One off the Bucket List: A Wellness Adventure to Machu Picchu with Lauren Baughman
Your TourHero
Lauren began practicing yoga over ten years ago, as a way to both relieve stress and add variety to her typical workout routine. After going on an international yoga retreat to Costa Rica, Lauren realized how much she wanted to share her love for yoga with others, and completed her 200-hour teacher training through the Yoga & Ayurveda Center. Lauren encourages both physical and spiritual empowerment through yoga. Her goal for each class is to create a high-energy environment where students can expect to sweat, smile, and leave class feeling at peace. When she’s not on her mat, Lauren is spending time with her husband and two dogs, traveling the world, and working for her social media management clients.
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Sept 13 – 19, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
7 – 12
Transportation
Van, bus, train
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Outdoors, empowerment, self-growth, relaxation, culture,
Fellow Travelers
Lindsay
Clarissa
Trevor
LaurenYour Local Guide
Pure! Peru is part of the Pure! Travel Group, a leading DMC specializing in tailor-made services and operating in six South American countries. Each office, including Pure! Peru, has a knowledgeable and highly motivated team ready to provide top-class service, local insight, and exceptional communication. For Peru travel, go through Pure! Peru.
Immerse yourself in a 7-day journey through the heart of Peru, where the fusion of wellness, adventure, and cultural discovery awaits. This transformative retreat invites you to tap into your higher self as you embark on guided tours to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and the vibrant city of Cusco. With 3 nights in Urubamba, 1 night in Aguas Calientes, and 2 nights in Cusco city, you'll find serenity and relaxation amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Andes.
Fuel your energy with nourishing local cuisine during lunches at charming restaurants, and savor a dinner and show in the heart of Cusco city. This retreat is your passport to empowerment, growth, and strength. A new-found spirit of adventure and the bonds of newfound friendships will leave you feeling enriched, refreshed, and accomplished. If you're looking for a sign to see Machu Picchu for yourself, this is it.
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until June 2, 2024. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by this date and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip by June 2, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit. After this date, no refunds will be given. You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Your TourHero
Lauren began practicing yoga over ten years ago, as a way to both relieve stress and add variety to her typical workout routine. After going on an international yoga retreat to Costa Rica, Lauren realized how much she wanted to share her love for yoga with others, and completed her 200-hour teacher training through the Yoga & Ayurveda Center. Lauren encourages both physical and spiritual empowerment through yoga. Her goal for each class is to create a high-energy environment where students can expect to sweat, smile, and leave class feeling at peace. When she’s not on her mat, Lauren is spending time with her husband and two dogs, traveling the world, and working for her social media management clients.
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Sept 13 – 19, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
7 – 12
Transportation
Van, bus, train
Immerse yourself in a 7-day journey through the heart of Peru, where the fusion of wellness, adventure, and cultural discovery awaits. This transformative retreat invites you to tap into your higher self as you embark on guided tours to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and the vibrant city of Cusco. With 3 nights in Urubamba, 1 night in Aguas Calientes, and 2 nights in Cusco city, you'll find serenity and relaxation amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Andes.
Fuel your energy with nourishing local cuisine during lunches at charming restaurants, and savor a dinner and show in the heart of Cusco city. This retreat is your passport to empowerment, growth, and strength. A new-found spirit of adventure and the bonds of newfound friendships will leave you feeling enriched, refreshed, and accomplished. If you're looking for a sign to see Machu Picchu for yourself, this is it.
