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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
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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.
Detailed Itinerary
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Map
View of the Sacred Valley |
View
Heart of the Pachamama
in a larger map
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Detailed Itinerary
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Day 1
Fri, Sep 17: Arrive in Lima |
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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) |
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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) |
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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) |
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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) |
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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)
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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) |
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Day 7 Thu, Sep 23: Machu Picchu & Special Spring Equinox Ceremony (B) |
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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) |
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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). |
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Day 9 Sat, Sept 25: End of Journey - Fly back to Lima for return home |
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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. |
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Amazon Extension |
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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.
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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) |
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Day 10 Sun, Sep 26: Corto Maltes (B, L, D) |
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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)
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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) |
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Day 12 Tue, Sep
28: Fly to Lima for Return Home (B) |
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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
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B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our
control.
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Tour Inclusions
& Price |
Main Tour Includes: |
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Accommodation at 3 and 4 star hotels |
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Daily Breakfast, 2 Lunches and 1 Dinner |
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Flight from Lima/Cusco |
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Flight from Cusco/Lima or Puerto Maldonaldo/Lima if taking extension |
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Transportation by Private Coach |
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Train to Machu Picchu |
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Entrance fees to Machu Picchu with shuttle service |
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Entrance fees to Archaeological Sites and Temples |
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Special Added Features: |
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Travel with Andean Medicine Man, Puma Quispe Singona |
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Visits to Sacred Sites and Temples |
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Traditional Andean Ceremonies |
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Special Spring Equinox Ceremony at Machu Picchu |
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Community Immersion and Participation in Local Projects |
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Amazon Extension Includes:
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Flight from Cusco/Puerto Maldonado |
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Flight from Puerto Maldonado to Lima (included in main tour package) |
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Bungalow Accommodation at Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge |
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Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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River Safaris by traditional Amazonian Boats |
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Variety of Activities |
Tour does not include: |
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Airfare to and from Lima |
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Cancellation & Medical Insurance (ask us for a quote if you are Canadian) |
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Meals not included, as indicated in the itinerary |
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Cost to obtain valid passport |
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Gratuities |
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Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks and telephone calls. Any
item that is not specifically d |
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Tour Price
| Tour Price Per Person (Land Only) |
Single Supplement |
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Main Tour USD $2920.00 |
USD $610.00 |
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Amazon Extension USD $830.00 |
USD $225.00 |
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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.
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Itinerary
Photographs by
Helen Tomei
Mandor Falls Photo by
Janice Snavley
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© 2003 - 2010 Sacred
Earth Journeys.
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