If you're searching for an adventure that will challenge you, inspire you, and stay with you long after you return home, this journey is for you. Join us in the breathtaking country of Peru as we wander the colorful streets of Cusco, immerse ourselves in its rich history and vibrant culture, and then set off on the legendary Salkantay Trail. We'll cross high alpine passes, lush cloud forests, and ancient Incan pathways before arriving at one of the world's greatest wonders—Machu Picchu.

For the first time, we're opening one of our retreat experiences to everyone (not just ladies!)—gentlemen travelers and couples are welcome to join us for this unforgettable adventure. Whether you're sharing the experience with someone you love or arriving on your own, you'll become part of a community united by curiosity, adventure, and a desire to experience something truly extraordinary.

Each day invites you to step beyond your comfort zone, awaken your sense of wonder, and discover just how strong, resilient, and capable you truly are. Along the way, you'll explore bustling markets, share unforgettable meals, and create stories you'll be telling for the rest of your life.

This is more than a trek—it's an opportunity to experience the heart of Peru, to see the world through a new lens, and to return home forever changed.

Very important: This retreat involves a challenging 5-day trek through the Andes mountains, with more than 40 miles of hiking over challenging terrain reaching altitudes of over 15,000 ft. You must be in good health and physically prepared in order to enjoy this experience fully.

Highlights:

• 9 Days / 8 Nights spent between the highlands of Cusco and the Sacred Valley

• Enjoy delicious breakfasts, lunches, dinners daily (included)

• Wander through the cobbled streets of Cusco as you explore and shop

• Experience a Peruvian Cooking Experience

• Explore the Maras Salt Mines + learn about ancient Incan agriculture

• Trek to Machu Picchu! The Salkantay Trek is listed as one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine

• Witness incredible scenery like cascades, waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, colorful valleys, unique plants and wildlife, and the cloud forest

• Soak in the medicinal pools of Cocalmayo

• Make epic memories and connect with new friends that will last a lifetime

Welcome to Peru!

Upon arrival in Cusco, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to our beautiful 5 star hotel, where you'll have time to settle in, relax, and begin acclimating to the altitude.

Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby streets, treating yourself to a massage, or simply unwinding before we gather for our first dinner together—a chance to meet your fellow travelers and officially begin our adventure.

We'll begin our day wandering the charming streets of Cusco's historic city center, exploring artisan markets, soaking in the vibrant culture, and enjoying lunch at our leisure.

In the afternoon, we'll meet at the famous San Pedro Market, where we'll join our local chef to shop for fresh ingredients before heading to the kitchen for a hands-on Peruvian cooking class. Together, we'll prepare authentic local dishes and gather around the table to enjoy the delicious meal we've created.

Grab breakfast before we head to the small town of Chinchero. We will learn about the local textile art before continuing to the Maras Salt Mines.

Next, we visit Moray. Unlike any other archaeological site you have seen, this site was an Inca agricultural laboratory. We will learn about all about the history or the unique site.

Enjoy a typical lunch in Misminay, pass by the beautiful Huaypo Lagoon, and see some small communities.

Once back in Cusco, enjoy a dinner out together as a team before the trek portion of our adventure begins!

Your adventure begins before dawn as we depart Cusco around 4:30 a.m., settling into comfortable transportation for the scenic drive into the Andes. Blankets will be available if you'd like to catch a little more sleep before the day begins.

After approximately two hours, we'll stop in the mountain village of Mollepata for a nourishing breakfast before continuing to Challacancha, where your Salkantay Trek officially begins. Here, you'll meet the incredible team who will support us throughout the journey—our talented cooks and experienced muleteers—before making any final gear adjustments and setting out on the trail.

Our trek begins with a gradual ascent through a spectacular glacier valley, following portions of an ancient Inca irrigation canal that continues to provide water for local farming communities today. As the towering peaks of the Andes come into view, you'll begin to appreciate why this route is considered one of the most breathtaking treks in Peru.

By midday, we'll arrive at Soraypampa, our home for the evening, where you'll settle into the incredible Sky Camp beneath the dramatic mountain skyline. After enjoying a well-earned lunch and some time to rest, we'll continue with an unforgettable afternoon hike to the brilliant turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, one of the most iconic alpine lakes in the Andes.

Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glacial landscapes, it's the perfect place to pause, reflect, and celebrate the first day of our journey together.

Day 4 Trek Stats

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

• Walking Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi)

• Walking Time: 5–6 hours

• Starting Elevation: 3,800 m (12,467 ft)

• Highest Elevation: 4,200 m (13,780 ft)

• Elevation Gain: 400 m (1,313 ft)

• Campsite Elevation: 3,900 m (12,795 ft)

Today is the most challenging—and what we anticipate will be the most rewarding—day of the Salkantay Trek.