Timeline
- Day 1 · Cusco & Urubamba
- Arrive at airport in Cusco
- Group transfer from airport to accommodation
- ~ 1 hr 30 mins van
- Check-in at Hotel Willka Tika
- Yoga class followed by Journaling/intention setting
- Dinner
- Day 2 · Urubamba
- Morning meditation + journaling
- Breakfast
- Traditional Sacred Valley tour visiting the Pisac Andean market, Awanacancha, and Ollantaytambo ruins
- Yoga class
- Dinner
- Day 3 · Urubamba
- Yoga class
- Breakfast
- Day of leisure: choose among the optional activities that Hotel Willka Tika offers
- Yoga class
- Dinner
- Day 4 · Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast
- Royal Inca Trail: KM 104, Chachabamba, Wiñayhuayna, Inti Punku, Aguas Calientes
- Box lunch
- Check-in at Hotel El Mapi by Inkaterra
- Dinner
- Day 5 · Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu & Cusco
- Breakfast
- 5:30 am: Bus to Machu Picchu
- 6:00 am: Tour at Machu Picchu
- Return bus to Aguas Calientes
- Lunch at local restaurant in Aguas Calientes
- Return train to Cusco
- Group transfer from train station to Hotel Antigua Casona San Blas
- Check-in at Hotel Antigua Casona San Blas
- Dinner at Pachapapa restaurant
- Day 6 · Cusco
- Yoga class
- Breakfast
- Half-day tour of Cusco and nearby archaeological sites
- Group transfer from hotel to local restaurant
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Group transfer from local restaurant to hotel
- Dinner at Tunupa Restaurant
- Day 7 · Departure
- Yoga class
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Group transfer from hotel to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Peru – your journey of discovery starts here
With its rich Inca heritage, Cusco stands as a cultural epicenter where history, tradition, and modernity meet. It serves as the perfect gateway for our nine-day wellness adventure. Once you hop off your flight, catch a group transfer to our accommodation. Watch as the enchanting landscapes of Peru reveal themselves through the windows of your comfortable ride. As you wind through the Andean foothills, a tapestry of emerald hills and vibrant flora unfolds around you, whispering promises of growth.
We will arrive at our sanctuary for the next three days – the exquisite Hotel Willka Tika. Nestled between the heart of Cusco and the majestic slopes of Machu Picchu, Hotel Willka Tika promises to offer you a peaceful atmosphere for your explorations, reflections, and growth. Check-in and settle into your rooms.
Once all the administrative matters are out of the way, we begin our journey in earnest with a yoga class followed by journaling and intention setting. To close out our first day, a delicious dinner awaits, uniting our group and laying the foundation for the transformational days ahead.
Day 2
A day of inspiration and cultural immersion
The Sacred Valley, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, was unquestionably an important area for the Incas. Its agreeable climate and fertile plains create the perfect conditions for growing crops. For the Incas, this region was also on the route to the jungle and played a key role in trading fruits and plants from the tropical lowlands. Today, the Sacred Valley remains a lush agricultural region supplying the city of Cusco with many agricultural products.
On day two, we’ll begin the day with journaling and meditation, then embark on a full-day tour filled with first-time experiences through the Sacred Valley. We start the day visiting the Pisac Andean market, where thousands of people from the region come to trade agricultural products and handicrafts. Here, you'll have the opportunity to connect with the indigenous culture, adding layers of depth to your spiritual journey and leaving you with a lasting sense of inspiration. Of course, you also have time to do some shopping!
After the market, we make a trip to Aanacancha. Aspire for a spiritual connection with local wildlife at the living Andean museum. See several species of Andean camelids such as llamas, alpacas, vicunas and guanacos. The locals will also show you their traditional weaving and dyeing techniques while sharing more about their ancient traditions. Besides being interesting to the curious, learning about the practices will also contribute to keeping the traditional textile arts of Peruvian culture alive. Take the chance to be present.
Our day trip concludes in Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca stronghold where colossal stone terraces bear witness to the strength of the Inca empire. Allow the history of the ruins to inspire you. After bearing witness to the many facets of Inca culture, we end our day of inspiration and cultural enrichment with yoga and dinner back at the hotel.
Note:
The order of the visits may change.
Day 3
Let curiosity drive you in a day of possibilties
Awaken to the gentle melodies of nature at Hotel Willka Tika with a morning yoga session, and savor a leisurely breakfast that prepares you for a day of boundless possibilities. Today, the canvas of your journey is blank, and it is up to you to fill it any way you want. It's a day dedicated to embracing your curiosity and personal exploration. With a myriad of activities offered by Hotel Willka Tika, you have the freedom to craft your day exactly as you desire. Whether it's delving into the rich local culture through an Andean art workshop or simply unwinding in the serenity at one of the hotel's seven chakra gardens, this is your day for you to set your own pace. Bond with your companions over shared experiences or find solitude in your personal pursuits. We catch up with one another at yoga, followed by a sumptuous dinner at the hotel, sharing with each other the spoils of our day.
