Discover the Inca Empire—once the largest nation on earth. You'll explore Machu Picchu, the centerpiece of this vast civilization. Arrive at this magnificent hilltop citadel the same way ancient warriors and traders first came—through the jungle along the fabled Inca Trail. Cuzco is a vibrant blend of both old and new, with traditional handicrafts and stone-paved streets.
You will explore ruins, and uncover layers of fascinating civilizations from Inca, to colonial, to modern. Hike to fortresses and terraced villages settled by ancient inhabitatnts and meet the friendly people who make their home in the high Andes.
Day 1 – Nov. 18
Meet in Lima Peru at sea level and fly to Cuzco at nearly 11,000 feet elevation. You’ll notice the altitude, and we’ll take it easy as we explore the narrow streets of the old Inca capital. - D
Day 2 – Nov. 19
From Cuszo we enter the Inca Highlands and get off the beaten path to explore the village of Chinchero at over 12,000 feet elevation. We visit the Moray earthworks and hike to the salt pools at Maras. B/D
Day 3 – Nov. 20
We’ll visit the Inca ruins in Tambo Machay and Kenko en route the sacred Urubamba Valley. We discover Pisac, the largest of the Inca fortresses and hike to the valley floor. B/D
Day 4 – Nov. 21
Today we arrive at Puente Pachar to raft a section of the Urubamba River. At this time of the year the river is dishing out Class II and III rapids—no experience required, and enough to get your heart pumping. B/D
Day 5 – Nov. 22
This morning take the train from Ollanataytambo to Km 104 where we cross the Urubamba River on a footbridge to access the Inca Trail. We capture the most scenic section of this jungle highway as it passes ruins at Chachabamba and the impressive terraced city at Winaywayna. The most thrilling moment occurs as we arrive at the Sun Gate at Intipunku and see Machu Picchu spread out below. We capture the ruins bathed in the setting sun and descend to Aguas Calientes for the evening. B/D
Day 6 – Nov. 23
Today we return to watch the sun rise at Machu Picchu. We have all day to explore the ruins, the hilltop granaries and fortress of Huayna Pichhu and the many rarely-seen remains of this beautiful city. We return to Aguas Calientes for the evening. B/D
Day 7 – Nov. 24
Today you are free to return to Machu Picchu or discover many of the excellent hikes in the Urubamba Valley at the base of the ruins. We’ll make an afternoon return to Cuzco by train. B/D
Day 8 – Nov. 25
Take one last day to enjoy Cuzco at leisure. Visit the historic colonial cathedral and find last-minute bargains on handicrafts before a farewell dinner. B/L
Day 9 – Nov. 26
After breakfast at hotel, we’ll transfer to the airport for a flight to Lima. Optional afternoon sightseeing in Lima before boarding return flights home. B
What makes this trip such a great value?
+ Expert leadership and guides
+ Includes flights from Lima to Cuzco
+ Excelent accommodations with central locations
+ Wonderful meals (most dinners a la carte)
+ Two days at Machu Picchu - see it all--no problema
+ Urubamba whitewater adventure included!
+ Small groups (usually less than 12 guests)
+ All ground transportation, permits, entrances included
+ We shuttle your bags, you carry just a light daypack
+ Can you think of a better way to spend Thanksgiving week?
