Archaeoastronomy Journey to Machu Picchu

LOOK TO THE STARS

Join us on a fascinating adventure during the autumn or spring equinox in Cusco to study the sacred sites of ancient Andean civilizations and their architectural alignment with the constellations that transformed them into living stone calendars. This journey of breathtaking vistas, exciting excursions, visits to unique archaeological sites, and lectures led by experts in the field will give you an in-depth understanding of Andean archaeoastronomy as a foundation for the history, mythology, symbology, and architecture of the Incas.

Journey leader: Andres Adasme, Archaeoastronomer and MLP Director of New Program Development.

ITINERARY

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY

DAY 1 WELCOME TO CUSCO

Your journey begins in Cusco with an introduction to this magical city, the historical center of the Inca Empire

/ Arrival in Cusco and transfer to hotel
/ Lunch at leisure
/ Afternoon walking tour of Cusco: ancient temples, historical streets, and more. (Approximately 2.5 hours)
/ Early evening lecture: Andean Cosmology—Delve into the Mythology and Use of Symbology in this Diverse Andean
Region - led by Andres Adasme, MLP Archaeoastronomer
/ Welcome dinner at MLP Hotel in Cusco.

Meals: D
Overnight: MLP Hotel in Cusco

DAY 2 ASTRONOMICAL TEMPLES IN CUSCO

Connect the dots between your new understanding of Inca/Andean philosophy and the architectural elements in the sacred sites that you will visit throughout the journey.

/ Morning excursion on the outskirts of the city to visit Sacsayhuaman, considered the most revered Inca site in Cusco, and the Bohic-Ruz ‘Chinkana’ archaeological excavation area
/ Lunch at Pachapapa
/ Early afternoon visit to the Koricancha, the sacred ‘golden temple’ of the Incas in the center of Cusco, and the site of significant archaeological excavations that have confirmed the correlation between Incan architectural planning and the sun, moon, and stars
/ Visit to the Cusco planetarium and lecture: Why the Incas Looked to the Sky—An Introduction into Andean Astronomy and the Notable Constellations that Defined Inca Civilization - led by Erwin Salazar, planetarium director.
/ Dinner at Incanto

Meals: B, L, D
Overnight: MLP Hotel in Cusco

DAY 3 PISAQ EXPLORATION

Your journey continues on a mountaintop in the Sacred Valley with a visit to the village of Viacha, followed by a downhill hike to the Pisaq archaeological site. Comprised of fascinating ceremonial, agricultural, and residential architectural components as well as evidence of the Inca’s scientific research practices, it is one of the most comprehensive sites in the region and will give you true insight into their ‘cycle of life’ philosophies, especially those that connect man with nature.

/ Morning visit to the village of Viacha
/ Downhill hike from Viacha to explore the Pisaq archaeological site
/ Optional drive and visit to the town of Pisaq
/ Scenic drive to Lamay Lodge
/ Traditional Pachamanca late lunch at the lodge and afternoon at leisure to relax in the Lamay gardens and outdoor hot tub
/ Early evening lecture before dinner: Ancient Cusco and the Bohic Ruz Explorations—the Symbology and Intentions Behind the Design of Ancient Cusco and Alignment of the Sacred Temples on the Planetary Axis - led by Andres Adasme

Meals: B, L, D
Overnight: Lamay Lodge

DAY 4 THE QAPAQ ÑAN AND THE ENTRANCE TO PAITITI—THE CITY OF GOLD

Begin your day exploring Ancasmarca in the Calca region, once the most important grainery and storage site for food and other goods on the Antisuyu Trail from Cusco to the jungle, After lunch, embark on a thrilling (optional) hike that follows the footsteps of the Incas along part of the original ‘Qapaq Ñan’ (Inca trail network), also known as the ‘Road to Paititi’, or ‘El Dorado’, the legendary lost ‘city of gold’.

/ Morning drive to Ancasmarca
/ Guided exploration of the Ancasmarca archaeological site
/ Optional afternoon hike from the trailhead in Choquecancha to Jaukani

Meals: B, L, D
Overnight: Huacahuasi Lodge

DAY 5 CONNECTING WITH THE APUS

As significant as the stars were to Inca culture and mythology, so too was their connection to the ‘apus’, or earth gods, especially Pachamama (Mother Earth). Revered for her role in providing life and abundance, the Incas often dedicated ceremonies to Pachamama in gratitude and hope for her continued grace. Today you will have the opportunity to participate in a traditional Pachamama ceremony alongside members of the remote Marcacocha community, followed by visits to two significant archaeological sites during your journey back to the Sacred Valley. In preparation for Day 6, enjoy an evening
lecture on the architectural design of Ollantaytambo and its importance as a ‘cog in the Inca constellation wheel’.

