Sumac Kawsay Healing Retreat
6 days in the Ecuadorian Andes with Krystal Sandoval and Barbara Sanchez
February 12th - February 18th 2026
$4800 (payment plans are available)
This retreat is more than travel — it is an immersion into Sumaq Kawsay, the ancestral Andean philosophy of living in beauty and harmony. Rooted in ancient wisdom, Sumaq Kawsay calls us to live in balance: with our own bodies and emotions, with the Earth that sustains us, with our communities and relationships, and with the unseen forces that guide us.
For the Andean peoples, true well-being is never found in isolation. Instead, it flows from reciprocity — the sacred exchange of giving and receiving with respect. It is an invitation to slow down, listen deeply, and remember that we are apart of something much greater than ourselves.
Throughout this curated experience, you will be guided into a rhythm of connection and presence. Mornings begin with restorative movement to awaken your body. Days unfold with intimate encounters with local communities, immersive cultural experiences, and private ceremonies that honor both the land and your own inner journey. Evenings invite reflection, nourishing cuisine, and meaningful conversation.
Every detail has been designed for you to feel both held and inspired — blending luxury and adventure with profound cultural connection. This is not simply a journey abroad; it is a reawakening of how you walk through life.
Itinerary:
Day 1 | Thursday, February 12 – Arrival in Cuenca
Arrive in Cuenca at Mariscal Lamar International Airport and be greeted by your private driver for transfer to your boutique hotel. This evening, enjoy an intimate welcome dinner—an introduction to the flavors, connections, and journey ahead.
Day 2 | Friday, February 13 – Cuenca to Alausí
Begin with Pilates and a nourishing breakfast before traveling to Alausí. Board the legendary Nariz del Diablo train, followed by a cultural immersion and lunch with the Nizag community. Arrive at your mountain hacienda for dinner and our Opening Ceremony.
Days 3–6 | Saturday, February 14 – Tuesday, February 16: Immersion in the Andes
The hacienda becomes your sanctuary in the sacred Andes. Over these days, experience a blend of ritual and adventure. Guided by Manuel, guardian of the land, and Sebastian Mejía, expert trekking guide, along with Krystal and Barbara facilitating personal and spiritual exploration.
Day 6 | Tuesday, February 16: Return to Cuenca & Evening Celebration
Descend from the mountains to Cuenca’s colonial charm. Stroll historic streets, explore artisan shops, and savor a final celebration dinner at the acclaimed La María Cocina Libre.
Day 7 | Wednesday, February 17: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast together before private transfer to the airport—or onward adventures. Depart carrying the essence of the Andes and the connections forged.
Included in Your Experience:
Six Nights of Bespoke Accommodations: From the refined charm of Cuenca to the secluded sanctuary of Hacienda Paraíso, your stays are designed to restore. Private rooms can be arranged on request.
Culinary Journeys: Three nourishing, locally-inspired vegetarian meals daily, prepared to nourish the body.
Mind & Body Awakening: Morning Pilates and curated movement, meditation and breath work sessions.
Integration & Reflection: Guided support before, during, and after your Andean immersion, allowing insights to unfold naturally.
Seamless Travel: Private transfers, airport pick-up and drop-off, and expert guidance throughout.
Immersive Guidance: Local caretakers and certified trekking guides revealing hidden paths and sacred landscapes.
Curated Essentials: Thoughtful provisions for your adventure days.
Not Included:
International flights
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenir
Optional Medicine Ceremony ($60)
Meet the team
Krystal Sandoval is a Medicine woman whose healing work draws from both Indigenous wisdom and modern medicine. Her practice is informed by over ten years of experience providing one-on-one patient care in both the hospital setting and through traditional healing.
Her trauma-informed perspective addresses mental health challenges and their physical manifestations in the body through techniques like energetic healing, somatic sound healing, herbalism, meditation, breathing practices and traditional plant medicine.
Calli Cura’s identity is rooted in ancient Mesoamerican medicine practices and guided by Krystal’s continued research and apprenticeship under elders within her community, familial lineage and shamans in the Amazon jungle. She honors her Indigenous lineage by proudly uplifting, reviving and utilizing these Indigenous epistemologies, sciences and healing systems.
Meet the Team
At the heart of this experience is a team devoted to care, presence, and authenticity. Each of us brings unique gifts—whether in healing, culture, or guidance—woven together with one intention: to hold space for your transformation and healing. We’re here not just as facilitators, but as companions walking alongside you on this healing journey.
Meet the Team
Krystal Sandoval is a Medicine woman whose healing work draws from both Indigenous wisdom and modern medicine. Her practice is informed by over ten years of experience providing one-on-one patient care in both the hospital setting and through traditional healing.
Her trauma-informed perspective addresses mental health challenges and their physical manifestations in the body through techniques like energetic healing, somatic sound healing, herbalism, meditation, breathing practices and traditional plant medicine.
Calli Cura’s identity is rooted in ancient Mesoamerican medicine practices and guided by Krystal’s continued research and apprenticeship under elders within her community, familial lineage and shamans in the Amazon jungle. She honors her Indigenous lineage by proudly uplifting, reviving and utilizing these Indigenous epistemologies, sciences and healing systems.
FAQs
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You’ll arrive at Mariscal Lamar International Airport (CUE) in Cuenca, a charming, boutique airport just 10–15 minutes from the city center, offering a seamless and welcoming start to your journey.
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Yes. Wi-Fi will be available at each of our accommodations and locations throughout the journey.
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In February, the Ecuadorian Andes offer cool mountain air, crisp mornings, and the occasional refreshing rain.
