Peru, A Proud Destination
Six years ago I recall asking a Peruvian farmer, “How do you feel sir, about foreigners coming to visit your Peru?”
His response was, “if we Peruvians have so much to offer, so much to see here that is unique, that people come from around the world to see Peru, it must be a special place.”
He went on by saying “it makes me feel proud to be from a region(Andean region) that has so much to offer” and “ the fact that people are coming from all over the world to see our way of life, really helps to build confidence in ourselves and in our country.”
Heir to ancient cultures and a rich colonial tradition, Perú is a magical spot which involves one of the richest biodiversities of Earth, and is a melting pot of different cultures who together are forging the promise of a better future.
Peruvians are a proud people. They are proud of their history, culture and country in general. The region offers an almost limitless array of cultural and historical thrills for the diligent traveler. By visiting Peru, you would be helping build local confidence as well as supporting this growing local economy.
“Peru is a proud country because every time a visitor comes to travel in Peru, overall local confidence is boosted”. Sean Travis, director Adventures to Peru.
Machu Picchu was selected as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in August, 2007.
Peru is home to the once formidable Inca Empire.
The baffling Nazca Lines are some of the worlds most mysterious, which are found in the deserts of southern Peru.
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake and highest tropical lake in the world. It is shared between Peru and Bolivia.
The two deepest canyons in the world belong to Peru, Cotihuasi and Colca Canyons.
The Gocta waterfall at Cocachimba found in the cloud forests of northern Peru is the third highest in the world.
Caral, the oldest city in the Americas at 5,000 years, is located on the central coast of Peru.
The exotic seafood dish ‘Ceviche’ is Peruvian.
Pisco, the unique and distinguished white grape brandy, is Peruvian.
The potato, which comes in over 2,000 varieties, is Peruvian.
“Andean Maca” and the “Huanarpo macho”, key components of Viagra are Peruvian roots.
The Llama, Alpaca and Vicuña, which produce some of the finest wools in the world, are Peruvian.
In Peru, there exist more species of birds than any other country: More than 1800 varieties.
In Peru, there exist 84 of the 117 ecological micro-climates in the world, and 28 of the 32 climactic zones on the world.
One of the tributaries to the Amazon River, The Madre de Dios river, is home to the Shihuahuaco tree. Scientists found 5,000 specimens of insects, 80% of which where new to modern science.
The Peruvian oceans are abundant, offering 700 different varieties of fish and 400 varieties of shellfish.
Peru is the #1 producer of gold, lead and zinc in Latin America. Antimina, the 3rd largest mine in the world is in Ancash, Peru.
The University of San Marcos in Lima Peru is the oldest in the Americas.
North American Alfred Gossell caught the largest black marlin ever registered, at 1,560 pounds, in Northern Peru Fellow American Kimberly Wiss still holds the world record for largest marlin ever caught by a woman, at 1,525 lbs, also landed in Peru
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Then, a short flight brings us to the attractive and historic Andean town of Cusco, with its white wash mud walls and snaking maze of old neighborhoods, all built upon ancient Inca foundations. Enjoy a city tour highlighting Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay and surrounding ruins. Travel through the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas and feel the grandeur of the snow mountains once dominated by the Inca Empire. Continue to the concealed Inca citadel of Machu Picchu to explore the city in all its glory.
*As on all Adventures to Peru tours, you’re taken care of from beginning to end: airport transfers are included!
Please 'contact us' about upcoming or custom departure dates
Details
Tour DetailsPrices
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Prices are subject to change. Prices based on 3.5% cash discount. Prices based on a group minimum of 2 adult travelers. Deposit is 50% of total. Remaining balance becomes due 60 days prior to tour departure.
