As more people across the globe look to shrubs, herbs and other vegetation for their natural wellbeing benefits, Aracari is anticipating a boom in traveling for wellness. After decades of working closely with local communities, we know that in Peru, making a return to Mother Earth’s own linctus cabinet is nothing new here. Peruvians have long cultivated crops for their medicinal and healing properties, and in fact – many of our guides are themselves encyclopaedias of knowledge on the properties of locally grown flora and fauna.

In the coming months, we predict many travelers will look to countries like Peru, choosing to journey in search of wellness travel retreats and wholesome experiences, which offer a sanctuary from their modern busy lives, especially after the stress and seclusion caused by numerous lockdowns. For Aracari’s longstanding hotel partner and owner of the premium wellness retreat Willka T’ika – Terry Cumes, this is welcome news.

A premium wellness retreat in the Sacred Valley

Aracari has had a strong relationship with Carol and Terry Cumes for a number of years. Founded in 1995 by Carol Cumes, Willka T’ika has become a pioneer of natural wellness in Peru. Marisol and her team have visited the wellness center more than once, while curating experiences in the Sacred Valley. Each visit has been a source of great inspiration, discovering more of the natural benefits of plants, flowers and native shrubs growing in their Seven Chakra Gardens. The grounds of which are tended to by no fewer than 19 Quechua farmers – who have continued the ancient practices of their forefathers, using medicinal plants to treat all manner of ailments.

In fact, it is this Seven Chakra Gardens, which has become the focus of a brand new Aracari wellness itinerary developed in partnership with our friends at Willka T’ika. For three, five or seven days, guests will be welcomed to this luxury wellness retreat.

An exclusive wellness itinerary designed for a complete, restorative experience

Informed by Aracari’s connections with leading wellness experts, every aspect of this exclusive itinerary is focused on the Pre-Incan wisdom that has formed a distinct part of Andean identity for generations. Each day is designed to focus on a different chakra, or energy center – aimed at providing a complete, restorative experience. In the sublime surroundings of the Sacred Valley, guests will be invited to practice mindful yoga, participate in traditional ceremony and carry out a selection of exclusive wellness activities. Each of these restorative sessions will be paired with a specific plant, herb, flower or essential oil – expertly suggested by the local Quechua groundmen.

It’s this indigenous knowledge that has formed the cornerstone of what it means to travel with Aracari, not just in our traveling for wellness itinerary but in all experiences offered. Marisol and her team have incorporated the incredible wisdom of the local communities to ensure authenticity, as well as purposeful connection with Peru and her people. The Aracari ethos is to showcase precious ancient practices to our guests, those that have for centuries, formed a deep-rooted relationship between the people of the Andes and Mother Earth’s own natural remedies.

Combining travel for wellness in Peru, with classic highlights such as Machu Picchu

Of course, those who choose travelling for wellness in Peru with Aracari, won’t miss out on the more typical trail either. This tailormade wellness itinerary will culminate in a visit to Machu Picchu, before heading to a luxury rainforest lodge for an overnight stay in the canopy. The final days of this private journey will be spent in Cusco exploring the winding streets of one of South America’s most beautiful cities.

After such turbulent times, Aracari are transporting you to Peru, to learn the ancient practice of natural wellness, reconnecting with Mother Earth and her elemental forces. An immersive experience delivered by those who for generations, have taught the art of herbal healing.

And since it’s not yet possible to deliver the serenity and wisdom of the Willka T’ika retreat in person, in coming weeks you can discover more about the specific flowers, plants and herbs, along with their different healing properties. In an Aracari exclusive, we will connect you to native  wisdom – wherever you are in the world.

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Discover a day-by-day view of Aracari’s wellness travel itinerary here, designed in partnership with Willka T’ika, for those traveling for wellness in Peru.

For more Peruvian travel insights and recommendations from our Travel Designers, follow us on Instagram @aracaritravel.