- Reconnect with nature through guided bush walks and active meditations.
- Experience spiritual renewal with shamanic drumming and ancestral healing ceremonies.
- Enjoy holistic meals tailored to your dietary needs.
- Relax and explore the serene natural reserve at your leisure.
- 10-day transformative journey to the Andes Mountains.
- Guided horseback expedition led by experienced Arrieros.
- Immersive activities: meditation, nature walks, thermal baths, and cultural ceremonies.
- All-inclusive meals and accommodations at Hacienda San Rafael and mountain tents.
Hacienda Package
A Transformative Journey to Reconnect and Heal
Embark on a four-day immersive experience designed to deepen your connection with Mother Earth, awaken your inner wisdom, and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. The Hacienda Package offers a perfect blend of spiritual, recreational, and healing activities in our breathtaking valleys in San Rafael. Here, you’ll embrace ancient wisdom, celebrate personal growth, and create lifelong memories.
What Awaits You:
Ceremonies of Gratitude and Healing
- Participate in fire pit gatherings, where we honor the Earth and ancestors.
- Engage in ceremonial rites, including a sacred labyrinth-building activity and a bonfire with gratitude offerings.
Workshops Rooted in Ancient Wisdom
- Andiosas Marianas Workshop (Days 1 & 2):
Discover the feminine nurturing force and the legacy of Aboriginal women from Uluru to the Andes. Through shamanic journeys, ancestral sounds, and oracle readings, you’ll tap into multidimensional wisdom to empower your being. - Shamanic Journey Workshop (Days 3 & 4):
Experience the vibrational power of native drums to release stress, reconnect with your animal guides, and honor Pachamama. This practice induces deep relaxation and activates holistic healing on all levels.
Experiential Nature Activities
- Guided walks through bushland, farmland, and native forests—active meditations to harmonize with the land.
- Swim in pristine rivers originating from the Andes for spiritual cleansing and regeneration.
- Morning horse riding or shamanic dance to invigorate your connection with movement and spirit.
Cultural and Spiritual Reconnection
- Learn the art of Sintergetica medicine tools for self-healing.
- Explore ancestral landscapes and join the “Circle of Mountain Dreamers.”
- Dive into psychological tarot sessions and discover your inner archetypes.
Moments of Rest and Reflection
- Spend free time exploring the family’s natural reserve or relaxing in serene locations around the hacienda.
- Experience the silence of the night under a stunning canopy of stars.
Why Choose the Hacienda Package?
Holistic Nourishment
All meals are thoughtfully crafted to support your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Specific dietary requirements are happily accommodated.
Expert Guidance
Our experienced facilitators ensure every workshop, journey, and activity is safe, enriching, and tailored to your personal growth.
Reconnect, Renew, Rejoice
Leave the daily hustle behind and reconnect with the natural rhythms of life. Heal, reflect, and emerge empowered to embrace a more meaningful existence.
Reserve your spot in the Hacienda Package today and step into a journey that transforms, heals, and uplifts! 🌿
Andes Package
A Transformative Journey to Reconnect and Heal
Embark on a transformative 10-day journey into the heart of the Andes Mountains, where adventure meets spiritual rejuvenation. Guided by experienced Arrieros, this expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect deeply with nature, culture, and oneself.
What Awaits You:
Horseback Expedition:
Commence your adventure from Santiago, traveling south to San Rafael. Over three days at the traditional Hacienda San Rafael, engage in ceremonies of gratitude, individual and collective healing, and immerse yourself in recreational activities. On the fourth day, embark on a horseback journey led by skilled muleteers into the pristine heights of the Andes, reaching our base camp situated at an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters.
Immersive Mountain Experience:
Spend six days enveloped by untouched natural beauty, participating in activities designed to nourish the spirit and promote well-being:
- Active Meditation: Practice the Five Tibetan Rites, a series of exercises aimed at enhancing physical strength, energy, and mindfulness.
- Nature Walks: Explore ancestral landscapes, locating ceremonial sites, and embracing the role of a “Circle of Mountain Dreamers.”
- Spring River Baths & Hot Springs: Rejuvenate in natural waters, embracing the therapeutic benefits of the environment.
- Fire Pit Gatherings & Campfires: Connect with fellow travelers through storytelling, music, and dance, fostering a sense of community.
- Sun, Moon, and Star Gazing: Experience the tranquility of the night under a canopy of stars, enhancing your connection to the cosmos.
- Spiritual Reconnection: Engage in healing modalities, including shamanic drumming and Sintergetica medicine—a comprehensive system integrating wisdom from various medicinal traditions to restore and maintain health energetically.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn from local Arrieros about the rich culture and stories of the area, and savor traditional Chilean gastronomy prepared by our accompanying cook.
Detailed Itinerary:
- Day 1:
- Morning: Depart from Santiago to San Rafael, passing through Chimbarongo, renowned for its wicker crafts.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Hacienda San Rafael.
- Evening: Welcome dinner and accommodation at the hacienda.
- Days 2-3:
- Activities: Participate in gratitude ceremonies, healing sessions, and recreational activities.
- Meals & Accommodation: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided; stay at Hacienda San Rafael.
- Day 4:
- Morning: Begin horseback journey into the Andes Mountains.
- Afternoon: Arrive at base camp.