See Booking Terms and Conditions
Accommodation
3 star hotels (6 nts), Jungle Lodge (2 nts)
Group Size
Minimum 2, Maximum 12
Meals Included
All breakfasts are included, ((B,L,D) Jungle Lodge
Key: (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner
Transport
Private bus, public bus, Machu Picchu shuttle, train, domestic flight, motorboat
Day 1 Lima
Days 2-3 Arequipa Highlights city tour
Days 4-5 Colca Canyon Trek
Days 6-8 Puno / Lake Titicaca kayak trip / Quechua home stay
Day 9 Cusco
Day 10 Ollantaytambo / Sacred Valley Rafting excursion
Days 11-13 Lares Valley Trek to Machu PIcchu / Aguas Calientes
Day 14 Machu Picchu / Cusco
Day 15 Cusco free day
Day 16 Lima departure day
Day 1 Lima
Arrive in Lima at any time. A representative from Adventures to Peru will greet you at the airport and private transfer to your hotel. There are no planned activities today so check-in and enjoy the city. This afternoon you are free to explore colonial and modern Lima, with visits to the Government Palace, cathedral, Plaza de Armas and the Archaeological Museum. Or hang around the bustling commercial districts of and Miraflores and Barranco.
Day 2 Amazon Jungle (B,L,D)
An early morning flight takes us to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon jungle. Travel by motorized canoe to our isolated lodge in the Tambopata Candamo Rainforest Area, which holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area.
Listen for howler monkeys in the tropical forest canopy above and spot macaws perched high on the riverbanks. After we arrive at a small portage, we’ll hike through the jungle to our own Amazon Jungle lodge. The lodge itself combines native architectural style and materials with low-impact eco-friendly technology. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with mosquito netting for individual beds, flush toilets, showers (no hot water), and kerosene lamps for lighting (no electricity in bungalows). Local community members make up the majority the lodge staff, including multilingual Naturalist Guides. Here you have the opportunity to learn from them not only about the area’s rich flora and fauna, but also about their extensive practical uses for medicinal plants and other forest plant resources, through traditional techniques for building, fishing, and hunting.
After lunch, we’ll head out on a rainforest trail in search of macaws and other rainforest dwellers that come out in search of food in the late afternoon. Then, later that night, we’ll venture out on an Amazon night walk, probing the forest for the nocturnal creatures we normally hear but don’t see.
Day 3 Amazon Jungle (B,L,D)
A pre-dawn departure will get us up and into the forest at the crack of dawn. Our local nature guide will show the way to one of the Oxbow lakes in the vicinity. This area is teeming with life – we’ll look for giant otters, capuchin monkeys, caiman, snakes, spiders and many other jungle animals on our boat trip and various hikes around the area. During our voyage you will have the chance to see bird species typical of the river or forest edge such as Black Skimmers, Pied Lapwings, Capped Herons, Jabiru Storks, Roadside The area is renowned for its diverse plant and animal populations and include over 1,300 bird species (including 32 parrot species – 10% of the world’s total), 200 mammal species including 4 species of primates, 90 frog species, 1,200 butterfly species and 10,000 species of higher plants—all protected within the reserve. Some of the more famous residents are the Harpy Eagle, the prehistoric looking Hoatzin, tapir, peccary, jaguar, ocelot and playful river otters who live in the area’s oxbow lakes. Additionally, we can see hawks and several species of kingfishers, swallows, and flycatchers.
Focus: Medicinal plants, endemic animals, indigenous tribes, hunting, deforestation, locally sponsored preservation projects.
Day 4 Cusco (B)
Travel out of the jungle by motorized canoe before flying to Cusco, high in the Andes Mountains. This afternoon we’ll take you on a guided visit to see Cusco’s highlights, including nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara and Q’enko. Followed by a visit to the main Cathedral and famous ‘Koricancha’ or Temple of the Sun.
Day 5 Cusco (B)
Today is a free day in the Incan Imperial Capital. We recommend a stop by the Incan Archaeological Museum located just around the corner from your hotel. Then, time permitting, visit the recently opened ‘Casa Concha’, which houses hundreds of pieces removed from Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham in 1912 and recently returned in 2011 (Centennial Anniversary of Machu Picchu’s scientific discovery) to Peru by Yale University in the United States.