Day 4
Step into the footsteps of the Incas along the Royal Inca Trail
Day four of our journey starts in the wee hours of the morning. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, and get ready for a day that takes your through the passage of history. In total, the trail is 12km long and will take a total of six hours. We set off along the Royal Inca trail, arriving by train at KM 104 – the gateway to a world where nature and culture become your sanctuary. From there, we will hike to Chachabamba (2270m/7448ft), where our private guide will take you through the site's history. Moving from there, we will reach Wiñayhuayna (2650m/8694ft), the most important archaeological site besides Machu Picchu. As you journey through the lush Andean landscape, the spirit of adventure and reverence for the culture around you will intertwine.
The pinnacle of this day's expedition awaits at the Sun Gate, known as 'Inti Punku', where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Machu Picchu. Our time spent marveling at the sight will be short, since we have to continue towards our hotel in Aguas Calientes. However, we will return to Machu Picchu the next day, so don't worry!
We will check into Hotel El Mapi in Aguas Calientes for the night and recharge over a hearty dinner. Tomorrow, we will achieve our goal of reaching Machu Picchu.
Notes: Luggage allowed: a day backpack of 5kg per person. Rest of the luggage must be left at the hotel.
Day 5
A perfect reward for our Machu Picchu adventure
We are almost there! Before the break of dawn, we gather for a nourishing breakfast, preparing ourselves for the much-anticipated visit to Machu Picchu. As the saying goes, 'the early bird catches the worm'. At 5:30 am, we board a bus which will take us to one of the seven wonders of the world. Starting early will help us bear the crowd and grant us an atmosphere of calm to appreciate the majesty of Machu Picchu.
Ascending through winding roads surrounded by lush greenery, anticipation builds up with every turn. Alas, at 6:00 am, we will arrive. Take in the sight of the ruins, and pat yourselves on the back. Our private guide will help unravel the mysteries of this awe-inspiring citadel. As the ancient stones whisper tales of a bygone era, you stand before the ruins, the sense of accomplishment and reverence for the Inca culture washing over you like a gentle breeze. You've earned this moment, and it's truly well deserved.
After the awe-inspiring experience at Machu Picchu, we board a bus that will take us back to Aguas Calientes. To reward ourselves, we visit a local restaurant for lunch spread. Dig into the dishes which will surely tantalize your taste buds with the flavors of Peru.
Later in the day, a train will take us back to Cusco. Take a moment to reflect on our experiences so far, humbled by the grandiosity of what the Inca civilization had built and left behind. Upon your arrival, a group transfer guides you to the welcoming embrace of Hotel Antigua Casona San Blas. We will gather for a hearty dinner at Pachapap Restaurant. Our shared memories of this extraordinary day will serve as the cherry on top of our fulfilling day.
Day 6
Take in the sights and sounds of magical Cusco
Rise and shine, fellow travelers. After five days of immersion in the majesty of Peru and its history, we start day six by concentrating on all that is good. We head over to 'Exhale Yoga Studio', located right beside our hotel, for an hour of yoga. Loosen any knots that have formed from all the trekking as we focus spiritually on what the experience has taught us so far. After yoga, we dig into a refreshing breakfast.
Time to explore magical Cusco in a half-day tour! The beautiful city has an interesting history, both from Inca and colonial times. We start at Cusco’s main square, which was called Huacaypata (or Warriors Square) by the Incas. As the guide walks you through the history of Cusco, admire the city's cathedral, built between 1560 and 1664 with red granite stones from the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
Next, we continue to Koricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo. The convent was built atop the most important Inca temple dedicated to the worship of the sun, with walls covered with gold leaf. Wandering through the streets of what once was the capital of the Inca Empire, you will feel like you are traveling through time.
