Cusco and the Sacred Valley

8 Days - from $1475

It is possible in just a few short days to sample some of Peru's rich mix of culture, history and mountain scenery. After exploring the main sights of Lima's colonial centre, we cross the mountains to Cusco and visit the massive fortifications, temples and colourful towns of the Sacred Valley. After catching a train to the town of Aguas Calientes, we explore the magnificent site of Machu Picchu. They were missed by the Spanish conquistadors during their conquest of the region and remained 'lost' to the outside world until American explorer Hiram Bingham came across them them in 1911. There are plenty of sightseeing options in Cusco and we also have time to wander the narrow streets and shop for some great keepsakes, including alpaca sweaters and colourful Indian hats that are unique to the Andes.

Highlights

• Colonial Lima
• Cusco
• Sacsayhuaman
• Pisac
• The Sacred Valley
• Aguas Calientes
• Machu Picchu
• Peru's Challenge Community Project

Itinerary:

1-2 (Mon) Arrive in Lima and transfer to hotel. City tour of colonial centre.3 Morning flight to Cusco. Afternoon walking tour.4 Full-day tour of the Sacred Valley, visiting the ruins of Qenko, Puka Pukara and Tambo Machay, Ollantaytambo and the markets at Pisac.5 Morning free in Cusco. Afternoon visit to Pumamarca ruins and Peru's Challenge.6-7 Train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu. Return to Cusco.8 Fly to Lima where trip ends on arrival (Mon).

Included: Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees.
Not Included: International flights, airport departure taxes, visas where required, meals not included in the itinerary, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.
Notes: Public Holiday Inconveniences Please be prepared for the inconvenience of sights such as museums and churches being closed to tourists on public holidays (ie. Christmas Day and New Years Day). Throughout Latin America, quite a few museums are closed on Mondays.
Meals: 7 breakfasts
Valid From: 1/01/2007
Trip Departure Notes: • The local flights are from Lima-Cusco and Cusco-Lima.
Starts/Ends: Lima/Lima
Trip Reference: PSCS