Also worth a visit is the colorful local market at San Pedro and the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, full of artists, craftsmen and street vendors, both only minutes from the hotel. Or, visit nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay on horseback. More active options include river rafting, motorcycle tours and mountain biking.
Day 6 Ollantaytambo (B)
One of the most spectacular days of the tour takes us through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Once an important source of food for the Inca, the Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that continues to supply the city of Cusco with much of its produce. As it is 600m lower than Cusco, temperatures are on average 5 degrees Cº higher in the Sacred Valley. Our travels will bring us through the major archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. At Pisac, an optional two hour or 5km hike will allow us to fully appreciate the Incan city nestled high in the Andean range. Later, the colorful artesian market at Pisac will no doubt be a highlight for those in search of unique souvenirs.
The day trip finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, location of another large Inca site. This major ruin is known as the best surviving example of Inca urban planning and engineering. But more than that, Ollantaytambo is a living breathing Inca City. Here we catch our breath and prepare for our train voyage to Machu Picchu.
Focus today: Inca stone working techniques, 3 Peruvian blessings: Coca leaf, Andean Maca, Potato
Day 7 Aguas Calientes (B)
This morning we’ll make our way to the train station in Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes traveling northeast through the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas. Arrive at Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu village, check into your hotel and enjoy the atmosphere. Aguas Calientes is about 30 minutes from Machu Picchu, which you’ll visit tomorrow morning. Today you’ll have free time to soak in the hot springs, hike, shop and explore the village.
Day 8 Machu Picchu / Cusco (B)
A pre-dawn start from takes us by local shuttle to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the ruins in virtual solitude for the first hour until sunrise. Make the hour-long hike up to the ‘Intipunku’ or Sun Gate. See Machu Picchu in all its glory and discover Machu Picchu on an expert 2-hour private guided tour. Then, free time at site to explore, rest, meditate or simply chill out in the ruins.
Climb Wayna Picchu (Young Peak 2 hrs, not included), hike to the Moon Temple (2 1/2 hrs), or venture to the Inca Draw Bridge! There is no shortage of things so see and do in Machu Picchu. Generally we’ll have lunch in Aguas Calientes although it is your choice, afternoon train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Day 9 Departure Day, Cusco (B)
Adventures to Peru services end today after a quick flight back to Lima and transfer to the airport for your ongoing international connection. We can arrange a later flight date out of Cusco or additional post tour accommodation in Lima or Cusco upon client request. Contact Us if additional planning is necessary.
Adventures to Peru local destination hosts
Amazon Jungle Excursion (3 days, 2 nights)
Highlights of Cusco guided city tour
Full day excursion of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Airport arrival AND departure transfers
All accommodations, jungle lodge as per itinerary
All land transport along the route
3 domestic flights
Domestic airport taxes
Guide service throughout as per itinerary
Entrance fees for included excursions
All breakfasts
Meals (B,L,D) at Amazon Jungle Lodge
Reconfirmation of ongoing flights out of Peru
International Flights
Visa and passport fees
Insurance
All meals (see above)
Alcohol, Drinks
Tips
Optional activities/day-tours/excursions
International departure taxes and excess baggage fees
Get A Question ?
Do not hesitate to Contact UsPlease 'contact us' to book this tour
Trip Overview This fascinating tour includes six top destinations: the fascinating “White City” of Arequipa, the famed Colca Canyon, home of the soaring Andean condor, the famous Lake Titicaca including a Quechua family home stay, the Imperial Inca Capital of Cusco, the archeological wonders of the Sacred Valley, and the finale, Peru’s premier attraction, Machu Picchu. The blend of sights and terrains combine some of Peru’s top natural and manmade wonders into one fascinating adventure vacation.*As on all Adventures to Peru tours, you’re taken care of from beginning to end: airport transfers are included!
