Peru Hiking & Yoga Adventure Retreat

Friends of Katie Boone Private Retreat

Your Magical 8-Day Andean Itinerary 

Optional Pre-Retreat (April 29–30): 

Thursday, April 29 Arrival in Cusco

Arrive in Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire and still one of the most fascinating cities in South America. Sitting at over 11,000 feet, Cusco invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and begin acclimating to life in the Andes.

You’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to Encantada Casa Boutique Spa, located in the charming San Blas neighborhood. The remainder of the day is yours to rest, enjoy coca tea, stroll the cobblestone streets, browse artisan shops, get a massage or simply relax before the adventure begins.

Meals: All meals and lodging before the retreat are On Your Own (OYO)

Overnight: Encantada Casa Boutique Spa (OYO)

Friday, April 30 –  Tour and cooking class

Cusco – Where Ancient & Modern Worlds Meet

10:00 AM – Tour of Cusco with Gaby Meneses ($ 40 pp)

We will begin exploring Cusco with our wonderful guide, Gaby Meneses, whose gift for storytelling brings Peru’s history, archaeology, mythology, and living traditions to life.

We visit the Plaza de Armas, once the ceremonial center of the Inca Empire, followed by the magnificent Cathedral and Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun, once covered in sheets of gold and considered the most sacred temple in the Inca world. Today, Spanish colonial architecture stands atop remarkable Inca stone foundations, creating one of the most fascinating examples of two cultures woven together.

Peruvian Cooking Experience with “Peruvian Cusco Flavors” 4 hours – $60

When people think of Peru they typically think about the high Andes and the storied Incas, but Peru has become one of the great foodie destinations in the world.  Our foodie tour has become one of the highest-rated cooking experiences in Cusco and is one of the few that combines a guided visit to the famous San Pedro Market with a hands-on cooking class. 

The experience includes:

• Guided walk through San Pedro Market 
• Learning about Peruvian superfoods, native fruits, herbs, and ingredients 
• Hands-on cooking class 
• Making 3 traditional Peruvian dishes 
• Preparing 2 Pisco cocktails (non-alcoholic versions are also available) 
• Traditional Peruvian dessert 
• Approximately 4 hours 

Meals today: On Your Own (OYO)

Overnight: Encantada Casa Boutique Spa if you want (OYO)

Day 1 – Saturday, May 1st: 

Opening Ceremony & The Sacred Sites of Cusco

8:00 AM – Awakening the Senses Yoga

We begin our Women’s Quest journey with an Awakening the Senses yoga practice overlooking the beautiful city of Cusco, gently preparing ourselves for the adventure ahead.

Opening Ceremony – Together with Gaby and the Ñaupa Taki Group, we’ll participate in a traditional Andean ceremony honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus, the sacred mountain spirits that have watched over the Andes for centuries. This beautiful ceremony invites us to begin our journey with gratitude, intention, and respect for this extraordinary land.

Sacred Sites Exploration – Distance 4 miles moderate: – Late this morning we’ll hike above Cusco to Sacsayhuamán, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Massive limestone blocks, some weighing more than 100 tons, fit together with astonishing precision, demonstrating the incredible engineering skills of the Inca civilization. We’ll also visit Qenqo, the Temple of the Moon, and the Heart Temple, where Gaby will share stories of Inca history, spirituality, and their remarkable relationship with the natural world.

We’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch from Cicciolina, one of Cusco’s favorite restaurants, surrounded by beautiful views of the valley below.

This evening, we celebrate the beginning of our adventure together with a Welcome Dinner at A Mi Manera, one of Colleen’s favorite restaurants in Cusco.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Overnight: Encantada Casa Boutique Spa

Day 2 – Sunday, May 2nd: 

Chinchero + Misminay and Moray 4 miles moderate

7:00 AM – Breakfast

Today we leave Cusco and descend into the breathtaking Sacred Valley, where snow-capped peaks, fertile farmland, and traditional Quechua villages have supported life for centuries. The Sacred Valley was considered the agricultural heart of the Inca Empire, and today it remains one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in Peru.

