PERU EXPLORER
Lima . Sacred Valley . Cusco . Machu Picchu
This eight-day adventure into Peru’s culture and history offers an ideal introduction to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites. Take a scenic train to the famous citadel and enjoy free time to explore its many corners. Roam the Sacred Valley, taking in incredible views of the Andes. Travelling with knowledgeable guides who know this region best, we’ll leave no stone unturned. This is a National Geographic Journey.
from $1999
per person sharing
8
days
PRICE INCLUDES:
National Geographic Journeys Exclusives: Traditional Andean Experience, Urubamba
National Geographic Journeys Exclusives: Cusco Planetarium, Cusco
Giveback experience: Parque de la Papa (Potato Park), Urubamba
Giveback experience: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay.
Arrival transfer.
Two-day Sacred Valley tour including Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Pisac ruins and pre-Incan salt pans.
Traditional pachamanca-style dinner.
Scenic train and guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Internal flights.
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
NOT INCLUDED:
International airfare; tipping; meals unless noted otherwise, personal expenses
GRACE NOTES:
Giveback: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay.
ITINERARY:
DEPARTURES: Year round
Day 1: Lima
Transferred to your hotel on arrival.
Day 2: Lima - Urubamba
Board an early flight to Cusco then head to the Sacred Valley. Explore the pre-Inca salt pans of Las Salineras and tour the Maras and Moray ruins. Enjoy a traditional pachamanca-style meal of local specialties. (B,D)
Day 3: Urubamba
Continue exploring the Sacred Valley with a visit to the “Parque de la Papa” (“Potato Park”). Walk through this rural community with a local guide to learn about potato cultivation, weaving, and the importance of both to Andean culture. Also, explore the Ollantaytambo and Pisac ruins and visit the Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosqo, one of your giveback experiences. (B,L)
Day 4: Urubamba - Aguas Caliente
Catch an early transfer to Ollantaytambo station and board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes with the option to visit the local market or nearby hot springs.(B)
Day 5: Machu Picchu
Enjoy a guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins, the highlight of your trip. You will have free time to explore on your own or take an optional walk to the Inca Bridge. Returning to Aguas Caliente by bus, and continue to Cusco by train. (B)
Day 6: Cusco
Explore historic Cusco, Peru's most beautiful city, with options to visit it's fascinating museums, shop at the city market explore the charming hillside neighborhood of San Blas, or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or mountain biking. This evening, take in a different view of the night sky at the Cusco Planetarium. Enjoy a presentation on the southern sky, contemporary astronomy, and the ancient Inca relationship with the cosmos. Check out the on-site museum and use their telescopes to admire the stars. (B)
Day 7: Cusco - Lima
Fly back to Lima and spend an afternoon in Peru's bustling capital. (B)
Day 8: Depart
Depart at any time. (B)