A Transformative 7-Day Retreat in the Cusco Region

If you’re seeking more than just sightseeing and want a profound personal experience, this 7-day Wachuma (San Pedro) and Ayahuasca retreat in the Cusco region offers a rare chance to explore inner landscapes guided by indigenous shamans. For $1,352 per person, you get a thoughtfully curated journey that combines ceremonies, meditation, reflection, and traditional rituals in a comfortable, supportive environment.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances structured ceremonies with free time for personal reflection. It’s clear that the organizers prioritize authenticity and safety, with experienced shamans performing all rituals, and the inclusion of a spiritual guide to help interpret visions. The retreat also includes all meals and accommodation for 6 nights, making it a comprehensive package.
On the flip side, one thing to consider is the intensity of fasting and ceremonies, which might be challenging if you’re new to plant medicine. Also, the schedule can be quite full, so this isn’t a casual getaway—it’s more of a deep dive into personal healing. This retreat suits those genuinely interested in spiritual growth, healing, or cultural connection with indigenous traditions, especially if you’re comfortable with fasting and long days of ceremony.
If you’re ready for a journey that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about adventure, this retreat could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a small group setting (max 6 participants) for intimacy, with options for private ceremonies if desired.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Ceremonies: Led by 4 to 6 indigenous shamans, blending Inca traditions with plant medicine.
- Comprehensive Experience: Includes transportation, accommodation, meals, massages, and interpretation.
- Deep Personal Reflection: Offers time for meditation, interpretation, and personal insights.
- Intensive Schedule: Several days involve fasting and multiple ceremonies, ideal for committed seekers.
- Small Groups & Flexibility: Max group size of 6, with options for private retreats.
- Cultural Connection: Ceremonies such as offerings to Pachamama deepen the spiritual experience.
Planning more time in Cusco? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Setting
The retreat takes place in a dedicated retreat center in the Cusco region, surrounded by natural beauty—mountains, rivers, and tranquil spaces that enhance the spiritual atmosphere. The temple-like retreat space can accommodate over 30 participants if booked for larger groups, but most experiences are in intimate groups of up to six, which ensures personalized attention.
The environment is designed to foster reflection, healing, and connection with nature. You’ll be encouraged to walk along riverbanks or the foothills of the Andes, which adds to the sense of peace and closeness to Pachamama (Mother Earth).
The Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1: Initiation and Detoxification
The retreat kicks off with a Coca Leaf Reading, a traditional diagnostic tool, giving shamans insight into your current state. This sets the foundation for the ceremonies to come. The Negative Energy Cleansing Ceremony follows to rid you of any spiritual or emotional blockages. The day culminates with your first Ayahuasca ceremony at 2:00 pm.
Expect your first experience to be intense but meaningful; many describe it as a vivid introduction to plant medicine’s profound effects. Afterward, you’ll rest and process the experience overnight.
Day 2: Internal & External Cleansing
The morning begins with a fruit breakfast, a gentle start after the first night’s revelations. Following that, there’s an interpretation session with shamans, helping you understand your visions. At noon, you’ll participate in a Wachuma (San Pedro) ceremony, which is seen as a more grounding, internal and external spiritual connection.
The day focuses on cleansing and reflection, with ample time to relax and absorb the experiences.
Day 3: Meditation & Personal Reflection
This lighter day is designed for self-discovery. After breakfast, you’ll share your Wachuma experiences, which allows for communal insights. The day is open for walks by the river or through the mountains—perfect for introspection. The emphasis is on finding oneself amidst the natural serenity.
Day 4: Internal Healing & Second Ayahuasca Ceremony
Fasting is the main feature today—water only—allowing for deep detoxification. This day is all about internal healing, with plenty of free time. In the evening, the second Ayahuasca ceremony takes place. The master shaman will help you confront and overcome personal obstacles, making this one of the most emotionally charged days.
Day 5: Control & Mastery
After sharing experiences from the previous night, you’ll move into the second Wachuma ceremony. This day emphasizes acceptance and mastery over one’s emotions and reactions. It can be a pivotal moment for many, helping them gain clarity and confidence.
Day 6: Reflection & Self-Healing
This day is more relaxed, with opportunities for meditation, reflection, and optional continued plant medicine sessions. The goal is to consolidate your insights, with a focus on self-healing and personal growth.
Day 7: Final Ceremony & Return
The last day begins early with a final Wachuma ritual and a Pachamama offering—a traditional gratitude act. The flowering bath symbolizes spiritual rebirth, then participants share their stories before returning to Cusco, often feeling renewed and more connected.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Ceremonies & Rituals
All ceremonies are performed by 4 to 6 shamans who are indigenous specialists, ensuring authenticity and cultural integrity. The rituals include despachos (offerings), flower baths, and other elements rooted in Andean traditions.
What makes this stand out is the attention to interpretation and integration—shamans are available for consultation, and group discussions help process complex visions or feelings.
Practical Considerations
- Fasting is required during several days, which can be physically demanding but is believed to enhance the plant medicine’s effects.
- Transportation is private round-trip, easing logistical worries.
- Accommodation is included, and the retreat offers a comfortable setting—many reviews mention the peaceful, sacred atmosphere.
- The group size is limited to 6 participants, fostering intimacy and personalized guidance.
- Language options include Spanish, English, and Quechua translation, broadening accessibility.
What Do Travelers Say?
Many reviewers mention feeling profound emotional shifts and spiritual clarity. One notes, “The shamans were incredibly caring and professional, making me feel safe during intense experiences.” Others appreciate the balance of ceremony and free time, allowing personal reflection.
Some mention the intensity of fasting, but many see it as part of the process: “Fasting helped me fully connect without distractions,” a user reports, though it’s not for everyone.
Is it Worth the Price?
Compared to standalone retreats or ceremonies, this package offers quite a bit: ceremonies, accommodation, meals, massages, and interpretive guidance all bundled into one accessible price. For those genuinely interested in personal healing, culture, and guided spiritual work, it offers good value.
Who Should Consider This Retreat?

