The Wachuma or San Pedro Ceremony in the South Sacred Valley near Cusco offers a profound spiritual experience that’s guided by experienced indigenous shamans. This transformative journey includes traditional practices like coca leaf reading, energy cleansing, and offerings to Pachamama, allowing participants to connect deeply with nature and their inner selves. Held daily in intimate settings, the ceremony is complemented by organic meals and comfortable accommodations, creating a nurturing environment for personal reflection and healing. While the experience may seem daunting, those who approach it with an open mind and a willingness to let go can uncover profound insights about themselves and the world around them.
Key Points
- The San Pedro or Wachuma ceremony is a traditional spiritual practice led by experienced indigenous shamans in the Sacred Valley near Cusco, Peru.
- The ceremony includes coca leaf reading, energy cleansing, offerings to Pachamama, and the use of the San Pedro cactus, and lasts from 7 AM to 7 PM.
- The retreat offers private sessions and accommodations, with organic meals and support from spiritual guides, and includes a blossoming bath and vision interpretation.
- Participants must be in good health, fast for 4 hours prior, and disclose any medical conditions, as the ceremony is not suitable for certain individuals.
- The retreat temple provides a supportive environment with private rooms, shared spaces for reflection, and attentive service to enhance the transformative experience.
Ceremony Overview
Offering a glimpse into the sacred rituals of the Andean highlands, the Wachuma or San Pedro Ceremony takes participants on a transformative journey in the South Sacred Valley near Cusco.
The daily ceremony, which runs from 7 AM to 7 PM, accommodates a maximum of 5 individuals per session. Private sessions are available for those seeking a more intimate experience.
The ceremony combines traditional practices such as coca leaf reading, energy cleansing, and offerings to Pachamama with the powerful San Pedro cactus, known for its mind-expanding and healing properties.
Participants can expect a well-structured itinerary led by experienced indigenous shamans from various Peruvian traditions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Andes Mountains Peru.
Pricing and Booking
The Wachuma or San Pedro Ceremony can be booked starting at €252.58 per person.
No upfront payment is required as guests can reserve now and pay later. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This ceremony takes place daily at 7:00 am, 9:00 am, and 5:00 pm, with a maximum of 5 participants per session. Private sessions are also available.
Guests can expect a comprehensive spiritual experience, including a coca leaf reading, cleansing of negative energies, an offering to Pachamama, and a blossoming bath with Andean wild flowers.
Ceremony Itinerary
Participants ready for the Wachuma or San Pedro Ceremony first purge with volcanic Medicinal Water a day before or the same day.
Fasting is required for 4 hours prior to the ceremony.
The ceremony begins with a coca leaf reading, followed by a cleansing of negative energies.
At 11:00 am, the San Pedro ceremony takes place, including an offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth).
Afterward, participants enjoy a blossoming bath with Andean wild flowers.
The experience concludes with a sharing and vision interpretation session with the Master Shaman.
The entire ceremony lasts approximately 8 hours, with participants returning to Cusco around 7:00 pm.
Inclusions
The San Pedro ceremony package includes private transport from Cusco to the Retreat Temple, where you will stay in a room for one or two persons.
During the retreat, an organic diet is provided, and participants receive guidance from experienced spiritual guides, assistants, and translators who speak Quechua, Spanish, and English.
The ceremony elements include various offerings and cleansing tools used throughout the experience. Participants also have the option to receive personal souvenir photos taken during the sessions.
- Private transport from Cusco to Retreat Temple
- Room for 1 or 2 persons at the Retreat Temple
- Special organic diet during the retreat
Shaman Specialists
Ceremonies at the retreat are conducted by four different indigenous shaman specialists, hailing from the Shipibo, Machiguenga, Boras, Qeros, Ausangante, and Paucartambo traditions.
These shaman come from various parts of the Peruvian Amazon and Andes, each with their unique lineages and practices. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the ceremonies, guiding participants through the powerful Wachuma (San Pedro) experience.
Their expertise, connection to the land, and traditional wisdom are integral to the transformative nature of these sacred plant medicine rituals. Participants can expect to receive guidance and support from these highly respected indigenous healers.