Details
Tour DetailsPrices
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Prices are subject to change. Prices based on 3.5% cash discount. Prices based on a group minimum of 2 adult travelers. Deposit is 50% of total. Remaining balance becomes due 60 days prior to tour departure.
See Booking Terms and Conditions
Accommodation
3 star hotels (13 nts), Quechua Homestay (1 nt)
Group Size
Minimum 2, Maximum 12
Meals Included
All breakfasts are included
Key: (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner
Transport
Private bus/van, public bus, Motorboat, Machu Picchu shuttle, train, domestic flight
Day 1 Lima
Days 2-3 Arequipa
Days 4-5 Colca Canyon
Days 6-8 Puno / Lake Titicaca Home stay / Puno
Day 9 Cusco
Day 10 Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Day 11 Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu
Days 12-13 Machu Picchu / Cusco
Day 14 Lima
Day 15 Departure Day
Day 1 Lima
Arrive in Lima at any time. A representative from Adventures to Peru will greet you at the airport and private transfer to your hotel. There are no planned activities today so check-in and enjoy the city. This afternoon you are free to explore colonial and modern Lima, with visits to the Government Palace, cathedral, Plaza de Armas and the Archaeological Museum. Or hang around the bustling commercial districts of and Miraflores and Barranco.
Day 2 Arequipa (B)
A midday flight takes us to ‘The White City. Vying with Lima as Peru’s most important city Arequipa’s city centre can be visited on foot. Free afternoon sightseeing at you leisure. Plazas, markets, and churches are all found in Arequipa’s remarkable historic center.
Day 3 Arequipa (B)
This morning you will have the opportunity to enjoy a general overview of the city on a 3-hour city tour.
Begin with Yanahuara Belvedere look out plaza and the neighborhood of Carmen Alto followed by a visit to the Plaza de Armas and its Cathedral, the cloisters of La Compañia Church and the Church and Square of San Francisco. Last, but not least we visit the extraordinary Santa Catalina convent, which is built from white volcanic lava and dates from the 16th century.
The afternoon is free to explore the city. Arequipa’s vibrant atmosphere will no doubt keep you busy for the rest of the day. If you dare, see the best-preserved mummy in South America, Juanita the ‘Ice Maiden’.
Then at dusk we will seriously indulge in some of Peru’s richest spice and flavor, as Arequipa has some of the finest cuisine in the country.
Day 4 Colca Canyon (B)
After an early breakfast, we’ll set out on an overland drive to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world – 3182m. After a scenic 5 hours we’ll reach Chivay, the capital of the province of Colca. During our venture we’ll climb through the National Reserve of Pampa de Cañahuas at approximately 3,800m. With some luck we’ll get glimpses of Andean Ducks, Geese, Viscachas (Andean rabbit), Alpacas, Llamas and Vicuñas. The area is known as Ring of Fire or Valley of the Volcanoes due to the numerous volcanoes in the region, many of which can be appreciated form short distances.
Our highest pass will be an astounding 4900m(16,000ft) above sea level, but just for a quick panorama. Then we’ll continue down to the Colca Valley. Accommodation at the fabulous the Mamayachi near the village of Corporaque, set in the Colca Valley itself. We’ll have the opportunity to soak in the natural hot springs, hike to the surrounding villages or simply relax in the fabulous surroundings of the Canyon.
Focus: Discussion on Pre-Inca customs & agricultural techniques.
Day 5 Colca Canyon(B)
Today we are off to Cruz del Condor. With some luck, here you will be able to appreciate the famous Andean Condors in magical flight as they soar well above the depths of the mighty canyon. Then an optional hike takes us along the rim of the canyon, in search of local wildlife including the Andean Cara-Cara or (a local Raptor), Viscachas (Andean rabbits) and much more.
