An easy-paced Peru journey that explores the important Inca ruins of Sacsayhuamán, Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and spends two days exploring the Lost City of Machu Picchu. Tour the magnificent Inca ruins, and wander through village markets where ancient traditions live on in the hearts of the Andean people. Along our journey we explore the witches' market in Cusco, bargain over tapestries in Pisac, and walk off the beaten path in the rural Andes.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Lima. Overnight.
Day 2: Fly Cusco
Andean history comes alive in Cusco. Quechua speaking descendents of the Incas fill the streets and markets, colonial churches sit atop bases of smooth stonework laid centuries before the Conquistadors. In the afternoon, you'll tour Cusco's largest open market and the adjacent witches' market. After tasting a few unique local foods, you'll head off to the old neighborhood of San Blas and a possible visit to a local artisan's workshop.
Day 3: Sacred Valley (L)
This morning journey into one of the most beautiful areas of Peru. You may hike to the inspiring ruins of Pisac, or take a short walk through the countryside to the seldom-visited town of Moras and the pre-columbian salt mines of Moray. Or test your bargaining skills with the locals while visiting one of the great textile markets in the area. Eventually, you will make your way to the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo where you can relax for the night.
Day 4: Train to Machu Picchu
Follow the Urubamba River as it tumbles its way towards the Amazon and the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Ancient canals still bring water from the high mountains to the baths used by Inca priests. You're welcomed to respectfully dip your hands in the cool water. After your tour of the Machu Picchu, you'll return to Aguas Calientes to soak in the hot springs and dine on local trout fillets.
Day 5: Free Day at Machu Picchu
Today is your chance to watch the sunrise at Machu Picchu and to listen to the spirits of the city's past inhabitants before the hikers from the Inca Trail arrive. Later you can climb the sacred peak of Huayna Picchu or take a walk through the lush cloudforest to the Temple of the Moon. In the late afternoon you'll return to Cusco.
Day 6: Explore Cusco
Today is free to relax and explore with your guide or on your own.For those bursting with energy, horseback riding, mountain biking, or even whitewater rafting (Class III-IV) can be arranged. Or enjoy a city tour of the churches and surrounding ruins, such as the enormous Sacsayhuamán ruins that overlook Cusco (these ruins showcase building blocks the size of SUVs). You can also wander through the bustling Plaza de Armas in the heart of Cusco, shop for love potions in the local markets, or people watch from the cafes and restaurants that line these lovely streets. The evening is yours to take in some of Cusco's varied and exciting nightlife.
Day 7: Fly Lima and Return home
Accommodations: 6 nights comfortable hotels
Food Includes: All meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); most of our hotels offer free continental breakfast.
Transportation: Two local flights, bus, train
A comfortable itinerary of snowcapped mountains, ancient ruins and a vibrant Colonial city. Accommodations are in comfortable hotels and the pace of the tour is active yet not strenuous.
Start Dates 2007 : Apr 14, Apr 20, May 3, May 10, May 13, May 14, May 16, May 18, May 27, Jun 2, Jun 9, Jun 15, Jun 18*, Jun 22*, Jul 2, Jul 15, Jul 19, Jul 23, Jul 30, Aug 2, Aug 17, Aug 27, Sep 14, Oct 7, Oct 12, Nov 5, Nov 9, Nov 18, Dec 16, Dec 23, Dec 26
Custom dates are available!
*Inti Raymi Departure- 8 days- Add US$335 for extra day
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Single Supplement: US$225
Note: Round trip flight Lima-Cusco-Lima is not included. Please add US$310 (flight cost subject to change).
Personal Budgeting: Allow US$120 for meals not included, US$28 international departure tax, US$10 local departure taxes, US$80 optional excursions ($55/185 soles for return visit to Machu Picchu, whitewater rafting, etc.), money for souvenirs!
Pre & Post Tour Accommodations: Share US$35, Single US$55
Arrival/Departure Transfers: 1 person US$50 each, 2 or more people US$25/person
Prices are based on a 3% cash discount
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Peru
Cultural Journey
Railway Trips
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