Our morning begins in the picturesque village of Chinchero, often called the “Birthplace of the Rainbow.” Sitting high above the Sacred Valley, Chinchero offers spectacular views of the surrounding Andes and is one of the best places in Peru to experience traditional Andean culture.

We first visit our dear friend Nilda and the women weavers, who continue a weaving tradition that has been passed down through generations. Using natural dyes made from flowers, plants, minerals, and insects, they create beautiful textiles whose colors and patterns tell stories of family, nature, and the Andes. Watching these women work is a wonderful reminder that many ancient traditions are still very much alive today.

We then explore the impressive Inca ruins of Chinchero, once believed to be the royal estate of the Inca emperor Tupac Yupanqui. Massive stone terraces, ceremonial plazas, and the beautiful colonial church built upon Inca foundations reveal the remarkable history of this special place.

After visiting the women weavers and the Chinchero ruins, we travel to the traditional Andean community of Misminay, located at nearly 12,000 feet above the Sacred Valley. Here we’ll enjoy another authentic glimpse into rural Peruvian life as local families share their music, traditions, weaving techniques, farming practices, and deep connection to the surrounding mountains.

Misminay sits beside one of Peru’s greatest archaeological mysteries—Moray. After lunch we’ll hike toward these remarkable circular terraces, Peru’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Moray’s perfectly concentric circular terraces descend deep into the earth, creating a series of unique microclimates. Archaeologists believe the Incas used Moray as an agricultural research center where they experimented with crops from different elevations, allowing them to successfully farm throughout their vast empire. Others believe the site also held ceremonial significance, and its purpose continues to inspire research and discussion today.

Hike: 4 miles Moderate

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Casa Colibrí Eco Lodge

Day 3 – Monday, May 3rd: 

Pisac – Beauty, Geometry & Devotion – 6 miles moderate

7:00 – Morning yoga

8:00 – Breakfast

 9:00 – leave for hike up Pisac

Today we visit Pisac, one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in all of Peru. Perched high above the Sacred Valley, Pisac combines magnificent agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial fountains, and remarkable stonework with breathtaking panoramic views.

Many archaeologists believe Pisac served as an important ceremonial, military, and agricultural center. The extensive terraces that flow down the mountainside are not only beautiful but also demonstrate the Incas’ extraordinary understanding of engineering, irrigation, and farming in the high Andes.

As we make our way through the ruins, one of our guides accompanies us with the beautiful sound of his flute, creating a peaceful atmosphere that beautifully complements this sacred place. We’ll pause along the trail for stories, reflection, and a special ceremony overlooking the valley below.

For those who prefer less climbing, transportation is available to the upper entrance, allowing everyone to enjoy the most spectacular sections of the ruins.

Hike: 6 miles • Moderate (vehicle option available)

2:00 – Lunch (OYO)

Lunch is on your own in Pisac where there are several wonderful restaurants.  After lunch we’ll explore Pisac’s famous artisan market, one of the finest in Peru. Here you’ll find beautiful handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, ceramics, musical instruments, and locally crafted artwork.

7:00 – Dinner this evening is at the wonderful Huacatay Restaurant, one of the Sacred Valley’s favorite dining experiences. (OYO)

Hike: 4 miles moderate

Meals: Breakfast Included

Overnight: Casa Colibrí Eco Lodge

Day 4 – Tuesday, May 4th: 

Pumahuanca Gorge & Traditional Despacho Ceremony

7:00 – Morning yoga

8:00 – Breakfast

9:00 – Hike Pumahuanca George

Today’s hike takes us into the peaceful Pumahuanca Gorge, one of the Sacred Valley’s hidden treasures. Unlike Peru’s more famous archaeological sites, this quiet valley receives very few visitors, allowing us to experience the beauty of the Andes in a more intimate and peaceful setting.

