The Retreat: Machu Picchu

Deep in the Sacred Valley

Deep in the Peruvian Andes, between towering mountains and ancient Incan terraces, lies the Sacred Valley of the Incas—a landscape steeped in history, mystery, and wonder. For centuries, this valley served as the cultural heart of the Inca Empire. Even today, its dramatic scenery and archaeological sites create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.

From the fortress town of Ollantaytambo to the mysterious terraces of Moray and the shimmering salt pools of Maras, the valley reveals layers of history that stretch back hundreds of years. For this Retreat, we have crafted an experience that blends exploration, luxury, and the friendship that has made previous Retreats so memorable.

The Retreat Experience

Day 1 — Journey to the Sacred Valley

Guests arrive in Cusco, where transfers bring everyone into the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our home for the next three nights is Tambo del Inka, one of the most beautiful luxury resorts in Peru. Set beside the Urubamba River and surrounded by dramatic Andean peaks, it provides the perfect setting to begin the Retreat. That evening, we gather for our welcome dinner and the first magical sessions of the event.

Day 2 — Discovery of Ollantaytambo

Today, we explore one of the most remarkable towns of the Inca Empire. Ollantaytambo remains one of the best-preserved Incan settlements in Peru. Its immense stone terraces climb the mountainside above a living historic town where narrow cobbled streets feel unchanged for centuries. The day offers time to explore, share magic, and experience one of the most extraordinary landscapes in South America.

Day 3 — The Mysteries of Moray & Maras

Today, we venture deeper into the Sacred Valley. At Moray, enormous circular terraces descend into the earth like a giant amphitheatre. Believed to have been an agricultural laboratory used by the Incas, the site remains one of Peru’s most fascinating archaeological mysteries. Nearby lie the remarkable Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of small salt pools cascade down the mountainside, creating one of the most striking landscapes in the Andes. We return to Tambo del Inka for another evening of conversation, magic, and shared experiences.

Day 4 — The Machu Picchu Adventure

Some destinations feel almost mythical. For centuries, stories circulated of an ancient city hidden high in the Andes Mountains—a citadel lost to time. In 1911, American explorer Hiram Bingham revealed its existence to the world. Today, Machu Picchu remains one of the most breathtaking places on Earth.

Our journey begins aboard the panoramic Vistadome train, widely regarded as one of the most scenic railway journeys in South America. Large panoramic windows offer uninterrupted views as the train winds through the Sacred Valley. Mountains rise dramatically on both sides while the Urubamba River flows far below. As the valley narrows and the mountains grow higher, anticipation builds.

Upon arrival, we ascend into the mountains where the legendary citadel finally appears. Terraces cascade down steep slopes. Stone temples align perfectly with the surrounding peaks. Clouds drift slowly across the mountains that frame the entire site. Standing among these ancient structures is one of those rare travel moments that truly lives up to its reputation.

Following our visit to Machu Picchu, we return by train through the Sacred Valley before continuing to Cusco. Our final evening together takes place at the historic Palacio del Inka, a beautifully restored palace built upon ancient Inca foundations. That night, we celebrate the journey together in one of South America’s most historic cities.

Day 5 — Cusco Farewell

The morning offers time to explore this remarkable city. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a fascinating blend of ancient stone architecture and Spanish colonial influence. Wander the cobbled streets around the Plaza de Armas, visit historic churches and markets, or simply take time to enjoy one final coffee while overlooking the city’s beautiful rooftops and surrounding mountains.

Exceptional Hotels

The Retreat experience is defined not only by the destinations we visit, but also by the exceptional places we stay.

Tambo del Inka — Sacred Valley

Set beside the Urubamba River in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is widely regarded as one of the finest hotels in the region. Surrounded by dramatic Andean mountains and lush valley landscapes, the resort offers an exceptional blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Andean design.

The property has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler and consistently ranks among the top luxury resorts in Peru. Its remarkable setting in the Sacred Valley makes it an extraordinary base for exploring one of the most beautiful regions of the Andes.

Palacio del Inka — Cusco

Located in the historic heart of Cusco, Palacio del Inka is one of the city’s most iconic heritage hotels. Built upon centuries-old Incan foundations and rich with colonial history, the property blends historic architecture with refined modern comfort. Renowned for its atmosphere and cultural significance, the hotel has frequently been recognised among the top hotels in South America, offering a truly memorable setting for our final evening in the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

Why the Retreat?

The Retreat has always been designed as something very different from a traditional magic convention. Attendance is intentionally limited, creating an atmosphere that is personal, relaxed, and genuinely immersive. Rather than rushing between lectures and performances, the focus is on meaningful time together—sharing ideas, exploring remarkable destinations, and experiencing magic in extraordinary settings.

Because this isn't just another magic event—it's a journey that keeps people coming back year after year. Many of our attendees are repeat guests who have become like family, drawn not only by the magic but by the deep sense of community, inspiration, and shared adventure that defines every Retreat. It is a rare blend of world-class magic, refined travel, and cultural discovery.

What our guests appreciate most is the opportunity to experience an extraordinary destination without the usual planning headaches. From the moment you arrive to the moment you depart, everything has been thoughtfully arranged. There are no logistics to manage, no reservations to coordinate, and no schedules to navigate. You simply arrive and enjoy the experience.

The intimate nature of the Retreat also fosters friendships unlike those formed at typical conventions. Many guests discover that when they later attend other magic events around the world, they already have a ready-made circle of friends waiting for them. The community extends far beyond The Retreat itself, creating connections that continue long after the journey ends.

A Retreat for Magicians and the People Who Love Them

What makes The Retreat: Machu Picchu truly special is that it is not just for magicians—it has been thoughtfully designed with spouses and partners in mind. This is one of the few magic gatherings where guests are genuinely encouraged to bring their loved ones along and share the experience together. Days are filled with discovery and adventure—exploring ancient Inca sites, travelling through the Andes, and experiencing one of the most remarkable destinations on Earth. And each evening we gather for unforgettable performances and moments of wonder that everyone can enjoy, whether you have loved magic for years or are simply here for the magic of the moment.

The Retreat attracts magicians from around the world who share a love of travel and exploration. Some attend for the magic. Others come for the destination.

But most come for the rare opportunity to step away from the everyday and experience something truly memorable—together.