Inca Roots:

Places Covered:

Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu with overnight stay, Chincheros and Pisac Indian Markets, Ollantaytambo Fortress, authentic Quechua Village and Salt Pools.

Duration:

7 Nights / 8 Days

Detailed Itinerary:    

Peru... home to one of the earliest and most advanced civilizations in the Western Hemisphere... Under the rule of powerful kings, an incredible people known as the Incas amassed an empire that built systems of winding mountain roads, remarkable cities, and an unforgettable legacy. One is still mystified today by their amazing accomplishments, as can be seen at the hidden and fascinating Machu Picchu... Take a trip back in time and explore the roots of an ancient civilization that left behind some of the most interesting and awe-inspiring constructions in the world.

Day 01:

Arrival in Lima, the "City of Kings" famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture and extraordinary museums.

Day 02:

City Tour and Gold Museum. This half-day tour visits both the colonial and modern sections of this "City of Kings." Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza Mayor with its cathedral and palace, and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima, drive along the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro. Then visit Peru's famous Gold Museum, which houses a priceless collection of pre-Colombian gold artifacts as well as the private armory of Miguel Mujica Gallo. Some of the cultures represented in this collection include the Chavin, Paracas, Nazca, Tiahuanaco and Inca. (AB)

Day 03:

Chincheros, Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Early morning flight to Cusco. Departure from hotel for a drive to exciting and unspoiled Chincheros. You will take a step back in time at the Chincheros Market where the Indians from different villages meet on Sundays to trade their wares and produces among themselves just as they did a century ago. Continue to the Spanish Colonial village of Pisac and the Pisac Indian Market. Here you will find excellent bargains on Alpaca sweaters and a variety of handicrafts. After lunch the tour continues through the sacred valley of the Incas, Urubamba, to visit the town of Ollantaytambo and the imposing Inca Fortress. Return to Yucay in the Urubamba Valley for overnight. (AB,L)

Day 04:

Salt Pools and Quechua Village. Morning excursion to the impressive salt pools formed by water emerging from a lake inside a mountain in the Urubamba Valley. Continue your excursion and visit an authentic Quechua Village to feel the way of life of the Inca's ancestors. The Inca himself was a noble Quechua. They live off the land and are always wearing their colorful ponchos, see Quechua children scamper about while woman are weaving their family's clothes. A meaningful experience! (AB,L)

Day 05:

Excursion to Machu Picchu with overnight stay. Early wake up for a train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the "Lost City of the Incas," Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca "Virgins of the Sun" took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. (AB,L)

Day 06:

Machu Picchu / Cusco Free morning to enjoy one of the most incredible sights on earth, the ruins of Machu Picchu. Take as much time as you need to study the mysterious ruins, hike Huayna Picchu the pyramid-shape mountain above Machu Picchu, walk to the Inca Bridge a secret entrance used by the Inca's army, or toward the Inca Trail to find the historic Sun Gate. Afternoon return to Cusco. (AB,L)

Day 07:

Cusco and nearby Ruins. Morning walked tour of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Visitors are caught up in the excitement of this city. The tour includes a visit to the Cathedral and Santo Domingo Church, passing the main streets and Plaza de Armas. You will walk through the most astonishing Cusco streets to reach the San Blas Church. Cusco is a delightful combination of Inca and Colonial architecture. Afternoon tour includes a visit to the ruins of Kenko, Puca-pucara, Tambomachay and to the Sacsayhuaman fortress. (AB)

Day 08:

Cusco / Home Morning transfer to the airport for flight home. (AB)