This is a physically challenging trek through mountainous terrain (4 - 8 hours a day) and at high altitude. Participants should arrive physically conditioned and prepared for sustained hiking. You do not need to be an elite athlete, but you should be comfortable with physical exertion and willing to prepare for the demands of the Inca Trail before the pilgrimage.

To prepare, endeavor to go on weekly hikes at least six weeks prior to our trip, where you work your way up to hike for 5-6 hours. Find the local mountains near where you live to train your body and practice trekking. Also, endeavor to have a regular gym routine, where you work-out and build muscle on your legs on a consistent basis. This is very important for you to have an enjoyable time. For participants who would like less trekking, we are offering the option to join our group for only five days, which will only have 4 actual days of trekking. This option can reduce the strenuousness of hiking.

In case you don't know, food in Peru is a delicacy! Our chefs ares professionals, who will be cooking all vegetarian meals. On one or two occasions, we may visit a restaurant where meat will be available. Our chefs can accommodate dietary preferences. Please let us know in advance what you would need.

Late June falls during the dry season in the Andes, which generally means clearer skies and less rainfall—but also significant temperature changes between day and night.

During the day, temperatures along the Inca Trail can be pleasantly mild, often around 60–70°F (15–21°C). At higher elevations and overnight, however, temperatures can drop considerably, sometimes approaching freezing (32°F/0°C).

Because we will experience different elevations and microclimates throughout the pilgrimage, I recommend preparing for both warm sunshine and cold mountain conditions. Layers, warm clothing for evenings and early mornings, sun protection, and appropriate rain gear are essential. I will provide participants with more detailed guidance on what to pack as we prepare for the journey.

This pilgrimage is for spiritually minded people, who are physically conditioned to trek. This pilgrimage may be particularly meaningful if you feel called to visit Machu Picchu as part of a spiritual journey; want to learn about Andean ceremonial traditions in their cultural context; are curious about the relationship between Quechua Andean and Yogic wisdom; enjoy challenging experiences in nature; and value traveling with a community of other spiritual seekers.

Above all, this experience is for people who want to participate rather than simply observe—to walk, learn, practice, reflect, and approach Machu Picchu as a pilgrimage.

Most importantly, you will need your valid, original passport—a photocopy will not be accepted—as well as a valid student card if you registered using a student rate and any immigration documentation provided when you enter Peru.

For the trek itself, you will need comfortable, lightweight hiking boots, a good-quality daypack, and enough water storage to carry at least two liters. Your daypack should be light and comfortable, since you will carry it with you each day.

I recommend keeping your daily essentials in your daypack, including a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, warm layers, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, personal medications, basic blister care such as Band-Aids or moleskin, a headlamp, and some extra snacks or energy bars. If you are bringing a camera or other electronics, remember any batteries or charging equipment you may need. It is also useful to carry some Peruvian currency in small denominations for personal purchases, drinks, tips, and small expenses along the way.

You will also want clothing that can be easily layered. We will travel through different elevations and temperatures, and evenings at camp can become quite cold. I recommend bringing several moisture-wicking shirts along with a warm jacket, hat, gloves, and a comfortable pair of lightweight shoes to wear around camp.

A sleeping bag and sleeping mat will also be needed. I recommend renting them, rather than bringing your own.

You will be provided with a duffel bag for belongings you do not need during the day. This bag will be transported for you during the trek and must weigh no more than 8 kg (about 17.6 lbs), including your sleeping bag and sleeping mat. If you rent these items from us, together they weigh approximately 3.5 kg (about 7.7 lbs).

Don’t worry about having to figure everything out on your own. Before we leave, I will provide more detailed guidance so that you know what to pack, what can be rented, and how to prepare for the changing conditions we will experience along the journey.

No. You do not need previous experience with Andean spiritual traditions, shamanic practices, or Yoga.

I will help introduce the practices and ideas we explore along the way, and we will also receive guidance from an Andean wisdom keeper. I ask participants to come with an open mind and a willingness to learn while respecting the cultural context of the traditions we encounter.

Spiritual practice is an important part of this journey. This is not simply a trekking tour with a few spiritual activities added to the itinerary.

Throughout the pilgrimage, we will have opportunities for ceremony, meditation, reflection, and learning. We will explore Quechua Andean traditions alongside elements of Yogic practice and philosophy, while allowing the trek itself to become a form of spiritual practice.

The pilgrimage price does not include hotel accommodations in Cusco, a sleeping bag (which can be rented), a sleeping mat, or walking/trekking poles.

You will also be responsible for the entrance fee to the thermal baths/hot springs, any optional tips for guides, porters, cooks, and other support staff, as well as personal purchases and other additional expenses.

I will provide more detailed information about equipment rentals, packing, and other preparations before our pilgrimage.