/ Scenic morning drive to Marcacocha through the highland lagoon region surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks
/ Pachamama ceremony in Marcacocha
/ Drive to the pre-Inca Pumamarka archaeological site for lunch and guided exploration
/ Continue on to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley for an optional visit to Quellorakay, an original royal Inca residence
/ Evening lecture at hotel: The Archaeoastronomical Design of Ollantaytambo and Pakaritampu - led by Andres Adasme
/ Dinner at hotel

Meals: B, L, D
Overnight: Hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

DAY 6 THE EQUINOX—PAKARITAMPU PYRAMID AND OLLANTAYTAMBO

The pyramid of Pakaritampu is arguably the most significant Inca structure related to the equinoxes and solstices. In Cusco, it is believed that the ancient sundial precedes Inca culture by thousands of years, which would confirm the theory that the Incas were the final link in the archaeoastronomical heritage of the region. Today you will witness the effect of the equinox sunrise over the pyramid, followed by an exploration of the fascinating and enigmatic structures of the Ollantaytambo archaeological compound.

/ Uphill hike at dawn to explore the Pakaritampu Pyramid, followed by a comprehensive tour of the Ollantaytambo fortress
/ Lunch in the town of Ollantaytambo, the oldest ‘living city’ in South America
/ Afternoon train to Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu
/ Early evening lecture: Machu Picchu—Unravel the Secrets of this Mysterious Citadel - led by Andres Adasme
/ Dinner at hotel

Meals: B, L, D
Overnight: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

DAY 7 MACHU PICCHU

Your archaeoastronomy journey culminates today with an exploration of Machu Picchu. Similar to Pisaq, the citadel is divided into multiple ceremonial, residential, and agricultural areas. Scientifically, however, this mysterious site was much like an institute of higher learning, dedicated to the study of astronomy, architecture, engineering, hydraulics, and more. During your visit you will delve further into its history, purpose, and subsequent discovery after hundreds of years, hidden high above the Urubamba River and covered by the lush foliage of the cloud forest that borders the Amazon Jungle. More importantly, though, you will discover why this ‘jewel of the Inca Empire’ is the basis for the Andean people’s profound connection to the cosmos.

/ Early morning shuttle bus to Machu Picchu (approximately 20 minutes)
/ Hike to the Sun Gate and visit to the Inca Bridge
/ Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge
/ Guided exploration of the citadel
/ Afternoon train ride to Ollantaytambo followed by a scenic sunset drive back to Cusco.

Qoyllor’ Ity

Qoyllor’Ity, the sacred annual pilgrimage to the foot of Mt. Ausangate, is one of the most majestic and colorful festivals in Cusco. Over 50,000 people, from the Andean highlands and beyond, travel during the sixth full moon of each year to pay homage to the stars, revered water sources, and the apus (mountains). Although Qoyllor’Ity is known to have begun during the Pre-Inca era, this celebration has evolved into a blend of age-old Andean traditions and Spanish colonial Catholic influences that makes for a truly unique experience.

11D/10N

US$ 4,700

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY

ITINERARY

DAY 1 WELCOME TO CUSCO

/ Pick-up at Cusco airport and transfer to hotel
/ Lunch and afternoon at leisure.
/ 06:00 pm Pre-trip briefing

Overnight: MLP Hotel in Cusco

DAY 2 EXPLORE CUSCO

/ Morning and lunch at leisure
/ 02:30 pm Walking city tour of Cusco including the Cathedral and Koricancha
/ 05:30 pm Lecture: Introduction to Andean Traditions and Celebrations as Part of Today’s ‘Living Culture’ – led by Pepe Noriega, MLP trip guide
/ Welcome dinner

