian authorities or your nearest Peruvian consulate before departure.
7. Personal Essentials & Daypack
For daily excursions, a small, comfortable backpack is highly recommended. Useful items include:
- Reusable water bottle.
- Sunscreen and lip balm.
- Sunglasses and a hat.
- Lightweight rain jacket.
- Warm layer.
- Personal medications.
- Tissues, hand sanitizer, and personal hygiene products.
- Phone, camera, and portable charger.
- Some Peruvian soles in cash for small purchases, snacks, and personal expenses.
Keep your daypack light enough to carry comfortably during walks and excursions.
8. Sacred Ceremonies & Time in Nature
Some experiences take place outdoors and may involve sitting quietly or spending extended periods in natural surroundings. We recommend bringing:
- Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for sitting on the ground.
- A warm layer for ceremonies held in the evening or at higher elevations.
- A small blanket or shawl for additional comfort.
- A waterproof layer in case of changing weather.
Please follow the guidance of the ceremonial facilitators and let the team know in advance about any relevant medical concerns, medications, allergies, or mobility limitations.
For ceremonies involving, consult a qualified healthcare professional beforehand about potential risks, medication interactions, and whether participation is appropriate for you. Do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.
9. Money & Personal Expenses
We recommend carrying a small amount of Peruvian soles for local purchases, handicrafts, snacks, and tips. Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments in larger towns and cities, but cash is useful in smaller communities. Please notify your bank of your travel plans if necessary and keep cash, cards, and important documents in secure places.
10. Electronics & Photography
- Bring your phone charger and a portable power bank.
- A universal travel adapter can be useful.
- Download important documents and maps for offline access.
- Bring a camera if you enjoy photography, along with spare batteries or memory cards.
Please follow the rules regarding photography at archaeological sites and during ceremonies. Always ask permission before photographing local residents or ceremonial participants.
11. Luggage & Practical Tips
- Pack a main suitcase and a small daypack for excursions.
- Keep essential medications, valuables, and important documents in your hand luggage.
- Leave some space for local textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
- Carry a small laundry bag for used clothing.
- Bring a lightweight reusable bag for shopping.
- Check your airline’s luggage allowances for domestic flights and your train operator’s luggage restrictions before departure.
12. Final Recommendations
The key to enjoying this journey is to travel comfortably, stay flexible, and be prepared for changing weather and altitude. Bring layers, comfortable hiking footwear, sun protection, and an open mind. Allow yourself time to rest, listen to your body, and enjoy the landscapes, culture, and experiences along the way.
We look forward to welcoming you to Peru and sharing this special journey with you!
Private Pachamanca Experience Itinerary
DAY 01 - WELCOME TO PERU! TRANSFER TO THE HOTEL
We will greet you at the airport and bring you to your hotel. In the evening we will have a welcome dinner.
***We recommend arriving in the afternoon, from 3:00 PM onwards, as hotel check-in is typically at this time. Arriving earlier may incur an additional fee for early check-in or require booking the night before.
Accommodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores or Similar
Meals: Dinner
DAY 02 - TOWARDS CHAVIN
Your day begins early, with a smooth transfer to the airport, where the anticipation of adventure sets in. As your flight lifts off, the landscapes below shift from urban bustle to the dramatic contours of the Andes, eventually bringing you to the highland gateway of Huaraz.
Upon arrival, you’re welcomed by crisp mountain air and sweeping views of snow-capped peaks. After a brief rest, the journey continues by road toward one of Peru’s most fascinating archaeological treasures: Chavín de Huántar.
The drive itself is an experience. Winding through valleys and climbing higher into the Andes, you’ll pass through traditional villages and dramatic mountain scenery. Along the way, a stop at the stunning Lake Querococha offers a moment of tranquility. Its glassy waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to acclimatize to the altitude. Continuing onward, you’ll cross the impressive Cahuish Tunnel, a gateway that leads from one side of the Cordillera Blanca to the other, marking your approach to the ancient ceremonial center.
At Chavín, you step back over 3,000 years into the heart of one of the earliest cultures in the Andes. Exploring the labyrinthine galleries, sunken plazas, and iconic stone carvings, including the mysterious Lanzón, you gain insight into a civilization that once drew pilgrims from across the region. As the day winds down, you return to Huaraz, carrying with you a mix of awe – from natural beauty to ancient ingenuity—marking a truly immersive Pumadventure-style experience.
