Cuzco and Machu Picchu 7 d/6 n

DAY 1. Lima 

Upon arrival in Lima, your flights will proceed as scheduled. You will be welcomed by our guide, who will then take you to your hotel in the Miraflores district. Lima, traditionally known as "the city of the Kings," has transformed into the Culinary Capital of South America. 

DAY 2. Cuzco 

Following breakfast, we transfer to the airport for a flight to Cuzco, a 1.5-hour journey to the situated at an altitude of 3400 meters above sea level. From there, we commence our exploration directly into the "Sacred Valley of the Incas." Our first stop is Pisac, renowned for its ancient market, providing time to leisurely stroll through the town and market. The second stop takes us to the Pisac ruins, featuring incredible stonework in architecture within a unique landscape.  Following a well-deserved lunch, our journey continues along the Urubamba River, concluding in Ollantaytambo at an elevation of 2600 meters above sea level. This charming town will serve as our home for the next three nights. Upon check-in, we embark on a walk to the "Fortress of Ollantaytambo," featuring the Temple of the Sun constructed from six colossal monoliths, each weighing over 50 tons. The exploration concludes with the Terrace of the Ten Niches, a remarkably distinctive feature. In the evening, you are free to leisurely stroll around the main square of this charming village and choose a place for dinner. 

DAY 3. Ollantaytambo Moras y Moray 

AM: After breakfast, we venture into the captivating surroundings of the Urubamba Valley. 

Today's excursion leads us to the Salt Mines of Maras, a mesmerizing site that seems to glow with its intense white brilliance, offering a breathtaking spectacle for every visitor. These salt mines have been in use since the time of the Incas, and the traditional method of salt extraction has proven to be remarkably successful, continuing through to the present day.  Moray, with its circular terraces nestled among the hills, resembling a Greek amphitheater, presents an extraordinary landscape. The valley is enveloped by the snow-covered Andes mountains. Moray served as an open-air agricultural laboratory in the Inca Empire, where plants were cultivated to adapt to various environmental conditions before becoming a staple crop. We conclude the tour with lunch at a restaurant in the valley. 

DAY 4. Machu Picchu 

AM: We walk to the train station to catch an early train to Aguas Calientes, the village situated below the Machu Picchu ruins. This promises to be a fantastic train journey, providing a close-up view of the Andes mountain chain and its rivers—a journey widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful train experiences.  Upon reaching Aguas Calientes, our guide will warmly welcome us and facilitate our transfer to the shuttle bus, which will transport us to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel.  Throughout our guided tour, we will immerse ourselves in the uniqueness of the location and the genius that went into the construction of Machu Picchu. 

Machu Picchu the most astonishing urban creation of the Inca Empire. Giant walls, terraces, and ramps showcase an unparalleled level of precision. This captivating tour of one of the Seven Wonders of the World will last approximately 2.5 hours, concluding back at the citadel.  Afterward, we return to Aguas Calientes for a late lunch and leisurely walks around town. 

PM: At a designated time, we will gather at the local train station to board the Voyager service for our journey back to Ollantaytambo. 

DAY 5. Cuzco 

AM: Following breakfast, once we have acclimated to the high altitude, we will return to the capital of the Incas, Cuzco, by bus. 

After checking into our hotel for the next two nights, we embark on an afternoon walk through the major sites of interest in this incredibly well- preserved city that has retained its allure since the time of the Incas.  We explore the renowned Cathedral with its magnificently carved woodwork, ornate altar, and a vast collection of canvases from the 17th- century Cusco Painting School. Delving into the wealth of Cusco's cultural background, we visit the Temple of the Sun, where we witness the incredible masonry of the Incas—an engineering feat that continues to be an enigma.  Following our visit, we walk along Hatunrumiyoc Street, named after the 12-angled stone prominently visible in the remaining walls of what used to be Inca Roca’s Palace.  Our final stop is the San Blas artisan quarter. Its steeped cobblestone alleys not only offer spectacular views of the city but also host workshops and galleries, providing a great way to immerse ourselves in Cusco's artistic atmosphere. 

With its exciting history and rich culture, you may choose to extend your time in the town or make your way back to the hotel to rest. 

DAY 6. Open day
Optional: Sacsayhuaman ruins, Rainbow Mountains, river rafting 

The guide will offer advice and tips on activities to explore in and around Cuzco. Strolling around on your own is always a pleasant option. If you're interested in visiting Sacsayhuaman, the ruins are a great idea, located just 2.8 km away from the city.  For those seeking a challenging hike, the Rainbow Mountains are an option, or you can consider a thrilling river rafting experience. 

DAY 7. Back Home 

Following breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the airport once again, boarding a flight back to Lima and continuing on to Guayaquil, Ecuador.  For those heading to the Galapagos or staying in Ecuador, please note that you will spend one night in Guayaquil. For those headed to the Caribbean, the boarding point is Lima.  Some of you will conclude your tour with us here, and we extend our best wishes for a safe journey back to your home.  We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again in the future.