PERU ANCIENT LAND OF
MYSTERIES 12 DAYS
Price from approx $2,449 US Details
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Fantastic archeological treasures set amidst the soaring Andean peaks — this can only be Peru! Ride through the mountains to the fabled Incan city, Machu Picchu, aboard the Vistadome train. Meet the indigenous Uros people of the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. Spend two nights in Paracas National Reserve, Peru's only coastal wildlife sanctuary. Cruise the Ballestas Islands and see the fantastic wildlife. Discover Lima’s colonial heritage and see why the “City of Kings” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 1: Arrive Lima, Peru - Tour Begins Arrive late this evening in the "City of Kings," Lima, Peru.
Day 2: Lima Today enjoy a fascinating city tour through the historical center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the artwork at San Francisco Monastery and enter the catacombs. View the Government Center, the Plaza de Armas’s elegant Cathedral, an abundance of colonial architecture, and the fashionable suburbs of San Isidro and Miraflores for insight into the daily life of the Limeños. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner showcasing Peru’s delicious cuisine and festive entertainment.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 3: Lima - Cuzco - Sacred Valley of the Incas
Fly to Cuzco, in the heart of the Inca civilization. Board your coach to descend through the Andes to the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas, the agricultural center for the Incas. Learn the centuries-old methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving Andean traditional textiles during a visit to Awana Kancha, a living museum of the Peruvian Andes. After a short lesson on the local language, stop in Pisac village to browse the colorful handicraft market. A visit to Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio teaches you about this internationally renowned artist's techniques and designs, inspired by ancient Peruvian cultures. Settle in this evening at your hotel nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 4: Sacred Valley of the Incas - Ollantaytambo- Sacred Valley of the Incas
Experience the lifestyle of the modern Andean people and delve into their culture when you travel to a nearby community and interact with the locals. This afternoon, visit the spectacular Ollantaytambo ruins, the only Inca settlement that has been continually inhabited since its inception. A unique terraced complex topped with carved stone panels, these ruins reflect ancient Incan architecture and heritage. Do as the locals do and enjoy a tasting of “chicha,” a unique regional drink made from maize, at a local pub.
Today breakfast will be included.
Day 5: Sacred Valley of the Incas - Machu Picchu
Climb aboard the “Vistadome” train for a breathtaking ride through the Andes to the “Lost City of the Incas.” Hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungle, Machu Picchu is considered the most spectacular sight in South America. Spend the afternoon with your guide uncovering the mysteries of these majestic ruins. Tonight, stay at the base of Machu Picchu, for chance to further soak up its atmosphere. Enjoy an exclusive culinary demonstration before dinner.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 6: Machu Picchu - Cuzco
With leisure time this morning, you may return to Machu Picchu on your own or explore the local markets. Return by train and continue to Cuzco, a city that blends Inca culture and Spanish colonial influence. Enjoy a visit to a local orphanage sponsored by the Tour Operator Foundation and learn about their efforts to help the children of the region. Relax and become acclimated to the altitude this evening.
Today breakfast will be included.
Day 7: Cuzco
Explore this former capital of the Inca Empire during a colonial city tour, experiencing the architectural legacy visible in the Cathedral, Santo Domingo and the Plaza de Armas. Discover the important sacred Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman Fortress and Qenko Temple. This evening, enjoy a dinner and performance of traditional Andean folkloric music and dance.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 8: Cuzco - Puno
Join your tour guide this morning for a visit to the Centro Artesanal Cuzco market, where you can browse colorful displays of textiles, pottery and jewelry. Or enjoy leisure time to explore the San Blas artisans quarter or visit one of the many impressive museums. Then fly to Puno, hugging the shores of Lake Titicaca. Known as the birthplace of the Inca Empire, ancient legends say that life began here. Relax this evening at your lakeside hotel.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 9: Uros Floating Islands - Las Chullpas de Sillustani - Lake Titicaca
The Titicaca area, steeped in tradition and folklore, is the center of Incan legends. Enjoy a morning cruise to the floating islands of the Uros people of Lake Titicaca. Experience walking on the spongy surface, made from compacted beds of tortora reeds, and meet the locals, learning about their history and lifestyle. In the afternoon, visit mystical Chullpas de Sillustani – an archeological area boasting 13th century funerary monuments. Participate in a local home visit to gain insight into daily life.