- Accommodation: Hotel El Patio de Monterrey or Similar in Huaraz
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 03 - HATUN MACHAY & WACHUMA
Today we travel to Hatun Machay, a remarkable ancient ceremonial landscape high in the Andes, known for its impressive collection of carved stones, rock formations, and traces of ancient spiritual practices. Surrounded by the vast mountains and open skies of the Cordillera Negra, this sacred place invites us to slow down, connect with nature, and experience the powerful presence of the Andean landscape.
In this peaceful and secluded setting, we will participate in a Wachuma ceremony guided within a traditional Andean context. Wachuma, a sacred cactus with a long history of ceremonial use in the Andes, is prepared and shared with intention and respect. The ceremony may include offerings, prayers, music, moments of silence, and time for personal reflection.
As the experience unfolds, the landscape of Hatun Machay becomes an integral part of the journey. The ancient stones, mountains, wind, and expansive horizon create a space for contemplation and connection. Participants are invited to turn inward while remaining deeply connected to the natural world around them.
In the late afternoon, we will gently close the ceremony, take time to integrate and share reflections, and then return to Huaraz for a restful evening.
- Accommodation: Aruma Andina Hotel CHAVÍN or Similar
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 04 - CHAVIN DE HUANTAR & WACHUMA
Today we arrive at the ancient ceremonial center of Chavín de Huántar – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest spiritual hubs in the Andes. Here, stone temples, sunken plazas, and intricate carvings speak of a civilization deeply connected to nature and the cosmos.
In a quiet, respectful setting near the site, the Wachuma ceremony begins. Wachuma – a sacred cactus used for thousands of years – is prepared and shared in a traditional ritual context. The ceremony is approached with intention and reverence, often including offerings, music, and moments of silence. As the day unfolds, participants may experience a heightened sense of connection – to the surrounding mountains, to the ancient energy of Chavín, and to their own inner landscape. The environment itself becomes part of the ceremony: the flow of water through the temple channels, the echoing stone corridors, and the presence of the iconic Lanzón all contribute to a powerful, contemplative atmosphere. In the late afternoon, we will gently return, sharing reflections before beginning the journey back to the hotel.
- Accommodation: Aruma Andina Hotel CHAVÍN or Similar
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 05 - FLIGHT TO CUSCO AND TRANSFER TO SACRED VALLEY
In the morning transfer for your flight to Cusco. Upon your arrival we will greet you at the airport or hotel and transfer you directly to The Heart of the Sacred Valley, where you’ll settle into your beautiful hotel, immersing yourself in the serene energy of this sacred land.
- Accommodation: Andean Wings
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 06 - FREE MORNING / SANCTUARY OF HUMMING BIRD AND AYAHUASCA
Today, in the morning rest and relax. In the afternoon we will meet you at the hotel and visit the Hummingbird Sanctuary, a peaceful natural space where you can observe different species of hummingbirds in their natural habitat, surrounded by native plants and flowers. In the evening you will have an opportunity to enjoy Ayahuasca ceremony.
- Accommodation: Andean Wings
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 07 - CHINCHERO & OFFERING & PACHAMANCA
Today we visit the hometown of the rainbow – Chinchero, a small village located between Sacred Valley and Cusco, offering spectacular views over the Sacred Valley and the snow capped peaks of the Andes. Renowned for its beautiful traditional weavings, this town is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts. Here, we immerse ourselves in the local community, meeting the Pumadventures family.
As we explore through the village, we’ll meet with elders along with locals who are happy to share their way of life. A special segment from our visit includes taking part in a Despacho ceremony, which is a very ancient ritual for gratitude and connection to Pachamama (Mother Earth). It is truly a wondrous feeling, which definitely calls us to pause, to deeply ponder, as well as to cherish the real world near us.
After really quite enjoying a particularly delicious traditional Pachamanca lunch in Chinchero. For the evening we will bring you to your hotel.
