Discover a lesser-known side of the Andes on this three-day journey to the Huchuy Qosqo ruins, designed for travelers seeking both adventure and a deeper spiritual connection. Along the way, you’ll step into Andean traditions, take part in a ceremonial gratitude offering guided by a shaman, and experience the powerful presence of San Pedro (Wachuma) medicine in a setting of mountains, valleys, and ancient Inca heritage.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Gratitude Ceremony – Local Homestay

Early in the morning, you will be collected from your hotel in Cusco and driven for about one hour to the community of Taucca in the Sacred Valley. Your trek begins with an ancestral ceremony led by our Andean shaman, a meaningful moment to give thanks, connect with the spirits, and set your intentions for the days ahead. From there, a three-hour ascent takes you to the highest point of the route, where several lagoons and sweeping views create an unforgettable backdrop. At the mountain pass, enjoy expansive scenery of snow-covered peaks and the Sacred Valley.

The descent continues to the village of Pucamarca, with time to visit the ancient Inca ruins of Patabamba. Following the original Inca trail, you will arrive at the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, located at 3650m / 11,975 ft and known in Quechua as “Little Cusco.” In the late afternoon, you will share time with a local family, learn about their daily life, enjoy a traditional dinner, and stay overnight in their home.

Day 2: Huchuy Qosqo – Retreat Center in Sacred Valley

After breakfast at the homestay, your local guide will share the history of this remarkable archaeological site. You will then have time to explore its sacred temples, farming terraces, storehouses, water channels, and the original Inca reservoir. A two-hour downhill hike brings you to the community of Lamay, where a vegetarian lunch will be served. From there, private transportation takes you to our retreat center in the Sacred Valley, where you can rest, enjoy a light dinner, and unwind after the final hiking day, surrounded by mountains and beautiful nature.

Day 3: Wachuma Ceremony in Valley – Cusco

Your sacred San Pedro journey begins at sunrise, with the Andes surrounding you at our retreat center. Our respected Q'eros shaman will guide the preparation of the ceremony, beginning with the Haywarikuy Ceremony, a humble request for permission and guidance from the Sacred Mountains and Mother Earth.

As you take the San Pedro medicine, you open your heart to the gifts of Mother Earth and the universe. After this deeply nourishing experience, a light snack will be shared. With gentle support from the shamanic healer, you will be guided to reflect on the messages within your visions, and the ceremony will conclude with an Offering to Mother Earth (Pachamama), expressing gratitude and strengthening your bond with nature. Afterwards, private transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

What is included?

Overnight stay with a local family on night 1 and at our retreat center in the valley on night 2.
Meals as listed in the itinerary: lunch and dinner on Day 1, all meals on Day 2, and an organic snack on Day 3, adapted to the diet for your San Pedro ceremony.
All activities described in the itinerary.
Professional English-speaking guide.
Gratitude ceremony with Andean shamanic healer.
Pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
Transportation to the starting point of the hike.
Transportation to the retreat center.
San Pedro ceremony performed by an authentic shaman.

What is not included?

Trekking poles, available to rent for $15.00 per person.
Machu Picchu visit.
Activities and meals not mentioned in the itinerary or listed as optional.
Gratuities for the staff.
National or international flights.
Travel insurance.

FAQ about this trek

How does the San Pedro cactus affect me?

The effects of San Pedro medicine typically last 8 to 12 hours and may bring on a pleasant, dream-like state. Some people first feel tired before entering vivid visions, and purging may occur as part of an energetic release. Other effects can include slight numbness, a faster heartbeat, and shifts in perception, often experienced in waves. Our shamanic healer will guide you through a cleansing San Pedro ceremony. Some effects may remain after the ceremony, but they usually fade after around 8 hours. The experience can be both outward-looking, creating harmony with self, nature, and the cosmos, and inward-facing, opening space for personal emotions and memories. Many describe it as a powerful moment filled with happiness, love, and inner peace.

What are the benefits of San Pedro?

