More than just a running tour, this women-only retreat takes you on a fascinating cultural journey through Peru's Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a special emphasis on ancient Inca wisdom and traditions, as told through its people, landscape and food.
The fully supported eight-day retreat departs Cusco and ventures deep into the Sacred Valley, where you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery of snow-capped peaks and historic Andean villages. During your five nights here, we'll balance your time on day excursions with mindful hours at Las Qolqas, where you can practice yoga in the geodesic dome.
Each day, you'll explore the mystery of ancient sites that may spark your curiosity about the Inca and their lost technologies that made possible the construction of a citadel like Machu Picchu. You'll run and hike on well-worn paths leading to such marvels as The Maras, hundreds of small salt pools carved into a mountainside from which Incas extracted salt, and The Moray, an ancient-yet-sophisticated agricultural site involving terraced growing fields, each with its own microclimate.
On your daily run/hikes around the Sacred Valley, you'll have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their rich cultural heritage, as you visit ancient Inca ruins, traditional markets and meet local artisans. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Andean people, and gain insights into their traditional farming practices, culinary traditions and spiritual beliefs.
Feel the thrill of running along ancient Incan paths, surrounded by lush valleys and towering peaks. Participate in a mindful weaving ceremony and spiritual ritual called Haywarikuy, meet Marquesa, a wonderful woman healer from the Q'eros community, who will help you connect with the power and spirituality of this sacred land and learn about the Inca's reverence for Pachamama, the Andean earth goddess.
One of the retreat's highlights is a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas. Explore this mystical citadel, hidden in the misty mountains and marvel at its awe-inspiring architecture, terraced fields and intricate stone masonry. Your experienced guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the history, mythology and mysteries surrounding Machu Picchu, as you soak in the spiritual energy of this ancient wonder.
Here, you'll be treated to the luxurious comfort of the 5-star Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (pictured above) that overlooks Machu Picchu. Savor delicious Peruvian cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients, and unwind with soothing spa treatments that incorporate indigenous healing techniques. Reflect on your journey and connect with fellow travelers as you share stories and create lasting memories.
Join us on this unforgettable journey to Peru's Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, where you'll experience the perfect blend of physical activity, cultural enrichment, and wellness. Immerse yourself in the ancient heritage of the Andean people, explore breathtaking landscapes, and awaken your mind, body, and soul. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime that will leave you with a profound sense of awe and wonder.
Explore the ancient fortresses and sacred temples of Sacsayhuaman with a trusted guide to discover legendary landmarks like the Tower of Puka Pukara. Marvel at the mystery of how the ancients moved 100-ton blocks to this location and constructed this impressive fortress.
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This retreat is suitable for you if:
Note: The total run distance for this retreat will be between approximately 25 and 30 miles between 7,000 to 13,100 feet above sea level. The itinerary does include rest days with no running (or the option to run on your own). Due to the altitude, runners may find that they will need to adjust their pace so we have built in plenty of time to run/hike this itinerary. The precise route and trails run may change due to trail closures, weather conditions, guide recommendations and other safety considerations.
The runs have been designed by our Peruvian travel partner who is a trail runner and knows the trails here like the back of his hand! Knowing that our group is coming from lower elevations, our guides will set a comfortable pace and we will hike sections as needed. While all the routes we run will be on well-established roads an trails, be aware that there will be some steep ascents and descents, rocky, uneven terrain and some exposure to heights.
Many runners will also find they will need to adjust their pace at these altitudes, so plenty of time has been built into the itinerary to allow you to hike or run at your own pace. Runs range from 2 to 9 miles. You'll notice that we allow a generous amount of time for each day's run, and that's to accommodate all paces and soak up the scenery along the way. Learn more about how we manage run pacing here:
https://runwildretreats.com/about-the-run-wild-retreat-experience/levels/
On this retreat you will have a full day to experience running a section of the Inca Trail, ending at Machu Picchu. Running along the Inca Trail is an exhilarating way to explore the stunning scenery of the Andes Mountains. This iconic trail passes through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and rushing rivers. Running the Inca Trail is a challenging but rewarding experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the natural beauty of Peru. And what better way to end your journey than by arriving at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a true wonder of the world.
This ancient Incan city is nestled high in the Andes Mountains and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The city's intricate stonework and terraces are a testament to the incredible architectural achievements of the Incan people.
Explore the fascinating Sacred Valley of Peru by visiting some of the top Incan archaeological sites, including Moray and Maras, Punamarca, and Ollantaytambo.
Moray and Maras are interesting examples of Incan ingenuity. Moray's circular terraces were likely used for agricultural experimentation, while Maras' salt mines have been in use for centuries.
Punamarca was an important center for the Inca Empire, both politically and religiously, and still has impressive structures such as a large fortress and ceremonial plazas.
Ollantaytambo is a well-preserved Incan town that was a significant stronghold for the Inca Empire, with impressive stone terraces and a temple complex that provide a glimpse into their fascinating history. Don't miss out on the chance to explore these incredible sites and learn more about Peru's rich culture and history.
Visit a Quechua Andean Community nestled in the heights of the Sacred Valley, where you'll be welcomed by humble and hospitable people who have preserved traditions that date back thousands of years. These people have a deep connection with Mother Nature and live amongst exotic flora and fauna, and their cuisine is made with delicate, locally-sourced ingredients.
During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to experience their way of life and learn about their common past that's closely linked to the pre-Hispanic cultures of the Andean region. Your guide and transport will accompany you on this cultural journey, ensuring you have a meaningful and unforgettable experience.
