The Andes of Peru and Bolivia
(Our itinerary is in the process of being updated and improved, check back in 2025!)
La Reyas Pass in Peru, 14,000 ft above sea level
Our ‘Andes of Peru and Bolivia’ trip is by far the most visually stunning of our offerings. Though there are aspects of this trip that we always include, we also try to change some of the features each time to keep it fresh for the repeat traveler, as well as for selfish reasons of my own. I can’t get enough of this region! Not only is the natural scenery breathtaking, but the people and culture are amazing too.
The Inka Empire once stretched from Southern Columbia along the West coast of South America to the Southern Regions of Chile. There is also evidence that its influence spread as far East as the Amazon Basin. Although earlier advanced cultures preceded the Inka in these areas, most had been absorbed by it by the time of the Spanish Conquest in the early 1500s.
Our focus on this trip is to take in the rich history of the area by visiting not only ruins, but the vibrant contemporary culture that still honors its connections to its past. The European Conquest of the Inka Empire undeniably left its mark on this part of the world, particularly in its architecture, language and religion, but the people here never abandoned their connections to their deep past. Even the Inka language, Quechua, is still widely spoken throughout the countryside.
At first glance, this trip may resemble a more mainstream travel package, but our focus on shamanism and shamanic culture sets us apart. From the Lake Titicaca Region, legendary home of the first Inka, Manco Capac, to the Sacred Valley surrounding Cusco, the Capitol he established there, we will join in ceremony as we learn about the spiritual traditions of the Inka people and their descendants today. We will be accompanied by and work with at least two shamans, sometimes more, as we visit important spiritual centers including the Islands of the Sun and the Moon, Tiahuanaco, Tipon, and of course, Machu Picchu.
One very important part of our trip is a brief visit to the contemporary village, Patabamba. Here, the people continue to live in close connection to the Earth, with the men of the village practicing the traditional Andean agriculture, using tools and techniques passed down to them through countless generations. The women of Patabamba are renowned for their traditional textile skills, producing stunningly beautiful weavings on back-strap looms. These textiles are produced with locally sourced materials, which they will invite us to help collect, then demonstrate their use. I have become very fond of these people and look forward to seeing them each time I am in the Sacred Valley. For a closer look, go to our ‘Past Trips’ page to read more about this wonderful place.
Patabamba is located in the mountains above the Sacred Valley, (at around 13,000 ft above sea level), and boasts one of the most spectacular views of the river valley below. We will generally spend at least two days here as their guests.
Our other main destinations will be Puno, Perus’ most populous settlement on the shore of Lake Titicaca, and the Island of the Sun in Bolivia, our base for our excursions out onto the lake. This part of our trip takes us to several wonderful sacred sites. This will be two weeks you will never forget!
The slideshow below is a sampling of of some of the sights we have visited in the past. View our past trips and sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on our next visit to this destination.
As with all of our trips, the exact itinerary will vary from visit to visit, so watch for announcements on our newsletter. This trip starts and ends at the Lima International Airport. Published fares for the trip include all domestic travel within Peru, regular meals and lodging. It does not include snacks, souvenirs or alcoholic beverages. Lodging is based on double or triple rooms. Single rooms may be available at an extra charge. Travel insurance is highly recommended and is usually available at a reasonable cost from your airline or travel agent. Contact us to request a registration package or for any questions or concerns.