Culture and Connection in Peru

This cultural immersion will introduce you to the customs and ceremonies of the Yine culture, one of the eight Indigenous groups of Madre de Dios. Guided by Yeni Alvarado, a visual artist and guardian of the ancestral Yine chant, you’ll create patterns to be drawn on faces and learn about the sacred chants that connect us with animals and nature, as well as the cultural heritage of the Yine people.

This educational and engaging nature walk is led by Don Victor Pesha, a member of the Ese Eja community. Throughout the walk, he’ll share his ancestral knowledge with you, including the medicinal uses of the Amazon’s plants and trees, as well as their cultural significance. You’ll learn more about the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon while cultivating meaningful connections with nature and its powers.

Begin your experience with a visit to the ancient ceremonial site of Ñaupa Iglesia, learning about the stories behind these spiritual ruins from your private guide. From here, you’ll continue on horseback, soaking up the impressive scenery on the hour and a half ride to Perolniyoc waterfalls. Once there, you can pause to rest before exploring your surroundings, which include the mesmerising waters of the narrow yet powerful falls and the archeological remains of Raqaypata. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes before continuing your journey.

A silent guided hike and guided meditation in view of the Andes form a peaceful, transformative start to your day before exploring the circular terraces of Moray. Learn about their historical use by the Incas for developing crop varieties, as well as the salt production history of the nearby town of Maras. Even today, salt extraction is still the main source of income here, and crystalised salt pans scatter the farmlands. Meet with a Pampamesayok, or Andean priest, who will honour Pachamama (Mother Earth) with rituals that are thought to  date back to before Incan times. 

Learn more about Cusco on a walking tour of the city that incorporates the spiritual traditions of the Andes. Your guide will lead you in a series of Andean ceremonies, including an Andean welcome ceremony (k’apachi) and a reading of coca leaves (coca tapuy). Continue your experience at San Pedro market, where stalls are laden with textiles, crafts and local produce. Your tour continues with visits to the Santo Domingo convent and Temple of the Sun, the Plaza de Armas and the bohemian quarter of San Blas.

Head out into the countryside with an expert botanist to discover the healing powers of plants. They’ll share their years of passion and expertise with you, explaining the medicinal properties of the flora and fauna around Cusco and how their uses have been passed down through time. Finish your session by enjoying a refreshing drink made from native plants as you learn about the relationship between Andean botany and the culture and folklore of local communities.