Overnight: MLP Hotel in Cusco
Meals: D

DAY 3 SACSAYHUAMAN AND THE SACRED VALLEY

/ Breakfast at hotel
/ 08:00 am Depart hotel
/ 08:30 am Visit and guided tour of Sacsayhuaman
/ 12:00 pm Guided visit to the town and marketplace of Pisaq
/ 01:30 pm Arrival at lodge and traditional Pachamanca lunch
/ 03:00pm Workshop: Andean Spiritualism and Vibration Therapy—led by Luzclara, Chilean medicine woman and Mapuche shaman
/ Late afternoon and evening at leisure to relax in the outdoor hot tub and garden fire pit (Massage service available – subject to additional cost)
/ 07:30 pm Dinner at lodge

Overnight: Lamay Lodge
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 4 ANCASMARCA & CHOQUECANCHA

/ Breakfast at lodge
/ 08:30 am Depart lodge to visit the traditional marketplace in Calca, followed by a guided tour of the Ancasmarca archaeological site
/ 12:30 pm Arrival and lunch in a remote village
/ 02:00 pm Workshop: Introduction to Andean Medicinal Plants and Remedies, followed by a coca leaf reading by local healer
/ 04:00 pm Guided walking tour of a remove village, followed by a scenic drive to Huacahuasi Lodge
/ Late afternoon at leisure (Massage service available – subject to additional cost)
/ 06:30 pm Folkloric Andean dancing exhibition by the locals of Huacahuasi
/ 07:00 pm Dinner at lodge

Overnight: Huacahuasi Lodge
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 5 INTO THE HEART OF LARES

/ Breakfast at lodge
/ Scenic drive to the community of Patacancha
/ 09:30 am Traditional Andean cooking class Sanqu workshop
/ 10:30 am Scenic drive to Marcacocha
/ 11:00 am Traditional Andean ‘Water’ ceremony – led by Luzclara*
*Note: Luzclara asks that you bring water from home to participate in this ceremony of unification and tribute to Mother Earth
/ 12:00 am Drive to Pumamarka and lunch on site
/ 01:45 pm Guided tour of the Pumamarka archaeological site
/ 02:45 pm Drive to Ollantaytambo
/ 03:30 pm Guided walk around the town of Ollantaytambo
/ 05:30 pm Arrival at lodge in the Sacred Valley
/ 07:00 pm Farm-to-table dinner at lodge and evening at leisure

Overnight: Willka Tika Lodge
Meals:B, L, D

DAY 6 KM 104 TO THE MACHU PICCHU SUN GATE

/ Early breakfast at lodge.
/ 06:30 am Drive from lodge to Ollantaytambo train station*
*Note: Non-hikers are welcome to stay in Ollantaytambo for a guided tour of the archaeological site in the morning, followed by a midday train ride to Aguas Calientes
/ 07:20 am Train to rail marker KM 104
/ 09:30 am Begin all-day hike from KM 104 to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu (picnic lunch en route)
/ 03:00 pm Walk downhill along the perimeter of the Machu Picchu citadel to catch the shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes
/ 04:00 pm Arrival and check-in at hotel
/ 07:00 pm Dinner at hotel

Overnight: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 7 MACHU PICCHU

/ 06:30 am Early breakfast at hotel
/ 07:15 am Board shuttle bus in Aguas Calientes
/ 08:00 am Guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel*
*Guests who wish to hike up Huayna Picchu will have access at 10:00am. Please note: Huayna Picchu permits are subject to availability. The alternate hike will be to Machu Picchu Mountain
/ 12:30 pm Board shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes
/ 01:15 pm Lunch at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
/ 04:00 pm Train departs for Ollantaytambo
/ 05:30 pm Meet driver at Ollantaytambo train station for scenic sunset drive back to hotel in Cusco

Overnight: MLP Hotel in Cusco
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 8 FINE ART IN CUSCO

/ Breakfast at hotel.
/ 09:00 am Modern Cusqueñan arts workshop with members of the Totemiq Arts Collective at La Mestiza café
/ 01:00 pm Lunch at Barra Ceviche in Cusco
/ Afternoon and evening at leisure

Overnight: MLP Hotel in Cusco
Meals: B, L

DAY 9 JOURNEY TO QOYLLOR’ITY

/ Early breakfast at hotel
/ 07:00 am Scenic drive to the remote village of Mahuayani
/ 10:00 am Join the pilgrimage processional en route to Qoyllor’Ity
/ 02:00 pm Arrival at campsite for lunch and a brief rest
/ 04:00 pm Join the celebration! Mingle with our traditional Andean neighbors and enjoy the pageantry of the folkloric musicians and dance troupes
/ 07:00 pm Dinner under the stars at the campsite to await the appearance of the full moon

