About Us
Our Mission
Guiding Fathers and Sons on a Transformative Journey
Our mission is to guide fathers and sons on transformative journeys that deepen their bond and foster personal growth and awareness. Through meaningful rituals and open dialogue, we cultivate healthier, stronger, and more communicative men who positively impact society. We aim to provide a supportive pathway for navigating today’s complex messages about masculinity.
At Man Up Journeys, we are dedicated to redefining the concept of “Man Up” by offering transformative experiences that strengthen the bond between fathers and sons. In today’s world, where young men are often bombarded with confusing and conflicting messages about masculinity, our mission is to provide a meaningful and supportive pathway to manhood.
“Our mission is to provide a safe yet challenging journey to help fathers and sons strengthen their relationship while learning how to become better, stronger, and more communicative men in the magical setting of Machu Picchu. The main purpose of this trip is to deliver a ritual to open the dialog and awareness of becoming healthy men in society.”
“Our mission is to provide a safe yet challenging journey to help fathers and sons strengthen their relationship while learning how to become better, stronger, and more communicative men in the magical setting of Machu Picchu. The main purpose of this trip is to deliver a ritual to open the dialog and awareness of becoming healthy men in society.”
Matthew Blesso:
Matthew is a serial entrepreneur and socially-conscious real estate developer known for innovative residential, commercial, and hospitality projects in New York, Panama, and Costa Rica. His notable work includes Panama City’s award-winning Tantalo Hotel, the city’s first boutique hotel integrating art and sustainability, and Brooklyn’s 3rd Ward, a creative hub for artists and entrepreneurs. Through initiatives like Shift Living, Matthew redefines modern living by fostering community and addressing climate change and social isolation. He is also a speaker, philanthropist, former adjunct professor at NYU, recipient of the Bart Lawson Award for Humanitarianism, and has raised over $300,000 for charitable causes.


Hans Ruiz
Our Mission
Guiding Fathers and Sons on a Transformative Journey
At Man Up Journeys, our mission is to guide fathers and sons on transformative journeys that deepen their bond and foster personal growth and awareness. Through meaningful rituals and open dialogue, we cultivate healthier, stronger, and more communicative men who positively impact society. We aim to provide a supportive pathway for navigating today’s complex messages about masculinity.
At Man Up Journeys, we are dedicated to redefining the concept of “Man Up” by offering transformative experiences that strengthen the bond between fathers and sons. In today’s world, where young men are often bombarded with confusing and conflicting messages about masculinity, our mission is to provide a meaningful and supportive pathway to manhood.
“Our mission is to provide a safe yet challenging journey to help fathers and sons strengthen their relationship while learning how to become better, stronger, and more communicative men in the magical setting of Machu Picchu. The main purpose of this trip is to deliver a ritual to open the dialog and awareness of becoming healthy men in society.”
“Our mission is to provide a safe yet challenging journey to help fathers and sons strengthen their relationship while learning how to become better, stronger, and more communicative men in the magical setting of Machu Picchu. The main purpose of this trip is to deliver a ritual to open the dialog and awareness of becoming healthy men in society.”

Why Choose Us
The Ultimate Father-Son Adventure Experience
Our Modern Approach
Choose Man Up Journeys for expert-guided, safe, and transformative father-son adventures in Machu Picchu. Tailored experiences, spiritual growth, and community-building create lasting memories and strengthen bonds, fostering personal growth and deeper connections amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Choose Man Up Journeys for expert-guided father-son adventures in Machu Picchu. Tailored experiences foster personal growth, deeper connections, and lasting memories in stunning landscapes.
- Expert-guided father-son adventures in Machu Picchu
- Tailored experiences for personal growth and deeper connections
- Foster lasting memories in stunning landscapes
At MAn up journeys, we honor these cultural traditions while embracing programs that speak to today’s youth. With guided challenges, mentorship, and moments of reflection, we provide a space for boys to:
Reflect on who they are and the men they want to become.
Step into adulthood with confidence and clarity.
Strengthen their connection to their family, peers, and community.

Expert Guidance
Led by experienced facilitators trained in rites of passage work and wilderness leadership. Our team is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and transformative experience for all participants.

Spiritual Connection
ntegrate with Amazonic traditions, exploring the rich cultural heritage and rituals of the Amazon. Through guided experiences, we offer a deep connection to ancient practices and the natural world

Spiritual Connection
Tap into the ancient wisdom of the Andean culture and the mystical energy of Machu Picchu. Through guided rituals and ceremonies inspired by indigenous traditions, we provide opportunities for spiritual growth and connection with the natural world.

Customized Experience
Tailored activities and ceremonies to suit the unique dynamics of father-son relationships. We recognize that every relationship is unique, and we strive to create a personalized experience

Customized Experience
We understand that every father-son relationship is distinct, and we are committed to creating a personalized experience that reflects this individuality. By designing tailored activities that align with the unique dynamics of each relationship,

Safety First
Ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants with qualified guides and support staff. From rigorous safety protocols to emergency preparedness, we prioritize the health and security of everyone involved.
Rite of Passage
Why Machu Picchu for the Father-Son Rite of Passage Journey?
Machu Picchu’s breathtaking mountains, valleys, and ruins provide an ideal setting for introspection, connection with nature, and growth. The physical challenges of trekking Machu Picchu demand that fathers and sons overcome obstacles as a team.
What Happened to Rites of Passage?
While Rites of Passage have been practiced by numerous cultures around the world for thousands of years–, serving as important milestones in the journey from childhood to adulthood–this crucial has largely been overlooked in contemporary culture. Man Up Journeys aims to restore this time-honored tradition while fortifying the father-son relationship.
Why do we need to restore Rites of Passage?
Today, young men are frequently treated to confusing mixed messages in our rapidly changing culture. What is toxic masculinity? How is that different from being a strong, present, and supportive man? How do men show up for each other and their families and communities? These are some of the questions we’ll unpack to help young men navigate the transition to adulthood. A Rite of Passage provides a structured framework for boys to explore their identities, values, and purpose in a supportive community setting. In an era where traditional rites of passage may have diminished or become less accessible, there is a growing need for intentional, meaningful experiences that help young men develop a sense of responsibility, resilience, and connection to their families and communities. It might be helpful to explain in another question or here the different rite of passages that the world currently have: Bar Mitza, quinceanera, sweet sixteen, Zulu tribe, Brazil tribes and so on.
Why Machu Pichu: Guiding Principles
- Connection: Foster deep connections between fathers and sons through shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and collaborative activities with our certified facilitators.
- Adventure: Explore the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu while engaging in thrilling outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and exploring Unesco World Heritage sites. Adventure cultivates personal growth through the difficulty and gratification of this trip.
- Reflection: Encourage self-discovery through guided rituals inspired by ancient Andean traditions and one-of-a-kind facilitation. Reflection sessions provide space for fathers and sons to contemplate their journeys and the significance of their relationship.
- Community: Cultivate a supportive community of like-minded fathers and sons who share the desire for growth, connection, and exploration. Group activities and discussions foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among participants.