Sacred
Journeys - Peru
Heart of the Pachamama – A Heart Opening Sacred Journey during the Spring
Equinox
with Andean Medicine Man, Healer and Wisdom Keeper,
Puma Quispe Singona
September 16 - 23, 2009
Past Tour
Lake Titicaca Extension
Reflections of Mama Cocha
September 23 – 27, 2009
Tour Leader: Puma Quispe Singona - Speaking to thousands of people globally and inspiring them in his special heartfelt way, Puma Quispe Singona is described as “magical, compassionate and wise beyond his years” with a deep reverence for Pachamama (Earth Mother) and an ancient understanding of the Cosmos. Puma’s gift lies in the ability to open people’s hearts firstly to themselves, then to their family and ultimately to their global community. Trained by his Grandfather since the age of 6, Puma has been walking the path of a traditional Andean Medicine Man and is recognized as a holder of ancient wisdom. Learn more about Puma on our About Your Tour Leader page.
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Tour Description
Join us in a heart-opening journey to celebrate the Spring Equinox at
Machu Picchu and Mandor Falls with Andean Medicine Man, Healer and
Wisdom Keeper, Puma Quispe Singona. Explore the mysteries of the majestic
Andes and find enlightenment and inspiration in this warm and harmonic
land. Stroll around the colourful town of Cusco, wander through the lush
Sacred Valley of the Incas and travel back through time while rediscovering
ancient Incan sites in Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
As we seek out various temples and sacred sites, and experience and participate
in Sacred Ceremonies and Traditional Rituals led by Medicine Men
and Wisdom keepers, we will be deeply immersed in the enigmatic culture of the
Incas. Connect with Pachamama (Mother Earth), the Incan goddess of
fertility and the harvest, and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation
for this great Earth. Open your heart as you listen to the whispers in the wind
and let the Condors guide you to find your inner peace and balance.
Enjoy a unique opportunity as we immerse ourselves in the local community
and experience the joy and peace of the Peruvian culture and people. Let their
smiles and laughter inspire you to show kindness to all who you encounter and
remind you to share joy with yourself and the world.
Our Optional Excursion to the Uros Islands and Lake Titicaca
is an opportunity not to be missed. Explore the unique reed islands and admire
the simple and traditional ways of the people. Assist in a Dream Pillow
project with local under privileged children and help offer them magical dreams
and a vision for a brighter future. Visit a local centre for women and children
and give back to the people who have given you so much on this remarkable
journey. Take advantage of an optional Coca Leaf Reading to learn from
the wisdom of the Incas and hear what your future holds.
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About Your Tour Leaders
Puma Quispe Singona
Speaking to thousands of people globally and inspiring them in his special
heartfelt way, Puma Quispe Singona (on left) is described as “magical,
compassionate and wise beyond his years” with a deep reverence for Pachamama
(Earth Mother) and an ancient understanding of the Cosmos. Puma’s gift lies in
the ability to open people’s hearts firstly to themselves, then to their family
and ultimately to their global community. Trained by his Grandfather since the
age of 6, Puma has been walking the path of a traditional Andean Medicine Man
and is
recognized as a holder of ancient wisdom.
He is a prominent citizen within his local community and a member of the Elders
Council in Chinchero, Peru as well as the Co-founder of Cusi Huayna, a youth
group focused on re-strengthening the community through the remembrance of
traditional dance, story and weaving. He is accredited to sharing the secrets of
the Andes with hundreds of tourists each year as a guide on the Inca Trail while
continuing to study with Quechua elders throughout the Sacred Valley.
Today Puma plays an active role in world affairs by sitting on several
international and indigenous councils including the World Wisdom Council, whose
honorary chair is Mikhail Gorbachyev. He was also featured in 4Real which began
as a documentary television series that features young leaders who, under
extreme circumstances, are affecting real change on some of the most pressing
issues of our time, and has now expanded to include an online global community.
Through this work, he is ensuring the contribution of indigenous wisdom toward
strengthening the vision of global harmony and healing.
