The Inirly Men’s Retreat: Peru is
Limited to 8 Brothers
Retreat price includes:
All stays while in Lima and Huaraz
All transportation to planned destinations except to and from the airport (Uber readily available)
Welcome Dinner in Lima
Celebration Dinner after Trek in Huaraz
Farewell Dinner in Lima
Gear in the “included” gear list and food while backpacking
RETREAT PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Personal backpacking gear (listed on the “should own” list)
Transport to and from the airport
Covid tests to enter Peru
All other meals not listed above while in Lima and Huaraz
THE PRICE IS $3,800
Reserve your spot with a $400 deposit
Deposits are non-refundable
Payment plans are available
FAQ
1. Why a men’s retreat?
Brotherhood. This retreat is a lived experience of inquiry into what it means to be a man, whether that is defined biologically, psychologically, or socially. We, as a group of men, are not only trekking into nature but into our own questions about what the world wants us to be and who we want to be. The ideals of strength, reliability, courage, faith, and resilience, are not specific to men but as a group of men, we can explore the archetype of manhood from a space that only we can.
2. I have no backpacking or camping experience, can I do this?
In regards to the technical dimensions of backpacking, you need no prior experience, as Niraj will instruct and support all of us, as a team, in the logistics of being in nature. However, the physical load of this retreat cannot be taken lightly. 40 miles, thousands of feet of elevation gain, and altitude will require a minimum level of physical strength and mental endurance. For this reason, prior to the retreat, training must be incorporated into your weekly routine.
3. What level of fitness do I need to do this?
You’ll need to train for this. Running will be necessary for endurance, as we’ll be hiking anywhere from 4 to 8 hours per day with around 50lbs on our backs. Leg strength will be necessary for the 14,000-foot ascents. Gym time! Squats and lunges are recommended. Niraj and I will provide a simple skeleton training program but, it’s up to you to take this seriously. There are endless resources of how to develop leg strength, workout routines, and exercise types for specific goals and bodies online. Build yourself. Prepare yourself.
4. I have no meditation experience, is this right for me?
We could say since you have no experience, this is perfect for you. You will have “the beginner’s mind,” an empty cup waiting to be filled with techniques that will support brand new experiences. The beauty of the Inirly meditation method is its simplicity. Exquisitely designed to support everyone from the novice to the expert, the meditation dimension of this experience is nothing to fret about. It is already yours.
5. Is Peru safe?
In our experience, Peru has been wonderfully safe. The people are kind and humble. Travel tips: keep your wits about, use common sense, and observe your environment. If you stay alert to your reality and are in the habit of making good choices, most countries are safe. Danger is so often the consequence of not paying attention.
6. Are there dangerous or poisonous animals in the Cordillera Blanca?
The Cordillera Blanca is almost a sterile environment. Niraj constantly reflected on the absence of wildlife except for the Cara Cara birds and Buzzard Eagles. The numerous valleys are home to many grazing cows, horses, and sheep. One Valley, and the miniscule village within it, herd Alpaca. Other than that, the light is green, the environment safe, and worries can be put to rest.
7. Is there leisure time during this retreat?
There is very little leisure time on this trip. Manhood is historically tethered to war. And war is tethered to missions. We have goals to accomplish, checkpoints to meet, and arduous commitments to see through. The only time you’ll have to relax and explore Peru as a tourist are hours in Lima at the very beginning and very end of the retreat.
There are scheduled rest times throughout the trek where the only thing you’ll want is to lay down and relax. There will also be opportunities to be alone with either meditation or journaling assignments. Not necessarily leisure, but leisure-esque.
8. Do I need to know Spanish?
Of course, knowing Spanish will help but no. Eben speaks Spanish and it’s not uncommon for Peruvians to speak English, especially in Lima. Besides that, the wild speaks only its own language, a language we all know, although we may have forgotten.
9. Do I need a Covid test?
Officially, no, you do not need a Covid test but, apparently, the airlines can dictate whether it is necessary for them or not. This is not a great answer but Niraj and Eben had different experiences getting to Peru. Eben only needed proof of vaccination. Niraj needed a Covid Test. That being said, the retreat is a year away. Legislation changes swiftly. As the travel dates approach we will keep those who signed up updated.
10. Do I need to bring a lot of cash?
In Lima, one of the largest cities in South America, credit cards work everywhere. In Huaraz, it’s the same. A few small bakeries and restaurants only take cash but there are ample ATMs around the city. We recommend having a little cash, always for unexpected circumstances; $100-$200 is more than enough.
11. What if I have allergies and/or take medication?
You will need to manage that on your own.
12. What if I have dietary restrictions?
Let us know via our contact page what your restrictions are and we will accomodate as best as possible.
13. Is the water safe to drink in Peru?
Bottled water is excessible everywhere. Some restaurants offer filtered water, which is reliable. While trekking we will be equipped with water-pump filters which have never let Niraj and I down.
14. Will I be sharing rooms?
In Lima, everyone will have a private room. While in Huaraz, each room in the Copacabana Lodge will be shared between two people. During the trek 3-person tents will be shared by two people, in the name of space and relative comfort.
15. How cold does it get?
At night it will reach, at most, below freezing (10-30 degrees). In the mountains, there are microclimates that create erratic weather conditions. At the lower elevations during the day the Sun was bright and air was warm. We will be visiting in the dry season, but clouds can collect in the valleys and produce light rains. Higher up, there can be hail, wind, and cold.
16. How hard is this going to be? “altitude”
That is a difficult question to answer. You will be tired but it all depends on your willingness to prepare throughout the year via exercise routines and meditation practice. Regarding altitude, everyone reacts differently. We recommend getting Diamox, an altitude sickness medication, just in case you are sensitive. Diamox is a readily available prescription that isn’t easily found in Peru. Talk to your doctor.
17. How amazing is this going to be?
More amazing than you can imagine.
18. What if I get injured on the trek?
This trek, while strenuous, is extremely safe. Weather and trail are predictable, enough. As long as we are present there is nothing to worry about. That being said, we will be equipped with a first-aid kit in case of minor injuries. If there is a major injury, villages are always, at most, a half-day hike away. As cars cannot access the interior of the trek, in case of a catastrophe, you’ll have to get tough and patient. There are numerous villagers shepherding goods through the valleys. The exit strategy would be to use a villager for transport to the closest exit village.
19. What’s the cancellation policy?
The $400 deposit is non-refundable. A full refund (minus deposit) is available 9 months prior to the retreat’s start date. 70% refund is available 6 months before the retreat start date. 50% refund is available 4 months before the retreat start date. No refunds are available if you cancel within 4 months of the retreat start date. This is because, this retreat is a commitment in a number of ways, especially physically. Back to ideals of manhood, his word is his bond. While life is unpredictable, in our eyes a man does what he says he will do. If hiccups arise, solutions are everywhere. A man finds them.