- Evening: Settle into tents; communal dinner prepared by the cook.
- Days 5-8:
- Activities: Engage in meditation, nature walks, thermal baths, and cultural exchanges.
- Meals & Accommodation: All meals provided; accommodation in tents.
- Day 9:
- Morning: Conclude mountain activities.
- Afternoon: Return horseback ride to Hacienda San Rafael.
- Evening: Farewell dinner and accommodation at the hacienda.
- Day 10:
- Morning: Breakfast at the hacienda.
- Afternoon: Depart for Santiago, arriving by late afternoon.
Why Choose the Andes Package?
Embark on an Authentic Horseback Adventure
Experience the Andes Mountains as the locals have for centuries—on horseback. Guided by skilled Arrieros, you’ll traverse pristine trails, forging a deep connection with both your horse and the breathtaking natural surroundings.
Rejuvenate in Natural Hot Springs
After a day of exploration, unwind in the region’s natural hot springs. These thermal waters offer a serene setting to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate, enhancing your overall well-being amidst the tranquil mountain backdrop.
Immerse Yourself in Cultural and Spiritual Practices
Engage in activities that nourish the mind and spirit, including active meditation sessions accompanied by shamanic drumming and journeys. Participate in traditional ceremonies and savor the rich gastronomy of the Andes, fostering a profound connection to the region’s heritage.
FAQ
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
If you need to cancel your trip, Natural Retreats Chile will refund the amount paid, minus reasonable costs and any fees imposed by other service providers. Cancellation fees may increase as the trip start date approaches. For cancellations made more than 60 days prior to departure, charges are typically limited to the deposit. Cancellations within 60 days of departure may incur charges up to 100% of the total cost. Please note, there are no refunds for unused services after the trip has commenced.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or vegan preferences?
Yes, we offer alternative meal options to cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan preferences. Please inform us of any specific requirements when booking.
How is equipment transported during the mountain excursions?
We utilize mules to carry all necessary equipment during our rides, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for you. Additionally, porters assist throughout the journey and during our stay in the mountains.
What costs are not included in the trip price?
The following expenses are not included:
- Air tickets (unless expressly indicated)
- Visa and passport costs
- Travel insurance
- Excess baggage fees
- Airport taxes
- Local taxes and charges (e.g., taxis)
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls, drinks)
- Tips
- Meals not mentioned in the Packages.
What is the climate like, and how should I prepare?
Expect cold mornings and nights, with warmer temperatures during the day, ranging from 10°C to 35°C. We recommend dressing in layers and bringing appropriate clothing to accommodate these temperature variations.
What languages are spoken during the retreats?
Chileans speak Spanish with a strong accent but the language is basically the same with some different uses of words, as in Australian and American.
Anyone who has the opportunity to learn Spanish before visiting will benefit greatly from the effort and work put in. Many Chileans speak a little English, but it is rarer in the countryside or among the local people who work as guides for horse riding. Their skills lie elsewhere, but they are mostly good at non-verbal communication, coming from a background where reading and writing fluently is not the norm.
Basic phrases and words for horse riding.
Horse = Caballo
Reins= Riendas
Stirrups = Estribos
Saddle = Montura
Short = Corto/Corta
Shorten your reins = Acorta las riendas
Shorter stirrups = Estribos más cortos
Longer stirrups =Estribos más largos
¿Confortable? = Cómodo?
Up = Subir (as in subir a caballo: mount / subir la montaña: go up)
Down=Bajar (as in bajar del caballo: dismount / bajar la montaña: go down)
Left = Izquierda
Right = Derecha
Useful slangs to survive in Chile
Cachai? = Do you understand?
Chela = Beer
Bacan = Cool
La raja = Cool / Great
Weon = Stupid / Mate / Dude (meaning depends on context)
Wea = Stuff
Carrete = Party
Cuatico = Weird
Mula = Fake
Ni cagando = No way
Pajero = Lazy
Copete = Alcoholic drink
Piscola = Pisco + coke
Is travel insurance included in the trip package?
No, travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.
What should I know about international travel requirements?
You are responsible for complying with all immigration, passport, visa, health, quarantine, and customs regulations of the countries you visit or transit through. For official travel advice, consult the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at www.dfat.gov.au or call 1300 555 135 (within Australia). We recommend reviewing this information before booking and prior to departure.
What should I bring for the trip to the Andes Mountains?
We recommend bringing the following items:
- Sleeping bag, small pillow (optional), and self-inflating mat (optional)
- Riding gloves
- Appropriate outdoor clothing (e.g., mountain boots, wool socks, waterproof poncho)
- Personal items (e.g., camera, sunscreen, sunglasses)
What accommodations and services are included in the trip?
Our package includes:
- Shared room at Hacienda San Rafael
- Tents accommodating 2-3 people in the Andes Mountains
- All meals from day 1 to day 10
- Equipment transportation by mules
- Assistance from porters and a cook during the mountain stay
- Comfortable tents and individual tableware
- Guides and muleteers
- Round-trip transportation from Santiago to San Rafael and from San Rafael to the Andes Mountains
What items are not included in the trip package?
The following items are not included:
- International flight to Santiago, Chile
- International airport taxes
- Personal equipment (e.g., sleeping bag, pillow, self-inflating mat, waterproof poncho, riding gloves)
