The Initiatory Pilgrimage
K’uychi Karpay means Rainbow Initiation in Quechua—an initiatory pilgrimage into deeper relationship with Grandfather Huachuma, the Apus, and the Andean medicine path, unfolding as a journey through the seven chakras.
An immersive ceremonial pilgrimage through the Sacred Valley and into the high mountain terrain of Rainbow Mountain and Ausangate. Over 10 days, we take part in three Huachuma ceremonies, three Karpay initiations, a traditional Despacho ceremony, Temescal purification, and guided visits to sacred sites throughout the Andes and Cusco region, held in collaboration with Quechua Indigenous wisdom keepers.
This journey is intentionally structured as an initiatory arc through the seven chakras, moving from preparation and purification into ceremony and mountain ascent.
This container is devotional, disciplined, and relational to the land. We walk in Ayni, sacred reciprocity, with Pachamama and the Apus as living intelligences.
This pilgrimage is for those who feel called to remember the ancient wisdom within and deepen their connection to the Apu mountain spirits, the Earth, and the Sun as living beings of consciousness.
Join us for an extraordinary and rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the sacred teachings of the Andes, guided by Quechua Indigenous wisdom keepers through ceremony, transmission, and pilgrimage in the high mountains of Peru.
The Journey
Oct 1st
Arrival in Cusco - Sacred Valley
Participants arrive in Cusco and are transported to the Sacred Valley to settle in, acclimate to the altitude, and prepare for the days ahead. We gather for a welcoming dinner to open the space together.
Oct 2nd - Root Chakra
Opening the Pilgrimage
We formally open the container with an Opening Circle, followed by a traditional Despacho ceremony offered in Ayni (reciprocity) with Pachamama and the Apus. Aligned with the root chakra, we begin by grounding ourselves in the Earth and establishing our relationship with Pachamama.
Oct 3rd - Solar Plexus
Ceremony 1: Hatun Karpay + Juchoy Coscco
We begin our first Ceremony with a Hatun Karpay Initiation. This is a ceremonial initiation of empowerment offered by Percy our Quechua wisdom keeper, to deepen one’s relationship with the Apus, Pachamama, and the living spiritual forces of the Andes.
We open our Huachuma ceremony among the ancient ruins of Juchoy Coscco, once a royal estate of the Inca empire with incredible Incan architecture. It is also an ancient water temple with ancient technologies and energetic portals, centered around water with its own fresh water spring flowing through a series of waterfalls.
Aligned with the solar plexus chakra, this day works with personal power, clarity, and inner strength as we begin to step fully onto the initiatory path. Here, stone and water carry ancient memory and prayer, and the land itself begins to speak.
Oct 4th - Sacral Chakra
Temple of the Moon- Killarumiyoc
An ancient temple dedicated to the lunar energy, the divine feminine, and fertility. Carved directly into the living rock, this temple was used for ritual, prayer, and communion with the cycles of the Moon.
Aligned with the sacral chakra, this day invites us into the waters of emotion, creativity, and flow. Here we attune to the rhythms of nature, soften into receptivity, and reconnect with the creative life force that moves through all things.
Oct 5th - Heart Chakra
Ceremony 2: Karpay + Tarota Coccha
A natural heart shaped lake nestled in the Andes, surrounded by the vast silence of the nothing but the mountains, the lake and eagles. Aligned with the heart chakra, this day invites us to open into compassion, love, and relational harmony with Pachamama and the Apus.
Here we receive our second Karpay initiation, allowing the medicine to guide us into a deeper remembrance of the heart as a bridge between Earth and Spirit. The still waters of Tarota Coccha mirror the sky above, reminding us that when the heart opens, we begin to see the world with clarity, reverence, and love.
Oct 6th - Throat Chakra
Chincherro - Poc Poc Waterfall
Where water flows from the mountains in a continuous living prayer. In Andean cosmology, waterfalls are powerful places of cleansing, renewal, and energetic movement, where the voice of the Earth can be heard through the sound of flowing water.
Aligned with the throat chakra, this day invites the opening of authentic expression, truth, and clear communication. As we sit with the waterfall and the surrounding Apus, we listen deeply to the voice of the land and our own inner voice.
Oct 7th
Drive to Ausangate
We ascend deeper into the Andes, leaving the Sacred Valley behind as the road winds into the high mountain terrain of Apu Ausangate, one of the most revered Apus of the Andes. As we climb into the vast landscape of glaciers, valleys, and open sky, we enter the sacred domain of the mountain spirits.