Hike: 6–8 miles • Moderate, gradual uphill in one direction and then back down. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Overnight: Casa Colibrí Eco Lodg

Day 5 – Wednesday, May 5: 

Pilgrimage to Machu Picchu- 8 miles moderate to challenging

6:00– Breakfast

7:00 – Leave for Machu Picchu

Early this morning we travel by Vistadome First Class Train, following the winding Urubamba River through one of the most beautiful landscapes in Peru. Towering mountains, rushing rivers, and lush cloud forests remind us why this region has inspired travelers for centuries.

From KM 104, we begin one of the world’s most memorable hikes—the final section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Rather than arriving by bus like most visitors, we’ll walk the same ancient stone pathways used by the Incas over 500 years ago.

Along the trail we’ll visit the magnificent ruins of Wiñay Wayna, often considered one of the most beautiful archaeological sites along the Inca Trail. Its graceful terraces, ceremonial fountains, and breathtaking mountain setting offer a glimpse into the sophistication of the Inca civilization.

As we continue climbing through the cloud forest, we’ll eventually reach Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. For centuries this ceremonial entrance welcomed pilgrims approaching Machu Picchu, and as we pass through its ancient stone gateway, the Lost City of the Incas suddenly appears below—a moment few travelers ever forget.

After taking time to absorb this extraordinary first view, we’ll descend into Machu Picchu for our first time. Visiting later in the afternoon allows us to enjoy the site as many of the day visitors begin to leave, creating a quieter and more peaceful experience.

Dinner this evening is on your own in the charming village of Aguas Calientes.

Hike: Approximately 8 miles • Moderate to Challenging

Meals: Breakfast & Picnic Lunch Included

Overnight: Aguas Calientes

Day 6 – Thursday, May 6: 

Sunrise at Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu: 2 miles roundtrip

5 ish – Breakfast

 6:00– Depart for Machu Picchu ruins

Before dawn we return to Machu Picchu to witness one of the most magical moments of the journey. As the morning mist slowly lifts and the first rays of sunlight illuminate the ancient stone city, it becomes easy to understand why this extraordinary place continues to inspire visitors from around the world.

Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu remains one of archaeology’s greatest mysteries. Built in the fifteenth century and hidden from the outside world until 1911, its remarkable stonework, temples, astronomical alignments, and breathtaking setting continue to fascinate historians and travelers alike.

We will then climb Huayna Picchu, the dramatic peak rising above the citadel. Though steep and challenging, the trail rewards hikers with spectacular views overlooking Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

This afternoon there is time to enjoy lunch, browse local shops, or schedule a massage before we board the train back to the Sacred Valley.

Huayna Picchu Hike: Approximately 2 miles Round Trip • Challenging and straight up and straight down. You will LOVE IT!

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Included

Overnight: Casa Colibrí Eco Lodge

Day 7 – Friday, May 7: 

Hike Perolniyoc Waterfall & Raqaypata – Hidden Peru

8:00 – Yoga

9:00 – Breakfast

10:00 – Hike Perolniyoc Waterfall & Raqaypata 

Today we explore one of the Sacred Valley’s best-kept secrets.

Our hike begins in a traditional Andean village before climbing through eucalyptus groves, farmland, and beautiful mountain scenery toward the spectacular Perolniyoc Waterfall, where water cascades nearly 300 feet down a dramatic cliff into the valley below.

Continuing upward, we’ll reach the little-visited ruins of Raqaypata, an ancient Inca ceremonial site perched high above the valley. Few visitors make the effort to hike here, making it one of the most peaceful and rewarding archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. From the ruins we’ll enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding mountains while Gaby shares the history of this remarkable place and its importance within the Inca road system.

This day beautifully combines nature, history, and adventure and has become one of Colleen’s favorite hikes in Peru.

