Itinerary

A: Any questions you have before confirming your participation are welcome and encouraged! We want you to feel the full YES in your body! Once you confirm your participation and make a deposit, we’ll guide you through every step of the process! You’ll have an onboarding call with us where we’ll provide all the details you need and next steps for a smooth travel experience. As the retreat approaches, we’ll also set up a WhatsApp group to share additional information and keep you updated upon your arrival. This way, you’ll have everything you need to prepare and feel confident before the retreat begins.

A: The closest airport is Cusco, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ). When booking flights to Peru, it’s usually more economical to book from your home airport to Lima first, and then get a separate flight from Lima to Cusco. The flight from Lima to Cusco is about 1 hour. Just make sure to leave yourself enough time to collect your bags and check in for the Lima to Cusco flight if you're heading there directly. Some people like to spend a day in Lima, and if you do, we recommend checking out the neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco.

A: Yes, we’ll arrange transportation to and from the airport on the days that the retreat starts, March 2nd, and ends, March 9th. On March 2nd, we’ll coordinate pick-up times based on everyone’s arrival schedules so we can group people together as much as possible. If you’re arriving before March 2nd, you’ll need to make your own arrangements or go to the airport to meet the rest of the group. Whatever you decide, JoLyn is happy to offer suggestions and help with insights! The same applies for the end of the retreat—airport transportation to Cusco airport will be available on March 9th, the day the retreat ends.

A: Machu Picchu isn’t included in this retreat since it’s not one of our primary focuses. However, we’re open to feedback and may consider adding it to future retreats! If you’d like to visit Machu Picchu, you’ll need at least two extra days, either before the retreat starts on March 2nd or after it ends on March 9th. If there’s enough interest, we’d be happy to connect you with a trusted tour agency that can help plan the trip for you.

A: In Peru, the use of traditional psychoactive plant medicines, such as Ayahuasca and San Pedro cactus, is legal when used in ceremonial and cultural contexts. These practices are deeply rooted in indigenous traditions and are respected as part of the country's cultural heritage.

A: Nothing is required! We will have a follow-up conversation with every participant to inquire about the specifics of our ceremonies so that we are on the same page. We recommend taking a very small microdose to be connected to the essence and spirit of the sacred plant teachers. Plant medicine is an integral part of this retreat, as they support us in feeling more in tune with our bodies, hearts, and desires, while gently unveiling our true, authentic selves in a safe and welcoming space. That said, we’re here to keep the conversation open and can discuss it more as the retreat gets closer—whatever feels right for you!

A:

• All deposits are non-refundable.

• For cancellations made 60 days prior to the retreat, any payments made beyond the deposit are refundable.

• After 60 days, no refunds will be issued, but credit toward a future retreat may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

A: March is a beautiful time in the Sacred Valley—it’s the end of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, so everything is lush and green from the rainy season. You might even catch some incredible rainbows! The weather is mild, kind of like eternal fall, so it’s important to pack layers. Think sweaters, cardigans, scarves, hats, gloves, and a good rain jacket or rain gear just in case. You’ll also want a good pair of shoes for hiking or exploring outdoors.

Keep in mind that locals in the valley tend to dress conservatively, so you won’t see many people in shorts—even on warmer days, they often wear sweaters or jackets. It’s a good idea to pack pants, leggings, or skirts to stay comfortable and respectful.

Keep in mind that certain devices, like hair dryers, can blow out due to the voltage difference in Peru. We recommend leaving those at home to avoid any issues. However, your electronics and chargers will be fine to use.  Also, note that some outlets in Peru have only two hole prongs (not slits) or may not have the three-prong configuration you might be used to. However, it’s easy to find the necessary converters and adapters locally if needed. 

Example of a checklist to follow: 

• Layers for Various Weather:

  • Light sweaters and cardigans

  • Scarves and hats

  • Gloves (especially if you tend to get cold easily)

  • Rain jacket or poncho

• Comfortable and Modest Clothing:

  • Pants and leggings

  • Long skirts

  • Layers for warmth and comfort, as temperatures can vary

• Footwear:

  • Comfortable hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes

  • Casual shoes or sandals for indoor use

• Special Piece for the Altar:

  • A meaningful object or piece of jewelry for the retreat’s altar space

• Lingerie or Sensual Clothing:

  • For embodiment practices, choose something that makes you feel empowered and connected

• Clothing for Ceremonies:

  • Specific color attire as requested for ceremonies

• Toiletries:

  • Essential items like toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap

  • Moisturizer and any personal care products

• Medication:

  • Any prescription medications you need

  • Basic over-the-counter medications for common issues (e.g., headache, upset stomach)

• Notebook and Pen:

  • For journaling or taking notes during the retreat

• Reusable Water Bottle:

  • To stay hydrated throughout your activities

• Sunglasses and Sunscreen:

  • For sun protection during outdoor activities

• Camera or Smartphone:

  • For capturing memories (ensure it’s compatible with local voltage or has a suitable adapter)

• Travel Documents:

  • Passport, travel insurance, and any necessary visas

• Cash and Cards:

  • Small amount of local currency (soles) for any incidental purchases

• Snacks:

  • Healthy snacks for travel or between meals if needed

A: This retreat isn’t physically demanding. While we will spend some time outdoors on Day 6, the terrain is relatively easy to navigate, so no challenging hikes are involved. Throughout the retreat, we’ll be engaging in embodiment practices and moving our bodies, but there’s no pressure to push yourself beyond your comfort zone. The focus is on connection and nourishment, so you can go at your own pace and enjoy the experience.

A: Altitude affects everyone differently—some people don’t feel it at all, while others might. Cusco is situated at approximately 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level, so it’s common to experience some symptoms as your body adjusts. There’s a belief that the mountains are energetically working with you during this adjustment period. We’ve designed our retreat schedule to help with this: the first day or two will be more relaxed, allowing you to rest and acclimate as needed. We’ll also provide natural remedies used by locals, like coca leaves and muña (Andean mint), to help ease any discomfort.

A:

1. Lingerie/ Sexy Outfit: For the sensual embodiment practice on Day 4, you might want to bring some lingerie or something that makes you feel empowered and connected to your body. 

2. Color Specific Clothing: For the ceremony, we'll ask you to wear a specific color, which we'll let you know ahead of time—it’s a way to unify and amplify our collective energy. 

3. Altar Amplifier:
   Bring a special piece for the altar space, something that holds personal meaning for you. This could be anything from a small object to a piece of jewelry—something that connects you to your intention for the retreat.

A: The Sacred Valley of Peru is generally very safe, and many people find the locals to be incredibly friendly and welcoming. It’s a popular destination for travelers, including solo women, who often feel comfortable and secure. As with any travel destination, it’s always wise to follow standard safety precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in cities like Cusco or Lima.

A: At the beginning of the retreat, we’ll have an open conversation about phone use. You’ll have the option to leave your phones with us for safekeeping or, if you prefer to keep them, we’ll set group norms for their use, including when and where it’s appropriate to take photos. 

We will suggest sharing our emergency contact number with friends and family and setting your phone to airplane mode without Wi-Fi for the duration of the retreat. This allows you to use your phone for taking photos or other personal needs, but reduces distractions of social media and helps foster a deeper connection with the experience and with each other. This approach supports powerful insights and a more present and enriching retreat.

A: Yes, you will need a valid passport to travel to Peru. Make sure your passport is up-to-date and will remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. You will receive a tourist visa that is valid for 90 days from the day of entry.

A: Of course! If you tell us your plan, JoLyn can possibly guide your experience before or after the retreat. All refer to Personalized Retreats to see if this is the right fit for you.