PERU - LOST CITY OF THE INCAS
The Incas Empire, largest of all the pre-Columbian civilisations, was at its zenith when Francisco Pizarro's conquistadors arrived in 1532. The Spaniards plundered the " kingdom of the Sun" of its gold, but failed to locate the legendary "Lost City of the Incas" It was not until 1911 that the lost city, Machu Picchu was discovered, and our escorted tour of Peru allows you to spend a night at this marvellous site, steeped in mystery and romance.
Your Itinerary
Day 1:
London / Lima
On arrival, transfer to the 5 star Miraflore Park Hotel and Orient Express property and member of the Leading hotels of the world. All the hotel suits boast the last word in facilities, including marble and granite bathrooms, and king size beds.
Day 2:
Lima
This morning we tour the "City of the Kings" a visit to the historical centre of Lima. We'll see the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Cathedral and Bishops Palace. There will also be a visit to the San Francisco Monastery and the Casa Alaga the best preserved colonial mansion in continuous occupancy by the same family since 1535. After a drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores with a magnificent view of the Pacific ocean and beaches, we'll lunch at the "Brujas de Cachine" well known for the delicious typical Peruvian food. After lunch a Mantrav exclusive! A visit to the private collection of Enrico Poli, an extraordinary gathering of pre-Columbian and colonial art objects, one of the best private collections of its kind in the world. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is free.
Day 3:
Lima/Cusco
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for a short flight to Cusco, where we stay two nights at the gorgeous Hotel Monasterio a member of the leading hotels of the world and an Oriental Express property. A city tour includes the Loreto Alley, a fine example of the old town and its remarkable Inca walls, a visit to the Santo Domingo Monastery, and the legendary Koricancha, we continue to San Blas and visit its beautiful colonial church which houses an impressive pulpit. A filigree woodcarving bearing the fruits of the region, and is believed to be dedicated to the virgin event. We'll stroll through the many handicraft and native art galleries in the small little square, roam the ancient quarters of the 16th and 17th centuries. We'll also pass by Hatunrumtyco Street with its twelve angle stones and visit the cathedral at the Plaza de Armas. An evening tour will include the popular night spots of Cusco.
Day 4:
Cusco
An excursion this morning takes us to the archaeological Inca remains of the Tambomachay Baths, the complex is called the "Inca Baths" and is comprised of fine stonework, aqueducts, and waterfalls fed by neighbouring cold and hot springs. We'll continue to the Kenko Amphiteare with limestone formation which has been intricately carved with depiction's of beings, as well as underground passageways and a semicircular amphitheatre. We'll also visit the Red Fortress of Puca Pucara and the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman, overlooking Cusco. The afternoon is at leisure. We'll savor dinner this evening at the Tunupa restaurant while enjoying a folklore show.
Day 5:
The Sacred Valley
This morning we drive to the "Sacred Valley of the Incas" and visit the impressive ruins of Ollantayambo, we'll walk through the quaint streets of the nearby town. We stay two nights at the beautiful Solo & Luna Hotel, a new hotel designed for lovers of nature, adventure sports and knowledge of other cultures. You'll enjoy the highest quality of service and comfort in rustic Andean ambience surrounded by a landscape of whispering eucalyptus and majestic mountains of the Andes. Each of the bungalow rooms has its own private terrace. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious Peruvian and international dishes, and the pub and Poli Terrace Serve a variety of refreshing drinks. Today both lunch and dinner will be at the hotel.
Day 6:
The Sacred Valley
This morning we drive through the valley and bargain with the vendors at the typical market in Pisac, we'll continue to the archaeological site and one of the most important fortresses built to guard the capital of the empire, at the top are splendid wall, a few towers, the sundial of intihuatana and various enclosures and storage spaces built of fine stone work. We'll have lunch at Casa Hacienda Orihuela , where the Orihuelas, a family of great collectors, will be your hosts. The house has a varied collection of popular and colonial art, ceramics, paintings, weapons, photography, ceremonial vessels and the ceramic bulls of Pucara. The environs include a forest of eucalyptus trees and other native species and here the famous giant white corn is cultivated for export. This afternoon we'll visit the seminario ceramic studio which has been dedicated to the discovery of the techniques and designs from ancient Peruvian cultures. We return to our hotel with some free time before dinner.
Day 7:
Machu Picchu
After breakfast we transfer to the Ollanta station and board our railcar for the one and a half hour train ride to Machu Picchu "The Lost City of the Incas" we'll have a guided tour of this marvellous citadel, an awe inspiring experience, time to stroll this archaeological site before enjoying a buffet lunch. Machu Picchu is nearly invisible from below, tucked away on a small hilltop between two Andean peaks, at 7,000 feet above sea level. The The first sight of Machu Picchu is magical. The temples, fields, terraces and baths appear to be part of the hillside itself..imposing elegant green paradise carved into its natural surroundings. We'll stay the night at the exquisite Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and an Oriental Express property. After a wonderful dinner, you'll enjoy a private and very special Shaman ceremony in the citadel..magical experiences like theses make a Mantrav Tours journey a unique experience you can not create on your own. World travellers cherish their visit to this unique place, considered part of the world's cultural heritage.
Day 8:
Machu Picchu
Early wake up call to admire the sunrise, after breakfast there is time to stroll these extraordinary Inca remains or hill up the Huayna Pichu. After lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, we transfer to the railway station for our return flight to Cusco, and the Monasterio Hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, you may wish to further explore this ancient Inca capital, or just relax and enjoy the comfort of your hotel.
Day 9:
Cusco/Lima
After breakfast transfer to the airport for our flight back to Lima and the Miraflores Park Hotel, there is time to visit the typical Peruvian market. This evening we'll gather for our farewell dinner at the Huaca Pucllana Restaurant, we'll enjoy Lima's haute cuisine at its best overlooking the illuminated ancient site.
Day 10:
Lima/Departure
Regrettably this fancinating journey comes to an end as we board our flight for our return home.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
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