The fully supported eight-day retreat departs Cusco and ventures deep into the Sacred Valley, where you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery of snow-capped peaks and historic Andean villages. During your five nights here, we'll balance your time on day excursions with mindful hours at Las Qolqas, where you can practice yoga in the geodesic dome.
Each day, you'll explore the mystery of ancient sites that may spark your curiosity about the Inca and the lost technologies that made possible the construction of a citadel like Machu Picchu. You'll run and hike on well-worn paths leading to such marvels as The Maras, hundreds of small salt pools carved into a mountainside from which Incas extracted salt, and The Moray, an ancient-yet-sophisticated agricultural site involving terraced growing fields, each with its own microclimate.
On your daily run/hikes around the Sacred Valley, you'll have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their rich cultural heritage, as you visit ancient Inca ruins, and traditional markets and meet local artisans. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Andean people, and gain insights into their traditional farming practices, culinary traditions , and spiritual beliefs.
Feel the thrill of running along ancient Incan paths, surrounded by lush valleys and towering peaks. Participate in a mindful weaving ceremony and spiritual ritual called Haywarikuy, meet Marquesa, a wonderful woman healer from the Q'eros community, who will help you connect with the power and spirituality of this sacred land and learn about the Inca's reverence for Pachamama, the Andean earth goddess.
One of the retreat's highlights is a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas. Explore this mystical citadel, hidden in the misty mountains and marvel at its awe-inspiring architecture, terraced fields and intricate stone masonry. Your experienced guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the history, mythology and mysteries surrounding Machu Picchu, as you soak in the spiritual energy of this ancient wonder.
Here, you'll be treated to the luxurious comfort of the 5-star Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (pictured above) that overlooks Machu Picchu. Savor delicious Peruvian cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients, and unwind with soothing spa treatments that incorporate indigenous healing techniques. Reflect on your journey and connect with fellow travelers as you share stories and create lasting memories.
Join us on this unforgettable journey to Peru's Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, where you'll experience the perfect blend of physical activity, cultural enrichment, and wellness. Immerse yourself in the ancient heritage of the Andean people, explore breathtaking landscapes, and awaken your mind, body, and soul. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime that will leave you with a profound sense of awe and wonder.
This retreat is level II
This retreat is suitable for you if:
This retreat is suitable for you if you are comfortable with a combination of trail running and hiking six days in a row for around four to five hours each day. Each time we are out on the trail it is inclusive of hiking sections of trail and stops for water breaks, snack breaks and photo opportunities.
You are comfortable trail running and hiking on trails with loose dirt, rocks and some muddy sections.
You have experience on mountain trails.
You are comfortable trail running at high elevations.
You are physically able to hike long uphills and steep downhills.
You are comfortable on narrow trails that are high up and at times exposed.
You are game for running in the rain! Don’t worry about what to wear; we provide you with a comprehensive packing list.
You have, or are willing to acquire before the retreat, a pair of trail running shoes.
Note: The total run distance for this retreat will be between approximately 25 and 30 miles between 7,000 to 13,100 feet above sea level. The itinerary does include rest days with no running (or the option to run on your own). Due to the altitude, runners may find that they will need to adjust their pace so we have built in plenty of time to run/hike this itinerary. The precise route and trails run may change due to trail closures, weather conditions, guide recommendations and other safety considerations.
About running in Peru
The runs have been designed by our Peruvian travel partner who is a trail runner and knows the trails here like the back of his hand! Knowing that our group is coming from lower elevations, our guides will set a comfortable pace and we will hike sections as needed. While all the routes we run will be on well-established roads an trails, be aware that there will be some steep ascents and descents, rocky, uneven terrain and some exposure to heights.
Many runners will also find they will need to adjust their pace at these altitudes, so plenty of time has been built into the itinerary to allow you to hike or run at your own pace. Runs range from 2 to 9 miles. You'll notice that we allow a generous amount of time for each day's run, and that's to accommodate all paces and soak up the scenery along the way.
The weather
Machu Pichu and running the Inca trail
On this retreat you will have a full day to experience running a section of the Inca Trail, ending at Machu Picchu. Running along the Inca Trail is an exhilarating way to explore the stunning scenery of the Andes Mountains. This iconic trail passes through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and rushing rivers. Running the Inca Trail is a challenging but rewarding experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the natural beauty of Peru. And what better way to end your journey than by arriving at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a true wonder of the world.
This ancient Incan city is nestled high in the Andes Mountains and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The city's intricate stonework and terraces are a testament to the incredible architectural achievements of the Incan people.
Incan archaeological sites
Explore the fascinating Sacred Valley of Peru by visiting some of the top Incan archaeological sites, including Moray and Maras, Punamarca, and Ollantaytambo.
