Machu Picchu and Inca Culture

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival, Lima

  Arrive in Peru's bustling capital. Lima offers a beautiful mix of colonial history, vibrant culture, and trendy coastal neighborhoods like Miraflores. Check in to your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the city at your own pace.

  • Lima

• Day 2: Lima City Discovery Tour

  After breakfast, tap into Lima's ancient heart and modern soul on this all-encompassing city tour. Strolling through Lima's Main Plaza, you come upon the Government Palace, a shining neoclassical structure that has witnessed over a century of the nation's history. Step into the serene Basilica and Convent of San Francisco and descend into its eerie catacombs, the final resting place of countless souls from centuries past. Proceed with a short drive to the gracious San Isidro District, where stately homes and bustling commerce surround Huaca Huallamarca, an archaeological treasure trove featuring ancient pottery, textiles, and remarkably preserved mummified remains. Finally, arrive at Miraflores District by the shore - passing by the Park of Love and Larcomar - for panoramic ocean views of the Pacific, like a silken tapestry.

  This afternoon is yours to discover Lima your way.

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  • Lima

• Day 3: Lima - Cusco

  After breakfast and hotel check-out, fly to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco nestled high in the Andean mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer and relax while acclimating to the 3,400-meter altitude.

  This afternoon, set out to explore Cusco's storied past. Wander through Coricancha, the Inca's legendary Temple of the Sun, where beams of light once illuminated walls of perfect stonework. Gaze upon the European splendor of Cusco Cathedral, its towers piercing the mountain sky from what was once the holiest place in the Inca empire. Climb to the ramparts of Sacsayhuaman fortress, once defended by indomitable Inca warriors, its immense walls and solemn stone sentinels now standing guard over the city below for eternity.

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  • Cusco

• Day 4: Cusco - Sacred Valley - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

  Today, set off on a journey to the Sacred Valley, where the rays of the Andean sun still fall on Incan terraces as they did centuries past.

  First, wander the Pisac Archaeological Park and uncover clues to Incan life among its perfectly carved terraces and temples into the mountainside. Lose yourself in an explosion of colors and aromas at the Pisac Market, a fascinating glimpse into the rhythms of modern Andean life. Then, climb the ruins and fortifications of Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park, a former Incan stronghold.

  Afterward, board the train to Aguas Calientes, where hotel staff will guide you to your accommodations for a restful night in preparation for tomorrow's adventure.

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  • Aguas Calientes

• Day 5: Aguas Calientes - Cusco

  Imagine stepping foot into a lost world frozen in time... The legendary view of Machu Picchu awaits!

  This morning, a 30-minute shuttle bus ride will bring you up to the iconic Lost City of the Incas. Once inside, prepare for a journey back hundreds of years. Marvel at the ingenious Inca engineering tucked into mountain clifftops with panoramic views. Absorb the mystical energy still palpable in these sacred ruins. Follow the footsteps of ancient Inca priests and imagine life in this mountain citadel.

  After your visit, take a shuttle bus back to your hotel for check-out before boarding a train to Poroy Station in Cusco. Upon arrival, be escorted to your hotel in Cusco.

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  • Cusco

• Day 6: Cusco

  This day is free for you to uncover Cusco's soul - wander at leisure down streets where history lives.

  Wind your way through the Centro Historico where ancient Inca walls tower over colonial churches and buildings little changed for centuries. Stroll the elegant Plaza de Armas, beating the heart of this mountain city. Gaze upon the graceful cathedral and drink in the sights and voices of daily life under the Andean sun. Or venture to the San Blas, the city's most evocative district characterized by narrow and steep alleyways. Browse art galleries housed in old colonial homes and visit shops selling exquisite handicrafts made by artisans.

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  • Cusco

• Day 7: Cusco - Lima, Departure

  After breakfast and check-out, have a private transfer to Cusco airport for a domestic flight back to Lima. Upon arrival, independently proceed to your international flight home, taking with you the cherished memories.

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