Our next evening is spent in a particularly magnificent off-grid lodge nestled beneath the mystical “Apu Veronica.” (“Apu” is the name given to the spirits of the Andes mountains, each with unique characteristics, honored for their protection and blessings.)

After a short walk up a mountain path, we arrive in a magical land, The Veronica Sanctuary, lovingly cared for by multiple generations of a family whose mission has been to conserve this sacred land. Two rivers converge beneath an exquisite snow-capped mountain, creating a true nature wonderland… The perfect place for a sacred walk among the ancient cedars planted by the native elders and jaw-dropping glacial waterfalls.

We will also have the pleasure of spending two nights in the heart of the Temple of the Moon at the “Casa de la Gringa” Mountain House. This lovely place is located high above the heart of Cusco in the scenic hills. The lodge is a ‘home away from home’ with a loving staff to ensure a comfortable stay. This cozy venue offers comfy lounges, kitchen and dining areas, hot showers and heaters, a stunning garden space, and awesome star-gazing away from the city lights. The rugged beauty of the environment is perfect for those seeking peace in a quiet and nurturing space.

The center is situated upon powerful energetic ley lines in the mountains adjacent to the legendary Temple of the Moon, an ancient Incan ceremonial site.

Once back in the city of Cusco, our next “home away from home” will be the suitably named “House of the Flowers,” or Tika Wasi in Quechua. The Tika Wasi Boutique hotel is a long-time family-run establishment that is a sanctuary for traditions, both from Cusco and the well-known family itself—beginning with the architect’s love for Incan culture and their mysterious construction. They also host quite a collection of curated photographs of Cusco from many years prior. The space also pays homage to February’s colorful Carnaval celebrations and the fabulous flowers and gardens, continually cared for by many generations.

Exquisite Meals Made with Love and Devotion…

Overflowing with color and exploding with distinctive flavors, there’s a reason many foodies look to Peruvian cuisine as one of the world’s most sensational. The menus are a reflection of our majestic location, as well as the culinary skills and love poured into each meal. Our meals will be made with fresh and seasonal products from the gardens and local markets. Featuring native Peruvian food, dining is an exquisite experience in Peru.

Peru is well-known for its cuisine. The captivating fusions come from influences all over the world, making the food of Peru some of the most unique on the planet. With a range of diverse climates, the lush coast disappears into the vast and vibrant rainforests, desert wilderness, all the way to the expansive Andes mountain range. Peru is host to extreme altitudes (the highest peak is 22,205 feet/6,768 meters!) all the way to below sea level, offering an impressive diversity of produce.

Peru is mostly famous for its stunning variety of potatoes (over 3800 kinds!) and unique varieties of corn and other grains. For the spice lovers, the country is host to a medley of native aji chilies often used in mouthwatering sauces. The native type of avocado is delicious and unique in texture, often found stuffed with delectable ingredients.

And don’t forget dessert! A local favorite is the Alfajores. They can be found in shops, bakeries, and restaurants across the region. These delicacies are made with dulce de leche (a caramel yumminess made with sweetened milk), sandwiched between two crispy shortbread-like cookies, and dusted with powdered sugar. So, for the connoisseur of sweets, these are NOT to be missed! Coffee and cacao beans (the raw form of chocolate) grow abundantly in Peru creating the perfect combination for coffee and chocolate lovers!

And of course, there are plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans, or those with particular food preferences. All food is handled in a safe and healthy way, using American standards.

Here are just some of the highlights of our tentative itinerary and the “theme” of our daily Sacred Practice for every day of our journey…

The theme for our arrival day is Purification. After our flights, shuttles, and voyages to all arrive here together in the Sacred Valley, the early afternoon is yours to simply be immersed in the healing energy of South America. In our opening ceremony and celebratory dinner, we will detach from the stress and anxiety of life and cleanse our energy in preparation for the journey of a lifetime! Some may arrive as strangers to our small, intimate circle, but leave ten days later as dear friends.

Sunday, Day two:  INITIATION

Steeped in the Andean indigenous medicine traditions, two extraordinary Q’ero wisdom keepers and curanderos join us today. They will lead us in a Despacho ceremony for our Initiation into the abundant blessings of Peru. Victor and his wife, Celia, bring both the divine masculine and divine feminine, creating a perfectly balanced ceremony. You will place your own kintus, an offering of three revered coca leaves that hold your prayers, into the medicine bundle with your intentions for your journey. A despacho is a powerful experience that contains symbolic elements and the blessings of the participants. In shamanic tradition, the despacho ceremony becomes a “living prayer,” bringing transformation and healing, as well as balance and harmony with nature.

