PERU

Cultural Experiance Program

The Pachamama Journey in the Sacred Valley, 2026

Peru Alive is offering this Cultural and Spiritual Tour from October 28^th – November 7^th, 2026, to the “The Sacred Valley” outside of Cusco, Peru. This program introduces travelers to the traditional lifestyles and belief systems of the Quechuan people of the Andes Mountains. They are the direct descendants of the Inca Empire, surrounded by archeological and ancestral evidence of the past. The itinerary presents an opportunity to learn about the spiritual traditions and practices of the Andean People. Each participant can embrace these spiritual teachings to the level at which they are comfortable; respect and open mindedness will always guide the learning process.

“This is not a trip to simply see a country; it is a journey to remember who you truly are. It is your formal invitation to step across the threshold of conventional tourism and become a Chakaruna; a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds.”

Itinerary Overview:

• DAY 1: Arrival in Cusco & Conscious Walking Tour

• DAY 2: Megaliths of Sacsayhuaman. Cusco Temples and Ruins. Andean Elixir Class.

• DAY 3: Andean Spirituality Workshop, Portal Huaca, Energetic Baths & Haywarikuy.

• DAY 4: Ollantaytambo Fortress & Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes

• DAY 5: Machu Picchu Sacred Sanctuary: The Crown Chakra

• DAY 6: Integration Day: Aguas Calientes to Urubamba (Free Day)

• DAY 7: Maras, Moray, Cheqoq & The Initiatory Path Opening Ceremony

• DAY 8: Urku Fertility Temple & Offering to the Great Apu

• DAY 9: Sacred Weaving Workshop & Return to Cusco

• DAY 10: Cusco / Lima – Return Flight Home

Program Costs

This workshop lasts 10 days and costs $3,200, which includes all listed sites and activities in the itinerary, boutique style lodging, breakfast, traditional Quechuan home-cooked dinners in Urubamba, all ground transportation in Peru, train tickets to Aguas Caliente, ruin entrance fees, cultural and spiritual workshop (see Andean Pilgrimage Information), excursion to Machu Picchu, guidance from multiple spiritual practitioners, and licensed tour guides. Peru Alive can help arrange flights departing from most major airports across the globe. Including the flight with your itinerary will vary the price.

We guarantee a highly personalized service led by official tour guides specializing in anthropology, ethnography, and Andean history. Forget about crowded tour buses and mass commercial itineraries; this is an exclusive, small-group experience designed for genuine cultural connection and deep immersion. Features a gentle, fluid itinerary with minimal physical strain, this immersive experience is fully adaptable and perfectly suited for all ages and multi-generational family travel. Spiritual awakening requires only a deep desire for alignment, personal healing, and connection.

Andean Spiritual Pilgrimage – The Pachamama Journey

This specialized healing program has been masterfully crafted by Peru Alive, tracing the exact sacred geography of the Inca civilization to prioritize your health, comfort, and energetic flow. Cusco (Qosqo): We begin at the historic “Navel of the World” to ensure a smart physical acclimatization and an energetic introduction to the land. The Sacred Valley of the Incas: We immerse ourselves in the fertile womb of the valley, a low-altitude, high-dimensional energy center where we practice grounding, somatic relaxation, and spiritual cleansing. Machu Picchu Sanctuary: Our journey culminates at this ancient mystical school and “Crystal City,” one of the Wonders of the World, for a final initiation. Throughout this multi-day expedition, you will be a true pilgrim of the sacred route, accompanied by authentic Altomisayocs and Pampamisayocs (Andean priests and knowledge-bearers inheriting ancestral lineages). They will facilitate private Earth Offering ceremonies (Haywarikuy), traditional Coca Leaf readings, and non-invasive energetic healing rituals. Every single logistical detail is seamlessly covered. From handpicked boutique hotels selected for their peaceful atmosphere and strategic lower altitudes, to ritual culinary experiences like the organic earth-oven Pachamanca, we ensure your physical body is fully supported and safe while your mind and spirit expand.

The Stages of Your Spiritual Awakening Through Sacred Geography

• Separation: Begin in Cusco. Welcome & Cleansing Rituals

• Opening: Travel toward the Sacred Valley. Make Offerings – “Despacho” Ceremony.

• Transformation: Journey to Machu Picchu. Introspection & Conscious Pilgrimage.

• Integration: Grounded in Urubamba Home. “Ayni” – Sacred Reciprocity & Service.

• Renewal: Sacred Site for Final Alignment Ceremony & Energization.