You'll wake to the first light illuminating the majestic Apu Salkantay, one of the most sacred mountains in Inca tradition. Enjoy a warm cup of traditional coca tea before fueling up with a hearty breakfast for the adventure ahead.

The morning begins with a steady climb to Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the entire trek. The final ascent follows the winding "Path of the Seven Snakes," a series of switchbacks that reward every step with increasingly spectacular views. Standing atop the pass, you'll be surrounded by some of Peru's most breathtaking peaks, including Salkantay, Humantay, Tucarhuay, and Pumasillo. It will be an unforgettable moment—and one well worth celebrating.

After taking in the views, we'll begin our descent to Huayracmachay for a well-earned lunch before continuing into an entirely different world. As the afternoon unfolds, the landscape transforms from rugged alpine terrain into the lush cloud forest, where warmer temperatures, vibrant vegetation, colorful wildflowers, and diverse birdlife signal our gradual transition from the Andes toward the edge of the Amazon Basin.

By late afternoon, we'll arrive at Collpapampa, where our Mountain Sky View Campsite awaits. After a nourishing dinner shared together, you'll have the opportunity to relax, reflect on an incredible day of adventure, and rest beneath another spectacular Andean sky.

Day 5 Trek Stats

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Walking Distance: 23.5 km (14.6 mi)

• Walking Time: 10–11 hours

• Starting Elevation: 3,900 m (12,795 ft)

• Highest Elevation: 4,630 m (15,190 ft)

• Elevation Gain: 730 m (2,395 ft)

• Minimum Elevation: 2,900 m (9,514 ft)

• Campsite Elevation: 2,950 m (9,678 ft)

After yesterday's incredible accomplishment, today invites us to slow down and savor a new side of Peru.

We'll begin the morning with a warm cup of tea and a hearty breakfast before setting out on a gentle hike through the lush Santa Teresa Valley.

As we descend into the cloud forest, the landscape transforms once again. Follow winding trails alongside rushing rivers and cascading waterfalls while passing vibrant orchids and plantations of bananas, coffee, and avocado. Keep your eyes open for the striking Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru's national bird, which is occasionally spotted in these forests.

At Zona Propiedad, we'll board a private vehicle for a short transfer to La Playa, where we'll enjoy one of the region's signature experiences—a hands-on visit to a local coffee farm. You'll learn how coffee is cultivated in the Andes before roasting, grinding, and brewing your own fresh cup, gaining a deeper appreciation for one of Peru's most celebrated exports.

From there, we'll continue to Lucmabamba, where a delicious lunch awaits before settling into our exclusive Sacred Jungle Lodges.

Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, this peaceful retreat offers the perfect place to recharge before the next stage of our adventure.

Later in the afternoon, we'll visit the beautiful Cocalmayo Hot Springs, where naturally heated, mineral-rich pools provide a blissful opportunity to soak away the miles and restore tired muscles. After a relaxing afternoon, we'll return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and another evening immersed in the tranquility of the Peruvian jungle.

Day 6 Trek Stats

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Walking Distance: 10.3 km (6.4 mi)

• Walking Time: Approximately 4 hours

• Starting Elevation: 2,950 m (9,678 ft)

• Highest Elevation: 2,950 m (9,678 ft)

• Minimum Elevation: 1,900 m (6,234 ft)

• Elevation Loss: 1,050 m (3,445 ft)

• Campsite Elevation: 1,900 m (6,234 ft)

After breakfast, we'll set out along one of the most historic stretches of the original Inca Trail, retracing the footsteps of an ancient civilization through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes.

The morning begins with a steady climb to Llactapata, a remarkable Inca archaeological site perched high above the Santa Teresa Valley. As we explore these fascinating ruins, you'll gain deeper insight into the ingenuity and spiritual traditions of the Inca people. Then comes a truly unforgettable moment—your first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance, framed by the iconic peak of Huayna Picchu. Seeing the Lost City from this unique vantage point makes tomorrow's visit feel even more meaningful.

From Llactapata, we'll descend through lush mountain landscapes toward Aobamba, where we'll pause for a well-earned lunch before continuing to Hidroeléctrica. Along the way, we'll pass an impressive hydroelectric waterfall that helps power the city of Cusco, a striking contrast between modern engineering and the timeless beauty of the surrounding mountains.

At Hidroeléctrica, we'll board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, winding alongside the Urubamba River as the anticipation continues to build. Upon arrival, we'll settle into our comfortable hotel before gathering for a celebratory dinner, sharing stories from the trail and preparing for tomorrow's unforgettable visit to one of the world's greatest archaeological treasures.