After lunch, we will find ourselves in an inspirational Sound Healing Ceremony. Sound healing is the mindful use of the energy and vibration of sound to promote health, wellness, and peacefulness. Sound Healing is based on the principle that all matter vibrates at a specific frequency. There is much documented evidence that through various instruments and techniques, sound healing raises one’s vibration and can expand human consciousness.

We will have a Full Moon Ceremony in the evening to celebrate the Aries full moon and consecrate our first full day into our journey together.

Monday, Day three:  EMBRACING THE MYSTERY

We will begin our morning with a Mystery Meditation and Sacred Practice before venturing deeper into the heart of the Sacred Valley. We will have a sacred walk to the ruins at a well-preserved archaeological site in the nearby town of Ollantaytambo. We will enjoy a scrumptious lunch at an exquisite restaurant alongside beautiful gardens and the fast-flowing Urubamba River.

We will continue to Embrace the Mystery with our afternoon explorations, where we will land at a truly remarkable place, Ñaupa Iglesia, for a sacred walk and ceremony. Known to some as a “stargate portal,” once there, it is no mystery that this is a place bestowed with sacred significance.

Within the understanding of Inca cosmology, the site is believed to symbolize a portal to a different realm. Even though Ñaupa Iglesia is one of the Sacred Valley’s least-visited archaeological sites, it is much more than a manmade structure. The captivating energy here is unmistakable and makes for an especially magical experience!

Tuesday, Day four: MAGIC

After a magical morning meditation practice and breakfast, we will be on our way to visit a hidden gem, The Veronica Sanctuary. After a fairly steep (but very short) walk up a mountain path, we arrive in an enchanted land, lovingly cared for by multiple generations of a family whose mission has been to conserve this sacred ground. Two rivers converge beneath an exquisite snow-capped mountain, creating a true natural wonderland. Our day will be filled with cloud forests and waterfalls, ending in a sacred fire circle.

“Área de Conservación Privada Santuario de la Verónica,” as it is known in the area, was born as a dream to conserve the flora and fauna of the Cusco region, led by native and long-time guide Miguel Bellota. The Sanctuary is eco-sustainable and was declared a Private Conservation Area in 2016, thanks to the initiative of the Bellota family. They protect more than 200 endemic species, are completely self-sufficient, host mystical events, and offer everyone an unforgettable experience.

See a video here: (It is spoken in Spanish, but you can turn on English subtitles) https://youtu.be/ttZUf_HUinA

Wednesday, Day five: CLEANSING

We take a late morning train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Caliente. At the base of majestic Machu Picchu, sits the tiny pueblo (town) of Aguas Caliente. After checking into our riverside hotel, we will take a Sacred Walk through the base of Machu Picchu to the Botanical Gardens. Along a cobblestone path with majestic views, we will see a variety of ferns, native trees, and 257 kinds of orchids! We will continue to the secluded Mandor Waterfall, where we will enjoy a picnic lunch and a Cleansing meditation. After our exhilarating day, we will have a special dinner at a fun restaurant with live music.

Thursday, Day six: PORTAL TO THE DIVINE

Welcome to Machu Picchu… A magical portal to the divine!

Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Incan citadel sitting high above the Urubamba River valley in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is estimated to have been built in the early to mid-1400s and later abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest. Its exact official use remains a mystery. However, recent archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was constructed as a formal estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti. The Incas had no written language; therefore, no written records of the site existed while it was in use. Often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas,” it is the most famous icon of the Inca civilization and voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Machu Picchu was declared a Peruvian Historical Sanctuary in 1981 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

After a day of being immersed in the ancient culture of the Incas at Machu Picchu, we will take the Vistadome train back to Cusco. The Vistadome features a full panoramic view, enabling you to feel part of the incredible surroundings as we travel beside the Urubamba River, stopping for a delicious dinner on our way back to the city.

Friday, Day seven: HEALING

After a light breakfast, we will have an all-day Wachuma Ceremony near the Temple of the Moon. [Please note: the Wachuma Ceremony is optional.]

The San Pedro cactus (“Wachuma” in Quechua) has been used in ceremonies in the Andes for thousands of years. It is a plant medicine intended to heal on an emotional, physical, and spiritual level. It reconnects us to ourselves and Mother Earth by providing clarity, purpose, and most importantly, Self-Love. It is true medicine for the heart and soul.

Generally, only fruit and herbal teas are recommended throughout the ceremony, but a delicious, nourishing meal is provided in the evening. Following dinner, we will gather around the fire to reconnect and possibly roast a marshmallow or two.

