This 12 day tour will introduce you the history and culture of Peru. The natural beauty of the landscape and villages will amaze you as will the strong sense of traditional culture the natives exude. Some of the things you can look forward to during your journey are staying overnight at a wildlife sanctuary, exploring the "Lost City of The Incas," and a visit to Uros to walk on the floating islands. The rest of the experiences you'll have on your tour are outlined below.
Air 1: Overnight Flight
Your journey begins with an overnight flight* to Peru.
Day 2: Arrive Lima, Peru - Tour Begins
Start your tour by arriving in the "City of Kings," Lima, Peru. You'll check into your hotel and spend time unwinding from your flight before heading out to take a tour of the city. You'll view the abundance of colonial architecture throughout the city, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historical center of this city. Plaza Mayor, Miraflores, and San Isidro will give you a look at both the government and daily lives of the people of Lima (or Limeños). You'll also be educated on the history and origin of the languages in Peru, as well as be taught phrases and words that will help you communicate with the locals. In the evening, you'll be enjoy a welcome dinner.
Day 3: Lima - Cuzco - Sacred Valley of the Incas
This morning, you'll be taking a flight into the heart of the Inca civilization, Cuzco. You'll be flying through the Andes to the Sacred Village of the Incas, a valley that was once the agricultural apex of the Incan civilization. Some of the most breathtaking scenery of Peru can be found here. You can witness the ancient methods of dyeing, spinning, and weaving traditional Andean textiles when you visit the living museum of the Peruvian Andes, Awana Kancha. You'll also be stopping at Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio to learn about the well-known techniques and designs of artists who were inspired by ancient Peruvian Cultures. Your lodging for the night will be in the heart of Sacred Valley.
Day 4: Sacred Valley of the Incas-Ollantaytambo - Sacred Valley of the Incas
You'll be traveling to an Andean community today to learn about their culture and lifestyle by interacting with them as they go about their daily activities. You'll then be visiting the Ollantaytambo ruins. The Ollantaytambo, a terraced complex topped with carved stone panels, is the only Incan settlement that has continuously been inhabited since being built and is a beautiful example of ancient Incan architecture and heritage.
Day 5: Sacred Valley of the Incas - Machu Picchu
Today you'll be taking a train ride aboard the "Vistadome" traveling through the Andes and headed for the "Lost City of the Incas," Machu Picchu. Considered to be on the most spectacular sights in South America, you'll spend the day exploring the mysteries of this city before turning in for the night.
Day 6: Machu Picchu - Cuzco
Spend the morning exploring Machu Picchu further if you wish. In the afternoon, you'll be on your way to your next destination after visiting a local orphanage where you can learn about the organized efforts behind assisting the children who face challenges in this region. Cuzco, meaning "Center of the World" in the ancient language of Quencha, is a mix of Incan culture and Spanish colonial influence. Spend the evening relaxing and letting your body adjust to the altitude of this city.
Day 7: Cuzco
You'll be exploring this former Incan Empire capital with a city tour that will introduce you to an architectural legacy. You'll see sights like the Cathedral, the Plaza de Amas, Santo Domingo, the Qenko Temple, and the Sacsayhuaman Fortress. Dinner in the evening features a traditional Andean folklore performance with music and dance.
Day 8: Cuzco - Andahuaylillas - Raqchi - Puno
A drive through the Sacred Valley will show you charming Inca villages, the countryside, and spectacular mountain scenery. The church of Andahuaylillas, built in the 17th century, is a gem exemplifying the mestizo baroque architecture style. Other stops include the Inca ceremonial center of Raqchi (a former Inca church) and Puno, a location said to be the birthplace of the Inca Empire. Spend the evening relaxing and taking in the beautiful vistas that surround your hotel.
Day 9: Uros Floating Islands - Las Chullpas de Sillustani - Lake Titicaca
This morning features a cruise to the floating islands of the Uros people on Lake Titicaca. The islands are composed of compacted bed of tortora reeds, and as you walk along you'll get a glimpse into the history of the Uros, as well as learn about the lifestyle of the locals. Next, you'll be visiting an archaeological site known for its gigantic funeral monuments, Chullpas de Sillustani.
Day 10: Puno - Lima - Paracas National Reserve
You'll be flying* back to Lima in the morning before continuing on to Paracas National Reserve. Spend the afternoon taking a dune buggy ride in the nearby desert or relaxing at the seaside resort.
Day 11: Paracas National Reserve
Take a sail out of the "Galapagos of Peru," the Ballestas Islands. Home to thousands of sea birds such as the Humboldt penguin and sea life such as condors and sea lions, you'll be able to enjoy you time here relaxing or you can take a flight over the islands to view the famous Nazca lines, etchings in the sand that pre-date Incan civilization.
Day 12: Paracas National Reserve – Lima - Tour Ends
Head to the fertile valley of Pisco for the wine and pisco. A visit to a local bodega in the valley will introduce you to the history and taste of pisco, Peru's national drink. In the evening, a farewell dinner at one of Lima's finest restaurants will be had to celebrate a successful journey and then you'll be taken to the airport for your overnight flight back home.
*Airfare not included in total price