- Accommodation: Andean Wings
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 08 - FLIGHT OF THE CONDORS - CHONTA VIEWPOINT EXPERIENCE
After an early breakfast, we set out on a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes toward the remote village of Chonta, a hidden gem perched high above the Apurímac Canyon. Along the way, we pass through traditional Andean communities and rolling fields of corn and quinoa, where time seems to move at the pace of nature itself. As we ascend, the snowcapped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay appear in the distance, framing the journey with their majestic presence. Upon reaching Chonta, we begin a gentle hike along a mountain path that winds through pristine highland terrain, offering panoramic views of the canyon below – a vast and sacred space often called the “Home of the Condors.” After about an hour’s walk, we arrive at the viewpoint, a serene and powerful place suspended between earth and sky. Here, we quietly wait as the mighty Andean condors begin to soar gracefully from the cliffs, their immense wings gliding effortlessly on the morning thermals. Watching these sacred birds – the ancient messengers of the heavens – circle above the canyon is a deeply moving experience, connecting us to the spiritual essence of the Andes and the eternal rhythm of life. We enjoy our box lunch surrounded by silence, wind, and breathtaking scenery, allowing time for reflection and gratitude. In the afternoon, we hike back to Chonta village, where our vehicle awaits to take us on the return journey through the Sacred Valley, arriving at our hotel by evening, filled with peace and awe after witnessing one of nature’s most profound spectacles.
- Accommodation: Andean Wings
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 09 - FREE MORNING AND TRAIN TO AGUAS CALIENTES
Today, have a free morning to rest and relax. Later that day, we head towards the Ollantaytambo rail terminal, where we get on a lovely train that meanders by the Urubamba River, transporting us via stunning scenery to the delightful town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). After checking into our hotel, the evening is yours to relax along with preparing for the incredible adventure to sacred Machu Picchu tomorrow.
- Accommodation: Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 10 - SACRED AWAKENING IN MACHU PICCHU
After breakfast, we set off onto an unforgettable adventure to Machu Picchu, a place of wonder, mystery, and of deep spiritual connection. Known as the Crystal Condor site, this ancient sanctuary is more than simply an architectural masterpiece. It is also a portal to the wisdom of the entire Incan civilization and a source of powerful energy that persistently encourages travelers from around the world.
Machu Picchu, being surrounded by three majestic peaks which form a natural energy triangle, offers a sacred space so that one may pause, reflect, and connect with something much greater than ourselves. As we walk along its ancient pathways, each one unfolds its own story, as well as its own importance, inviting us to step rather deeper into its ageless wisdom.
In this particularly powerful setting, we fully take part in such a heart-opening ceremony, deeply embracing the presence of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and all the universal energies that surround all of us. It is truly a moment in time of pure connection – one that lingers on in our very hearts for long after that we depart from here.
After midday, we get on the train from Aguas Calientes, going alongside the Urubamba River through stunning scenery as we head to the lovely town of Ollantaytambo and then transfer to Cusco.
- Accommodation: Hacienda Cusco Plaza
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 11 - EXPLORING CHAKAN AND SACSAYHUAMAN
Today, you’ll immerse yourself in Andean cosmovision in Chakan. The day begins with a ceremony honoring Pachamama, where you’ll connect with the elements – earth, air, fire, and water – and the spirits of the land. You’ll learn how the Andean people see the world as a living, interconnected whole, making offerings to the Apus and aligning yourself with nature’s rhythms. By day’s end, you’ll feel a deeper connection to the land and its sacred energy.
Then explore Sacsayhuamán, an awe-inspiring architectural marvel shrouded in mystery and legend. As we explore its massive stone walls, we’ll uncover the secrets of its construction and the energy it holds. We step into a profound experience as your guide leads us through a rebirth process in a sacred cave known as the Womb of Mother Earth, a place of renewal and transformation. We then continue to the Temple of the Moon, followed by the Temple of the Condor, where we will take part in a private Andean Initiation Ceremony to honor and connect with our ancestral lineages. Here, we embrace the sacred Incan trilogy—the Puma, Serpent, and Condor—and explore the ancient wisdom of parallel dimensions.
In the afternoon, we will bring you to the hotel. Later, we will enjoy a Farewell Dinner together. This is a time to enjoy each other’s company and reflect on the days we have spent together and our own sacred journey.
- Accommodation: Hacienda Cusco Plaza
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12 - DEPART CUSCO AND RETURN HOME
Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Depart with renewed energy, clarity, and a profound sense of well-being as you say farewell to this land that has offered you the power of true healing. You will be taking home enduring memories and new friendships that will last a lifetime. Thank you for traveling with us!
- Meals: Breakfast