The Sacred Philosophy of the Incas

The Andean worldview (Cosmovision) is deeply rooted in the timeless principle of Ayni, or sacred reciprocity: “Today for you, tomorrow for me.” In this ancient tradition, everything in the universe is recognized as alive (Kawsay) and inherently conscious. When you step into the stone temples of Cusco, Ollantaytambo, or Machu Picchu, you are not merely visiting archaeological ruins; you are entering active sacred ritual spaces where time is circular and the original ancient energy still vibrates. For the conscious spiritual traveler, embracing this ancestral heritage is the first step toward a radical psychological opening, allowing you to release past burdens and attune your mind to a frequency of pure peace and gratitude.

Galapagos Islands Add-On

From November 11^th to the 18^th, 2026, this program will be offering an amazing opportunity to experience the remote and unique Galapagos Archipelago. Lying on the equator, 600 miles west of the Ecuadorian coast is the Galapagos, consisting of 21islands in which only 5 are populated and account for only 3% of the total Galapagos Island area. Over many hundreds of thousands of years, animals and plants somehow migrated from the mainland. As time passed, they adapted themselves to Galapagos’ conditions and came to differ more and more from their mainland ancestors. Thus, many of the species are unique, like nowhere on earth. The islands were not uninhabited until 1535 and the animals and fish still have little instinctive fear of man. Due to constant ocean currents providing an endless food source, the wildlife of the Galapagos supports a wide array of endemic flora and fauna in and out of the ocean. In 1959, the Galápagos National Park (Parque National de Galapagos) was established and covers roughly 97% of the Galápagos Islands, spanning 3,087 square miles. It is a pristine UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique biodiversity, active volcanic landscapes, and the evolutionary theories of Charles Darwin. There are numerous documentaries showing the splendor of the region. Also, a famous Hollywood with beautiful scenery is “Master and Commander” with Russell Crowe. Visit www.peru-alive.com for tour description and details.

In the past, Galapagos tours typically utilized live-aboard sailing vessels. The packages were extremely expensive, excluding many curious travelers. Over the past years, land-based tours, utilizing hotels and day-tours, have made this destination a reality for all travelers around the world. This is a Nature Enthusiast Program lasting 10 days and costs $3,000 per person when adding on to the Peru Workshop. Included are all listed excursions and activities on the itinerary, private chartered boat cruise, lodging, daily buffet breakfast, lunches on day tours, all ground and water transportation, snorkel gear, eco-lectures, interpretive centers, and licensed tour guides. Single occupancy fee is $300 extra.

Traveling Abroad

It is a timely and tedious excursion traveling from the USA to Cusco but once you arrive, it will all be worth it. Each participant will need a passport, but not a Visa. The law does not require vaccinations, but those decisions are better to be consulted with your family’s physician. Most people living in the United States have already been immunized against various diseases found in Peru. Booster shots against tetanus, measles, hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and polio are common recommendations. “Traveler’s Flu” and diarrhea are common occurrences with any foreign travel. Antibiotics can greatly improve a possibly miserable situation (like a bus ride). We strongly recommend having your physician prescribe an antibiotic to help. The prescriptions need to be filled-in the United States prior to departure.

The tourism industry has certainly changed since the pandemic. Peru Alive has made some trip adjustments to best accommodate unknown future factors of living in a post-pandemic era. If any member is to encounter a health ailment in which they cannot continue or contract Covid, they will be personally escorted to a comfortable hotel, close to adequate medical facilities, to quarantine and recover. A staff member will be assigned to help you through the healing. However, the traveler will assume all additional costs needed to stay safe. Once again, this is the importance of purchasing traveler’s insurance. Reported on April 13, 2022, Peru remains on a Level II Travel Advisory. You can follow more safety information and alerts for Peru at www.travel/state.gov. In the worst-case scenario that Peru goes to Level IV, Do Not Travel Advisory, Peru Alive will make their best attempt to recover as much of your payment as possible but recognize there are some uncertainties these days.

Lodging

The group will be staying in hotels during the trip. Throughout the program, the group will have full access to The Peru Alive traditional hacienda, located in Urubamba, 72 km outside of Cusco. This will be our “home-base” for many meals, group activities, and cultural lectures. This home allows the group to immerse themselves in the Quechuan culture. There is a community kitchen, gathering area, safe storage, and bathrooms. It is a pleasant and convenient hub for exploring the Sacred Valley. Just adjacent to our home-base is a comfortable hotel for participants to sleep, shower, and rejuvenate between lectures and activities. Upon request, all participants are welcome to stay in the actual home with our host family members, if they wish to have a full cultural immersion experience. In Urubamba, there are restaurants, Wi-Fi hotspots, a hospital, 24- hour pharmacies, bus transportation, and international phones. The group will take advantage of fresh daily markets, prepared meals with local produce, jungle fruits and Quechuan foods. The town is known to be safe for foreign travelers while still possessing a rural, traditional feel.

