We set out before sunrise, venturing through the majestic Andes by bus. Our journey includes a brief exploration of the quaint colonial village of Paucartambo before reaching Ajanaco, the official gateway to the Manu Biosphere Reserve at around 3400 m altitude. Today’s adventure entails descending nearly 2 kilometers down the breathtaking Eastern Andean slope, where we pause several times to stretch and marvel at the changing flora and fauna.

Entering the lush cloud forest, we embark on our first extended hike, encountering an abundance of colorful bird species like the paradise tanager, umbrella bird and golden-headed quetzal. This mystical forest is also home to elusive mammals such as the grey deer and the Andean spectacled bear. Our walk culminates at the lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, where male birds showcase dazzling displays of color, song and dance to woo the ladies.

As we arrive at Posada San Pedro and settle into our accommodations, we gather for our inaugural Group Circle. With Yin Yoga and Meditation, we unwind from the day’s journey and replenish our spirits. Then we are ready for a restful night’s sleep in this precious cloud forest environment.

In the serenity of the cloud forest, green foliage blends with the very essence of the air, creating the right atmosphere for a meditative walk. Amidst the wakening forest, we may encounter foraging monkeys, colorful birds and delicate butterflies along the winding road.

Back at our yoga lodge, we immerse ourselves in the rejuvenating practices of Kundalini Yoga and Chakra activation. In the afternoon, we have time for personal reflection, before our Vinyasa Yoga and Pranayama sessions. As dusk descends, we receive a guided meditaiton, integrating the soothing sounds of the cloud forest.

At night, we gather for our Group Circle, sharing experiences and laying the groundwork for new friendships.

At the first light of dawn, we embark on another meditative walk, attuning ourselves to the rhythm of the cloud forest. This is followed by our balancing Vinyasa Yoga and Pranayama session. The we delve further into the intricacies of Chakra Activation, deepening our connection to the subtle energies within. 

In the early afternoon, after a last Group Circle with the people who return to Cusco today (3-day Retreat), our journey continues by bus to the lush expense of the lowland rainforest. Along the way, we see scenic villages, and explore a coca plantation, steeped in rich cultural and historical significance.

Arriving at the little port of Atalaya, at an elevation of 650 meter, we board a long canoe with outboard motor, to travel two-and-a-half-hour down the beautiful Alto Madre de Dios River.

We arrive at Pantiacolla Lodge, that is nestled at the base of the intriguing Pantiacolla Mountain Range. The forest around the lodge is very special, as this is the exact area where the Andean and Amazonian ecosystems meet. It has birds, insects and vegetation of both zones, plus a remarkable 9 monkey species, among them the howler monkeys, saddle-backed tamarins and the rare monk saki monkey.

After a nice chill out in your hammock, we will do our Vinyasa Yoga practice, Pranayama plus a Nature Meditaton session. In the evening, we take our first night walk, looking for insects, lizards, frogs, and the only noctural monkey of the Amazon, the «Douroucouli».

Returning to the lodge, we end the day with an introduction to the practice of Focusing and our Group Circle to share experiences.

As the jungle stirs with the first light, we set out to explore the trails of Pantiacolla Lodge, attuning our senses to the pulse of nature. Amidst the Howler Monkeys` morning chorus, we seek to connect with the diverse creatures that call this place home.

Pantiacolla Lodge boasts a wealth of birdlife, from the vibrant Masked Crimson Tanager to the elusive Crested Quetzal, each a marvel to behold. Alongside, we may encounter mammals like peccaries and deer, and with luck, catch a glimpse of the magnificent Morpho butterfly.

Today, we have an active Kundalini Yoga session, Nature Meditation and Chakra Activation, intertwined with nature exploration. In the eveneing we visit the Ranachocha pond, hoping to find the beautiful tree- and poison-arrow frogs that live here. We end the day with Focusing, our Group Circle and a guided meditation.

By daybreak we embark on a 40-minute boat journey, to reach the relaxing Hot Springs of Shintuya. Here, amidst natural splendor, we immerse ourselves in its therapeutic waters.

The serene ambiance of the hot springs also offer an ideal setting for meditation, allowing us to connect deeply with ourselves and nature, enriching ourselves with the energy of this vibrant place. We end with our Closing Circle.

Then we venture across the river to Shintuya, where our boat waits for our return travels. 

Along the winding way back up the Andes, we pause to explore a botanical garden, a sanctuary of amazing orchids and shining hummingbirds, showcasing nature’s exquisite craftsmanship. 

Continuing our ascent towards Cusco at 3,400 meters, we are treated to breathtaking vistas outside the bus window. We can reflect on the transformative experience of the past days, recognizing the expansiveness of our hearts and the deeper connection forged with the natural world.