This Wilderness Vigil is a structured program combining ancient rite-of-passage traditions with modern wilderness therapy practices. Participants undergo a three-phase journey (Severance, Threshold, Incorporation) including 3 days/nights of solo wilderness experience supported by comprehensive safety protocols and professional facilitation.
This program honors both indigenous Andean traditions and pan-cultural vision quest practices, conducted in partnership with local Q’ero communities and in accordance with Wilderness Guides Council ethical standards.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
Participants will:
Develop self-reliance through extended solo wilderness experience
Practice mindfulness and presence through structured solitude and nature immersion
Navigate life transitions using wilderness as mirror and teacher
Build resilience through voluntary discomfort and weather exposure
Cultivate inner clarity through removal of external distractions
Connect with nature as a source of guidance and reflection
Integrate experiences through structured storytelling and witnessing
Therapeutic Goals:
Process life transitions and threshold moments
Clarify personal values and life purpose
Release outdated patterns and beliefs
Strengthen connection to inner wisdom
Develop practices for ongoing self-reflection
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
Phase 1: SEVERANCE (Days 1-2)
Objective: Prepare participants physically, mentally, and spiritually for solo experience
Activities:
Opening council and intention setting
Land orientation and site selection
Safety briefings and emergency protocols
Phase 2: THRESHOLD (Days 3-5)
Objective: Facilitate transformative solo wilderness experience
Format: 3 days/3 nights solo fasting vigil (water only, food modifications available)
Phase 3: INCORPORATION (Days 6-7)
Objective: Integrate solo experience and bridge to daily life
Activities:
Threshold return ceremony
RISK MANAGEMENT & SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Environmental Hazards & Mitigation
Altitude (12,000 ft):
2-day acclimatization before solo
Participant screening for altitude sensitivity
Evacuation plan for altitude sickness
Pulse oximeter monitoring available
Weather (Rainy Season):
Comprehensive weather briefings
Quality shelter requirements (10×10 silnylon tarps minimum)
Wool/synthetic clothing requirements
Lightning safety protocols
Flash flood avoidance site selection
Wildlife:
Participant education on local fauna
Food storage protocols (though fasting)
Scorpion/spider prevention practices
Medical & Emergency Protocols
Pre-Quest Screening:
Comprehensive medical history form
Mental health assessment
Prescription medication management
Dietary restriction accommodations
On-Site Safety:
Satellite communication device (Zoleo)
First aid station at base camp
Evacuation insurance required
Local medical contact established (Clinica Cusco)
Emergency evacuation plan (30-minute to road access)
Participant Safety Gear:
List provided upon registration
Psychological Safety
Screening Process:
Application and interview required
Mental health history reviewed
Previous wilderness experience assessed
Support system evaluation
Support Protocols:
Daily welfare checks
Option to return to base camp anytime
Post-quest integration support (30 days)
Professional referral network available
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
Indigenous Partnership
Program conducted with permission from local Q’ero communities
Land use fees paid to Comunidad Campesina de Maras
Local guides hired as cultural liaisons
Traditional offerings ceremony included (despacho)
Cultural protocols and taboos respected
Ethical Framework
Acknowledgment of traditional vision quest origins
Respect for Andean cosmology and practices
No appropriation of specific indigenous ceremonies
Clear distinction between inspired-by vs. traditional practices
Economic benefit to local communities prioritized
POST-PROGRAM SUPPORT
Integration Offerings
30-day email support included
Group video call at 2 weeks
1:1 integration session available
Resource list for continued practice
Referral network for ongoing support
PROGRAM PRICING
Standard Tuition: $2,199 USD
Includes all programming, meals, local transport, and 30-day integration support
Does not include: flights, personal gear, evacuation insurance, gratuities
Early Registration: $1,799 USD (before Jan, 2026)
Need-Based Scholarships: 2 spots per program at 50% reduction
Payment plans available