Sunday, Day nine: CELEBRATION

After a Magical Morning Meditation and Sacred Practices, we will all enjoy a leisurely, independent visit to the city. Lunch will be on your own before we meet in the afternoon for our final festivities and Closing Celebration Ceremony. In addition, we will have a celebration dinner at an exquisite restaurant with a terraced dining area providing amazing views overlooking Cusco towards the cathedrals in the Plaza de Armas.

Monday, Day ten: DIVINE PURPOSE

We will have Morning Mystery Meditation to help you integrate all we have experienced into your Divine Purpose. After a delicious breakfast, we will enjoy a leisurely morning in the city as your journey moves onwards.

 

Why join me on this adventure of a lifetime?

• Walk away from this experience absolutely inspired with a tool bag FULL of meditations, magical rituals, and sacred practices that are easy to integrate into your daily life. Your daily sacred practice will be elevated to keep you feeling centered and connected.

• I have spent endless hours over the years exploring and researching the most extraordinary experiences to share with you. These offerings are held in places of profound power, energy, and healing that is genuinely tangible!

• You will be accompanied by a small, intimate group of like-hearted, fun-loving people and guided by professionals deeply immersed in the Peruvian culture. All the details are completely taken care of, including delicious food, comfy accommodations, and an itinerary full of life-changing inspiration. We are fully committed to excellence and helping you have a fabulous trip!

• This is an adventure of a lifetime! And far, far, far from a typical “tourist retreat.” On many of our excursions, we will be exploring places where no tour buses can be found… truly off the beaten track!

• So much more than just a vacation, Peru has been on your bucket list, but it has never felt like the right time to go. Until now. Welcome to the best experience of your life!

• I have been dreaming up this enchanted journey since I stepped foot in this magical land nine years ago. Words fall helplessly short. You are just going to have to come experience the enchantment of Peru for yourself! Congratulations on stepping into the next level of self-transformation!

Your Investment:

This is not your typical “tourist retreat” There are very LIMITED PLACES in our small, intimate group. Secure your place today by submitting your deposit.

$3,350 USD per person Double Occupancy. We are happy to work with you if you need a payment plan. Please send us a message at collin@wildwoodmagic.com.

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!!! We offer a substantial discount to those who feel an immediate “YES! Sign me up!”

BRING A FRIEND DISCOUNT!!! We offer a special discounted rate for each of you if you bring a friend! We will send you a special link to pay the balance after both of you have submitted the deposit. Please schedule a time to chat or send us a message at collin@wildwoodmagic.com if you and a friend are signing up together.

SINGLE OCCUPANCY SUPPLEMENT: $300 USD is the additional fee for a private room. We have limited availability of single rooms, but we are happy to work with you if this is important. Contact us before you register, and we will send you a link to pay the supplement if space is still available. Please note there is one night (The lodge at the Veronica Sanctuary) where there is no single room availability, although you will have the option to have your own tent, comfy air mattress and super warm bedding.

DEPOSIT: A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is required to hold your space. (Our full cancellation policy can be found on the registration page.)

REGISTRATION WILL CLOSE for AWAKEN YOUR MAGIC in the Enchanted Land of Peru on

September 1st.

2023 RETREAT DATES COMING SOON!

Meet Your Guide: Collin Chambers

Award-winning Author, Event Facilitator, Spiritual Transformation Guide, and Awakener of Magic!

 

I am super passionate about helping people find true inspiration and playfulness through walking in the magic of nature! My own journey has taken me through many difficulties and triumphs but has led me to walk this path as no other way could.

Once upon a time, you couldn’t even get me to go for a walk. A short while later, I walked regularly, but I still thought it was just a calorie-burning chore called “exercise.” Now, I can honestly say that taking a simple walk unquestionably saved my life in more ways than I can count. Not only for all the weight loss and health benefits but also for the more subtle and less quantifiable value it creates. It is within these elusive and inexplicable rewards that I found exactly what I needed, intricately woven throughout the challenging path of self-transformation.

I had emotional problems and body image issues, even as an adolescent. In high school, it became evident I had severe drug and alcohol troubles, as well as a blossoming weight problem. By the time I went to college, I had tried just about every diet fad, pill, miracle gadget, exercise program, Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Nutri-System, cabbage soup diet, and “Guaranteed to lose weight or your money back” gimmick there was. I was the quintessential mascot of the yo-yo dieter. I lost 50 pounds three times during my turbulent youth, gaining back even more before finally hitting rock bottom.

My life sucked, and I was totally miserable.