Today breakfast will be included.
Day 10: Puno - Lima - Paracas National Reserve
This morning fly to Lima; continue south to the Paracas National Reserve – Peru’s only coastal wildlife sanctuary. En route, travel through the region of Pisco, known for wine and “pisco” (Peru’s national drink) production. Visit a local bodega for a tour and tasting of pisco.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 11: Paracas National Reserve
Today is yours to spend at leisure at your ecologically-designed seaside resort. Try spotting the dolphins in the bay! Or, join an optional day tour to Nazca to see the enigmatic Nazca Lines.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 12: Paracas National Reserve - Lima - Tour Ends
This morning, cruise out to the Ballestas Islands – the “Galapagos of Peru.” These islands are home to thousands of sea birds including Humboldt penguins, boobies and pelicans, who share their home with hundreds of playful sea lions. Watch for them swimming around your boat and for a glimpse of the elusive condor. Next you’ll visit an artisan workshop to learn about locally made textiles, famous in the Nazca region. Travel north and return to Lima, taking in views of the Peruvian Pacific coast. After a farewell dinner at one of Lima's finest restaurants, transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
INCLUSIONS HIGHLIGHTS & EXPERIENCES
12 days, 19 meals
Lima, Sacred Valley of the Incas, Machu Picchu, Cuzco, Uros Floating Islands, Lake Titicaca, Paracas Reserve & the Ballestas Islands
Enjoy the breathtaking voyage through the Andes to Machu Picchu aboard the Vistadome train.
Spend 2 nights in the Paracas National Reserve, Peru's only coastal wildlife sanctuary.
Meet and learn about the lifestyle of the indigenous Uros people of the floating islands on Lake Titicaca.
Learn centuries-old Andean methods of spinning, dyeing, and weaving traditional textiles with a visit to a living museum of the Peruvian Andes.
Optional Excursions for Peru: Ancient Land of Mystery
Plan Ahead, Reserve Now!
Add a touch of personalization to your vacation by selecting from our well-researched list of options. While we are known for our many inclusions, we also want to be sure you have adequate free time and options to enhance your vacation - your way. And now, you can reserve your options in advance of your tour!
Availability is limited and reservations are on a first come, first serve basis. Payment must be received no later than 15 days prior to departure. Prices are subject to change. Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult.
Bird Walk $50.00
City: Machu Picchu
Discover a bird-lover’s paradise when you visit the Machu Picchu Sanctuary – an area rich in biodiversity, due to varying microclimates between the Andes and the Amazon. An expert guide takes you on a nature walk that starts near by the hotel, on the road to Puente Ruinas, where you’ll spot some of the unique creatures found here in the midst of lush cloud-forest vegetation and the soothing sounds of the Vilcanota River. Over 400 species of birds and approximately 700 kinds of butterflies flock to this wild paradise where 200 species of orchids create a colorful canvas. The Torrent duck – the only duck in the world that can dive and swim in rushing rapids; the ornamental Andean Cock of the Rock – Peru’s national bird; the tame cinnamon flycatcher; the Giant Hummingbird; and the colorful Blue and Yellow Tanager are some of the delightful species waiting to be discovered and photographed on your tranquil nature exploration in the town of Aguas Calientes, just steps outside of the hotel.
Please note a maximum of 10 passengers is allowed for this option. No transportation required. It is recommended to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water and binoculars. Transportation is not required.
Transportation is not included.
Please note a minimum of 3 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2 hour(s).