Oct 8th
Ceremony 3: Karpay + Ausangate
We journey by horseback into the high mountain terrain of Apu Ausangate, one of the most revered Apus of the Andes. In this powerful landscape of glaciers and vast sky, we hold our third Huachuma ceremony and receive a Karpay initiation.
Aligned with the third eye chakra, this day invites inner vision, clarity, and communion with the wisdom of the mountains. After descending the Apu, we integrate in the natural thermal hot springs, allowing the body and spirit to rest in the magnificence of this sacred Apu.
Oct 9th - Crown Chakra
Rainbow Mountain
Where the vibrant bands of color across the mountain mirror the spectrum of the rainbow. Rising high in the Andes near the presence of Apu Ausangate this landscape feels other worldly, where sky, mountain and spirit merge.
Aligned with the crown chakra, this day invites connection to higher consciousness and for us to integrate the rainbow frequencies of the Earth into the crown, opening to higher awareness and connection with the greater intelligence of the Andes.
Oct 10th
Naupa Iglesia + Arin Waterfall + Closing Dinner
On our final day, we visit Naupa Iglesia, a mysterious and powerful sacred site nestled in the mountains of the Sacred Valley. Known for its precisely carved stone portal and ancient ceremonial presence, it is regarded as a gateway for spiritual connection and initiation. Surrounded by the quiet majesty of the Andes, we gather here to reflect, integrate, and close our pilgrimage in a place long honored as a bridge between worlds.
We then continue to Arin Waterfall, a place of gentle cleansing and renewal, where the waters support the integration of our journey, softening, clearing, and restoring balance within the body and spirit.
That evening, we return for our closing dinner together, honoring the path we have walked, the transformation that has taken place, and the connections formed along the way.
Suggested + Recommended
Further Exploration
If you have extra time or would like to extend your journey, Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer countless ancient temples and archaeological sites to explore.
We highly recommend visiting Sacsayhuamán, Machu Picchu, and Ollantaytambo. Percy would be delighted to guide you through these remarkable ancient sites and share their history and significance.
The History of Huachuma
Huachuma, also known as the San Pedro cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi), is one of the most ancient sacred plant medicines of the Andes. Indigenous cultures of Peru have worked with this medicine for over 4,000 years for healing, divination, and spiritual connection.
The ceremonial use of Huachuma is strongly associated with the Chavín culture, one of the earliest spiritual civilizations of the Andes, whose emergence dates back to around 1500 BCE. At the ceremonial center of Chavín de Huántar near the Cordillera Blanca, archaeologists discovered stone carvings depicting priests, or “huachumeros,” holding the San Pedro cactus. These carvings provide some of the earliest known visual evidence of the cactus being used in sacred ceremonies.
The Chavín priesthood used Huachuma in initiatory and healing rituals to help participants enter visionary states and connect with the spiritual forces of nature. Their traditions influenced many later Andean cultures, including the Inca.
During the Spanish colonization, Catholic authorities attempted to suppress Indigenous ceremonial practices. Over time, Huachuma came to be called “San Pedro,” (Saint Peter), the Christian saint who "holds the keys to heaven". It has been said that the use of San Pedro can help one open the gates to spiritual insight and reach heaven while still on Earth.
The Science of Huachuma
Mescaline is the primary alkaloid responsible for the psychoactive effects of Huachuma and is one of the most studied naturally occurring psychedelic compounds. Unlike LSD, psilocybin, and DMT, which are tryptamines, mescaline belongs to the phenethylamine family of molecules. This compound is structurally similar to neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which play an important role in regulating mood, emotional wellbeing, and the processing of sensory information.
Mescaline interacts with several serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A and 5-HT1A receptors, which are associated with perception, cognition, and emotional awareness. Research suggests that activation of these receptors can influence neural connectivity and emotional processing, which may contribute to the shifts in perception, insight, and mood often reported during Huachuma experiences.
Huachuma contains other naturally occurring alkaloids, including anhalonidine, trichocereine, tyramine, and hordenine, along with a number of other phenethylamines.These compounds are believed to contribute to the overall experience of Huachuma, and the combination of these alkaloids is often thought to play a role in its broader physiological and psychological effects.
The Sanctuary
Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this beautiful sanctuary offers a peaceful space for deep rest, renewal, and reconnection with nature. Surrounded by the breathtaking Andean mountains, the land offers quiet corners for rest, reflection, and integration, inviting moments of stillness in nature. Relax by the pond, wander the gardens, or simply sit in silence, supported by the beauty and tranquility of the surrounding landscape.
