Overview

Savor Peru


June 26th – July 3, 2027

Sacred Soul: A journey of open hearts, expanded minds, and soulful transformation.

Savor Peru: Sacred Soul is more than a retreat—it’s a transformational journey rooted in intention, growth, and self-discovery.

From the moment you say yes, the journey begins. Together, we offer space to explore your personal wellness goals and sankalpa—planting seeds for meaningful change through mindful practices and intentional living, long before you arrive in the Sacred Valley. This process is entirely optional, designed to support you wherever you are, and to meet you in a way that feels natural and aligned.

Set against the breathtaking beauty of Peru, this experience is more than a getaway—it’s an invitation to reconnect with yourself in a way that feels expansive, grounded, and deeply authentic. The Sacred Valley holds a powerful, almost palpable energy—creating space for reflection, clarity, and profound inner shift.

What makes this journey truly unique is not just the destination, but how you arrive. For those who choose to engage in the year-long preparation, there is an opportunity to gently shift patterns, build sustainable habits, and deepen self-awareness ahead of the retreat. And for those who prefer to arrive and simply receive, the experience will meet you there, just as fully.

Guided by Julie, Rachel, and Jen, you’ll be held in a deeply supportive and intentional space that extends far beyond your time in Peru. You’ll leave not only with unforgettable memories, but with meaningful connections, renewed perspective, and practices you can carry into your everyday life.

This is the heart of Savor: a commitment to real, lasting transformation—offered with flexibility, community, and care.

Willka T’ika

Nestled in the majestic Andes at Willka T’ika, an eco-luxury sanctuary whose name means “sacred flower,” each day blends movement, stillness, and connection. Mornings awaken the body with grounding vinyasa yoga, and evenings invite reflection through restorative and gentle practices. Between yoga, we’ll explore ancient Incan ruins, ceremonial sites, vibrant villages, artisan markets, the Seven Chakra Gardens and much more, moving with curiosity and presence while deepening our connection to ourselves and each other. This is the essence of Savor: we arrive as individuals, but we leave as something stronger—connected, supported, and transformed

Highlights include a full-day guided journey to Machu Picchu, a heart-opening cacao ceremony, and a traditional Despacho fire ceremony led by a local healer—each experience designed to awaken spirit, nourish the senses, and honor Andean traditions. Meals are vegetarian, farm-to-table, organic, and lovingly prepared, supporting both wellness and sustainability.

Carol Cumes founded Willka T’ika in 1994. Carol writes, “I first visited the Sacred Valley in the ’80s and was so captivated by the powerful healing energy that I continued to return year after year. In 1994, I decided to purchase a barren strip of land where Willka T’ika now stands. As a longtime yoga practitioner, I wanted to create a retreat center synergizing Andean culture and cosmology with yoga philosophy and lifestyle. Over the next two decades, I cultivated long term relationships with authentic native healers and knowledgeable local guides. Integrating their authentic expertise, I pioneered and developed our signature ‘Journey to Machu Picchu’ retreats and uniquely comprehensive program itineraries.”

The Quechua name “Willka T’ika” means sacred flower.

A Typical Day

Early Morning – Wake to the quiet Andes with freshly prepared Peruvian coffee or create your own blend of garden teas and herbs.

7:30 AM – Energizing morning yoga practice exploring Chakra themes.

9:00 AMFarm-to-table organic breakfast with fresh fruit and nourishing vegetarian options.

10:30 AM – Van to the P’isaq ruins for a guided hike and tour, followed by time at the vibrant P’isaq artisan market for lunch and shopping.

3:00 PM – Return to Willka T’ika for a quiet afternoon: rest in the gardens, read, visit the spa, or simply soak in the Sacred Valley.

5:30 PM – Gentle, intentional yoga practice aligned with our retreat theme.

7:00 PMDelicious farm-to-table dinner shared in community.

8:30 PMYoga Nidra for deep rest and integration before a peaceful night’s sleep.

Your journey begins the moment you say yes. You’ll be supported within a compassionate, structured framework designed to help you shift habits and build alignment in your everyday life.

Over the course of a year together, we’ll walk this path side by side. You’ll have access to recorded yoga practices, monthly guided habit-shifting support, optional book discussions, our retreat Whatsapp group and 2 thoughtfully curated group hiking experiences. This ongoing connection and commitment is what sets Savor apart—it’s not just a retreat, it’s a community and a continuation.