We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch that we pick up on our way out of town (OYO). We will eat our lunch surrounded by the beauty of the Andes in the Raqaypata ruins before returning to our lodge.

Hike: 6 miles • Moderate with some sustained climbing

7:00 – Farewell Celebration Dinner, sharing stories, laughter, and gratitude for the friendships, experiences, and memories we’ve created together during our week in Peru.

Meals: Breakfast, & Farewell Dinner Included

Overnight: Casa Colibrí Eco Lodge

Day 8 – Saturday, May 8: 

Seminario Ceramics & Grand Finale Lunch with Jorge and family 

7:30 – Yoga

8:30 – Breakfast

10:00 –Visit Cerámicas Seminario 

Cerámicas Seminario, is one of Peru’s finest ceramic studios. Pablo Seminario and Marilú Behar have spent decades studying ancient pottery from Peru’s great civilizations, creating beautiful contemporary works inspired by traditional Andean designs and symbolism. Their gallery offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate Peru’s artistic heritage and perhaps take home a meaningful reminder of your journey.

A Farewell Feast & A Final Gift from Peru

As our Women’s Quest journey gently draws to a close, we’ll make one final stop in the beautiful Andean village of Chinchero—a place that has welcomed us with open hearts and ancient traditions.

Here, we’ll gather around the table in the home of our dear friend Jorge and his family, where his mother, Sonja, prepares what many of our guests say is one of the most memorable meals of the entire retreat. Using treasured family recipes, fresh ingredients from the Sacred Valley, and generations of tradition, she creates a feast that is as nourishing for the soul as it is for the body.

One of the greatest gifts of travel is the opportunity to step beyond being a visitor and become a welcomed guest. Around Sonja’s table, we’ll experience the warmth, generosity, and traditions of an Andean family in a way few travelers ever do.

This isn’t simply lunch—it is an invitation into a family’s home and heart. We’ll slow down, share stories, celebrate our week together, laugh, reflect on all we’ve experienced, and savor one final afternoon surrounded by the beauty and spirit of the Andes.

Following lunch, we’ll visit Sonja’s weaving studio for one last opportunity to bring home a meaningful piece of Peru. Sonja is recognized as one of the finest traditional weavers in the Sacred Valley. Her extraordinary textiles are handcrafted using ancient Incan weaving techniques, natural dyes gathered from the earth, and patterns that have been passed down through countless generations. Each shawl, blanket, poncho, scarf, and table runner tells a story of the Andes—woven with artistry, symbolism, and love.

If you’ve been waiting to find the perfect keepsake or gift, there is simply no better place. Not only will you bring home an authentic piece of Peruvian culture, but your purchase directly supports Sonja, her family, and the women who continue to preserve one of the Andes’ most treasured traditions. There is something especially meaningful about knowing the hands that created the piece you’ll carry home.

Lunch is approximately $25 USD per person, payable locally.

The mountains, sacred temples, and ancient ruins may first draw us to Peru, but it is the people—their kindness, their traditions, and the generosity with which they share their lives—that remain with us long after we’ve returned home.

As we say goodbye to Peru, we leave not as the women who arrived a week ago, but with fuller hearts, a renewed sense of wonder, and the quiet knowing that this extraordinary land has become a part of us—and that a part of us will always remain here.

Will You Join Us?

Perhaps Peru has been on your heart for years. Or maybe this is the first time you’ve imagined yourself walking ancient Incan trails, sharing stories around a family table, meeting master weavers, receiving blessings from Andean wisdom keepers, and standing in the presence of one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes.

If something within you is saying yes—listen.

This is far more than a vacation. It is an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in an extraordinary culture, challenge your body, nourish your spirit, and create lifelong friendships with remarkable women from around the world.

For over 35 years, Women’s Quest has been creating transformational adventures that inspire women to live with greater joy, courage, health, and purpose. We would be honored to share this unforgettable journey with you.

Urpillay Sonqollay…

From the dove of my heart to the dove of yours, may love, gratitude, and the spirit of the Andes always travel with you. 