This experience is ideal for spiritual seekers, curious explorers of plant medicine, or those wanting to connect with indigenous traditions. If you’re open to fasting and long days of ceremony, you’ll find it deeply rewarding. It’s less suitable for travelers new to plant medicine or those preferring a more relaxed, tourist-oriented trip.
Final Thoughts

This 7-day retreat in Cusco offers a rare mix of tradition, healing, and self-reflection. It’s not just about taking part in ceremonies, but about understanding and integrating the insights gained. The small-group setting, experienced shamans, and thoughtful schedule make it a compelling choice for those serious about spiritual growth.
If you’re after a meaningful, culturally rooted experience that combines spiritual tradition with personal transformation, this retreat promises a powerful journey—one that may leave you not just refreshed but fundamentally changed.
FAQ
What is included in the retreat?
The retreat includes ceremonies (Ayahuasca, Wachuma, cleansing rituals), private transportation, accommodation, meals, massage, guidance, and interpretation.
Can I choose which ceremonies to participate in?
Yes, you have the option to choose one, some, or all of the ceremonies offered during the retreat.
What languages are the guides available in?
Guides are available in Spanish, English, and Quechua translation.
Is the retreat suitable for beginners?
While some beginners have experienced profound results, the fasting and intensity of ceremonies may be challenging. It’s best suited for those open to deep spiritual work.
What is the maximum group size?
Most groups are limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a safe environment.
Are private retreats available?
Yes, you can request a private retreat with no other unknown participants, tailored to your schedule.
What is the refund policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.
How long do the ceremonies last?
Ceremonies typically start at scheduled times (9:00 am or 5:00 pm), with durations varying but usually lasting several hours, allowing for deep experience.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing, bring a journal for reflections, and be prepared for fasting days. Specific items are not listed but consulting with the organizers is advisable.
Is transportation included?
Yes, private round-trip transportation to and from the retreat center is included, making logistics simple.
If you’re ready to explore the depths of your subconscious within a supportive, culturally authentic setting, this retreat could be a meaningful step on your spiritual path.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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