Pachamama Hampina Wasi: A Sacred Andean Retreat

A gentle sunrise begins to slowly awaken the world. Birds chirp a welcome to the dawn while lazy cats stretch. The windows of our adobe hut brighten as the thatch roof gently rustles in the breeze. Gratitude swells for the moment we are in, and the day that lies ahead. This is how a morning at Pachamama Hampina Wasi begins. 

Nestled high in the Andean mountains, Pachamama Hampina Wasi is a sacred spiritual retreat for energy healing. It is set in a beautiful rural town nestled in the mountains and offers a truly authentic and impactful stay. Partake in a ceremony of your choice, such as a sacred leaf ritual, fire healing, ritual baths, Andean Reiki, or Ayahuasca. Each experience is designed to release emotion, revitalize your energy, and reconnect with nature. Delicious locally sourced traditional dishes are served in the communal dining room and you get to stay overnight in a traditional Andean “choza”.

The surrounding area sets the tone for a magical visit. Fields of quinoa and potatoes blanket rolling hills that flow into the glittering lake. Dramatic mountains frame the valley in the distance. It is a place to feel grounded. The retreat is run by Marleni, a native medicine woman. Ceremonies are held on the grounds and in the traditional round stone temple. A ceremonial fire pit sits central in the temple framed by weaved grass matting. Plush cushions and warm blankets are scattered throughout. Colorful tapestries hang from the walls and small windows let in natural light and fresh air. This is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself and the natural world around you through the Andean way of life. 

The accommodations are a unique cluster of adobe huts, or choza, with traditional thatched roofing. The round rooms are cozy, with handmade furniture and an alpaca mattress. The blankets are heavy wool and alpaca fiber and super warm, with buttery soft sheets. The shower is beautifully painted and there is running water and a compostable toilet. 

Locally sourced meals are also served on site. For breakfast we enjoyed the fresh pancakes with fruit and Champurrado, a hot chocolate using corn flour. Our lunch was hot vegetable soup followed by fresh caught trout and quinoa with vegetables. The flavors were fantastic and we were super interested to learn about the traditional Andean recipes. Meals are served in a spacious dining room with communal tables and cozy seating areas. Large picture windows look out toward the temple and the panoramic view beyond. The well appointed indoor/outdoor kitchen is just off the main room in an open floor plan concept, making meals feel like a family affair. 

The magical-religious Andean ideologies focus on the spirits of the natural world. They revere the apus, sacred mountain spirits, as protectors of their villages and towns. Ceremonies are centered around giving thanks to the apu Pachamama (Mother Earth) for her lessons and provisions. Each ceremony is intimate and impactful. 

Coca leaves are abundant as a conduit to the spiritual world. Chewing coca leaves can be a way to alleviate ailments or bring clarity. When chewing the leaves, one can ask Pachamama for guidance on an important decision, and if the leaves turn sweet, that is affirmation. While if the leaves turn bitter, it is time to change paths.

There are several other things to see around the well-maintained property when not in the temple. Stone circles and meditation areas are set throughout, with an outdoor fire pit in the shape of an Andean cross. An elevated platform enclosed in glass provides an uninterrupted view of the valley, making visitors feel a sense of weightlessly floating in the clouds. A cozy reception area is decked out with local handmade products for sale and another comfortable seating area around a chiminea. These are great spaces for practicing yoga, reading, and meeting new friends. 

Our visit to Pachamama Hampina Wasi felt like coming home. We had a really profound and impactful experience with Marleni and her team that we will remember forever.