We will hike and explore the magnificent archaeological sites of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu with expert local guides. We will meet and participate in activities with local musicians, artists, and healers who will share their traditions and ceremonies with our group. This is your opportunity to truly connect with Pacha Mama (Mother Earth)!
Highlights
Machu Picchu:
We will spend two days exploring the famous ruins of Machu Picchu. Arriving by train from the Sacred Valley, we will explore the ruins on the afternoon of our first day and hike down with the full moon, staying in the ruins until sunset, one of the quietest times of the day. We will return early the following morning in time to witness sunrise over the ruins. Our amazing guide, Gaby, will accompany us both days, the first afternoon giving us a full tour of the central ruins with its ceremonial center, sun-dial, still functioning water channels and impressive stonework, all built in harmony with the surrounding mountains of the high jungle. On our second day we will hike some of the most famous trails at Machu Picchu, ascending the inca staircases to the top of the spectacular Huaynu Picchu, descending down inca steps and ladders to the back side of the mountain to explore the Moon Temple and circling back to the main ruins on an awe inspiring ancient trail cut right into the side of the mountain. Sacsayhuman: We will hike above Cusco to visit the zigzagging walls and impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman where we will be introduced to some of the greatest megalithic stonework in the world. We will explore the expansive area including the carved boulders and hidden underground caves of Qenqo, and further up, a fascinating area still being excavated, known as “Temple of the Moon”. Gaby will help us understand the significance and theories about the awe-inspiring and sophisticated construction of Sacsayhuaman and beyond.
Pisac:
It is larger than Machu Picchu in size, but because it was discovered by the Spanish, it is not as intact as Machu Picchu. But, Pisac is well worth exploring for a full day as there is so much to see and discover including its sun temple area, vast terraces, intact water systems, hill side tombs and famous craft market. Our local guide will help us to engage and connect with our surroundings with an earth offering ceremony at a special spot high in the Pisac ruins.
Chinchero:
High above the Sacred Valley at 12,000’ and famous for its women weavers, we will spend the morning witnessing a weaving demonstration using native plant dyes and techniques; followed by a walk and guided tour of the beautiful Chinchero ruins.
Moray:
We will admire the magnificent circular terraced basins of Moray considered a sophisticated agricultural experimental center built by the ancient people who inhabited these lands, a perfect place to do a meditation before we get into the Sacred Valley.
What is a typical day?
Each day is totally different on this trip. We will give you a “Day by Day” itinerary. We will be getting up early on most mornings to get out and hike (Sunrise at Machu Picchu) and see the sacred sites, visiting local weavers and artisans. We will restore and rest in the afternoons with yoga or massage.
Tell me about the yoga?
We will try to practice yoga or stretch out every day but many times we are out hiking and exploring. We begin each adventure-filled Women’s Quest day with a unique “Awakening the Senses” Yoga. This gentle but powerful practice draws inspiration from Yoga, Qigong, and Tai Chi, and is a perfect way to prepare the mind, body and senses for the activities of the day. When we get up for the morning hikes we will stretch out in the afternoon.
During the activities of the day we will cultivate a yogic focus—bringing with us awareness developed in the daily yoga. We’ll take mini “yoga breaks” during the day, finding opportunities to feel suppleness and receptivity of the body as we draw the beauty of the environment into our cells. This is one thing that makes out Peru retreat so unique.
The yoga practice on this retreat is designed to be accessible for all levels—both fresh beginners and experienced practitioners will deepen their practice according to individual needs and desires. Variations will be offered, and the instructors work with the principle that each person can find relationship with an “inner voice” that guides the balance of challenge and ease.
Tell me about the hiking?
We will be hiking every day so GET READY!! While in Machu Picchu we will hike for two days. The hikes are really beautiful hikes and the days are long. We also hike Gaby’s favorite trail in the Sacred Valley. This hike takes about 5 hours or you can stay and hike along the beautiful river and that hike is about 1 to 2 hours. The distances will not necessarily be great, but the hiking will often be steep up and down at high elevations on uneven stonework sometimes with exposure (safe but impressive) We also have options for the hikes.
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About The Host
We provide enriching and rejuvenating adventure retreats to renew the spirit and strengthen the body. A unique and powerful approach to creating vibrant health and personal empowerment deals for women of any age, background, or athletic ability. Programs targeting the mind, body, and spirit have been developed and refined over 16 years by world champion triathlete Colleen.