Cuenca and Alausí both average daytime highs around 61°F (16°C) and cooler evenings near 43–45°F (6–7°C). Sunshine is balanced with periods of rainfall, and the UV index remains strong despite the cooler climate.
We recommend layered clothing—light sweaters, long sleeves, and a warm jacket for the evenings—along with a waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear for rain. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are also essential to stay comfortable under the Andean sun. Thoughtful preparation will ensure you remain both comfortable and at ease throughout your journey.
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Once your registration is complete, you’ll receive our thoughtfully curated packing guide. We encourage you to travel light, bringing only what you truly need so your journey feels effortless and unburdened.
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During the initial consultation and 3 preparatory sessions I will develop an individualized treatment plan that consists of a combination of indigenous healing techniques and western medicine practices to aid in your healing journey. Over many years of research, travel and learning under my elders I have filtered and cross referenced these healing methods with my knowledge of western medicine and neuroscience in order to provide efficacious and safe practices to assist in your healing process.
I operate with the Understanding that every human’s biology is different and not all healing practices are a “one size fits all”. Your 1:1 medicine work sessions are 100% tailored to what you need and what works for you. This can include any one of the stand alone services, coaching and/or other services not listed specific to your condition.
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The process is thoughtfully planned and curated to optimize the healing outcome. The three prep sessions are the average number of sessions it takes for most individuals to begin this process and share all the necessary information in order for me to better understand your experience, and create the best healing plan for you. Again this is tailored 100% to your needs, so if we are ready to jump into the work at session two or not until session five, then that’s what we will do!
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You'll have an opportunity to purchase local handmade crafts like jewelry and ceramics. We suggest $250 in personal spending cash.
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Your health and well-being are our highest priority. While illnesses such as malaria, yellow fever, and hepatitis exist in parts of Ecuador, they are easily preventable with proper precautions.
No immunizations are required for direct entry into Ecuador unless you are arriving from an endemic area. A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you are transiting through another South American country—even briefly at an airport—or entering Ecuador from an endemic zone.
For the most up-to-date guidance, we recommend consulting the CDC website (cdc.gov/travel) or your Ecuadorian consulate. As a general precaution, many travelers maintain current Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus vaccinations. If considering typhoid, the oral vaccine is often preferred for fewer side effects.
Please speak with your healthcare provider or a trusted travel clinic to ensure your personal needs are met before departure.
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Calli Cura Studios is located in South Orange county, CA.
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Ecuador uses the US dollar as its official currency, so there’s no need for exchange. We recommend bringing smaller denominations—primarily $1, $5, and $10 bills—as many local vendors and businesses may not carry change for larger notes. Having cash in these smaller amounts will make day-to-day purchases smooth and effortless.
ATMs are available only in larger cities, and PIN numbers must be 4 digits or fewer. You’ll have access to ATMs in Cuenca upon arrival and again in Alausí, though we encourage arriving with some cash on hand for convenience.
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61+ days before the retreat: You will receive a 50% refund of payments made, less a non-refundable $500 administrative fee.
31–60 days before the retreat: You will receive a 20% refund of payments made, less the non-refundable $500 administrative fee.
0–30 days before the retreat: No refunds will be issued.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to hello@barbieenruta.com.
Please note: We are unable to offer refunds or discounts for late arrivals, early departures, flight cancellations, travel delays, or illness.
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Some international itineraries route through Quito or Guayaquil before reaching Cuenca. From either city, it’s just a short 45-minute domestic flight. For the most seamless travel experience, we recommend booking your ticket directly through to CUE (Cuenca Airport).
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If you wish to arrive early, you’re welcome to enjoy some extra time discovering the charm of Cuenca.
We’ll provide curated recommendations for boutique hotels, fine dining, and local experiences. On the day of retreat check-in, a private driver will collect you directly from your hotel for a seamless start to your journey.
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Most lodging will be shared with another retreat participant, fostering connection, community, and an important part of the healing process. If a private room is important to you, please email us at krystal@callicura.com, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Note: At Hacienda Paraiso, all accommodations follow the lodge’s shared style, which is integral to the immersive and healing experience of the retreat.
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Yes—your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date to Ecuador. Passports expiring within six months will not be accepted, so we recommend checking yours now to allow time for renewal if needed. Travelers with Canadian or U.S. passports do not require a visa for entry.
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For your peace of mind, we require all participants to secure travel insurance, covering both medical needs and flight cancellations. Travel in remote and mountainous regions can be unpredictable, and insurance ensures you can focus fully on your journey with confidence and ease.
The Sumaq Kawsay Retreat is a homecoming — a gentle return to the truth that you are already whole. Nothing is missing. Nothing is broken. You are simply remembering your own harmony.
Here, in the mountains… breathing the morning mist… sitting in circle with community… you reconnect to what it feels like to be held by the land and fully alive in your body. You remember love — not as a concept, but as your nature.
And when you return home, that remembrance comes with you. It shows up in your relationships, in your work, in the way you move through the world — soft, grounded, renewed, and awake.
We would be honored to share this experience with you.
The Sumaq Kawsay Retreat is a homecoming — a gentle return to the truth that you are already whole. Nothing is missing. Nothing is broken. You are simply remembering your own harmony.
Here, in the mountains… breathing the morning mist… sitting in circle with community… you reconnect to what it feels like to be held by the land and fully alive in your body. You remember love — not as a concept, but as your nature.
And when you return home, that remembrance comes with you. It shows up in your relationships, in your work, in the way you move through the world — soft, grounded, renewed, and awake.
We would be honored to share this experience with you.