Yes!

Travel Insurance is not included in the price of the retreat, but is highly recommended for ultimate protection. It is an optional purchase that covers your investment with Compass Yoga Retreat for any unforeseen problems that may arise in life. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have sufficient coverage and comply with the terms of the applicable insurance plans. If you opt to pass on added insurance, your investment is bound by the terms and conditions of Compass Yoga Retreats. Popular companies include: Faye, TravelInsurance.com, and World Nomads, or you can purchase through a travel consultant. To view a list of other recommended providers please click here.

Most international travelers book flights that land in Lima in the late evening / early morning and book a separate flight that connects ASAP to a morning flight to Cusco. If you have a long layover, you can book a room at the Lima Airport (Wyndham Costa del Sol).

Your transportation from Cusco airport to the venue is included in the retreat cost, and details will be arranged closer to the retreat date.

Check in is at 1:30pm.

Check out is at 10:00am. We will take take the shuttle together back to the port.
*If you need to leave early, you can arrange a private transfer to Cusco for $65.

Willka T’ika is situated at 9,420 ft elevation (2,881 m), and it is common to feel some effects of altitude sickness. Symptoms include dehydration, trouble sleeping, stomach discomfort (including diarrhea), nausea and/or headaches. If you are concerned about altitude sickness, we recommend making an appointment with your physician. There are also many herbal remedies available for purchase in Peru and growing naturally in Willka T’ika’s gardens!

Some ways to help avoid altitude sickness:

• Arrive in the area well hydrated. Drink at least 64ozs (8 cups) of water per day for at least a week before arriving.

• Avoid alcohol and rich foods the day that you arrive. Many visitors think that they have food poisoning when in fact it is altitude sickness.

• Take it easy the first day or two that you are at high altitude.

Medications:  It’s always a good idea to travel with your own travel medicines, especially in Peru. Pills for diarrhea (eg. Imodium), analgesics for headaches (eg. Tylenol or Ibuprofren), and antacids (eg. Pepto-Bismol or Tums) for indigestion are examples of things everyone should have handy. Your doctor may also recommend that you bring antibiotics for serious diarrhea (eg. Ciprofoxin) or anti-nausea medication (eg. Zofran).  The venue keeps a basic First Aid Kit at Willka T’ika and there are pharmacies nearby should you require any of these medications. Please be prepared and always take responsibility for your own health care.

Travel insurance is strongly recommend when visiting to Peru which makes it relatively easy to get reimbursed for any medical expenses incurred. 

Local chefs will prepare organic vegetarian cuisine to nourish your body and spirit. Experience a fusion of Andean flavors, unique local grains, herbs, and vegetables harvested daily from the venue’s own gardens. They can accommodate vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and special dietary requests.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Peru. Filtered and boiled water is provided in the reception areas. There will also be a jug of filtered water in the guest rooms so that you can brush your teeth with filtered water. Please bring your own water bottle, or purchase a reusable bottle at the venue.

All vegetables served are washed in filtered water. Ice is also prepared with filtered water.

Please be especially careful when venturing outside of the venue to eat, and only go to restaurants recommended by your guide. 

Although Willka T’ika was proud to be chosen by Vogue as “Best Digital Detox”, they have a dedicated WiFi area where guests can work on-line or call family and friends.

Peru uses 220 volts which means you should not bring hair dryers, shavers, or other appliances from the US. Laptops and phones generally have built in converters and can be charged without a problem.

Peruvians won’t accept any bills that are torn or very worn. Bring only crisp, new bills for shopping or tipping.

US dollars are accepted at Willka T’ika, but most places and people will prefer Peruvian Soles.

Credit cards can be used at Willka T’ika or at tourist stores or hotels. You can withdraw cash at the ATM machine in the airport or upon arrival in Urubamba. Just ask the taxi to stop at the “BCP” bank.

Willka T’ika’s staff works hard to make you feel welcome. Although you may not see them all, there are 20 people tending the 7 Chakra gardens, organic vegetables, buildings, kitchen, office, and bar. To show them your appreciation, you can leave a gratuity in the box by the bar. It will be shared equally by the staff.

Massage therapists are independent from resort staff and can be tipped directly. You can also leave an envelope for them in the office.

The winter months in Sacred Valley are sunny and dry. After sunset, it gets cold enough for a sweater or jacket. Since weather can change dramatically at high altitude, it is always wise to have a hat, rain/wind jacket and a few layers. Frost occurs only rarely.

Be prepared for relatively high elevations. Approximate elevations above sea-level: Willka T’ika’s 9,420 feet, Cusco’s 11,150 feet, Machu Picchu 7,800 feet

Click here for a suggest list of what to bring.

Laundry service is available with a 24-hour turns around. There is also a self-service area that guests can use to hand-wash their clothes.

Please see our FAQ page for our detailed terms and policy.

This retreat can accommodate up to 13 guests.