Machupicchu – Cusco: Discover The city of Incas
It was in Peru that the mighty Inca Empire flourished and the Spanish Conquistadors began their domination of Andean South America.
Explore Cusco’s archaeological sites, gain an understanding of ancient and present day Peruvians through their Andean villages and archeological sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and marvel at the unique legacy of Incan culture in Machu Picchu.
Day 1: Cusco
Upon arrival to Cusco, reception, and transfer to selected hotel. You may find the altitude a little hard to handle at first so we recommend the rest of the morning to repose and acclimatize. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a shared guided tour to the most magical city. Discover the magic and beauty of Cusco, the capital of the Incan Empire.
The flawlessly built Incan roads spread to all regions from the “Plaza” which was thought of as the center of the world. Visit the Temple of the Sun -“El Koricancha”- some stories claim that before the arrival of the conquerors this temple was completely laminated in gold. On the way to the Cathedral, you’ll stop by the Hatun Rumiyoc Street where the famous twelve angular stone is. In the Cathedral, you’ll have the opportunity to see its beautiful woodwork and colonial paintings before heading up the mountains for 10 minutes to visit the nearby archeological sites in the Archeological Park of Sacsayhuaman.
These spectacular archaeological sites that surround Cusco are a true mark of Incan heritage and culture. Return to your hotel. At night we recommend visiting any restaurant or bar near the Main Square and enjoy the night atmosphere trying the delicious Peruvian cuisine with and a Pisco Sour, while listening to traditional Inca music. Overnight in Cusco.
Experience it
Day 2: Cusco / Sacred Valley /Cusco
After breakfast, you will travel to Peru’s historic Sacred Valley of the Incas, located between Cusco and Machu Picchu and enjoy a full day shared guided excursion. Go off the beaten path and visit the authentic and picturesque villages of this valley, where time seems to stand still. The Sacred Valley is known for its lush scenery, picturesque colonial towns, and a magnificent Inca fortress. Your first stop is Maras’ salt terraces to see and learn about an ancient pre-Incan method of producing salt.
Your next stop will be the nearby amazing circular terraces of Moray, an astonishing example of the agricultural skills of the Incas. Learn from your knowledgeable guide how these terraces were used as an Incan laboratory to acclimatize crops. After enjoying lunch, you will head to the beautiful valley of Ollantaytambo and visit the Inca town and fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the last Incan refugees during Spanish colonization.
First, you will explore the powerful fortress, ruins, temples, and terraces. Then you will walk around the cobblestone streets of Ollantaytambo, an astounding feat of construction and ingenuity is considered a “Living Inca Town” as it is the only Inca settlement that has been continually inhabited since its inception. Return to your hotel. Overnight in Cusco.
Experience it
Day 3: Cusco / Machu Picchu /Cusco
After breakfast, transfer to the railway station to enjoy a scenic rail tour to Machu Picchu Pueblo (former Aguas Calientes), the little town on the foot of Machu Picchu. You will experience an unforgettable view as you cross over the mountains from Cusco and drop down into the valley. The road follows the meandering Urubamba River and passes through rich agricultural lands and picturesque villages.
This spectacular journey through the Sacred Valley by narrow gauge railway to Machu Picchu is one of the world’s great travel experiences. Upon arrival, disembark and switch to a bus for the short ride to the actual site of Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, is widely considered the most spectacular sight on the South American continent and the most renowned examples of Incan architecture.
Completed in approximately 1450 at the height of the Incan empire, it was abandoned less than 100 years later following the Spanish conquest of Peru. Enter Machu Picchu by the main gate, admiring your first few glimpses of this incredible archaeological site.
Get an insider’s view of Machu Picchu as you spend time, with your guide, learning about the city, its history and the people who once lived there from your archaeologist guide. You will have time to wander the site on your own before heading back to Machu Picchu Pueblo to enjoy lunch and board your return train service to Cusco. Upon arrival, reception and transfer back to your hotel. Overnight in Cusco.
Experience it
Day 4: Cusco
After breakfast, we suggest to stroll through the bustling Plaza de Armas in the heart of Cusco; visit the San Blas district, with its narrow and very picturesque streets, which is known as the artists’ quarter; or just sit and sip a coca tea in one of the cafes on the balconies overlooking the Plaza de Armas. At the appointed time, transfer to the airport for your departure flight to Lima and international connection. End of services.