I hope you’ll join us in Peru and experience the magic of the Andes together.

Colleen Cannon

Founder, Women’s Quest

HIKING & ACTIVITY OVERVIEW

Day	Activity	Distance	Difficulty
Day 1	Sacred Sites of Sacsayhuamán	4 miles	Moderate
Day 2	Misminay to Moray	4 miles	Easy
Day 3	Pisac Archaeological Site	6 miles	Moderate + (vehicle option available)
Day 4	Pumahuanca Gorge	8 miles	Moderate +
Day 5	KM104 to the Sun Gate & Machu Picchu	8 miles	Moderate to Challenging
Day 6	Huayna Picchu	2 miles RT	Challenging
Day 7	Perolniyoc Waterfall & Raqaypata	6 miles +	Moderate
Day 8	Seminario Ceramics + final lunch	Easy Walking	Easy

Please note: All hikes are optional. We always do our best to provide shorter options whenever possible so every woman can enjoy the experience at her own pace.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Accommodations

• 7 Nights accommodations during the retreat
• Beautiful boutique hotels and eco-lodge accommodations
• Double occupancy (single supplement available)

Meals

• Daily breakfasts
• 4 picnic lunches
• 5 dinners, including our Welcome and Farewell Celebrations

Activities

• Daily Awakening the Senses Yoga
• Guided hikes throughout the Sacred Valley
• Entrance fees to archaeological sites
• Machu Picchu entrance, Huayna Picchu
• Inca Trail permits (KM104 route)
• Vistadome First Class train to and from Machu Picchu
• Opening Ceremony with the Ñaupa Taki Group
• Traditional Despacho Ceremony with Paqos (Andean spiritual priests) 
• Cleansing Ceremony with Riccardo our shaman
• Visit with Nilda and the Chinchero Weavers
• Lunch with Jorge’s family on the way home, final shopping
• Cerámicas Seminario visit
• All transfers during the retreat
• Women’s Quest leadership throughout the journey

Not Included

• International airfare
• Domestic airfare within Peru
• Travel Insurance (Required)
• Meals noted “On Your Own”
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Optional cooking class during the Pre-Retreat
• Tips for guides

Meet Your Guide: Gaby Meneses

She has been leading Women’s Quest groups for many – many years and has become an important part of our Peru family. Her passion, kindness, and deep love for her country enrich every day of the journey.

Throughout the week we’ll also have the privilege of spending time with many wonderful local friends, including:

• Nilda and the women weavers of Chinchero, who continue ancient weaving traditions using natural dyes and techniques passed down through generations.

• Jorge and his family, who welcome us into their home for a traditional Andean meal and a beautiful glimpse into daily life in the Sacred Valley.

• Ricardo and Benito, respected Paqos (Andean spiritual practitioners), who share ceremonies honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the sacred mountains while introducing us to living Andean traditions that continue today.

These friendships are one of the things that make a Women’s Quest journey so unique. We don’t simply visit Peru—we become part of the communities that welcome us.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please Bring

• Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates)
• Comfortable hiking boots or trail shoes
• Lightweight daypack
• Rain jacket
• Warm layers for cool mountain mornings and evenings
• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Refillable water bottle, We have bottles water the whole trip
• Hiking poles (recommended)
• Camera
• A spirit of adventure!

FLIGHT INFORMATION

Please plan your departure flight from Cusco for 7:00 PM or later on Saturday, May 8, allowing time to enjoy our final day together before transferring to the airport.

Thank You

Thank you for choosing to share this extraordinary adventure with Women’s Quest. For over 34 years, Women’s Quest has been creating journeys that combine movement, culture, connection, and personal growth. Peru is one of those rare places that has a way of staying with you long after you’ve returned home.

We look forward to sharing its mountains, its history, its traditions, and its remarkable people with you.    

We can’t wait to experience Peru together!