Retreat to the Sacred Valley: Discover the Artisans and the Energy of Peru

Day 1: Arrive to Cusco

Arrive at your leisure in Cusco, where a private transfer will take you from the airport to your hotel. Take time to rest and unwind after your journey, or join us for a relaxed walking tour through the city’s charming streets. You might also prefer to simply settle in with a cup of coca tea — a local tradition that helps your body adjust to the altitude. We’ll use this day to acclimate before the adventure begins, ending the evening together with a welcome dinner in Cusco.

Day 2: Chincheros Market, Tiobamba, Maras & Moray

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before our Sacred Valley adventure officially begins at 9 a.m. Today offers a vibrant introduction to the colorful, spiritual world of the Quechua people. We’ll travel by van across the Sacred Valley, beginning with a visit to the famous Chincheros Market just outside Cusco. Here, you’ll experience a day in the life of a Quechua local, taking part in traditional customs such as a Pachamama ceremony honoring Mother Earth and learning a few words of the Quechua language.

From there, we’ll enjoy a relaxed, authentic picnic lunch in Tiobamba, surrounded by sweeping views of the valley and its historic cathedral. After lunch, our journey continues to the breathtaking Maras salt flats and the circular terraces of Moray, ancient agricultural ruins that showcase the ingenuity of Andean civilization.

After a full and inspiring first day, we’ll check into the serene Willka T’ika in Urubamba for dinner, yoga, and an evening of relaxation.

Day 3: Patacancha Valley Artisan Visit & Ollantaytambo Ruins

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set out for the rural town of Patacancha to visit one of our weaving communities. There, you’ll meet our nonprofit partner Awamaki, learn about their incredible work, and watch a live weaving demonstration led by the women artisans themselves. Enjoy coca tea with the expert weavers before heading down to El Albergue for a traditional Pachamanca lunch, a meal prepared in an earth oven using heated stones to cook meat and vegetables underground, an ancient practice that dates back to Incan times. Afterward, we’ll enjoy local coffee and a short distillery tour.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Ollantaytambo, home to Andeana Hats’ Peru headquarters and one of the most charming towns in the Sacred Valley. Wander its cobblestone streets, shop local markets, and climb the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress ruins. We’ll return to the hotel in the evening for dinner, relaxation, and a soothing soak in the traditional Inca baths under the stars.

Day 4: Pisaq Ruins & Cusco

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll continue our journey through the Sacred Valley to the ancient Incan citadel of Pisaq, where we’ll hike among its terraced hillsides and explore some of the most remarkable examples of Incan architecture.

Afterward, we’ll wander through the modern town of Pisaq, with time to browse its vibrant artisan markets and discover local crafts. From there, we’ll drive back to the historic city of Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire. Prepare to be amazed by this captivating blend of colonial charm and ancient history before enjoying a European-Peruvian fusion dinner at Cicciolina — one of Cusco’s most celebrated restaurants. We’ll then unwind at our new hotel for a restful evening.

Day 5: Saqsayhuaman & Cusco

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll spend the day exploring Cusco and its nearby Incan treasures. Our tour includes the Temple of the Sun, the impressive archaeological site of Saqsayhuaman, and the Qorikancha Museum, once the most sacred temple in the Inca Empire. These sites were deeply interconnected in Incan times and remain some of the most spiritually significant landmarks in Peru.

We’ll stop for lunch at Pachapapa, then enjoy a free afternoon to wander and shop. You’ll want to lose yourself in Cusco’s charming cobblestone streets, filled with hidden cafés, artisan boutiques, and colorful markets.

For our final evening together, we’ll head to the top of San Blas for cocktails and panoramic views at Limbus Restobar— the perfect place to toast the journey we’ve shared. After dinner and drinks, rest up… tomorrow’s adventure will be one to remember.

Day 6: The 7 Sacred Lakes Hike, Pacchanta Artisan Tour, & Hot Springs

We’ll rise with the sun and set out on a breathtaking drive through the Sacred Valley and the majestic Apu Ausangate Mountains. Upon arrival in Pacchanta, we’ll share a homemade breakfast with Mama Ayni’s artisans before joining them for a guided tour of their community and crafts.

From there, we’ll hike or horseback ride the stunning 7 Lakes Loop, surrounded by turquoise glacial lakes and dramatic mountain scenery. After a few hours on the trail, we’ll unwind in the soothing natural hot springs before gathering for a final family-style dinner — a beautiful close to our journey — and then return to our hotel in Cusco for the night.

Day 7: Breakfast & Departure or Macchu Picchu Trek Extension

Our Andeana Retreat ends here but for those who want to continue the adventure, join us for a Machu Picchu trek.

Day 7 Machu Picchu

On Friday morning, your Machu Picchu journey begins aboard a scenic glass-ceiling train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming mountain town before checking into your hotel and enjoying an early dinner. Turn in early tonight — tomorrow you’ll wake refreshed and ready to experience the legendary ruins of Machu Picchu.

Day 8 Machu Picchu

Get ready to cross a true bucket-list destination off your list, Machu Picchu. The first bus departs at 5:30 a.m. from a stop just a short walk from your hotel, taking you up the mountain in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the ancient citadel. Enjoy a guided tour through the ruins, then take your time exploring on your own, perhaps hiking to the Sun Gate for sweeping views, before catching the afternoon train back to Cusco.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may choose to head directly to the airport for your overnight journey home, or stay one more night in Cusco to soak in the magic of this unforgettable city. Either way, you’ll leave Peru with your heart full and already dreaming of your return.

Day 9 Machu Picchu

Return to Lima to connect with your international flight. Exact departure times to be determined.