Overnight: Premium campsite
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 10 SINAKARA

/ Breakfast at campsite
/ 07:00 am Hike to Lake Sinakara
/ 08:00 am Explore Sinakara and observe the traditional initiation ritual for the new Andean pilgrims
/ 10:00 am Join a traditional Q’ero (Andean shaman) in a gratitude ceremony in honor of Pachamama (Mother Earth) on the lake shore
/ 11:00 am Hike back to the campsite
/ 12:00 pm Lunch at the campsite
/ 01:00 pm Downhill hike back to Mahuayani
/ 04:00 pm Scenic sunset drive back to Cusco
/ 07:00 pm Dinner at Kion restaurant in Cusco

Overnight: MLP Hotel in Cusco
Meals: B, L, D

DETAILS:

● 11D/10N round-trip itinerary starting in Cusco.
● Departure date: May 26, 2023.
● Rate is per person based on shared accommodations.
● A non-refundable deposit of US$ 500 per person is required to confirm a reservation.
● The remaining balance will be due sixty (60) days prior to arrival.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

2021

US$ 4,700

Departure Dates

May 28th

DETAILS:

● 11D/10N round-trip itinerary starting in Cusco.
● Departure date: May 28, 2020.
● Rate is per person based on shared accommodations.
● A non-refundable deposit of US$ 500 per person is required to confirm a reservation.
● The remaining balance will be due sixty (60) days prior to arrival.

DOWNLOAD 2020 TERMS & CONDITIONS

Qoyllor’ Ity

11-Day Program 2023/2024

US$ 4,700

June 6th

Inti Raymi

10-Day Program 2023/2024

US$ 4,200

June 16th

Andrés Adasme, Archaeoastronomy Journey Expert

Chilean by birth and Cusco resident for 16 years, Andres began his professional career as a highly-skilled architect, but eventually couldn’t resist his true passions: ancient cultures and astronomy.

Explorer and researcher by nature, Andres loves hiking in the mountains and exploring ancient, secluded archaeological sites, as well as spending time connecting with the people in remote, traditional Andean communities in an effort to gain even more knowledge from a culture that still maintains and protects the traditions of their Inca forbears. His independent research is often sought out by historians and explorers alike, and he lectures extensively on the topic of Andean Archaeoastronomy—how ancient civilizations were deeply connected to the skies and how this influenced the architecture of Cusco, including Machu Picchu and the surrounding region. Therefore, it’s not surprising that he is also very much in demand as an expert tour leader.

Presently, Andres spends his time designing new routes and travel experiences as Executive Product Developer at Mountain Lodges of Peru. He also holds the position of Director of Research for the prestigious Bohic Ruz Explorer, an international group of archeological and ethno-historian researchers, whose current work, in addition to Cusco, is investigating other hidden cities in the Andes and on the coast of Paracas.

He currently lives in Cusco with his lovely daughter, Lira.

2023/2024

US$ 3,390

Departure Dates

September 17th

TERMS & CONDITIONS 2023/2024

DETAILS:

● 7D/6N round-trip itinerary starting in Cusco
● Single traveler accommodation request: subject to a 50% supplemental fee of the standard rate
● Single traveler willing to share: No additional charge at MLP Lodges. A supplementary charge will apply at our affiliate hotels.
● A non-refundable deposit of US$500 per person is required to confirm a reservation.
● We recommend arriving in Cusco 1-2 days prior to your departure for altitude acclimatization; please ask your MLP travel specialist for help with booking additional accommodations.
● Cancellation policy:
- 30 days prior to departure date: 50% refund
- Fewer than 30 days prior to departure: No refund

SERVICES INCLUDE:

● All transportation during the programmed itinerary
● All lodging during the programmed itinerary
● All meals except (Breakfast and Lunch on Day 1 and Dinner on Day 7); at MLP lodges, this includes soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits.*
● Service of a bilingual guide; tours of archaeological sites are led in English
● Entrance fees and permits to points of interest and archaeological sites
● Guided visit to Machu Picchu
● Gratuities for MLP staff at the lodges and in the field**; gratuities for guides are not included and are at your discretion. In general, we suggest $10-$20 USD/day (per person) for lead guides and $5-$10 USD/day (per person) for assistant guides.