Day 7 Trek Stats

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Walking Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi)

• Walking Time: 4–5 hours

• Starting Elevation: 2,000 m (6,562 ft)

• Highest Elevation: 2,800 m (9,186 ft)

• Elevation Gain: 800 m (2,624 ft)

• Minimum Elevation: 1,800 m (5,906 ft)

• Accommodation Elevation: 2,040 m (6,693 ft)

Today is the moment you've been working toward—the opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring wonder of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We'll rise early to reach the ancient citadel before the day's largest crowds, allowing us to experience its remarkable beauty in the peaceful morning light. After a short bus ride to the entrance, our expert guide will lead us on an immersive tour through this extraordinary archaeological masterpiece. Together, we'll explore sacred temples, ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, and the intricate stonework that continues to amaze historians and engineers alike. As you walk these ancient pathways, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity, resilience, and spiritual traditions of the Inca civilization.

Following our guided exploration, you'll have time to soak in the magic of Machu Picchu before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch. That afternoon, we'll board the scenic train back through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will be waiting to return us to Cusco.

In the evening, we'll gather for one of our favorite Breath + Story traditions: the Affirmation Dinner. As we celebrate everything we've accomplished together, we'll reflect on the challenges we've overcome, the friendships we've formed, and the memories that will travel home with us long after the trek has ended. It's a joyful, heartfelt celebration of an unforgettable adventure—and the perfect way to honor this incredible journey.

Today's Adventure

• Difficulty: Easy

• Activity Duration: 2–3 hours exploring Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)

This morning, we'll share one final breakfast together before saying our goodbyes and transferring to Cusco Airport for our journeys home.

While our time in Peru comes to an end, we hope you leave with far more than photographs and souvenirs. May you carry home the strength you discovered on the trail, the friendships formed around the table, the quiet moments of reflection beneath the Andean sky, and the reminder that adventure has a remarkable way of changing us.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your story. We hope this journey has inspired you to continue seeking wonder, embracing challenge, and saying "yes" to the experiences that help you feel most alive.

Until our paths cross again, safe travels—and remember, the best stories are the ones still waiting to be lived.

We understand that no one reserves a retreat with the intention of canceling, and we know that unexpected circumstances can arise. Because our retreats require advance commitments to accommodations, transportation, guides, and other vendors, we have established the following cancellation policy.

Reservations & Payments

• A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your space.

• Deposits are non-refundable.

• Reservations may be transferred to another participant identified by the original attendee, subject to Breath + Story's approval. Transfers must be completed prior to the retreat.

• Payment plans are available. The remaining balance is due in full by May 23rd, 2027.

Cancellation Schedule

• Cancellations received before February 1, 2027: You will receive a refund equal to 50% of all payments made beyond the non-refundable deposit.

• Cancellations received on or after February 1, 2027: No refunds will be issued.

Travel Insurance

We strongly encourage all participants to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and travel delay coverage. Many travel insurance providers require policies to be purchased within 14 days of making your initial reservation to receive the broadest coverage.

Please review your policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered.

No Exceptions

Because we incur significant expenses well in advance of each retreat, no refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations due to illness, injury, weather, family emergencies, work obligations, travel delays, airline cancellations, or any other personal circumstances.

Likewise, no refunds or credits will be provided for failure to attend, arriving after the retreat begins, or leaving the retreat early.

Retreat Cancellation by Breath + Story

Breath + Story reserves the right to cancel or postpone a retreat due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances that make operating the retreat inadvisable or impossible.

If Breath + Story cancels a retreat, all payments made directly to Breath + Story will be refunded in full. This refund constitutes the full extent of our liability.

Participants are responsible for any non-refundable personal travel expenses, including airfare, hotel accommodations, transportation, visas, or other travel-related costs. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance.

Force Majeure

Breath + Story shall not be liable for any delay, modification, interruption, or cancellation of a retreat resulting from events beyond our reasonable control. These events may include, but are not limited to, natural disasters, severe weather, wildfire, flooding, earthquakes, pandemics, epidemics, government orders or travel restrictions, civil unrest, terrorism, strikes, transportation disruptions, acts of God, or any other unforeseen circumstance that makes the retreat unsafe, illegal, or impracticable to operate.

If a retreat must be canceled or materially modified due to a Force Majeure event, Breath + Story will make every reasonable effort to reschedule the retreat or provide participants with an appropriate credit or refund, taking into consideration any non-recoverable expenses already incurred. Any refund or credit provided will be at the sole discretion of Breath + Story and subject to obligations owed to third-party suppliers.

By submitting your deposit, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to this Cancellation Policy.