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Tour Summary
Day 1 Arrive Lima
Day 2 Fly to Cusco, Introductory Meeting; Welcome Dinner
Day 3 Cusco
Day 4 Travel Sacred Valley - Pisac and Ollantaytambo
Day 5 Chinchero - Community immersion with Puma’s family
Day 6 Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu
Day 7 Mandor Falls & Special Spring Equinox Ceremony; Travel to Cusco
Day 8 Fly from Cusco to Lima for departure home or continue on to Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca Extension
Day 8 Travel to Lake Titicaca
Day 9 Uros floating islands; Dream Pillow Project
Day 10 Aramu Muru; Cutimbo
Day 11 Mothers Club; optional Coca Leaf Reading
Day 12 Fly from Juliaca to Lima for return home
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Detailed Itinerary
(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Wed, Sep 16: Arrive in Lima
Arrive in Lima from your home city and transfer to the hotel for a night’s rest.
Let your dreams this evening welcome you to this sacred land and offer insights
into the spiritual journey which awaits.
(Overnight in Lima)
Day 2 Thu, Sep 17: Fly from Lima to Cusco (B, D)
Today we fly over the majestic Andes to Cusco. Make sure to have your camera
ready for some spectacular photo opportunities. On a clear day you can see all
the valleys and peaks and the tiny mountain towns scattered among the hills. In
the afternoon we will have our introductory meeting to go over all the exciting
activities we have planned for our journey. Spend the rest of the day
independently to adjust to the altitude and wander through the colourful town.
Make sure to check out the fabulous craft markets to get a head start on gift
buying.
In the evening we will gather together for our Welcome Dinner of traditional
Peruvian cuisine and enjoy the local entertainment.
(Overnight in Cusco)
Day 3 Fri, Sep 18: Full Day City Tour and Incan Sacred Sites (B)
Wake up early for a private meditation and set your intention for your journey.
At breakfast fill up for a full day of sightseeing. In the morning we will enjoy
a city tour of Cusco to immerse ourselves in the smiles and laughter of the
local people and stop at various Incan Sacred Sites for ceremonies. We will also
have a moment to visit the markets to shop for some local handicrafts. Later we
visit Coricancha, one of the most revered temples, dedicated to the Sun God,
whose walls and floors were once covered in sheets of solid gold. Wander the
courtyard which was once filled with golden statues and view the ancient relics,
mummies and textiles in the nearby underground Archaeological Museum. At
Sacsayhuamán, we will marvel at this architectural wonder and learn the mystery
and legends of how this stone-walled complex was constructed. We continue on to
Tambomachay, a favourite resting place of the Incas, commonly referred to as the
“Baños del Inca” or “Baños de la Ñusta“, (Baths of the Incas or Baths of the
Princess). This site, once used for ritual bathing, is believed to be a temple
dedicated to the worship of water. As we listen to the crystalline water springs
flow over the magnificently carved stones, we will connect with the element of
water. We continue on to explore the Temple of the Moon and its underground
caves that are thought to once have held mummies, and end off the day by
stopping at Kusilluchayoc, an ancient shrine hidden in the countryside, for a
private ceremony.
(Overnight in Cusco)
Day 4 Sat, Sep 19: Sacred Valley: Pisac and Ollantaytambo (B, L)
After breakfast we make our way through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the area
between Pisac and Ollantaytambo, catching sight of the scattering of ancient
Incan remnants, reminders of the region’s immense ceremonial importance. This
long narrow valley goes up to Urcos in the south and towards the north to cross
Ollantaytambo before its stretch of broad plains, rugged peaks, and incomparable
beauty finally reach the citadel of Machu Picchu. Its fertile lands have been
home to the Inca for thousands of years and their mysteries and legends still
resound. We drive into the hills to the picturesque town of Pisac to admire the
colonial architecture and the awe-inspiring scenic beauty and stop at the
ancient solar observatory, which we will enter through the ancient Temple of the
Condor, for a private ceremony. We then make our way to the village of Pisac for
lunch and take time to explore the Andean Marketplace to purchase lovely
handcrafted treasures to take home.
After lunch we continue on to Ollantaytambo, the Sanctuary of the Wind, renowned
for its ancient fortress. We visit the royal baths and fountains for a shamanic
energy cleansing ceremony by Unu, the Water element, and then make our way along
the murmuring river to the Temple of the Condor for a few moments of reflection
and silent meditation. Ending off our afternoon, we stop at the main altar area
of the temple to receive our blessings from Wayra (Wind Element), the guardian
of the site. As we watch the sun set, take time to reflect on the day before
returning to our hotel for the night.