Nazca $85.00
City: Paracas
Journey from the Paracas Marine Reserve on the great Pan-American Highway through the San Jose desert to the city of Nazca – made famous by mysterious lines etched into the sand in shapes of animals, plants and geoglyphs. There are more than 10,000 lines in all resembling shapes ranging from spiders and hummingbirds to whales and trapezoids! These enigmatic drawings date back to the mysterious Nazca culture, which dominated the region between 300 BC and 700 AD. Some believe that the drawings were signs for the gods; others thought the drawings were giant astronomical calendars. The sight inspires many theories. Stop at an overlook for your first glimpse of the lines from above – and see the hands, the lizard, and the tree. The dry and windless climate of the extreme desert has preserved these figures well. Then, drive to the town of Nazca where you will enjoy a very special “Pachamanca” lunch at a beautiful resort hacienda. Pachamanca – a way of cooking food under the earth with hot stones, including meats, potatoes, vegetables, and special Andean herbs – has special significance in Peruvian belief, and is saved only for special occasions. After this unforgettable lunch, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to shop in the main square of town. You may decide to head to the Nazca airport to take a flight around this breathtaking area; the afternoon is yours to do as you wish.
Please note: The overflight at the Nazca airport is not included.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 12 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 10 hour(s).
The Inca Terraces at Moray and the Sacred Valley Salt Mines $45.00
City: Cuzco
Discover the enigmatic circular terraces at Moray and the amazing sight of the “Salineras” salt mines in the Sacred Valley during your half day adventure from Cuzco. Venture off the beaten path, journeying past quaint villages, spectacular Andean vistas and wide open fields of Peruvian crops. When you arrive at the Inca Terraces at Moray, explore each level of this artistically-designed Incan construction using the original Inca stone stairs! The concentric ring terraces and their meaning to the Incas will mesmerize you; these terraces were perhaps used as an experimental agricultural development site by the Incas; the rings are set deep into the earth so that each terrace reaches a different microclimate. Wind down the hillside towards Urubamba village and behold the awe-inspiring Salineras salt pans! Behold thousands of individual ancient salt mines carved into the terraces cascading down the mountain. An underground spring fills the pools causing the salt to crystallize as the water evaporates. As a result, a white quilt work pattern covers the hillside. Since Incan times, families have passed down ownership of the pools and have made a living from this special place. A truly unique sight to behold, you will never forget your exploration of this remote and spectacularly unique phenomenon.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 5 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 5 hour(s).
Mystical Shaman Ceremony $80.00
City: Machu Picchu
Enjoy a mystical experience that introduces you to the sacred beliefs and rituals of the ancient Peruvians, allowing to you further connect with the energy that attracts so many to Peru and Machu Picchu. Shamanism is the exploration and discovery of non-material worlds and states of mind; a way of connecting with the non-physical world which involves emotional and spiritual healing. Did you know that Ancient Peruvian beliefs hold that the Mother Earth – Pachamama – is sacred? Practices of giving offerings to Pachamama are still part of daily life for many Peruvians, traditions which were passed down from Incan beliefs. The coca plant, a sacred symbol of community spirit and respect, also plays an important role in ceremonies that are still performed today as coca leaves are believed to read the future. This enlightening experience offers you a glimpse into Peruvian history and traditions.
Please note a maximum of 15 passengers is allowed for this option. No transportation required.
Transportation is not included.
Please note a minimum of 5 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 1 hour(s).
Departure Dates February - June
August - December
Price From Approx $2,449 US per person based
on double occupancy
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Fantastic archeological treasures set amidst the soaring Andean peaks — this can only be Peru! Ride through the mountains to the fabled Incan city, Machu Picchu, aboard the Vistadome train. Meet the indigenous Uros people of the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. Spend two nights in Paracas National Reserve, Peru's only coastal wildlife sanctuary. Cruise the Ballestas Islands and see the fantastic wildlife. Discover Lima’s colonial heritage and see why the “City of Kings” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.