When I first began the practice of walking, “sacred” it was not. Or so I thought. Starting an exercise program when you are officially “morbidly obese” is intimidating all by itself. It wasn’t until I gave up fast food, hard drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes… oh, and hating myself… that the weight came off and stayed off. I lost over 100 pounds when I started walking every day. Walking was the last thing I ever “tried” to lose weight.

Walking was the not-so-secret ingredient I had been looking for, and it was right under my nose the whole time. I quickly found it was so much more than just a physical activity or the dreaded word “exercise.” I began to have confidence I had never known and a sense of accomplishment I didn’t know was even possible. My walks turned into longer and longer hikes as I fulfilled my top bucket list item… hiking the 2,180-mile Appalachian Trail. I opened a hiking and backpacking gear shop and began leading hikes and backpacking trips. I realized what I was actually sharing was how to have more self-confidence and find a greater purpose through the exploration of wild places.

I have always called myself an “Experimentalist” because I have repeatedly embraced radical and total self-transformation. When the breadcrumbs of life led me to Peru for nearly a year, I immersed myself in yoga, energy medicine, shamanic healing, mystical rituals, and ancient Incan magic. Peru “awakened my magic” in every way possible. I felt something greater calling to me as I began a journey that was nothing short of an enchanted fairytale, showing me how to stay open and to trust wherever life enticed me to go.

My walks led me all over the world on mystical explorations also through India, Nepal, Thailand, and Europe. My world travels became a blend of all I knew about walking and hiking with learning to embrace the mystery and magic that is always around us. I began a private practice as a spiritual transformation guide and event facilitator and earned the whimsical title of Awakener of Magic! I recently published an award-winning book, WildWood Magic: Walking as a Sacred Path.

Guiding those seeking self-empowerment and personal transformation on enchanted journeys through a magical union of rituals, ceremonies, and “Walking as a Sacred Path” is now my greatest joy and sacred offering to you.

What is Included:

-Ten days/nine nights of pure Peruvian Magic and Miracles

-All accommodations and meals except what’s noted in the itinerary. (Two lunches will be on your own when exploring the city independently.)

-All guides, drivers, shuttles, transfers, and train tickets to our unforgettable experiences.

-All excursions and entrance fees to Machu Picchu, temples, and other sacred sites

– one Wachuma Ceremony

-Transportation to and from the airport

What is NOT Included:

-Your round-trip airfare from home

-Any souvenirs, laundry services, spa services, or expenses incurred on your own

-Some gratuities are not included, such as maid service for hotel rooms

-Personal, medical, or trip cancellation insurance (Highly recommended!)

What People are saying about Collin’s events:

“Collin sees the world in such a magical way. It is a gift to be in her presence. I’ve learned so much from her during this retreat and I look forward to more opportunities to learn from her in the future!” – Dawn C.

“Collin is a wonderful host and speaker. She is lively, fun, very knowledgeable on the subject of walking/hiking, the power of positivity, and an all-around good soul. The entire event was perfect. I loved the positive vibe of the events. I loved all the laughter, the easy-going trails, and a truly wonderful host. I am very inspired by the event!” -Alice K.

“Working with you is an absolute blast! You have so many good stories to share and you do so with grace, humor and laughter. This gathering was good, good medicine. The walks were not rushed, and I also liked all the encouragement!” -Gigi D.

“Thank you, Collin! I enjoyed all the outdoor activities and taking in nature all around. If you are considering one of her events, Go for it! It was amazing!” – Shyanne K.

“Collin’s knowledge of the practical advice of hiking paired with her connectedness to Mother Earth leaves one feeling reattuned to our roots! I would highly recommend anyone to learn under her. My favorite part was learning about walking as a spiritual practice. I loved the intention put into everything!” -Jessica B.”

“I highly recommend joining one of Collin’s events. Spirit guide Collin helps you reconnect with nature and self.” -Wanda C.

“I hope to join you for another event soon. Collin is so diverse and has great energy! She can connect with anyone!” – Melissa J.

FAQs

• What type of currency do I need?

The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/). U.S. dollars are accepted in many places, but you will need to use Soles in the smaller communities, especially local transportation, restaurants, and markets. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks or exchange offices. ATMs can be found at the Lima and Cusco airports, in town in Cusco, and most cities in the Sacred Valley. (However, they are not always reliable and sometimes only have the option of withdrawing small amounts, which means more withdrawal fees). Therefore, I would recommend using the ATM in the airport to withdraw money so you will have some local currency and then finding an ATM that allows larger withdrawals or exchange currency in Cusco where you can find a reasonable exchange rate.

• What is the weather like?