We will spend the day in and around the valley before arriving to Cabanaconde, a local village found deep in the canyon. In many ways Colca Canyon was left untouched, even after the Spanish Conquest. Its isolation and distance from Arequipa allowed local indigenous customs and traditions in Colca Canyon to survive in peace more so than in other parts of Peru. This will be evident as we, together with our local guide, spends 3 days and 2 nights examining just how these people live.
Day 6 Puno (B)
We’ll continue our journey through the Ring of Fire, enjoying a lunch pick-nick and wine at 4,000 meters above sea level. Inhale the thin, clean air of the Andes in spectacular settings that reinvigorate your being. This is why you are here!!! With some luck we’ll get glimpses of the Viscacha (Andean Rabbit) and the Andean Flamenco.
Puno is what many Peruvians consider both a cultural and political border. To the south toward Bolivia the Aymara people and language are dominant. To the north, the better-known Quechua is the dominant tongue. Fortunately, you will see both.
Day 7 Amantani Island, Lake Titicaca (B,L,D)
After breakfast, our local guide will collect you from the hotel in route to the Puno port. We’ll board our motorboat and go directly to take us to the floating reed island’s of the Uros culture (Aymara roots). Here, we’ll visit a couple of islands, learn some about the history, culture and why they continue to live on water. Following Uros, we board the boat again and on to Amantani Island(Qechua roots). The Uros people are a specific cultural group apart from the Incas. They are more sensitive and protective. We ask that visitors always proceed with respect. Please ask before snapping pictures, as some of the older generation will object
The locals are very friendly and produce souvenirs representing life on the Lake. You can support them by buying a souvenir if you choose.
After the Uros, we will take a step back in time as we arrive to Amantani. The island culture offers a glimpse into their ancient traditions and customs. A rural home stay will open your eyes to the true beauty of this place and the people that have inhabited the lake for thousands of years. All local food and beverages included.
Today’s focus: Andean views of life, death and marriage; Origins of The Sacred Lake
Day 8 Puno (B)
We’ll start with an early wake up call to enjoy a spectacular sunrise over Lake Titicaca before visiting the neighboring island of Taquile. Famous for textiles and weavings Taquile is a cultural treasure chest. We’ll spend an hour hiking to the summit of Taquile Island before enjoying lunch overlooking the Lake Titicaca. Our lunch will include local favorites, trout or kingfish, before heading back to Puno.
Day 9 Cusco (B)
After breakfast our overland journey continues through the high plateau. Our full day overland journey through the majestic Andes will astound you. We’ll cover 400km, go over mountain passes at 4,334m (14,222ft) above sea level, visit some of our favorite local indigenous villages and sample some of the best local roast lamb available. Approximate arrival in Cusco is 3:00pm.
Day 10 Ollantaytambo (B)
One of the most spectacular days of the tour takes us through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Once an important source of food for the Inca, the Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that continues to supply the city of Cusco with much of its produce. As it is 600m lower than Cusco, temperatures are on average 5 degrees Cº higher in the Sacred Valley.
Our travels will bring us through the major archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. At Pisac, an optional two hour or 5km hike will allow us to fully appreciate the Incan city nestled high in the Andean range. Later, the colorful artesian market at Pisac will no doubt be a highlight for those in search of unique souvenirs.
The day trip finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, location of another large Inca site. This major ruin is known as the best surviving example of Inca urban planning and engineering. But more than that, Ollantaytambo is a living breathing Inca City. Here we catch our breath and prepare for the train journey ahead.
Day 11 Aguas Calientes (B)
This morning we’ll make our way to the train station in Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes traveling northeast through the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas. Arrive at Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu village, check into your hotel and enjoy the atmosphere. Aguas Calientes is about 30 minutes from Machu Picchu, which you’ll visit tomorrow morning. Today you’ll have free time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, soak in the hot thermal springs, hike, shop and explore the village.