Moray and Maras are interesting examples of Incan ingenuity. Moray's circular terraces were likely used for agricultural experimentation, while Maras' salt mines have been in use for centuries.
Punamarca was an important center for the Inca Empire, both politically and religiously, and still has impressive structures such as a large fortress and ceremonial plazas.
Ollantaytambo is a well-preserved Incan town that was a significant stronghold for the Inca Empire, with impressive stone terraces and a temple complex that provide a glimpse into their fascinating history. Don't miss out on the chance to explore these incredible sites and learn more about Peru's rich culture and history.
Andean community visit
Visit a Quechua Andean Community nestled in the heights of the Sacred Valley, where you'll be welcomed by humble and hospitable people who have preserved traditions that date back thousands of years. These people have a deep connection with Mother Nature and live amongst exotic flora and fauna, and their cuisine is made with delicate, locally-sourced ingredients.
During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to experience their way of life and learn about their common past that's closely linked to the pre-Hispanic cultures of the Andean region. Your guide and transport will accompany you on this cultural journey, ensuring you have a meaningful and unforgettable experience.
Andean weaving ceremony
Experience a hands-on weaving workshop that dives into the spiritual meaning behind the traditional textiles, with the Q’eros community. Weaving is a spiritual practice, representing the sacredness of daily life and weaving intentionally in the present moment. During this ancient spiritual ritual called Haywarikuy, they will thank the Mother Earth (Pachamama) and Father Sky (Pachacamac) for their blessings and ask for protection and health for themselves, their families, animals and lands, while you learn more about their traditional textiles and culture.
Sound healing bath
Guided mindful runs
Learn how to run more mindfully to become a better runner. This includes natural running form clinics during which you'll learn about the Power Posture: use proper alignment to make gravity do more of the work. This reduces the muscular force involved with running so it feels easier and less strenuous on muscles and joints.
Focus on efficiency: Use natural running techniques to drastically improve efficiency. You'll practice changing stride length, cadence and tempo on various types of terrain. Then put the pieces together to achieve the ultimate trail running experience. Learn to cultivate the circumstances for flow to occur by being relaxed and mindful.
Yoga in the Geodesic Dome
About
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About The Host
We specialize in trail running- and wellness-based travel experiences that support women’s overall health and well-being. Our programs feature mindful running techniques that help women run better while maximizing running’s stress-reducing effects on the body and mind. Set in some of the world’s most inspiring natural destinations known to runners, each itinerary is an immersion in nature and wellness experiences such as yoga, hot springs, or spa.
We include the specific elements you need to have a wonderful retreat and leave out anything that doesn’t support that mission.
Why Choose Us
We are about experiencing running as a means to cultivate mental and physical health and well-being. While our purpose is to provide transformational travel experiences for runners like you, our mission is to offer you the time and space to clear your mind and focus on breathing deeply, connect with nature, dial down stress, and release endorphins so that you can relish in the joy and inspiration running brings.
No one succeeds in isolation, which is why the empowering community and connections that women find through our retreats are such a gift. Time after time, we hear the most heartwarming stories of the friendships that were made on our retreats, and why so many women come back year after year (sometimes even multiple times a year!) to run with us in a new location and often with women they’d met before.
When you travel with us, you are choosing to:
🏃♀️ connect deeper with yourself because no matter how long you’ve been on this planet, there’s always more to discover about who you truly are. We offer things like travel journals for writing and sharing circles during the retreat that support your inner as well as outer journey.
🏃♀️ experiment with mindful running principles that make you a better, more playful runner because there’s nothing like taking yourself too seriously to stifle motivation. Our retreat leaders provide mindful running exercises and tips you can use on an off the trail to run and live more mindfully.
🏃♀️ be open to connecting with other like-minded women because meeting new people is less scary than you might think. You’ll meet women who value running as part of a health lifestyle as we all as a sport. It’s amazing how quickly retreat groups bond after the very first run together!
🏃♀️ receive support, even when you don’t necessarily think you need it, but are so grateful you did when you realize how great it feels. In addition to the company of our professional running guides and expert retreat leaders, we highly encourage peer support to give you what to need to feel comfortable in this group.
🏃♀️ experience the mental health benefits to running that having nothing to do with your last race result or next goal. Our retreat leaders help you replace expectations and performance pressure with intentions and a focus on simply having fun.
🏃♀️ be intentional with the words you choose to express yourself, promising to be authentic and forget about trying to be anything you’re not. Intentions are rooted in values, and there’s no better opportunity to reflect on your values than when you’re traveling.
