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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 16 - 23, 2009
Past Tour
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Lake Titicaca
Extension
Reflections of Mama Cocha
September 23 – 27, 2009
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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Detailed Itinerary
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Day 1
Wed, Sep 16: 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 Thu, Sep 17:
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
Fri, Sep 18: 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
Sat, Sep 19: 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 Sun, Sep 20:
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
Mon, Sep 21: 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 Tue, Sep 22: Mandor Falls for Special Spring Equinox Ceremony; Travel 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 will be led through a special Spring Equinox Ceremony
to 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 8 Wed, Sep 23: End of Journey - Fly back to Lima for return home |
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This afternoon fly from Cusco to Lima for your departure home blessed with
new-found wisdom and insights, or continue on to Lake Titicaca for a
wonderfully unique cultural experience. |
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Lake Titicaca Extension |
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Day 8 Wed, Sep
23: Travel to Lake Titicaca (B, L, D) |
 We depart early this morning by private coach to Lake Titicaca
which sits over 3800 metres above sea level, making it the
highest navigable lake in the world. Notable for its people who
live on the Uros, a group of artificial islands made of
floating reeds, this remarkable place is one not to be missed.
As we journey here we will stop at various temples and sacred
sites to connect with the energies of the highlands and
Pachamama. We arrive early in Lake Titicaca, in the heart of the
Andean feminine energy, to be welcomed by the loving embrace of
powerful Mama Cocha. Evening at your leisure.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel) |
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Day 9 Thu, Sep 24: Uros Floating Islands, Dream Pillow Project (B, L, D) |
 Arise early this morning to revel in the morning sun before
embarking on a private boat trip to the Uros Islands on
the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca. These islands of Tortora
reeds are home to the Uros people who, according to legend,
existed before the sun when the earth was cold and dark. Once
used as a mobile defense system, the islands now attract
visitors from all over and offer an opportunity to learn about
ancient practices and traditions and a chance to admire the
simple way of life of the people. Although the Uros claim to
have “black blood” which makes them impervious to the cold, they
are a warm and inviting people and we will all be welcomed with
open arms and hearts. In the afternoon we will gather for our
“Dream Pillow” project with local children from
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community to help them create magical dream pillows. The craft
project is an opportunity to teach the children the importance
of dreams, wishes and goals, and also teaches them how to
visualize and manifest their dreams to help make them come true.
As they create their beautiful crafts we will be engulfed by the
youthful and contagious laughter of these vivacious children,
who although poor and underprivileged, have a joy so powerful
any personal worries or misfortunes are momentarily forgotten.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel) |
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Day 10 Fri, Sep 25:
Aramu Muru; Cutimbo (B, L, D) |
 This morning we journey to Aramu Muru in the Valley of the Spirits.
Upon arrival we pause to reflect at the Inca’s Sun Seat facing the Lake,
to connect with its nurturing feminine energies. We then tread carefully upon
large rock formations in the shapes of a serpent and puma to connect with the
energies of the Lower and Middle Worlds. As we trek to the Doorway we pass by
the mysterious Valley of the Spirits and a mystical arrangement of
natural rock formations. At Aramu Muru’s Doorway, known to be a
portal into alternate dimensions, we will be led into ceremony to honour our own
personal growth and transformation, and the crossing into our new lives.
 In the afternoon we make our way to Cutimbo to explore the
Archaeological Complex. This pre-Hispanic cemetery, which belonged to the
Lupaca and Colla Lordships, contains remnants of ancient Incan relics,
petroglyphs that date back over 8000 years, and ancient Incan structures and
burial towers known as chullpas. In one of these towers we will be led
into chants and meditations to connect with the ancient spirits.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel) |
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Day 11 Sat, Sep 26: Mothers Club; optional Coca Leaf Reading (B, L, D) |
 Today we immerse ourselves in the local culture once again with a visit to the
Mothers Club to help serve lunch and enjoy traditional local music and
dance. The center helps about 60 local children with a daily hot breakfast and
pre-school classes, while the mothers learn to make handicrafts to sell in the
markets. Now it is our chance to give back to the Peruvian people for all their
gifts and the offerings of their land by donating toys, school supplies and
gifts as well as our own personal stories which they eagerly await to hear; a
truly magical and heart warming experience and a perfect end to our journey.
In the evening take advantage of an optional Coca Leaf Reading with Puma
to hear what the future holds. The private coca leaf reading will support you
with insights into your present life and create a space where you can connect
with your source and heart’s desire so that you may learn how to pursue the
goals of your life path and destiny. Using ancient methods of “reading”, healing
techniques, energy work and cleansing, you will be guided on your own journey to
self-discovery and discover if a return to the magical land of Peru awaits.
(Overnight in Chucuito at Taypikala Hotel) |
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Day 12 Sun, Sep 27: End of Journey; Fly from Juliaca to Lima; Depart Lima (B) |
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Today we transfer to the airport for our flight from Juliaca to
Lima and bid our farewells to Pachamama and Peru. We will have
use of day rooms to share our final thoughts with our new found
friends and to relive our wonderful memories before our return
home from Lima. |
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 to Cusco |
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Flight from Cusco to Lima (if not continuing to Lake Titicaca) |
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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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Lake Titicaca Extension Includes: |
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Accommodation at 4 star hotel |
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Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Transportation by Private Coach |
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Flight from Juliaca to Lima |
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Entrance Fees to Sites Visited |
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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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Heart-Opening Ceremony at Machu Picchu |
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Special Spring Equinox Ceremony at Mandor Falls |
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Community Immersion and Participation in Local Projects |
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Boat Trip on Lake Titicaca |
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Optional Coca Leaf Reading |
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 detailed on our website or in the final trip
itinerary |
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Tour Price
| Tour Price Per Person (Land Only) |
Single Supplement |
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USD $2620.00 Main Tour |
USD $580.00 |
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USD $830.00 Lake Titicaca Extension |
USD $295.00 |
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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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