*In consideration of the adventurous nature of the MLP experience, the risks associated with alcohol consumption, and the importance of maintaining positive group dynamics, we encourage guests to enjoy alcoholic beverages in moderation. In accordance with company policy, MLP guides and/or other company/lodge representatives may modify or suspend a guest’s access to alcohol and/or trip partially or entirely if the guest’s health or safety may be at risk due to excessive alcohol consumption.

**Gratuities at MLP affiliate hotels (El Mercado, Kuychi Rumi, and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel) are not included.

Accommodations

During the Multi-Sport Adventure to Machu Picchu, your accommodations will include a combination of MLP lodges and top-notch MLP-affiliate hotels. Our luxury mountain lodges were uniquely conceived through thoughtful architectural design including traditional Inca building techniques with a nod to their respective environments. We offer all the comforts of home along with superior amenities and exceptional service.

2023/2024

US$ 3,950

Departure Dates

July 3rd
August 14th
October 16th

TERMS & CONDITIONS 2023/2024

DETAILS:

● 7D/6N round-trip itinerary from Cusco.
● Rate is per person based on shared accommodations.
● Single traveler accommodation request: subject to a 50% supplemental fee of the standard rate.
● Single traveler willing to share: No additional charge at MLP Lodges. A supplementary charge will apply at our affiliate hotels.
● A non-refundable deposit of US$500 per person is required to confirm a reservation

SERVICES INCLUDE:

● All transportation during the programmed itinerary.
● All lodging during the programmed itinerary.
● All meals and beverages at MLP lodges, including soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits. Beverages at our affiliate hotels, El Retablo and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, will be subject to additional cost.
● Service of a bilingual guide (Spanish/English) during all program days. Tours of archaeological sites are led in English.
● Entrance fees and permits for points of interest and archeological sites.
● Guided visit to Machu Picchu.
● Gratuities for MLP staff at the lodges and in the field—does NOT include gratuities for the staff at affiliate hotels.
● Gratuities for your guide and assistant guide are NOT included and are at your discretion. In general, we suggest $10-$20 USD/day (per person) for lead guides and $10 USD/day (per person) for assistant guides.

A CALL TO HONOR MOTHER EARTH

“Let us gather and join our strengths in collaboration and cooperation, remembering that together we multiply our prayers and that we belong to the great lineage of the Earth’s feminine sisterhood.”

Along with with the Intercultural Convergence of Medicine Women, MLP invites you to join us on this once-in-a-lifetime experience to unify the four life elements—water, earth, fire, and wind—in combination with our Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu.

Meet some of our leaders:

Sra. Maria Apaza:

Sra. Maria felt the calling of the Andean ‘Apus’, or gods, from the tender age of 4, which was solidified when she was struck by a bolt of lightning at 16—the true sign that she had been chosen for divinity. Since then, Sra. Maria has devoted herself to representing and sharing ‘Allin Kawsay’, Quechua for ‘well-being’ or ‘the good life’, through her powerful ceremonial chants (‘Q’ero Taki’).

Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann:

Ms. Miriam-Rose, a tribal ’grandmother’, is the leader of the Nauiyu Community from Daly River, Australia. The Nauiyu practice ‘Dadirri’, or profound listening, which Miriam-Rose describes as “something internal, it is a calm from deep listening and quiet conscience.”

Luzclara:

A Mapuche shaman from Chile, Luzclara practices ‘sound’ healing through song and chants, accompanied by rattles, bells, and and other musical instruments. Luzclara also developed the ‘Healing Circle’, a ceremonial sacred space in which we are able to connect with our inner shaman through the power generated from a group coming together in unified intention.

Cecilia Paniagua:

Cecilia, also known by the Quechua name ‘Wanqura Waqakuq’, is a sacred plant bearer and healer. She is also considered the guardian of the Chavin Temple in Chavin, Peru, and a grandmother of the Conchuco Quechua tradition—“The ancestors tell us: the beginning and foundation of light (QUN) was the one who made everything that exists, where everything happens, where everything comes from and where everything returns in the eternal dance of the infinite spiral.”

Sweet Medicine:

Sweet Medicine, is a sweet grandmother Guardian of Wisdom, with 45 years of experience in traditional ceremonies and native teachings. A Native American spiritual leader of the Chickasaw lineage, she is responsible for continuing the legacy of her people through being a bridge of deep connection with the sacred space and nurturing the soul as a guide through the rites of passage.