Experience a hands-on weaving workshop that dives into the spiritual meaning behind the traditional textiles, with the Q’eros community. Weaving is a spiritual practice, representing the sacredness of daily life and weaving intentionally in the present moment. During this ancient spiritual ritual called Haywarikuy, they will thank the Mother Earth (Pachamama) and Father Sky (Pachacamac) for their blessings and ask for protection and health for themselves, their families, animals and lands, while you learn more about their traditional textiles and culture.
Experience exceptional dining! Most meals are included in your retreat package, and we handpick high-quality restaurants for unforgettable culinary experiences.
Peruvian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, combining indigenous ingredients with influences from Spanish, African, and Asian culinary traditions. Known for its diverse and colorful dishes, Peruvian food often features fresh seafood, tender meats, potatoes, and an array of chili peppers. The country's iconic dish, ceviche, showcases the freshness of the Pacific Ocean, while other favorites like Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef), and Aji de Gallina (spicy shredded chicken) capture the essence of Peru's rich gastronomic heritage.
We make every effort to accommodate your dietary preferences and restrictions. However, there are occasions when we may face limitations. You'll have a chance to indicate your specific dietary requirements in the retreat participant intake form.
Please note that alcoholic drinks are excluded, and snacks and beverages outside of meals and trail runs are not included.
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Learn how to run more mindfully to become a better runner. This includes natural running form clinics during which you'll learn about the Power Posture: use proper alignment to make gravity do more of the work. This reduces the muscular force involved with running so it feels easier and less strenuous on muscles and joints.
Focus on efficiency: Use natural running techniques to drastically improve efficiency. You'll practice changing stride length, cadence and tempo on various types of terrain. Then put the pieces together to achieve the ultimate trail running experience. Learn to cultivate the circumstances for flow to occur by being relaxed and mindful.
Rio Sagrado, a 5-star Belmond Hotel enjoys a privileged location overlooking the Urubamba River in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. With 10 deluxe terrace rooms and eleven junior suites with riverfront terraces. The accommodation is spread out over the grounds and are decorated with warm hues and natural materials of rock and wood. Dining is sophisticated at the El Huerto Restaurant serving Peruvian cuisine, El Bar del Huerto over looks the Urubamba River and is the perfect place to savor a cocktail on the outside terrace shaded by capuli trees, El Jardin uses the best locally sourced ingredients and is the ideal spot to have a light lunch by the river.
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Las Qolqas Eco Lodge is located two kilometers to the east of Ollantaytambo on the road to the villages of Willoq and Patacancha. It is far enough to be surrounded by peace and quiet on Peru's Sacred Valley. While staying here, you'll enjoy yoga classes in the Geodesic dome, situated at the foot of the Apu Pututuyuc, an 800-meter cliff where many condors nest. It is surrounded by fruit trees and aromatic herbs used in their infusions. It’s private setting lends itself for relaxing and peaceful experiences. Our Andean Spa is lodged between the mountain peaks of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility. The Andean Spa offers a serene space to disconnect and charge your soul. Located on the banks of the Patacancha River, enjoy a daily massage or other healing body treatment that will let your energy will flow, taking you on a mystical transformation.
Antigua Casona San Blas is a boutique hotel in the heart of Cusco. Rooms are outfitted with hand-made furniture sourced from local woods, and high-quality allergen free linens. Enjoy refined amenities and cozy turn-down service, complete with hot water bottles and sleepy-time tea. In-room heating and soundproofing ensure a good night’s rest.
Indulge in the private spa, which offers holistic wellness experiences complete with a steam bath, jacuzzi soak, salt rubs from a local quarry, Spanish-style shower, and therapeutic massage. Rest in the hyperbaric chamber and find equilibrium with the altitude of Cusco, or let yourself go with a hot stone or Andean herbal massage.
Drop in to a vinyasa or hatha yoga class in the Exhala Yoga Studio. Beautiful Amazonian hardwood floors and twisting vines provide a peaceful space for you to connect inward amidst the rush of travel and the high energy of Cusco.
Our highly trained retreat leaders provide the space and support for you to have a potentially transformational experience. As experts in mindful leadership, she provides valuable guidance on how to be mindful on and off the trail. Here's more about what you can expect from your retreat leader. She leads the opening meeting on Day 1, explaining what you can expect, the general flow of each day, what's expected of you, how she'll support you and all the other logistics you need. She works with our local staff, such as guides and drivers, to keep things safe, on schedule and running smoothly and leads mindful running clinics that teach you how to run more efficiently and with more flow and ease. She manages the pace of each run so that you never feel rushed or get left behind, facilitates sharing circles, creating a safe space for the group to reflect and share openly and provides emotional support if ever you need it.
Your retreat gift bag contains a curated selection of items designed to support your mindful travel experience with us.
One of the best ways to deepen your experience with mindfulness during and after your retreat is to add the Transformational Travel Journal to your package. This co-branded journal by Run Wild Retreats in partnership with the Transformational Travel Journal provides an intentional space to write, draw, sketch and otherwise creatively express what meaning this travel experience has for you. Filled with thoughtful writing prompts, inspirational quotes and mindfulness-inspired ideas, we highly recommend using this journal to help you enhance your mindful running experience.
Cusco, Peru 
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In preparation for your retreat, Carly Schaller will lead a Zoom call on Monday, March 18 @ 6:00 pm MT for all booked retreat guests. During this call, you'll learn a little about Carly and your fellow travelers, and have an opportunity to ask questions about how best to prepare for your retreat, plan your travel, what to pack and other practical questions. .png?fit=crop&crop=entropy&h=45&w=45&auto=format)
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