Traveling in the Andes

There are walking tours, bus transports, and train rides that access high-elevation mountain regions. These trips provide views of glaciers, lakes, wildlife, condors, mountain scenery and remote villages. In addition, Cusco rests above 10,000 feet elevation. Our licensed guides, who navigate these areas year-round, will make all preparations and take precautions to minimize high altitude effects in these regions. Oxygen and emergency medication will always accompany the group. Altitude acclimation tips and techniques will be provided, most importantly the value of adequate hydration. At altitude, some activities can involve a moderate level of walking (2-3 hours) with multiple steps and stairs. Special accommodations can be provided for all ages and participation levels. There will be no trekking or camping involved on the Sacred Valley Tour. There will always be times to rest, hydrate, and eat during the tours. If anyone is feeling sick or fatigued, Peru Alive will plan to safely assist each participant through the itinerary or escort back to their lodging. April to October is dry season, with clear skies. Daytime temperatures can be pleasant (60-70s). Nights and mornings can get cold, just above freezing temperatures. A gear list will follow. Rain showers are possible anytime, especially at Macho Picchu.

Visiting Machu Picchu

Not commonly known, Machu Picchu is in the cloud forest niche called the Ceja de Selva (“Crest of the Jungle”). This high jungle region is home to both species from the mountains above and the jungle below. The orchid, butterfly and hummingbird species living in this area are unique and heavily populated around Machu Picchu. Participants will travel by train to the town of Aguas Caliente and lodge in a hotel. The Machu Picchu ruins are located atop a mountain that shares the same name. This is a 2-3 hour tour, involving multiple stairs and uneven ground. Of course, special accommodations can be provided for all physical abilities. Rain or shine, the group needs to prepare for any weather.

Non-Alcohol Policy

Due to the spiritual nature of the program, cultural sensitivity, and risks of altitude sickness, and spiritual experiences, alcohol and other substance-use is discouraged. This can cause a multiple of problems and never seems to enhance the experience our travelers are seeking. To the consideration of the group, if light sampling of local spirits is necessary, please exercise discretion away from the group during your free time.

Additional Costs Not Included

Additional costs NOT included in the program are bottled water, personal gear expenses, gifts and souvenirs, personal snacks, any medical or emergency needs, Covid -Medical Action Plan expenses, traveler’s insurance, tips for Peru Alive guides and staff, hotel upgrades, lunches and dinners in Cusco and Aguas Caliente. Food is very affordable in Peru, and these meals allow participants to get some free-time and explore on their own.

Application and Payment

Contact Mick Stemborski from Peru Alive or visit our website at www.peru-alive.com for an application packet. Return the completed application packet by email or text, including a copy of your passport. Passports need a minimum of 6 months before expiration upon arrival to Peru. Peru Alive will review your information and send an invoice by email. Please indicate if you are including the Add-on Trip to Galapagos ($3,000). The total amount of your tour will be listed on your invoice, complete with all payment options and instructions. Payment in full is required to reserve a place on the trip. Ongoing tour updates, travel tips, gear list, and useful information will be distributed by e-mail to help prepare for the workshop. Group participants will be invited to an informal meet-and-greet sometime in early October (TBA). This meeting is highly encouraged but NOT mandatory.

Please inform Peru Alive directly if you want to include your flight arrangements. To customize your flights, Peru Alive will gather all details of your airline departure origin, seat preferences, dates, and luggage needs. The additional flight costs will be included in your invoice. Once a payment in full is received, a non-refundable airline tickets will be purchased in your name, as shown on your passport, with your own confirmation number. Under your airline confirmation number, the ticket is yours to manage for any changes to seats, meals, etc. You will be subject to the specific airline’s refund policy, change fees, and ticket credit, should you cancel.

If you will be joining the Galapagos Islands Add-on Trip, it is highly recommended, you consider Peru Alive to make your airline reservations due to the logistics of multi-destination travel.  

Refunds

Your tour balance (excluding any additional airline fees) is 50% refundable before September 1st; 0% refundable after September 1st, 2026. The only guarantee for full or partial reimbursement, due to trip cancelation for any reason, is purchasing your own traveler’s insurance policy. This is not required but certainly suggested. NOTE: There are certain disabilities and medical conditions that would make Peru an unsafe travel destination. Please complete the application packet accurately and discuss any physical or mental concerns directly with Mick Stemborski. Peru Alive reserves the right to refuse services to any applicant who presents medical or mental issues that would deem this program unsafe or inappropriate to the individual or group.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance policies vary depending on the price of the trip, and the tier level of services you want, from basic, to premier. Any policy you review will offer some form of emergency medical reimbursement, emergency evacuation reimbursement, lost luggage reimbursement, trip interruption stipends, and trip refunds for various pre-approved reasons depending on the tier. Only the highest tier and most expensive policies will offer a 100% cancelation refund for any reason.