(Overnight in the Valley)
Day 5 Sun, Sep 20: Chinchero and Living Journey (B)
Chinchero, a small village located high up in the windswept plains, offers
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
to support local projects. We will also have the pleasure of meeting Puma’s
family to learn more of their traditional ways and practices and perhaps hear a
few stories and tales. Enjoy the evening at your leisure to prepare for your
visit to sacred Machu Picchu the next day.
(Overnight in the Valley)
Day 6 Mon, Sep 21: Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu (B, L)
Today we enjoy a scenic train ride along the Urubamaba River to the charming
village of Aguas Calientes. After checking in to our hotel we make our way by
bus to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu for our spiritual awakening. “The Lost City
of the Incas” is an inspiring and beautiful sacred site, an architectural
wonder, and a great testament to Incan Civilization. Once used primarily as an
astronomical Observatory, Machu Picchu now attracts thousands of visitors each
year to connect with the sacred energies of this special place. Because it sits
within 3 corresponding high peaks of power which create an energy triangle, it
is a perfect spot to sit and meditate, focus your intent, and grow your
awareness.
During our time here we will visit the Temple of the Sun and Moon, the Temple of
the Condor, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the spiritual center of the
Intihuatana, or the Hitching Post of the Sun to connect with the upper and lower
worlds and the elements of air, and fire. Enjoy a few moments for private
reflection and exploration, before being guided into a heart-opening ceremony to
connect with Pachamama and the universal energies that encompass us – a life
changing experience!
(Overnight in Aguas Calientes)
Day 7 Tue, Sep 22: Mandor Falls for Special Spring Equinox Ceremony; Travel
to Cusco (B)
After breakfast we head out for a visit to beautiful Mandor Falls located in a
lush forest surrounding the town of Machu Picchu. We enjoy a lovely 30 minute
walk along the railway line from the small Machu Picchu pueblo to arrive at the
falls. Enveloped by the serene environment and the soothing sounds of the
waterfall we will be led through a special Spring Equinox Ceremony to connect
with Pachamama once again, the spiritual energies of the site and the sacred
elements that surround us. Later in the day we travel back to Cusco and retire
for the evening.
(Overnight in Cusco)
Day 8 Wed, Sep 23: End of Journey - Fly back to Lima for return home
This morning fly from Cusco to Lima for your departure home blessed with
new-found wisdom and insights, or continue on to Lake Titicaca for a wonderfully
unique cultural experience.
Lake Titicaca Extension
Day 8 Wed, Sep 23: Travel to Lake Titicaca (B, L, D)
We depart early this afternoon by private coach to Lake Titicaca which sits
over 3800 metres above sea level, making it the highest navigable lake in the
world. Notable for its people who live on the Uros, a group of artificial
islands made of floating reeds, this remarkable place is one not to be missed.
As we journey here we will stop at various temples and sacred sites to connect
with the energies of the highlands and Pachamama. We arrive early in Lake
Titicaca, in the heart of the Andean feminine energy, to be welcomed by the
loving embrace of powerful Mama Cocha. Evening at your leisure.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel)
Day 9 Thu, Sep 24: Uros Floating Islands, Dream Pillow Project (B, L, D)
Arise early this morning to revel in the morning sun before embarking on a
private boat trip to the Uros Islands on the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca.
These islands of Tortora reeds are home to the Uros people who, according to
legend, existed before the sun when the earth was cold and dark. Once used as a
mobile defense system, the islands now attract visitors from all over and offer
an opportunity to learn about ancient practices and traditions and a chance to
admire the simple way of life of the people. Although the Uros claim to have
“black blood” which makes them impervious to the cold, they are a warm and
inviting people and we will all be welcomed with open arms and hearts. In the
afternoon we will gather for our “Dream Pillow” project with local children from
the community to help them create magical dream pillows. The craft project is an
opportunity to teach the children the importance of dreams, wishes and goals,
and also teaches them how to visualize and manifest their dreams to help make
them come true. As they create their beautiful crafts we will be engulfed by the
youthful and contagious laughter of these vivacious children, who although poor
and underprivileged, have a joy so powerful any personal worries or misfortunes
are momentarily forgotten.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel)
Day 10 Fri, Sep 25: Aramu Muru; Cutimbo (B, L, D)
This morning we journey to Aramu Muru in the Valley of the Spirits. Upon arrival
we pause to reflect at the Inca’s Sun Seat facing the Lake, to connect with its
nurturing feminine energies. We then tread carefully upon large rock formations
in the shapes of a serpent and puma to connect with the energies of the Lower
and Middle Worlds. As we trek to the Doorway we pass by the mysterious Valley of
the Spirits and a mystical arrangement of natural rock formations. At Aramu
Muru’s Doorway, known to be a portal into alternate dimensions, we will be led
into ceremony to honour our own personal growth and transformation, and the
crossing into our new lives.