Temple Space
The retreat space includes beautiful areas designed for renewal and movement. A dedicated indoor temple providing a sacred and protected space for yoga and meditation, offering a peaceful setting for movement, meditation, and integration surrounded by the beauty of the Sacred Valley.
Accomodations
Beautiful and spacious rooms, with warm and comfortable bedding. Guests may choose between shared or private sleeping arrangements, depending on their preference. Internet & cell service is available during your stay.
Shared Rooms & Bathrooms: are thoughtfully arranged to provide a semi-private experience, allowing guests to enjoy connection and community while still having personal space to rest and integrate their journey. These rooms are spacious, warm, and designed with natural materials that reflect the peaceful atmosphere of the Andes.
Private Room & Bathroom options are also available, offering a quiet sanctuary for deeper rest and reflection. Each space is simple, comfortable, and intentionally designed to support relaxation and restoration throughout the retreat.
Please Note: As part of the pilgrimage, we will move to a different location & lodging during the final portion of the journey. The accommodations are comfortable and thoughtfully selected to support our experience.
In the Ausangate region, lodging will be more rustic yet comfortable and supportive space for rest. Here, you will not have internet, cell phone service is limited to texting.
Food
Delicious, clean, and nourishing meals are lovingly prepared using fresh ingredients sourced from the Sacred Valley. Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options are available, we are happy to accommodate specific dietary requests to ensure everyone feels well supported and nourished throughout the retreat.
“I completely shifted timelines after my first Grandfather ceremony with Ima. I could really feel the ancestral lineage of this medicine through his work. Life-changing.”
“I have participated in three Grandfather ceremonies with Ima and they have all been vastly different experiences. The cactus has supported me in connecting with my body more deeply and resolving physical pains. It also has provided a deeper connection with the earth and opened gateways to understanding my path on the planet.”
“I so value the way Ima creates and holds space during ceremony. He provides a clear structure and safety while also allowing for flow so the experience can unfold as needed. I trust Ima completely and highly recommend his ceremony spaces.”
Alejandro
"Before I worked with Shaundra & Bufo I felt lost and depressed. I have to say it has changed my life in so many ways. I feel lighter, less weight on my shoulders and clear headed, even spiritually enlightened. I'm so grateful to Shaundra."
Michelle
"I really felt like I was be taken care of by someone who really knows what she is doing and takes this very seriously. I just really loved how protected I felt by Shaundra the entire time. She always had eyes on everyone and just held space in the most beautiful, soft way."
Leonardo
"I sat with Shaundra for Kambo & Xanga. My intention was to clear any lingering trauma and blockages. Ceremony was breathtaking, I saw and spoke to God, it was blissful ,it was perfect, She is the best. She knows exactly what to do and exactly how to hold space. Can’t wait to work with her again."
Who This Is For
Those who
- Are experienced with plant medicines, in good physical, emotional and mental health.
- Walk in reverence to the earth and the indigenous keepers.
- Have a level of self containment of being able to go within during ceremony to keep the energy sacred during ceremony.
- Willingness to follow rules and keep group containment.
- Those who are ready to open their heart in a profound relationship with Huachuma, Pachamama, the Andes, the Apus, & the Quechua indigenous wisdom keepers.
- Are Ready to receive wisdom teachings through direct experience.
- Ready to have a life changing experience & initiation during a powerful solstice portal.
Who This Is Not For
Those Who Are:
- New to plant medicines
- Not in a healthy physical, emotional and mental state. On pharmaceuticals.
- Recreational seekers.
- Those who do not know how to be respectful within a group container, follow structure or rules.
- Those unprepared for altitude, cold, trekking and mountain terrain.
Meet Your Guides....
Percy Ccoyo
Wachumero with over 20 years of experience, teacher and professional guide born in the indigenous Andean community of Viacha. With extensive experience sharing ancestral wisdom, he has been initiated to offer sacred Quechua ceremonies, including despachos and Hatun Karapay initiations.
He also serves as a professional guide in spiritual tourism, supporting others in connecting with the traditions and spiritual practices of the Andes.
