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 17 - 25, 2010
Amazon Extension
A Magical Jungle Experience
September 25 – 28, 2010
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 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 Amazon is an opportunity not to be
missed. Enveloped by the entrancing sights and sounds of the jungle, experience
a reawakening. Enjoy invigorating treks through the dense jungle, relax as you
drift along the river in traditional Amazonian boats, encounter a medley of
flora and fauna, and simply relish the rejuvenating effects of the Amazon. This
revitalizing extension is the perfect way to end off a journey of
transformational experiences and profound self discovery, allowing you to return
home fully reborn.
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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 Machu Picchu & Special Spring Equinox Ceremony
Day 8 Mandor Falls; Return to Cusco
Day 9 Fly from Cusco to Lima for return home or continue on to the Amazon
Amazon Extension
Day 9 Travel to Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge
Day 10 Corto Maltes
Day 11 Corto Maltes
Day 12 Fly to Lima for return home
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Detailed Itinerary
(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Fri, Sep 17: 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 Sat, Sep 18: 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 Sun, Sep 19: 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 Mon, Sep 20: 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 Tue, Sep 21: 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 Wed, Sep 22: 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 Thu, Sep 23: Machu Picchu & Special Spring Equinox Ceremony (B)
We return to Machu Picchu once again for another day of introspection and
reflection. Spend the day exploring the magic of this special place and being
fully present in each moment of wonder. During our special Spring Equinox
Ceremony we connect with the spirits of the Apus and the heart of Pachamama for
a deeply profound and transformational experience. Learn how to release old
habits and patterns that do not serve you so that you may begin anew. With the
guidance of Puma and the support of new friends, find the inspiration to
recreate your life to live out your soul’s purpose.
(Overnight in Aguas Calientes)
Day 8 Fri, Sep 24: Mandor Falls; Return 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 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 9 Sat, Sept 25: 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 the Amazon for an exciting and
rejuvenating experience.
Amazon Extension
Day 9 Sat, Sep 25: Travel to Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (B, L, D)
Fly from Cusco to the Padre Almirez Interntional Airport and be met by our local
guide. You may safely store any luggage you will not need at the local office
and take only what is necessary for the following few days. From here we will go
to the tour office to obtain the waterway permits. We may also have some time to
visit the town’s main square for some photographic opportunities. Admire the
beautiful scenery that envelops you as you look out to where the rivers Madre de
Dios and Tambopata converge. We then embark for a leisurely 40 minute ride along
the Madre de Dios River on traditional Amazon boats. Immediately, you will sense
the buzzing activity and effervescent energy of the jungle. Embrace the vibrant
sights and sounds that welcome you to this magical place.
Upon arrival at the Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge, we enjoy a welcome cocktail to
help us cool off with time to settle into our bungalows and maybe take a
refreshing dip in the pool. In the afternoon we revel in our first trek into the
jungle to encounter a large variety of tropical trees, medicinal plants,
butterflies, and a vast array of flora and fauna. We also stop at a lookout
point for a stunning panoramic view where we can observe the colourful bird
species, such as macaws and toucans. We return just in time to admire the sunset
and then enjoy a river safari to spot the white caiman that live along the river
banks. After a delicious dinner, relax by the pool or simply let the captivating
sounds of the jungle carry you off.
(Overnight at Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge)
Day 10 Sun, Sep 26: Corto Maltes (B, L, D)
An early start to the day, we head off on a 20 minute trek to the parrot clay
licks. Here a minimum of five different species feed on special clay, vital to
their metabolism. It is truly a marvelous and multicolored spectacle. We then
return to the lodge for breakfast and free time to explore the splendid gardens
where you will discover dozens of varieties of exotic plants and flowering
trees.
Later in the morning we navigate the Madre de Dios River once again, this time
on an expedition to “Monkey Island” where these interesting and entertaining
animals live in freedom. Following another boat ride of 30 min we enter the
territory of the Tambopata-Candamo National Reserve and trek 5 km through the
dense vegetation of the tropical rainforest. Giant trees, snakes, monkeys, birds
and sometimes even the illusive jaguar can be observed here. Our final
destination is heavenly Sandoval Lake. Its privileged settings are shared by
numerous bird species such as hoatzins, kingfishers, and cormorants, and
different species of monkeys such as squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys, and
capuchin monkeys. At the lake itself we enjoy the spectacle of giant river
otters, black caimans, piranhas, and sometimes we can even observe anacondas in
the areas covered by reed. This is also the habitat of the giant arapaima, a
fish of more than 2.5m, weighing in at over 200kg. As we travel by canoe along
the river, the sunset reflected in the lake is a spectacular and unforgettable
sight.
After a full, active day in the jungle, return to the lodge to enjoy an exotic
and sumptuous meal. Lull yourself to sleep on an outdoor hammock, mingle with
new friends, or indulge in some pampering with an evening massage.
(Overnight at Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge)
Day 11 Mon, Sep 27: Corto Maltes (B, L, D)
After breakfast, enjoy some free time for a dip in the pool or hunt for
treasures and souvenirs and local handicrafts in the gift shop. We then board
our boats and follow the course of the river for approximately an hour and a
half to visit a native community. Occasionally we can see monkeys, river
turtles, caimans and various birds in the dense vegetation of the riverbanks. We
will also see some medicinal plants such as Sangre de Grado, Oje, and Capirona.
The “Project for the Rescue of Cultural Values” supports the local native
community, “Palma Real”, which is home to approximately 200 families of the
Ese’eja tribe. This project, located at Gamitada Island works together with two
families that will introduce us to the cultural values of their ancestors,
language, customs, garments, and dances. In an era where globalization rapidly
changes traditional societies, this is a great opportunity to have direct
contact with this tribe of ancient warriors and hunters as well as offer us the
opportunity to support them economically with the purchase of some of their
handmade products. Circumnavigating the Gamatida Island we can occasionally see
animals escaping the human presence. Afterwards we will visit a “chakra” (local
term for farm), where we will get to know a variety of tropical fruits and other
local products such as cocoa, bananas, café, and cocona. Here we will also have
lunch consisting of a typical Amazon dish. The “chacarero” (farmer) will also
let us sample some of the fruits that will later be taken to market in the city
of Puerto Maldonado.
Upon return to the lodge enjoy some time to relax and freshen up before another
tantalizing dinner.
(Overnight at Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge)
Day 12 Tue, Sep 28: Fly to Lima for Return Home (B)
After our final delicious tropical breakfast it is time to say goodbye to our
jungle paradise. Transfer back to the office where you can retrieve any luggage
left behind followed by a visit to the local market. You will then be
transferred to the airport for your flight back to Lima and your final return
home.
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/Cusco
• Flight from Cusco/Lima or Puerto Maldonaldo/Lima if taking extension
• Transportation by Private Coach
• Train to Machu Picchu
• Entrance fees to Machu Picchu with shuttle service
• Entrance fees to Archaeological Sites and Temples
Special Added Features:
• Travel with Andean Medicine Man, Puma Quispe Singona
• Visits to Sacred Sites and Temples
• Traditional Andean Ceremonies
• Special Spring Equinox Ceremony at Machu Picchu
• Community Immersion and Participation in Local Projects
Amazon Extension Includes:
• Flight from Cusco/Puerto Maldonado
• Flight from Puerto Maldonado to Lima (included in main tour package)
• Bungalow Accommodation at Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge
• Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• River Safaris by traditional Amazonian Boats
• Variety of Activities
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
Tour Price
Per Person (Land Only)
Single Supplement
Main Tour USD $2920.00
USD $610.00
Amazon Extensionc USD $830.00
USD $225.00
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.
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