Our Pathway to Peru will gently prepare your body and mind for the journey ahead—but its impact will extend far beyond your time in Peru. This is the Savor way.

Will you answer the call to return to yourself?

If you’re longing for an experience that nourishes body, mind, and spirit—something authentic, grounding, and truly meaningful—this journey was created for you.

Accommodations and Retreat Fees:

See Details Under FAQs Sections

  1. Shared Garden Room (double or Triple) en suite Bath. $3600 per person
  2. Private Garden Room end suite Bath $4600 per person
  3. Shared Luxury Room (double or triple). $3900 per person
  4. Private Luxury Room $4900 per person

Watch the Zoom Info Session

Look out for info sessions for upcoming retreats in the future.
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RETREAT FAQs

Includes/Excludes

Retreat Includes
  • 8 days / 7 nights 
  • Last night in a luxury Cusco Hotel
  • Private or Shared Accommodations with ensuite bathrooms:  Garden Rooms or Luxury Rooms
  • Three Gourmet high-protien vegetarian meals (breakfast, some lunches and dinners) accommodations for dietary restrictions
  • Group Airport transfer from Cusco (CUZ) to Willka T’ika time TBD
  • Use of 2 yoga Shalas, all yoga props, and use of all facilities at WT
  • Guided Machu Picchu day trip:  included train (Vistadome with big wraparound windows + partial glass roof and bus transfers, entrance tickets, citadel tour
  • 2 daily guided yoga practices bookending your days with the Savor team, extra guided meditation, Nidra and pranayama practices
  • Visit, shop and wander the main square of the famous Andean Colourful Market​s
  • Guided Hike of the P’isaq Ruins plus time to wander the colorful artisan P’isaq market
  • ​Visit Urubamba’s Authentic Market, tour of Seminario Pottery Studio and the Alpaca Factory
  • Guided Tour of the Salt Mines of Maras
  • Guided tour of the world renown Willka T’ika Seven Chakra Gardens
  • Authentic Andean Despacho (offering) and Fire Ceremony
  • Coca Leaf Blessing
  • Kintu Ceremony
  • Final Willka T’ika evening Cocao Ceremony which includes a sound bath
  • Closing celebration with a traditional Andean band featuring live music, dancing, and singing
  • Guided Cusco tour including the ruins, temple and main square
  • Final group dinner in authentic Peruvian restaurant in Cusco
Retreat Excludes
  • International roundtrip flight to Cusco (via Lima recommended)
  • Two lunches on tour days (budget $15-$20 for each)
  • Gratuities for WIllka T’ika staff and our assigned retreat tour guides, tips/fees for any other for extra activities/tours
  • Taxi from Cusco hotel to airport on July 3rd to catch flight home ($10-$15)
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Optional add-on activities
  • Souvenirs
  • Spa treatments plus tip

RETREAT COST

Accommodations and Retreat Fees
  1. Shared Garden Room (double or Triple) en suite Bath. $3600 per person
  2. Private Garden Room end suite Bath $4600 per person
  3. Shared Luxury Room (double or triple). $3900 per person
  4. Private Luxury Room $4900 per person
  5. There are a few Triple Rooms: Price point is the same as a double Garden Triple: $3600 and Luxury Triple $3900

How to Pay

This retreat requires 50% down which includes $500 non refundable administration fee. Once your spot is confirmed our business manager, Liz Krauss, will email a Quickbooks invoice with options to pay with credit card or ACH. Savor Retreats can offer a payment plan: email Liz for details @ emckown@comcast.net to discuss.

Travel Logistics & FAQs

Distance

Willka T’ika is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes hours from the city of Cusco.. The retreat includes pick up from the Cusco airport (CUZ) and drop at Willka T’ika at a designated time TBD.

Weather and Temperatures: June/July

Sacred Valley

  • Day: ~55–70°F (13–21°C)
  • Early morning & night: 35–40°F (2–5°C)
  • Very sunny but chilly mornings.

Machu Picchu

  • Day: 64–72°F (18–22°C)
  • Early morning & evening: 46–50°F (8–10°C)
  • Warm in the sun, cool when clouds or shade appear.

