Cusco & The Sacred Valley

8 days - from $1980

A non-trekking trip taking in Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

It is possible in just over one week to sample some of Peru’s rich mix of culture, history and mountain scenery. After exploring the main sights of Lima’s colonial centre, we cross the mountains to Cusco and visit the massive fortifications, temples and colourful towns of the Sacred Valley. After catching a train to the town of Aguas Calientes, we visit the magnificent ruins of Machu Picchu. The Spanish Conquistadors missed the ruins during their conquest of the region and they remained lost to the outside world until American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered them in 1911. There are plenty of sightseeing options in Cusco and we also have time to wander the narrow streets and shop for some great keepsakes, including alpaca sweaters and colourful Indian hats that are unique to the Andes.

Highlights

• UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre of the Peruvian capital Lima
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient Inca capital of Cusco
• The towering Inca citadel at Ollantaytambo
• The colourful market town of Pisac
• The 'Lost City of the Incas' - UNESCO World Heritage-listed Machu Picchu

Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Lima3-4: Cusco - The Sacred Valley5: Peru's Challenge Community Project - Cusco6-7: Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Cusco8: Lima
Included:

• The services of Peregrine's expert English-speaking local tour leader throughout the tour.

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees where applicable): half-day city tour of Lima; afternoon walking tour of Cusco; and visit to the ceremonial ruins of Sacsayhuaman.

• Full day in the Sacred Valley: Inca citadel at Ollantaytambo; ruins at Qenko; market town of Pisac and Awana Kancha tourist centre to see llama, alpaca, vicuna and guanaco.

• Guided tour of Machu Picchu (including entrance fees).

• Visit to the Peru's Challenge Community Project.

• Local flights: Lima-Cusco and Cusco-Lima.

• Return train Cusco-Aguas Calientes-Cusco, and bus to Machu Picchu.

• Free time to explore Lima, Cusco and Aguas Calientes.

• Arrival transfer.

International flights, domestic flights, airport departure taxes, visas where required, meals not included in the itinerary, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.