Our Story

Carol and her team of local Quechua farming neighbors designed and constructed the grounds, guest rooms, gardens, ceremonial spaces, and gathering spots that have become Willka T’ika.

Once the first buildings were completed, Carol began developing the organic gardens. The land was cleared and rocks unearthed by hand. Giant natural boulders were left to decorate the gardens, while smaller stones were used in building construction. Compost heaps turned kitchen waste and garden cuttings into rich soil. Manure was brought on donkey trains from far-off mountain communities.

Adobe mud bricks, which keep rooms warm on cool Andean nights and pleasant during the hot sunny days, were made on-site and baked in the sun alongside wood that was carved into doors, floors, windows, and the original furniture that fills guest cottages today. Giant septic tanks were built, as well as large storage tanks to collect Willka T’ika’s weekly allotment of mountain water from the local water cooperative.

Gradually the buildings and gardens took shape and the rock-filled land regained its health. Plants flourished, birds and insects arrived, and nature, with its timeless wisdom, took over. Today butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees can be seen hovering over brilliant flowers throughout the gardens. Dozens of species of birds make the grounds their home.

Willka T’ika is an example of land revitalization made possible through cooperation with and giving back to Nature.