Important:
Because of altitude and mountain weather, the temperature can change quickly throughout the day, so layers are key.

Yoga Mat or No Yoga Mat?

Just bring yourself! Mats, cork blocks, meditation cushions, eye pillows, straps, bolsters, blankets and mat wash all provided by the retreat center.

Yoga Experience

Jen, Julie and Rachel will offer a rich variety of yoga styles suitable for all levels, from deeply restorative sessions to more invigorating flows. This retreat is an invitation to gently step outside the rhythms of daily life and explore what’s no longer serving you—through mindful movement, stillness, connection with nature, and meaningful self-inquiry. Whether you’re seeking rest, renewal, or a deeper understanding of your inner landscape, our practices are designed to support your journey with compassion and care.

Travel Solo or With a Pal

Traveling solo is welcome—and common! This retreat is meant to be exactly what you need it to be. Alternatively, bring a friend – we offer both private and shared rooms!

Booking & Cancellation Details

Cancellation Policy

PLEASE READ. YOU’LL BE ASKED IF YOU AGREE TO OUR POLICY IN OUR INQUIRY AND OUR LIABILITY WAIVER

A 50% deposit is required to reserve your spot, including a $500 non-refundable administrative fee.

If you cancel more than 6 months before the retreat, we will do our best to help you find a replacement participant. If a replacement is not found, you are responsible for the full retreat cost. Travel insurance is REQUIRED to protect your investment.

Within 6 months of the retreat, all payments are non-refundable and the full balance is owed. Due to Machu Picchu permit requirements, no cancellations or transfers can be made within this timeframe.

Because Peru retreat logistics are finalized 6-8 months in advance, participant changes/additions are only possible up to 6 months prior, subject to availability.

The remaining balance is due 90 days before the retreat and will be invoiced via QuickBooks (credit card or ACH).

How Do I Pay for the Retreat?

Once we receive your inquiry, we’ll let you know if space is available and follow up with booking details. You will receive a welcome letter with your invoice.

\🧾 We accept ACH or credit card payments: A Quickbooks Invoice will be sent to soon after confirmation.
📆 Need a monthly payment plan? No problem! We’re happy to help. Please contact us and we’ll connect you with our business manager, Liz Krauss, to set up a personalized payment plan.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is required for all Savor Yoga Retreats. We strongly recommend purchasing a policy within 7–10 days of paying your deposit.

Many providers offer “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) coverage when insurance is purchased within this initial window.

Please note: Savor Peru retreats are non-refundable, and due to Machu Picchu ticketing policies, reservations are non-transferable and non-refundable within 6 months of the trip. Travel insurance helps protect your investment in the event of unexpected changes. We recommend World Nomads, Allianz AAA, Costco or any equivalent provider. Your plan should cover: weather-related issues, illness before or during the trip or illness of a loved one, trip interruption or trip cancellation. Please read your policy carefully to ensure it meets your needs. We will need a copy of your insurance 6 months prior to our retreat.

Travel Logistics & FAQs

Which Airport?

Plan to book your flight in to CUSCO AIRPORT (CUZ). This is the closest airport to the to the Sacred Valley
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport

✈️ No direct flights to Cusco

🔁 2 layovers (2nd layover via Lima/Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM))  and if coming from Boston a layover in Atlanta, Miami

⏱️ 12–20 hours travel time

💰 ~$700–$1,200 round trip

🛫 Airlines: LATAM, American, Delta, Avianca

Flight Timing to Take Advantage of Included Group Transportation

June 26th: Transportation pick up window APPROX: 11:30am at the Cusco Airport (CUZ)
July 3rd: Departure from Novotel Hotel in Cusco- guests are responsible to Uber or Taxi to Cusco airport approx. $10 USD (10-15 minutes)
Please note: If you plan to fly outside of the above arrival window, you can book your own transportation Willka T’ika will help to arrange this for $75 per person.

Airport Advice

If checking a bag, make sure to check your layover time and allow enough time to get through customs and recheck your bag. Customs in Lima (LIM) can be very slow. Make sure your layover both ways is over 2.5 hours.