During the first six days of the journey, you will join in a celebration of the combined rituals, ceremonies, and music of twelve international ‘grandmothers’ of varied ‘medicine’ practices including healers, energy workers, bridge women, shamans, and guardians of birth, knowledge, seeds, peace, life, and more. Women artists and artisans from around the world will also be bringing their works to create a marketplace for barter and exchange.

Each participant is invited to bring water, earth, ashes, and songs from their birthplaces or current homes. At the end of the event, you will be given a portion of the unified elements to take home with you.

Once the gathering has concluded, you will continue on your journey by exploring the history, culture, and profound energy of the breathtaking Sacred Valley and Lares region on a fully-guided luxury lodge-to-lodge adventure to the hallowed ground of Machu Picchu.

11-Day Program 2019

September 9th
US$ 4,200

LP Yoga and Wellness Leader:

We are pleased to introduce Sandra Gallegos, our new MLP Yoga and Wellness Leader. During the past 14 years, she has been both a devoted yoga practitioner and teacher, and three years ago opened her own studio dedicated to Ashtanga Yoga as well as ‘Integral Health’ coaching. Sandra also brings an in-depth knowledge of Ayurveda and Ayurvedic Nutrition, having studied with notable experts in India and beyond. Her experience, dedication, and holistic approach to mind/body wellness will ensure the trip of a lifetime for our guests.

Profile:

Name: Sandra Gallegos

Age: 39

From: Lima, Peru

Mom to: Kailani, age 7

Professional background:

• Business Administration degree completed in Amsterdam, Holland
• 2004: Began practicing yoga
• 2005: Earned post-graduate degree in International Tourism, Australia
• 2013: Earned Ashtanga Yoga certification through AYP
• 2014: Studied Ashtanga Yoga and Ayurveda & Ayurvedic Nutrition at K. Pattabhi Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI), Mysore, India
• 2014: Studied Ayurveda and Ayurvedic Nutrition with Dr. Chitrah Lekha at Mysore Ayurveda Retreat, Mysore, India
• 2015: Opened Yoga studio DAYS Yoga and Health Coaching, Lima, Peru
• 2016: Completed the ‘Integrative Health Coaching’ course at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN), New York, NY
• Languages: Spanish, English, Portuguese, and basic Indonesian

1. Pre-trip fitness tips:

In addition to daily yoga practices and cultural activities, this experience is comprised of moderate to challenging hikes at high altitudes and through varied terrain.

Recommendations:

/ Begin a cardio-intensive fitness regimen that includes vigorous walking and/or hiking three months before your trip.
/ Wear broken-in hiking shoes or boots. We also recommend having adequate ankle support as the terrain is varied.
/ Use hiking poles or walking sticks during the hikes for greater agility and ankle support.

2. Adjusting to high altitude:

Altitude sickness is most common at elevations above 6,500’/1,900m and results from the body adjusting to a decreased amount of oxygen. Symptoms can include lightheadedness, nausea, headaches, and dehydration.

Recommendations:

/ If possible, arrive in Cusco at least one – two days before your MLP departure.
/ Drink a minimum of 64oz./2L of water each day.
/ Avoid eating heavy meals, especially during the first couple of days.
/ Avoid vigorous exercise during the first couple of pre-trip days.

3. Yoga Mats:

Yoga mats and other equipment will be available for use during the daily practices; however, feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

2023/2024

US$ 3,800

Departure Dates

May 17th
August 8th
October 27th

DOWNLOAD TERMS & CONDITIONS 2023/2024

DETAILS:

●8D/7N round-trip itinerary starting in Cusco.
●Rate is per person based on shared accommodations.
●Single traveler accommodation request: subject to a 50% supplemental fee of the standard rate.
●Single traveler willing to share: No additional change at MLP Lodges. A supplementary charge will apply at our affiliate hotels.
●A non-refundable deposit of US$ 500 per person is required to confirm a reservation.
●Remaining balance due sixty (60) days prior to arrival.

SERVICES INCLUDE:

●Transportation services during the programmed itinerary.
●All lodging during the programmed itinerary.
●All meals except: breakfast and lunch on Day 1; lunch and dinner on Day 8.
●Service of a bilingual guide (Spanish/English) during all program days. Tours of archaeological sites are led in English.
●Entrance fees and permits to points of interest and archeological sites.
●Guided visit to Machu Picchu.
●All Meals and beverages including soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits at MLP lodges only.
●Gratuities for MLP staff at the lodges and in the field.* Gratuities for your guide are not included and are at your discretion. In general, we suggest $10-$20 USD/day (per person) for assistant guides.