After soaking in the history of Cusco, we journey to nearby archaeological sites. Take your time to walk through the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Puca Pucara, the Qenko Amphitheater, and Tambomachay. Let history remind you of impermanence, allowing you to stay focused on the present. With a richer appreciation of Incan history, we head back to the hotel to refresh ourselves before lunch
At lunchtime, we board a group transfer to a local restaurant where we continue our appreciation of Peruvian heritage using our taste buds. A group transfer will take us back to the hotel after our delectable meal.
Dinner on our last evening in Peru will be special. We head to Tunupa Restaurant to enjoy an unforgettable night of entertainment in Cusco with a dinner and show. Dive into Peruvian culture during an exciting performance of traditional dance, live music, and enjoy a delicious dinner of Andean cuisine.
Day 7
Head home feeling enriched, refreshed, and accomplished
As the golden sun heralds your final day in the heart of Cusco, you gather one last time for yoga and a breakfast that symbolizes the culmination of your unforgettable adventure. The flavors on your plate are not just sustenance; they are a reminder of the immersive Inca culture, the breathtaking trek to Machu Picchu, and the friendships forged along the way.
With hearts full of memories and spirits enriched by this transformative experience, we check out of the hotel and head to the airport. As you take off on your flight home, we hope you take with you a profound sense of joy, refreshed perspectives, and the knowledge that you have accomplished something truly remarkable. We hope the landscapes of Peru have allowed you to reconnect with both yourself and the world around you. Your journey may be ending, but the echoes of this extraordinary experience will resonate within you for a long time.
Accommodation
Hotel Willka Tika
Willka T’ika is an exquisite eco-friendly haven nestled between the city of Cusco and the mighty slopes of Machu Picchu in the Sacred Valley. Winding garden paths lead you through hundreds of flowers, plants and fruit trees, setting you in a peaceful mindset the moment you arrive. You’ll find your shared guest rooms to be constructed from natural materials, decorated by the center’s in-house artist. There’s also a bar and dining area on-site, with library and music rooms available for all. Room type: Double room. Room configuration: Twin beds. Single supplement available (see add-ons below).
Hotel El Mapi by Inkaterra
Just a short ways away from the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu and located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, El MaPi by Inkaterra offers rustic-style accommodation and all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay, including free Wi-Fi in public areas, an on-site restaurant with delicious and healthy food, and cozy rooms for relaxing sleep. The hotel also boasts a modern design that helps connect the traditional nature of Aguas Calientes to the modern day. Room type: Double room. Room configuration: Twin beds. Single supplement available (see add-ons below).
Hotel Antigua Casona San Blas
Antigua Casona San Blas is located in the artisan's neighborhood of San Blas, a five-minute walk from the historic city center of Cusco. San Blas is Cusco's oldest, continuously lived-in, neighborhood, rich with artisan galleries, quaint coffee shops, and good eats. On site, enjoy beautifully appointed rooms with colonial charm and modern comforts overlooking the gardens creating a tranquil atmosphere. The hotel features a restaurant, spa, and yoga to make your experience in Cusco the best it can be. Room type: Double room. Room configuration: Twin beds. Single supplement available (see add-ons below).
Included
3 nights in Hotel Willka Tika in Urubamba
1 night in El Mapi hotel in Aguas Calientes
2 nights in Hotel Antigua Casona San Blas in Cusco
Shared double occupancy in accommodation
Dinner on day 1
Breakfast and dinner on day 2 and 3
Breakfast, box lunch, and dinnner on day 4
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on day 5 and 6
Breakfast on day 7
Traditional Sacred Valley tour on day 2
Guided tour along Royal Incan Trail on days 4 and 5
Half-day tour of Cusco and surroundings on day 6
Entrance tickets to all mentioned places
One group airport arrival transfer
One group airport departure transfer
Yoga room at Hotel Willka Tika
Yoga room at Exhale Yoga studio in Cusco
Mats and yoga accessories
Not included
Flights
All meals not mentioned in inclusions
Optional add-ons
Travel insurance
Gratuities
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the cancellation policy section on this itinerary page for specific details.
Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?
Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.
If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.
Do I need a passport for this trip?