Distance:

📍 Location & Accessibility

Willka T’ika is located:

  • Located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, near the town of Urubamba
  • Surrounded by the Andes Mountains, natural setting
  • Approximately 58 km (36 miles) from Cusco
  • About a 1.5 hour scenic drive from Cusco
  • Just 5–10 minutes from the center of Urubamba (walkable or a quick Tuk Tuk ride
  • Ideally positioned between Cusco and Machu Picchu

A peaceful and accessible destination for wellness, retreat, and exploration

Weather

Overall conditions in June/July

  • Dry season (May–September) → very little rain
  • Clear blue skies most days
  • Great visibility for mountains, ruins, and photography

☔ Rain & humidity

  • Minimal rainfall (around 0.3 inches / 8 mm for the months of June and July)

Typically dry air and low humidity

🌡️ Temperature

Nighttime: ~0–5 °C (32–41 °F) — can feel quite cold, especially early morning

Daytime: ~15–20 °C (59–68 °F) — comfortable for hiking

Food 

What kind of food will be served?

Meals are organic, nourishing vegetarian cuisine prepared by local chefs.

You’ll enjoy a beautiful fusion of Andean flavors, herbs, vegetables, and grains, many harvested daily from the retreat center’s gardens.

Special dietary needs can be accommodated, including:

  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Dairy-free

Willka T’ika requires dietary questionnaire prior to arrival.

Altitude and Elevation

Preparing for Altitude

Traveling to Peru, including Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, means spending time at higher elevations where the air contains less oxygen. It’s common to feel the effects of altitude as your body adjusts, especially in the first few days.

To support your experience, we encourage you to arrive well-hydrated, prioritize rest, and move gently as your body acclimates. Our retreat is intentionally designed to ease you into the environment with nourishing meals, mindful movement, and time for rest and integration.

While many people adjust smoothly, everyone’s body is different. We recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before traveling, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about altitude.

This guidance is meant to support your preparation, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

  • Willka T’ika Retreat Center: 9,420 ft
  • Cusco: 11,150 ft
  • Machu Picchu: 7,800 ft

If you have concerns, consult your physician before traveling. He/She will help you to come up with the best Altitude/Medical Guide for Your Specific Health Profile

Food

What kind of food will be served

Meals are organic, nourishing vegetarian cuisine prepared by local chefs.

You’ll enjoy a beautiful fusion of Andean flavors, herbs, vegetables, and grains, many harvested daily from the retreat center’s gardens.

Special dietary needs can be accommodated, including:

  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Dairy-free

Willka T’ika requires dietary questionnaire prior to arrival.

Can I drink the water?

Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink.

Filtered and boiled water is provided throughout the retreat center, including:

  • Reception areas
  • Guest rooms for brushing teeth

All vegetables are washed with filtered water and ice is also prepared with filtered water.

Guests should bring a reusable water bottle.

When dining outside the retreat center, only visit restaurants recommended by your guides..

ANDEAN SPA TREATMENTS

PACHAMAMA’S NATURAL OFFERINGS

Willka T’ika offers a range of therapeutic spa treatments to restore and rejuvenate the body. Guests can choose from several massage styles, facials and reflexology. Other specialties include the original Crystal Light Therapy and outdoor floral Solar Baths at night, as well as a sweat lodge and plunge pool. You will be given an opportunity to sign up for treatments upon arrival.

YOUR PATH TO PERU

Over the course of a year together, we’ll walk this path side by side. You’ll have access to recorded yoga practices, monthly guided habit-shifting support, optional book discussions, our retreat Whatsapp group and thoughtfully curated group hiking experiences. This ongoing connection and commitment is what sets Savor apart—it’s not just a retreat, it’s a community and a continuation.

  • 10 yoga practices (recordings sent to you on the 1st of the month)
  • 2 guided group hikes (local locations TBD)
  • Recommended readings 
  • A dedicated WhatsApp group for connection, support, and shared resources
  • A system for building positive habits each month for optimizing your Peru experience

This structure is designed to support your process—you are invited to take what you need and create your own unique preparation journey.

Ready to Join Us?

The LINK will go live on April 6th at 5;:00pm

Click below to fill out the interest form. We’ll confirm availability and send next steps to make your dream retreat a reality. Remember SPACE IS LIMITED. IF THE RETREAT FILLS WE WILL PLACE YOU ON OUR WAITLIST.