*Note: Gratuities at MLP-affiliate hotels and premium camping installations are not included.

Inti Raymi & Qoyllor’ Ity

Qoyllor’ Ity2

Qoyllor’ Ity (Quechua for ‘bright white snow’), is the annual Andean winter solstice celebration to honor of the stars and constellations in hopes of a prosperous harvest and New Year. The festival includes a procession to the Qoyllor’ Ity shrine under the full moon, comprised of Andean farmers and villagers, locals from Cusco, and multiple groups of musicians and dance troupes, like the well-known Paucartambo and Quispiscanchis, from the rural highlands. As the sun rises, revelers kneel to receive the first rays of the sun after this auspicious moon.

Inti Raymi

The entire region of Cusco comes together in June for Inti Raymi, the annual celebration to honor the Inca god of the sun, Inti. Through colorful processions and elaborate re-enactments of sacred Inca rituals, both city dwellers and Andean villagers join to give thanks to Inti as their primary source of life and abundance.

2023/2024

US$ 3,390

Departure Dates

September 17th

TERMS & CONDITIONS 2023/2024

DETAILS:

● 7D/6N round-trip itinerary starting in Cusco
● Single traveler accommodation request: subject to a 50% supplemental fee of the standard rate
● Single traveler willing to share: No additional charge at MLP Lodges. A supplementary charge will apply at our affiliate hotels.
● A non-refundable deposit of US$500 per person is required to confirm a reservation.
● We recommend arriving in Cusco 1-2 days prior to your departure for altitude acclimatization; please ask your MLP travel specialist for help with booking additional accommodations.
● Cancellation policy:
- 30 days prior to departure date: 50% refund
- Fewer than 30 days prior to departure: No refund

SERVICES INCLUDE:

● All transportation during the programmed itinerary
● All lodging during the programmed itinerary
● All meals except (Breakfast and Lunch on Day 1 and Dinner on Day 7); at MLP lodges, this includes soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits.*
● Service of a bilingual guide; tours of archaeological sites are led in English
● Entrance fees and permits to points of interest and archaeological sites
● Guided visit to Machu Picchu
● Gratuities for MLP staff at the lodges and in the field**; gratuities for guides are not included and are at your discretion. In general, we suggest $10-$20 USD/day (per person) for lead guides and $5-$10 USD/day (per person) for assistant guides.

**Gratuities at MLP affiliate hotels (El Mercado, Kuychi Rumi, and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel) are not included.

Andrés Adasme, Archaeoastronomy Journey Expert

He currently lives in Cusco with his lovely daughter, Lira.

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Archaeoastronomy Journey to Machu Picchu

Archaeoastronomy Journey to Machu Picchu

LOOK TO THE STARS

ITINERARY

Qoyllor’ Ity

11D/10N

ITINERARY

DETAILS:

2021

US$ 4,700

Departure Dates

DETAILS:

Qoyllor’ Ity

11-Day Program 2023/2024

US$ 4,700

June 6th

Inti Raymi

10-Day Program 2023/2024

US$ 4,200

June 16th

Andrés Adasme, Archaeoastronomy Journey Expert

2023/2024

US$ 3,390

Departure Dates

DETAILS:

SERVICES INCLUDE:

Accommodations

2023/2024

US$ 3,950

Departure Dates

DETAILS:

SERVICES INCLUDE:

A CALL TO HONOR MOTHER EARTH

Meet some of our leaders:

Sra. Maria Apaza:

Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann:

Luzclara:

Cecilia Paniagua:

Sweet Medicine:

11-Day Program 2019

LP Yoga and Wellness Leader:

Profile:

Professional background:

1. Pre-trip fitness tips:

2. Adjusting to high altitude:

3. Yoga Mats:

2023/2024

US$ 3,800

Departure Dates

DETAILS:

SERVICES INCLUDE:

Inti Raymi & Qoyllor’ Ity

Qoyllor’ Ity2

Inti Raymi

2023/2024

US$ 3,390

Departure Dates

DETAILS:

SERVICES INCLUDE:

Andrés Adasme, Archaeoastronomy Journey Expert

Ready to go? One of our travel specialists will be happy to help you book your next adventure!

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