Pachamama, mother earth, was coursing throughout the Peruvian landscape. I felt her life pumping deep beneath the soil of the the extraordinary Amazon rainforest, and felt her shivering breath high up in the Pitumarca mountains in the Andes. I came to Peru in search of shamanistic magic, but what I founder surpassed my expectations.

I traveled down the Madre De Dios river, battling relentless rain, encountering giant Anacondas, and cutting through dense jungle to find the shaman of a indigenous village called Palma Real. I shared with the children and villagers my magic, mere illusion compared to what the Shaman had to offer. He was the real deal. Connected to the jungle spiritually, he explained that he used the plants to heal peoples soul and cast out metaphysical ailments. His determination in protecting the wildlife around was unwavering and inspiring.

Bidding farewell to the jungle, I set off for the Andes where I met the Quechua people living in Pitumarca. I met a shaman who was able to communicate with the great mountain Huaca, (spirit). We made an offering high up in the hills where I experienced the extraordinary power this man had over the elements. Indeed, I am not exaggerating when I say that the rain clouds that had previously blanketed the area slowly parted, letting the sun cascade down on the land. I was told that the great spirit was pleased and that he and I would eternally be “brothers”. I will never, ever forget that day.