- Panoramic Tour of Cusco With Folkloric Show | Cusco in Family
- From Cusco: Rafting on the Vilcanota River and Zip Line
- Excursion to San Fernando Bay + Sandboarding in Nazca
- Private Service Cusco – Machu Picchu 3 Days + Hotel
- Sacred Valley | Private Tour|
- Full Day Excursion to the Rainbown Mountain on Horses
Preparation and Fasting
Purging with volcanic Medicinal Water a day before or the same day is recommended to prepare for the Wachuma ceremony.
Fasting is required, with no food allowed 4 hours prior to the ceremony. This helps to enhance the experience and ensure a safe, transformative journey.
The Wachuma ceremony includes:
- Coca leaf reading
- Cleansing of negative energies
- Offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth)
After the ceremony, participants enjoy a Blossoming Bath with Andean wild flowers and share their experiences with the Master Shaman, who provides vision interpretation.
Restrictions and Precautions
Owing to the potent nature of the Wachuma or San Pedro ceremony, it’s not suitable for certain individuals.
Children under 4, pregnant women, and those with heart problems, vertigo, or allergies to nuts and insects are advised to avoid this ritual.
The ceremony requires a strong, healthy constitution to navigate the profound transformative experience. Participants must disclose any medical conditions to the shaman beforehand.
Plus, the ceremony isn’t recommended for those who’ve recently consumed alcohol or drugs, as their effects could interfere with the plant medicine.
Responsible preparation and caution are essential to ensure a safe and meaningful journey.
Retreat Temple Accommodations
At the Retreat Temple, participants enjoy comfortable accommodations during their Wachuma or San Pedro ceremony experience.
The retreat offers:
- Private rooms for one or two people, ensuring a peaceful and private setting.
- Organic meals catered to dietary requirements, providing nourishment during the ceremony.
- Shared indoor and outdoor spaces, where participants can reflect, connect, and integrate their experiences.
These amenities help create a supportive environment for the profound personal journey ahead.
The Retreat Temple’s thoughtful design and attentive hospitality ensure participants can fully enjoy the transformative power of the Wachuma or San Pedro ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Effects Can I Expect From the San Pedro?
The effects of San Pedro can include heightened senses, visual and auditory hallucinations, introspection, and spiritual experiences. However, the specific effects will vary depending on the individual’s mindset, setting, and dosage.
Is It Safe for Someone With a History of Mental Illness?
While the San Pedro ceremony can have profound effects, it may not be suitable for individuals with a history of mental illness. It’s important to consult a medical professional before participating to ensure your safety.
Can I Bring My Own Personal Items to the Ceremony?
You may bring some personal items, but the organizers encourage focusing on the ceremony. They’ll provide necessary supplies and may ask you to limit personal belongings to avoid distractions during the spiritual experience.
Is There an Age Limit for Participating in the Ceremony?
There is an age restriction for the ceremony. Children under 4 years old are not allowed to participate. Pregnant women are also not permitted to join the ceremony due to safety concerns.
Can I Combine the Ceremony With Other Activities in the Area?
The ceremony can be combined with other activities in the area. Participants can explore the Sacred Valley, hike to ancient ruins, or visit local markets and artisan workshops before or after the ceremony.
Recap
The Wachuma or San Pedro Ceremony in the South Sacred Valley near Cusco offers a profound spiritual experience. Guided by experienced indigenous shamans, the transformative journey includes traditional practices and ensures participants connect deeply with nature and their inner selves. Held daily in intimate settings, the ceremony is complemented by organic meals and comfortable accommodations, creating a nurturing environment for personal reflection and healing.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Andes Mountains Peru
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Andes Mountains Peru we have recnetly reviewed
- 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Andes Mountains Peru
- 8 Best 3 Day Tours In Andes Mountains Peru
- 6 Best 4 Day Tours In Andes Mountains Peru
- 5 Best Full-Day Tours In Andes Mountains Peru
- 6 Best Lunch Experiences In Andes Mountains Peru
- From Arequipa: Climbing and Hiking Chachani Volvano |2D-1N|
- Cusco: ATVs in Huaypo Lake & Maras Salt Mines
- Visit Suycutambo Canyon : Private Transport
- Visit Peru in 14 Days | Lima-Huacachina-Cusco-Puno-Arequipa
- From Cusco: Choquequirao Adventure With Meal |6days-5nights|
- Marcahuasi Experience in Lima
- Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in 4 Days|| Hotel 4*