Ima Rao
Ima Rao is a ceremonial guide, plant medicine facilitator, musician, and filmmaker whose work bridges healing, storytelling and truth. For over a decade, he has led immersive retreats and ceremonies all over the world. Having co-founded an international youth empowerment nonprofit; he is passionate about supporting our next generation while honoring our elders and indigenous medicine carriers. Ima is the founder of The Temple of the Eagle and Condor church and the creator of EMERGENCE - an 8 month Plant Medicine Facilitator Training Program. He is an initiated Mesa carrier and certified trauma-informed somatic facilitator.
Shaundra
Medicine Woman, ceremonial guide, and shamanic educator walking the path of plant medicine and energy healing for over 16 years. She is the founder of Tribu Church in Miami and Tribu Spirit, a plant medicine shop dedicated to the healing power of Amazonian plant medicines while supporting the Indigenous tribes who carry this ancestral wisdom.
As the founder of Tribu Spirit Academy, she offers trainings and initiations in shamanic healing, energy medicine, and sacred plant traditions. Shaundra carries the Munay-Ki Rites and Mesa initiations within the Andean lineage and shares her medicine through ceremony, music, and teaching, creating spaces for healing, transformation, and reconnection with the sacred.
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Includes:
Huachuma
3 Huachuama Ceremonies
Initiations
Three Karpay Initiations
Despacho Ceremony
Offerings to the Earth & Elements
Fire Ceremony
Purification
Sound Healings
Sacred Temples
Waterfalls
Horse back riding
Quechua Teachings
Food
Accomodations
Travel
Travel while on Retreat
Does Not Include:
Flights
Flights to and from Cusco
Insurance
Travel or Medical insurance.
Tips
Staff tips, any travel to other sites, food, or shopping, outside of the retreat schedule.
Limited Time Early Bird Offer
Book early and save NOW til April1st and get $1,000 off
All payments due in full by June 1st.
APPLY NOWDeposit & Cancellation Policy
A $600 deposit to secure your space is required. Send via Zelle to Eagle and Condor Church ima@eagleandcondor.co
Spaces are limited, and payments are non-refundable. If you can't attend, you must find someone else to take your place. If you are unable to, your payment can be used towards a future retreat.
Are you ready to empower your path and unlock ancient wisdom within you, the spirit of huachuma, the earth and the elementals?
TRANSFORMING YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY FOREVER
LOGISTICS
Altitude Info
The Sacred Valley sits around 9,000ft, Cusco at 11,000ft, and Ausaungate at 14,000ft. Participants should be prepared for normal altitude effects such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or mild headaches while acclimating. Hydration, rest, and steady pacing are essential. Those with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions should not attend.
Physical Demands
This journey includes walking on uneven terrain, time outdoors in varying weather conditions, and travel by horseback into high mountain terrain. While horseback riding reduces hiking, a moderate level of fitness, adaptability, and comfort in high -altitude enviornments is required.
Ceremony Structure
After opening sacred space with our prayers and intentions, the ceremony is held primarily in sacred silence. This space supports deep personal exploration and direct teachings with Huachuma. The emphasis is not on music, but on stillness, prersence and inner listening.
Arrival Airport
You will need to travel from Lima to arrive at Cusco airport on June 16th, where you will be met and taken to the retreat center in the Sacred Valley.
Currency Exchange
You can exchange money to Soles at the Lima or Cusco airport before you get outside. Make sure you have enough money exchanged for tips and any shopping. ATM's are hard to find and we will be in remote areas where cards are not accepted.
Safety
You will be required to fill out an application form to make sure you are medically approved to participate.
Contraindications: anyone on pharmaceuticals, heart & lung conditions, and not of good physical or mental health.
Preparation
2 weeks before a clean diet of no pork, spicy or fried food, alcohol, drugs & other plant medicines.
Packing
Once your first payment is confirmed, you will receive a welcome pack with everything you need to prepare, including packing, dietary guidance, travel logistics & ceremonial prep.
Integration Support
We will have a group zoom integration 2 weeks after the retreat has ended.
Frequently Asked Questions
ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED HERE
Is this retreat open to everyone?
Is prior plant medicine experience required?
Is this a training to serve Huachuma?
Will there be cell & internet service?
K'UYCHI KARPAY
RAINBOW INITIATION
We gather in the Andes to walk in reciprocity with Pachamama, to commune with Grandfather Huachuma, and to ascend into the sacred presence of Apu Ausangate to receive a Karpay Initiation.
If you feel the call to enter sacred relationship with the Apus and walk this ceremonial pilgrimage guided by Indigenous wisdom keepers, we welcome you.
Answer the Call
The Andes Are Calling