Day 12 Machu Picchu / Cusco (B)
After breakfast a predawn start from takes us by local shuttle to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the ruins in virtual solitude for the first hour until sunrise. Make the hour-long hike up to the ‘Intipunku’ or Sun Gate. See Machu Picchu in all its glory and discover Machu Picchu on an expert 2-hour private guided tour. Then, free time at site to explore, rest, meditate or simply chill out in the ruins. Climb Wayna Picchu (Young Peak 2 hrs, not included), hike to the Moon Temple (2 1/2 hrs), or venture to the Inca Draw Bridge! There is no shortage of things so see and do in Machu Picchu. Generally we’ll have lunch in Aguas Calientes although it is your choice, afternoon train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Focus: Machu Picchu practical explanations and theories
Day 13 Cusco (B)
Today is a free day in the Incan Imperial Capital. We’ll do our best to discover Cusco’s enchanting network of narrow streets and white wash mud-brick walls, all built atop Incan stone foundations. A true amalgamation of cultures! Explore the many markets, churches, museums, plazas and first-rate restaurants, all at your fingertips while exploring the city center on foot. Or, visit nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay on horseback. More active options include river rafting, motorcycle tours and mountain biking.
Also recommended is stop by the Incan Archaeological Museum located a block from the Plaza de Armas. Then, time permitting, visit the recently opened ‘Casa Concha’, which houses hundreds of pieces removed from Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham in 1912 and recently returned in 2011 (Centennial Anniversary of Machu Picchu’s scientific discovery) to Peru by Yale University in the United States. Also worth a visit is the colorful local market at San Pedro and the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, full of artists, craftsmen and street vendors, both only minutes from the hotel.
Day 14 Lima (B)
Fly to Lima for the final stop on our journey. Finish up last minute shopping at the Indian market and enjoy one last evening in the capital.
Day 15 Departure day (B)
Adios amigos! Adventures to Peru services end today Adventures to Peru will reconfirm your outgoing flight. You’ll be collected from the hotel and private transfer to the airport for your international flight out of Peru.D
Adventures to Peru local destination hosts
Guided excursion of Colca Canyon (2 nights, 3 days)
Lake Titicaca indigenous Quechua family home stay
Visit to Taquile and floating Uros Islands Community
Full day guided excursion of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Guided excursion to Machu Picchu
Airport arrival AND departure transfers
All accommodations, family stay as per itinerary
All land transport along the route
2 domestic flights
Domestic airport taxes
Guide service throughout as per itinerary
Entrance fees for included excursions
All breakfasts
Meals on Lake Titicaca home stay
International Flights
Visa and passport fees
Insurance
All meals (see above)
Alcohol, Drinks
Tips
Optional activities/day-tours/excursions
International departure taxes and excess baggage fees
Get A Question ?
Do not hesitate to Contact Us*As on all Adventures to Peru tours, you’re taken care of from beginning to end: airport transfers are included!
Please 'contact us' about upcoming or custom departure dates
Details
Tour DetailsPrices
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Prices are subject to change. Prices based on 3.5% cash discount. Prices based on a group minimum of 2 adult travelers. Deposit is 50% of total. Remaining balance becomes due 60 days prior to tour departure.
See Booking Terms and Conditions
Accommodation
3 star hotels (6 nts)
Group Size
Minimum 2, Maximum 12
Meals Included
All breakfasts are included
Key: (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner
Transport
Private bus/van, public bus, Machu Picchu shuttle, train, domestic flight
Day 1 Lima
Day 2 Cusco
Day 3 Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo
Day 4 Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu
Day 5 Machu Picchu / Cusco
Day 6 Cusco
Day 7 Departure Day Cusco / Lima / Return Home
Day 1 Lima
Arrive in Lima at any time. A representative from Adventures to Peru will greet you at the airport and private transfer to your hotel. There are no planned activities today so check-in and enjoy the city.
This afternoon you are free to explore colonial and modern Lima, with visits to the Government Palace, cathedral, Plaza de Armas and the Archaeological Museum. Or hang around the bustling commercial districts of and Miraflores and Barranco.