The best news is October is considered one of the best months to visit Peru! The crowds are much less, and the weather is typically dry and sunny. Days on average remain in the low 60s° F (15° C) but can reach as high as 75° F (23° C) to the low 40s° F (7° C). However, weather can vary dramatically and be unpredictable. It is best to pack in layers to accommodate warm, sunny days or chilly, rainy ones. If you always carry a jacket, sunscreen, and rain gear, you should be adequately prepared for whatever comes your way!

• Where do I fly into?

We will meet in Cusco, Peru, at the Alejandro Velasco International Airport (CUZ). ALL flights to Cusco originate in Lima, Peru, at the Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM). There are many flights to Cusco at many different times of the day on two airlines, Latam and Viva Air Peru. It is recommended to book your flight to Cusco separately from Lima, as it is almost always cheaper.

• Do I need a visa to fly to Peru?

No matter where you are flying in from, it is essential to have a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from the date of entry into the country when entering Peru. Visitors from most countries in the Americas and Western Europe do not need a tourist visa to enter Peru and will be permitted a 90-day tourist stamp upon arrival at the Lima airport. For more information, visit the peru.travel website.

• Is there transportation from the airport to the venue?

Group transportation to and from the airport is included. Everyone is asked to arrive at the Cusco, Peru airport by 12:00 noon on October 8th. (Although, if possible, we highly recommend you arrive a few days early so you can leisurely acclimate to the elevation before our magical gathering begins. Sometimes people need a day or two to regain their energy. Upon arrival, everyone will be transported to a central location in the city (TBD). Anyone who cannot arrive by noon will be responsible for paying for their own transport to the valley, which we will arrange ($30 per person). If more than one person arrives simultaneously, it will be less per person.

• What are the Covid requirements for traveling to Peru?

New international travel guidelines currently require that inbound international passengers on commercial flights must present proof of being fully vaccinated (3 doses) at least 14 days prior to boarding at their point of origin OR present a molecular test with a negative result (within 48 hours) prior to boarding an incoming flight to Peru for those who are not fully vaccinated. All passengers must also complete an “affidavit of health.” These requirements may change at any time, so we advise you to contact your airline several weeks before your flight to ensure you have the proper documentation.

Here are the latest requirements as of this writing; however, please check your airline website for accurate and up-to-date information! “From February 28, 2022, all passengers older than 12 years of age using commercial transportation to travel between provinces by land must present proof of vaccination to travel (as of January 27, 2022, individuals 40 and older must have received their booster). If they are not fully vaccinated, they must present a molecular test with a negative result (within 48 hours) prior to boarding their commercial transport.”

• Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! All the venues and restaurants will have a variety of options for everyone. We will make sure you have whatever you need!

• What do I pack?

You will receive a detailed information packet with everything you need to know about packing and preparing for our adventures after registration.

• What is the activity level?

Even though our retreat theme is “Walking as a Sacred Path,” our walks are generally gentle and easy to moderate. Please note, however, in our “off-the-grid” adventures at the lodge at the Sanctuary at Veronica, there is a very short but steep section of path we will traverse to get up to the Lodge. However, we assure you it is TOTALLY worth it! There will be plenty of help to carry your belongings to the lodge. Generally speaking, we will be walking moderately for an hour or two at a time. After all, we will be embracing the “Art of Slowing Down!”

• What is a Wachuma (San Pedro) Ceremony?

The San Pedro cactus, also known as Wachuma (wa-choo-ma), is one of several cacti that produces a psychoactive compound called mescaline. Wachuma became known informally as San Pedro (for St. Peter) after the invasion of the Spanish conquistadors.

The San Pedro cactus grows abundantly throughout the Andes mountains. It is treasured for its ornamental beauty as it has sweet and monumental blooms. The flowers open only at night and typically for only a day or two. The powerful medicine within the flesh of this cactus has been consumed in ceremonies for ages by indigenous cultures for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Besides mescaline, San Pedro contains many alkaloids that interact with the body’s systems on many levels. This powerful plant medicine has been used in traditional healing for millennia.

Our sage Wachumera, Lesley, has been working with the spirit of this plant for over 25 years. She only uses 7 and 9 ribbed cacti in accordance with sacred geometry and always follows a mindful practice in the preparation and harvesting of each cactus used. In the ceremony, we will be joined by a well-respected Q’ero shaman, who will be providing private healing sessions and energetic cleansings. The Q’ero are considered the Wisdom-Keepers of Sacred Inka Mysticism.

Still have a question or want to have a conversation about the trip? Feel free to schedule a time to talk on the registration page.

• What is your cancellation policy?

The Cancellation policy is written on the registration page. Additional information for participants as well as all waivers, health forms, and special consideration forms will be sent later.