Location
Things to keep in mind
FAQ
I am out of shape, can I do the retreat?
YES! Because women of all ages, backgrounds, and athletic abilities attend the retreats there is a strong sense of support and camaraderie. Participants are inspired to overcome their limitations, celebrate their bodies, and refresh their spirits. Whether you have just started a fitness walking program and want to learn new wellness tools, or are a competitive athlete looking for your next adventure, Activ Retreats invites you to comfortably challenge yourself with fun and adventure.—whether that means a long hike or speedy bike ride down a trail, or giving yourself quiet time to sit on a rock and stretch. You will be encouraged to playfully explore at your own pace.
The ability levels are always varied: The staff provides expert technical instruction for all ability levels and we really have fun teaching the advanced as well as the beginners. We want to help you achieve your goals and fulfill your expectations, whether that means learning or perfecting cycling, hiking a 14,000 ft peak, surfing or doing yoga for the first time. We keep the groups small so that everyone gets individual attention.
Who is your typical quester?
Backgrounds range from:
*Business professionals who want a fit and fun vacation with everything planned
*Mom’s that really need to talk to someone their own age and refresh from the Inside-Out!
*Empty Nesters that are finally FREE to PLAY
*Women that did not have the chance to learn sports as children and they want a safe place to learn
*Girlfriends that want a fun getaway to laugh and celebrate life
*Athletic women that want to learn from the Pro’s and learn their training secrets
*Single women that want to travel and find adventure. The majority of the women who attend our retreats come by themselves. Although you may come alone, you will leave the retreat with new, lifelong friends!
*Mother/Daughters, single, married WOMEN!
You see…everyone is a Quester!!
What is the typical age?
We have had questers as young as 8, and as old as 82 but the bulk of our participants range from 30-65.
What is the The Mind/Body Balance?
Activ Retreats has always had the balance of the Mind/Body. We were doing it before it was cool because Colleen realized from her coach Phil Maffetone, that it was important to be Healthy as well as Fit and Healthy was balancing the Body, Mind and Spirit. The retreats offer a mixture of traditional and alternative methods to give you the powerful tools for personal discovery and transformation. For each of the physical activities, you will receive expert, and often individual, instruction. You also will be introduced to a variety of mind/body exercises and inspirational lectures to help nurture balance and encourage you to voice and follow your life’s dream.
What will I discover?
Have you ever had an experience that really changed your life? Many of us have had a few magical, poignant moments that made us see things in an entirely new way – bringing what we value most into sharp focus. These experiences encourage us to step beyond our limitations and discover our power and passion. Activ Retreats retreats invite these sorts of special memories. In the company of supportive and inspirational women, you will experience moments of laughter, excitement, and reflection that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Activ Retreats invites you on a journey to find balance in you life—a quest for INTEGRATION, PASSION, and VITALITY of mind, body, and spirit. You will develop the tools and motivation needed to realize your unique potential and create a plan for what you want to create with your “one wild and precious life.” Our participants report profound and lasting change as a result of their retreat experience.
Where are the retreats held?
Our adventure retreats for women are held at resorts in spectacular and inspirational places such as the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Vermont, Sonoma Wine Country, Hawaii, Tuscany, Italy, Costa Rica, Croatia, Peru and Bali The splendor of the natural environment invites women to reflect upon their own innate beauty and experience their relationship with the natural world. Serene forests, singing streams and glorious wildflowers will be your wise companions on the journey. Accommodations, gear, and healthy, delicious food are included in every retreat.
Do I have to participate in everything on the schedule?
No! All activities and outings are optional. This is YOUR retreat. We encourage you to do what feels most nurturing and right for you. You will be fully supported in doing as much or as little as you choose. All of our activities will be guided by expert staff, and instruction and support will be offered for every activity according to your experience level.
What is the altitude?
Cusco is at 11,150 ft., The Sacred Valley is at 9400 ft., and Machu Picchu is at 8250 ft. While adjusting to the higher altitudes we recommend to taking it slow, eating lightly, abstaining from alcohol, and drinking lots of water. Mild symptoms that some people experience usually subside in a couple of days. In order to prepare for the altitudes, we recommend spending time walking at higher elevations in the days/weeks immediately prior to the trip. Please consult with a physician if you have any specific medical concerns. We have had success with people going to their doctor and getting Acetazolamide (diamox) tablets which can really help. Oxygen will be available at our hotel in Cusco and medication is available over the counter at pharmacies just in case someone needs them.