Day 2 Cusco (B)
A morning flight brings us to Cusco, high in the Andes Mountains. This afternoon we’ll take you on a guided visit to see Cusco’s highlights, including nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara and Q’enko. Followed by a visit to the main Cathedral and famous ‘Koricancha’ or Temple of the Sun.
Day 3 Ollantaytambo (B)
One of the most spectacular days of the tour takes us through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Once an important source of food for the Inca, the Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that continues to supply the city of Cusco with much of its produce. As it is 600m lower than Cusco, temperatures are on average 5 degrees Cº higher in the Sacred Valley.
Our travels will bring us through the major archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. At Pisac, an optional two hour or 5km hike will allow us to fully appreciate the Incan city nestled high in the Andean range. Later, the colorful artesian market at Pisac will no doubt be a highlight for those in search of unique souvenirs.
The day trip finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, location of another large Inca site. This major ruin is known as the best surviving example of Inca urban planning and engineering. But more than that, Ollantaytambo is a living breathing Inca City. Here we catch our breath and prepare for our train voyage to Machu Picchu.
Focus today: Inca stone working techniques, 3 Peruvian blessings: Coca leaf, Andean Maca, Potato
Day 4 Aguas Calientes (B)
This morning we’ll make our way to the train station in Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes traveling northeast through the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas. Arrive at Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu village, check into your hotel and enjoy the atmosphere. Aguas Calientes is about 30 minutes from Machu Picchu, which you’ll visit tomorrow morning. Today you’ll have free time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, soak in the hot thermal springs, hike, shop and explore the village.
Day 5 Machu Picchu / Cusco (B)
A pre-dawn start from takes us by local shuttle to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the ruins in virtual solitude for the first hour until sunrise. Make the hour-long hike up to the ‘Intipunku’ or Sun Gate. See Machu Picchu in all its glory and discover Machu Picchu on an expert 2-hour private guided tour. Then, free time at site to explore, rest, meditate or simply chill out in the ruins.
Climb Wayna Picchu (Young Peak 2 hrs, not included), hike to the Moon Temple (2 1/2 hrs), or venture to the Inca Draw Bridge! There is no shortage of things so see and do in Machu Picchu. Generally we’ll have lunch in Aguas Calientes although it is your choice, afternoon train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Day 6 Cusco (B)
Today is a free day in the Incan Imperial Capital. We’ll do our best to discover Cusco’s enchanting network of narrow streets and white wash mud-brick walls, all built atop Incan stone foundations. A true amalgamation of cultures! Explore the many markets, churches, museums, plazas and first-rate restaurants, all at your fingertips while exploring the city center on foot. Or, visit nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay on horseback. More active options include river rafting, motorcycle tours and mountain biking.
Also recommended is stop by the Incan Archaeological Museum located a block from the Plaza de Armas. Then, time permitting, visit the recently opened ‘Casa Concha’, which houses hundreds of pieces removed from Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham in 1912 and recently returned in 2011 (Centennial Anniversary of Machu Picchu’s scientific discovery) to Peru by Yale University in the United States.
Also worth a visit is the colorful local market at San Pedro and the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, full of artists, craftsmen and street vendors, both only minutes from the hotel.
Day 7 Departure Day, Cusco (B)
Adventures to Peru services end this afternoon after a direct flight back to Lima for your ongoing international connection. We can arrange a later flight date out of Cusco or additional post tour accommodation in Lima or Cusco upon client request. Contact Us if additional planning is necessary.
Highlights of Cusco guided city tour
Full day excursion of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Adventures to Peru local destination hosts
Airport arrival and departure transfers
All accommodations as per itinerary
All land transport along the route
2 domestic flights
Domestic airport taxes
Guide service throughout as per itinerary
Entrance fees for included excursions
All breakfasts
Reconfirmation of ongoing flights out of Peru
International Flights
Visa and passport fees
Insurance
All meals (see above)
Alcohol, Drinks
Tips
Optional activities/day-tours/excursions
International departure taxes and excess baggage fees