Every travel insurance website will ask the same basic questions; destination(s), travel dates, and age. These answers are set according to our itinerary. Next, they will ask how much your trip costs. This is the amount they will use to determine what percentage of trip refund you want to collect should you cancel the trip (for the pre-approved reasons). You do not have to list the actual price of the trip. You can start as low as $50 trip cost, which allows you to receive medical coverage and other benefits for the lowest cost without any type of refund for cancellation. In the case of our trip, you can put the actual trip amount to sure higher refund amounts and reimbursement rates. Once you have entered this information, you will get multiple quotes for various tiers of insurance.

Any emergency medical cost you accrue abroad needs to be paid out-of-pocket before you leave the medical provider’s facility. This is why a credit card is essential for travel emergencies. When you return home, you submit a claim for your medical and emergency bills to the travel insurance claims department. Reading the fine print of any insurance policy will inform the holder of what services are covered.

Trip Facilitator and Lead Guide

Mick Stemborski discovered the wonders of Peru on a personal trip in 2002 where he met Wilbert Yucra while trekking through the Andres. Together, Mick and Wilbert have been developing this unique program that introduces various groups and students to the cultural wonders of the Peruvian people. He has the honor of working with multiple populations in outdoor, international, community and academic settings.

Wilbert Yucra Choqqucunsa is a licensed Peruvian guide and a graduate of the University of Peru in Cusco. He speaks several languages, including Spanish, English and Quechua (Inca). He was raised in a small Quechua village rich with Inca traditions and beliefs. He has devoted his life to studying and sharing his heritage. He possesses a deep knowledge of the Peruvian countryside and its relationship with the people who live there.

Hatun Chaska is the vibrant heart and administrative anchor of our family. As a true daughter of Pachamama, she shares the deep, sacred connection to the earth that unites our entire team. Miska breathes new life into our vision, bringing innovative ideas and weaving the first meaningful bonds with the travelers who reach out to us, welcoming them into our world with warmth and purpose.

Final Thoughts

The program requires extensive traveling by plane, train, and van. The lighter the pack, the easier the traveling can be. If you require additional supplies or clothing, local merchants sell all goods at extremely low prices compared to the United States. A mild degree of physical activity is required to participate in the itinerary. However, special accommodations can be made for any participants special needs or limitations. Please, remember life is different outside the United States. The level of traveler’s services, degree of modern infrastructure, time management and local cuisine may not be what Americans are accustomed to. This is all part of the “international experience.” Thank You.

Workshop Itinerary

October 28                  Airline Departure to Lima

    Wednesday                 Arrive in Lima after midnight, clear customs, head to domestic flight terminal

October 29                  Arrival in Cusco & Conscious Walking Tour 

    Thursday                     Intro to the Andes and the “Puma City” to gently awaken our instinctual body.

October 30                  Cusco Megaliths & Andean Elixir Experience – Travel to the Sacred Valley

    Friday                          Walking tour of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, & Tambomachay.

October 31                  Andean Cosmology: Portal Huaca, Energetic Baths & Haywarikuy Ritual

    Saturday                      Decoding levels of Andean Universe through “energetic cleansing” and offerings.        

November 1                Ollantaytambo Living Inca Town & Train to Aguas Calientes

    Sunday                        Spiritually ascend toward the stone profile of Tunupa, “the bearer of sacred seeds.”

November 2                Machu Picchu Sanctuary: The Crown Chakra

    Monday                       The ruins of granite and crystals awakens the “Code of Transcendence.”

November 3                Integration & Assimilation Day (Free Day in the Sacred Valley)

    Tuesday                      An abundance of light and revelations requires grounding through meditation & rest.

November 4                Maras, Moray & Cheqoq for Initiatory Path Ceremony

    Wednesday                 The concentric agricultural terraces of Moray represents deep levels of consciousness.

November 5                Urku Fertility Temple & Offering to the Great Apu

    Thursday                     Dedicated to the water cults, balancing the feminine (Pacha) and masculine (Apu).

November 6                Sacred Weaving Masterclass & Return to Cusco

    Friday                          Andean textiles of threaded symbols explains the laws of Ayni, to live in harmony.

November 7                Airline Departure from Cusco to Lima     

    Saturday                      Most international flights transfer through Lima to other countries.

November 8                Galapagos Island Add-On Tour – Departure from Cusco

    Sunday                        Allows time for layovers and flight connections. Arrive in Galapagos Nov 11^th.