A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.
What's included in the price?
Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact hello@tourhero.com.
Available add-on
Single supplement room upgrade for the entire trip
Want a little more privacy during your trip? Select this single supplement add-on and have a room all to yourself.
Price: USD 520
Sold out
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until June 2, 2024. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by this date and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip by June 2, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit. After this date, no refunds will be given. You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
- Single supplement add-on - Unsplash: Rhema Kallianpur
- Willka T'ika - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- Antigua Casona San Blas - Antigua Casona San Blas
- Antigua Casona San Blas - Antigua Casona San Blas
- Willka T'ika - Facebook: Willka T'ika
- El MaPi by Inkaterra - El MaPi by Inkaterra
- A flight will bring us to Cusco. An amazing surrounding landscape and hundreds of years of history make Cusco an intriguing city to explore. - Unsplash: Adrian Dascal
- Accompanied by a knowledgeable local expert guide, you'll unravel the secrets and marvels of this ancient city on a walking tour. Wander through its enchanting streets, discovering awe-inspiring churches, magnificent architecture, and bustling markets. - Julia Volk
- Nestled between the heart of Cusco and the majestic slopes of Machu Picchu, Hotel Willka Tika promises to offer you a peaceful atmosphere for your explorations, reflections, and growth. - Facebook: Hotel Willka Tika
- We start the day visiting the Pisac Andean market, where thousands of people from the region come to trade agricultural products and handicrafts. Here, you'll have the opportunity to connect with the indigenous culture. - Flickr: Brian Ralphs
- We make a trip to Awanacancha, a place where we can see several species of Andean camelids such as llamas, alpacas, vicunas and guanacos. The locals will show you their traditional weaving and dyeing techniques. - Facebook: Awana Kancha
- Our day trip concludes in Ollantaytambo, an ancient Incan stronghold where colossal stone terraces bear witness to the strength of the Incan empire. - Unsplash: Mauro Lima
- Today, the canvas of your journey is blank, and it is up to you to fill it anyway you want. Enjoy a bit of yoga at the hotel's yoga room, which is included in our trip. - Facebook: Hotel Willka Tika
- Unwind in the serenity at one of the hotel's seven chakra gardens – this is your day for you to set your own pace. - Facebook: Hotel Willka Tika
- We catch up with one another over a sumptuous dinner at the hotel, sharing with each other the spoils of our day. - Facebook: Hotel Willka Tika
- The pinnacle of this day's expedition awaits at the Sun Gate, known as 'Inti Punku', where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Machu Picchu, a sight that defies description. - Wikimedia Commons
- As you journey through the lush Andean landscape, the spirit of adventure and reverence for the culture around you will intertwine. - Pixabay: Adam Hill
- We will reach Wiñayhuayna (2650m/8694ft), the most important archaeological site besides Machu Picchu. - Wikimedia Commons: Steve Pastor
- After the awe-inspiring experience at Machu Picchu, we board a bus that will take us back to Aguas Calientes. To reward ourselves, we visit a local restaurant for lunch. - Wikimedia Commons: CEllen
- As the ancient stones whisper tales of a bygone era, you stand before the ruins, the sense of accomplishment and reverence for the Inca culture washing over you. - Unsplash: Hibeth Rodriguez
- After our visit to Machu Picchu, we reward ourselves with a hearty dinner at Pachapap restaurant. - Instagram: Pachapap Restauratn
- As you gather for a hearty dinner at Pachapap Restaurant, the shared memories of your extraordinary achievements are the cherry on top of our fulfilling day. - Instagram: Pachapap Restaurant
- After five days of immersion in the majesty of Peru and its history, we start day six by concentrating on all that is good with yoga. - Unsplash: Dylan Gillis
- After exploring Cusco, we head to the nearby ruins, like the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Puca Pucara, the Qenko Amphitheater, and Tambomachay. - Wikimedia Commons: Diego Delso
- Dinner on our last evening in Peru will be special. We head to Tunupa Restaurant to enjoy an unforgettable night of entertainment in Cusco with a dinner and show. - Tunupa Restaurant