In the afternoon we make our way to Cutimbo to explore the Archaeological
Complex. This pre-Hispanic cemetery, which belonged to the Lupaca and Colla
Lordships, contains remnants of ancient Incan relics, petroglyphs that date back
over 8000 years, and ancient Incan structures and burial towers known as
chullpas. In one of these towers we will be led into chants and meditations to
connect with the ancient spirits.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel)
Day 11 Sat, Sep 26: Mothers Club; optional Coca Leaf Reading (B, L, D)
Today we immerse ourselves in the local culture once again with a visit to
the Mothers Club to help serve lunch and enjoy traditional local music and
dance. The center helps about 60 local children with a daily hot breakfast and
pre-school classes, while the mothers learn to make handicrafts to sell in the
markets. Now it is our chance to give back to the Peruvian people for all their
gifts and the offerings of their land by donating toys, school supplies and
gifts as well as our own personal stories which they eagerly await to hear; a
truly magical and heart warming experience and a perfect end to our journey.
In the evening take advantage of an optional Coca Leaf Reading with Puma to hear
what the future holds. The private coca leaf reading will support you with
insights into your present life and create a space where you can connect with
your source and heart’s desire so that you may learn how to pursue the goals of
your life path and destiny. Using ancient methods of “reading”, healing
techniques, energy work and cleansing, you will be guided on your own journey to
self-discovery and discover if a return to the magical land of Peru awaits.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel)
Day 12 Sun, Sep 27: End of Journey; Fly from Juliaca to Lima; Depart Lima (B)
Today we transfer to the airport for our flight from Juliaca to Lima and bid
our farewells to Pachamama and Peru. We will have use of day rooms to share our
final thoughts with our new found friends and to relive our wonderful memories
before our return home from Lima.
B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
Tour Inclusions & Price
Tour Price Per Person (Land Only) Single Supplement
USD $2620.00 Main Tour
USD $580.00
USD $830.00 Lake Titicaca Extension USD $295.00
Note: The single supplement is ONLY for those who would like to secure a private
room throughout the tour, at the indicated additional price. If you are not
traveling with anyone you know and would like to share a room, we will be happy
to work to find you a suitable roommate. Per our Terms and Conditions,
registration for the tour will be held open until two weeks before the departure
date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate. If by that date we have
not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to
pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this
process.
Tour Includes:
• Accommodation at 3 and 4 star hotels
• Daily Breakfast, 2 Lunches and 1 Dinner
• Flight from Lima to Cusco
• Flight from Cusco to Lima (if not continuing to Lake Titicaca)
• Transportation by Private Coach
• Train to Machu Picchu
• Entrance fees to Machu Picchu with shuttle service
• Entrance fees to Archaeological Sites and Temples
Lake Titicaca Extension Includes:
• Accommodation at 4 star hotel
• Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Transportation by Private Coach
• Flight from Juliaca to Lima
• Entrance Fees to Sites Visited
Special Added Features:
• Travel with Andean Medicine Man, Puma Quispe Singona
• Visits to Sacred Sites and Temples
• Traditional Andean Ceremonies
• Heart-Opening Ceremony at Machu Picchu
• Special Spring Equinox Ceremony at Mandor Falls
• Community Immersion and Participation in Local Projects
• Boat Trip on Lake Titicaca
• Optional Coca Leaf Reading
Tour does not include:
• Airfare to and from Lima
• Cancellation & Medical Insurance (ask us for a quote if you are Canadian)
• Meals not included, as indicated in the itinerary
• Cost to obtain valid passport
• Gratuities
• Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks and telephone calls.
Any item that is not specifically detailed on our website or in the final trip
itinerary
Sacred Earth Journeys, Ste 220 - 133 E. 8th Ave. Vancouver,
B.C. V5T 1R8 Canada
Tel: (604) 874-7922, Toll Free 1-877-874-7922
www.sacredearthjourneys.ca