San Pedro is a sacred plant medicine associated with benefits on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels. Commonly reported effects include:

Spiritual Insight: Supports deep spiritual experiences and connection with the inner self.
Emotional Healing: May help bring awareness to emotional wounds and encourage healing.
Clarity and Reflection: Often linked with clearer thinking, self-reflection, and new perspectives.
Connection with Nature: Can deepen appreciation for the natural world and its interconnectedness.
Increased Energy and Vitality: Some participants report feeling renewed and more energized.
Creative Inspiration: May open space for creativity and fresh inspiration.
Physical Healing: Some believe it supports physical healing, though it is not a substitute for medical treatment.
Mind-Body-Spirit Alignment: Often said to promote balance and harmony.
Personal Growth: Can inspire self-discovery and a deeper understanding of one’s path.

How can I prepare for the San Pedro ceremony?

Dietary Preparations:

Avoid meat and spicy food one day before the ceremony.
Do not use drugs or alcohol for at least one week before the ceremony.
Choose a light vegetarian dinner the day before.
For best results, consider fasting for around 12 hours before the ceremony by having a simple meatless dinner and skipping breakfast. Arriving on an empty stomach or with tea/juice in the morning is recommended. An organic snack will be provided during the ceremony.

Clothing:

Wear comfortable, warm clothing for a relaxed experience.

Spiritual Practices:

Support your preparation with meditation, yoga, breathwork, or other mindfulness practices.
Spend time in nature and create a calm environment that encourages presence and awareness.

When is it not recommended to take Wachuma (San Pedro)?

San Pedro may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions. Caution is advised for those with colon problems, high blood pressure, heart conditions, diabetes, or mental illness, as the medicine can have strong effects on the body. It may also interact negatively with strong medications or antidepressants.

It is generally recommended to avoid the experience during menstruation because of possible sensitivity and discomfort. However, if menstrual pain is not severe, participation may still be considered. Waiting until the second or third day of the cycle is suggested to better assess comfort and suitability.

If you have any doubts or questions, we will be happy to help.

How challenging is the Huchuy Qosqo trek?

This trek is moderate in difficulty and suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness. It includes both uphill sections and descents across varied terrain, so comfortable trekking gear is recommended.

Do I need to bring my own camping equipment?

No camping equipment is needed. You will enjoy a delicious box lunch during the trek, and on the first night you will stay with a local family near Huchuy Qosqo, where meals are freshly prepared for you. The accommodation is simple but very comfortable, making the experience easy and convenient. Trekking poles are not included, but they can be rented for 15 USD if requested in advance.

What is the spiritual purpose of Huchuy Qosqo for the Incas?

Huchuy Qosqo held deep spiritual meaning for the Incas and is believed to have functioned as a ceremonial center and religious retreat. While its exact purpose is not fully known, it is thought to have been used for rituals, ceremonies, and connection with the divine forces of nature.

Its position overlooking the Sacred Valley suggests an important role in Inca cosmology and their reverence for the landscape. As with many Inca sites, its spiritual significance is understood through a combination of archaeological evidence and Andean cosmology.

What's the best time of year to visit the Huchuy Qosqo ruins?

The best time to visit is usually during the dry season, from May to September, when weather conditions are more stable and the skies are clearer. June to August is the busiest period, so while conditions are favorable, there may be more visitors.

April and October can also be good choices, offering relatively dry weather with fewer crowds.

What should I pack for the spiritual Huchuy Qosqo trek?

Clothing:

Comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support.
Lightweight, moisture-wicking trekking clothing.
Warm layers for colder evenings.
Rain jacket or poncho in case of changing weather.

Daypack Essentials:

Daypack for your essentials.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Personal first aid kit and any necessary medication.
Reusable water bottle.

Personal Items:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other hygiene items.
Towel and wet wipes.
Camera or smartphone for photos.

Optional Items (Available for Rent):

Trekking poles, available for rent for 15 USD.

Wachuma / San Pedro Fire ceremony in Cusco