🏃♀️ make peace with the runner you are today, knowing that you belong here because runners come in all shapes and sizes and that’s okay. Since this isn’t a training camp, we’re not focused on where the future, but rather, rooted in the present moment, since that’s where the magic happens.
🏃♀️ give up the need to control everything going on around you because that’s the only way to find peace, restore your energy and find true joy. Our expert travel planners have worked out the logistics, and our professional guides scouted the routes, which means you can relax and let go.
🏃♀️ trust us to take you on a journey that has the potential to be deeply transformational and profoundly meaningful in a way that is entirely unique to you. Our retreat leaders understand that getting vulnerable can be scary, so they’re prepared to hold the space you need to have your experience at your own pace.
🏃♀️ forget about comparing yourself to others, either in terms of pace, speed, accomplishments, age or any other way, and focus instead on what you share in common. This is what we mean by community; you don’t have to “qualify” to be here, you show that you belong here by simply being you.
. . . and so much more.
Itinerary
Location
Things to keep in mind
FAQ
What is the average pace of the runs at these retreats?
Since our retreats take place on trails of varying types, we can characterize the runs by a specific pace-per-mile.
In general, we approach all the retreat runs with a very relaxed, social pace. We stop frequently to eat and drink and take photos (there are always lots of photo ops on our runs!). And depending on the terrain, there is times where we hike rather than run. Within every group there’s always a wide range in running pace, which is why we always have two or three guides with us.
One is at the front the group, one at the back and one floating around between the various pace groups. This way, everyone gets to go at their own pace and not feel rushed.
Is it OK if I come alone? Would I have to pay a "single supplement?"
YES you can come alone, and NO, it won’t cost you more!
The majority of our retreat participants come on their own. And while many travel companies require single travelers to pay a supplemental fee when there’s an odd number of travelers in a group, we do not. We absorb this cost so you don’t have to pay more simply because you’re traveling solo.
You may book a Shared Room retreat package, in which case we’ll match you with a roommate. All shared rooms have separate beds, one for each person (of course!).
On many trips, we offer Private Single Room options as well. While it does cost more to have a private room, you may select this option to be sure you have a room to yourself.
What is the group size on your trips?
We keep the group size as small as possible, usually between 8 to 16 women, depending on the destination. Please check individual retreat-specific information pages for the maximum group size.
What is included in the retreat package?
The itinerary varies, but generally includes ground transportation during the retreat, some airport transfers, professional trail running guides, run coaching, accommodations, most meals, activities, wellness workshops, custom souvenirs and support from your retreat leader. Excluded from the package are airfare, alcoholic drinks, purchases of a personal nature, guide gratuities, additional activities before or after the retreat.
Can I use my Garmin, phone or other GPS device to record the runs?
This retreat is a special opportunity to be present in a way that is hard to find in your regular routine. That’s why it’s call a retreat! By participating in this retreat, you are embarking on a journey of inner exploration as much as one of external exploration. You are embarking on a journey to a beautiful new destination, one that offers scenery and cultural experiences you can savor and enjoy. The inner exploration has to do with creating space to observe the feelings that arise throughout the retreat, noticing them and savoring them. With that in mind, we have introduced a Presence Policy that is designed to enhance your retreat experience so that you get the most from it. This policy asks that you:
- When on the trails, keep your phone in Airplane Mode. This way, you can use as much as you like to take photos (which we strongly encourage!), but aren’t distracted by incoming messages or phone calls.
- Turn off all audible sounds from your watch or GPS devices. If you have an electronic device that is making sounds, your retreat leader will ask you turn it off.
- Even better: leave your watch behind! There’s no need to log, map, measure or time your runs while on the retreat. You will have a richer retreat experience if you forego all forms of measurement and focus on the purpose of each day’s run: to practice mindful presence.
- Turn off your phone (or leave it in your hotel room) during the meetings, sharing circles and during group meals. There is plenty of time in the day, while traveling from place to place or free time, during which you can catch up with friends and family, post photos to social media, etc. We simply ask that you don’t do this during group time.
Are all your trips one-size-fits-all or do you have differing levels of challenge?
Our goal is to make our retreats accessible to runners of various ability and fitness levels. Having said that, some retreats are better suited to runners with more endurance and trail running experience than others.
What is the difference between a running camp and a running retreat?
Running camps generally focus on workouts and coaching for building fitness and improving run performance. Our focus is on building the foundation of health you need before you can safely and sustainably build fitness. That’s why our retreats are truly a retreat from your everyday routine and offer you a mental and physical break. That space allows you to slow down, tune in and rediscover what your body and heart are craving right now. Our retreats are enriching immersions that blend running, travel, adventure, education and community.