$2,721.00
The ancient civilization of the Inca’s built some of the world’s most mind-bending sites, even by today’s standards. In fact, many of the 22,000 kilometers of roads they built are still in use. Journey through Peru, from New to Old, as we meet in the modern, bustling city of Lima. Journey to islands, camp under the stars on Peru’s only desert oasis, meet with community leaders working hard to empower the youth, and of course, visit the spiritual and inspiring Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
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$2,721.00
Hola! Welcome to Lima. Today is open for arrivals and exploration. Visit any of the museums, taste fresh Peruvian food, bike the coast, check out Iglesia de Santo Domingo, or even paraglide the cliffs of Miraflores! You may wish to arrive earlier to have more time in Lima.
Today is a day filled with unique destinations! We start before sunup to head south to Huacachina. Along the way, we make a pitstop at the oldest distillery in the Americas (1684 to be exact!). Enjoy a facility tour, pisco tasting, lunch, and traditional dance and horse show. We then continue south to Huacachina, the only desert oasis in South America. Huacachina has a population of about 100 people yet hosts tens of thousands of tourists each year. To help reduce the environmental impact on this small yet incredible piece of nature, we "glamp" in the desert as opposed to a hotel. Get a rush sandboarding the dunes as the sun sets on the horizon, followed by a bonfire, light bites, chef-prepared BBQ, local wine and a bonfire under the stars.
After a quick breakfast and shower, head to Paracas where we visit the Ballestas Islands, known as ‘Poor Man’s Galapagos.’ Board a private boat for the islands to enjoy viewing the wildlife, sea caves, cliffs and beaches. Once on land, enjoy a Peruvian lunch before returning to Lima for a free evening.
After a quick 1-hour flight, enjoy free time to relax and explore Cusco. Shops, restaurants and parks line the historic cobblestone streets. In the evening is an optional group dinner.
Today we enter the Sacred Valley, which holds an unmistakable beauty and serenity. The best way to step into this sacred land is to experience the culture of the people who have called it home for centuries. We begin by touring the Chinchero Ruins and textile center. Next, spend time in a local Misminay community learning how to make uchucuta, a traditional Peruvian sauce followed by a scenic hike overlooking the famous Moray ruins, a beautiful Inca creation nestled into the mountainside. After a full day of exploring, enjoy a relaxing evening in Maras fellowshipping around the bonfire and enjoying a chef-inspired Peruvian dinner. Nestle into your ‘teepee’ for a cozy night sleep.
Make it a goal to wake up to catch a breathtaking sunrise against the Andes mountains; you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your bed! The wooden ‘teepees’ have floor-to-ceiling windows allowing an unobstructed view. Begin the day with a relaxing picnic breakfast surrounded by the beauty of the mountains and sacred valley. Kick in the adrenaline for a ATV tour cutting through the mountains, visiting two famous locations – Maras and Moray. One is an incredible arrangement of centuries-old salt mines carved into the side of a mountain. Moray is an ancient Incan ruin used for farming. The day ends with a guided tour to Ollantaytambo.
Today is an early start, but for a good reason. The ancient trail of the Incas is one of the greatest wonders of the world, and today, you will experience it firsthand. After taking the train to the entrance at Km 104 of the Inca Trail, hike about 4 hours to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. It could easily be argued this location is more beautiful, peaceful, and transcendent than Machu Picchu itself. Rest, eat, and soak in the mystical feeling of being deep in the Andes with nothing except lush green forest and jungle as far as the eye can see. We then continue the hike until arriving at Inti Punku or Puerta del Sol, where the Inca Trail ends. After tackling the challenging trail, reward yourself with a delicious dinner in Aguas Calientes.
Our final day in the Sacred Valley is spent exploring the captivating Machu Picchu. A private guided tour ensures a fully immersed experience into the history and culture of the Incas. The guided tour lasts about 3 hours before making the return to Cusco. Overnight near the town square, bustling with nightlife. Spend the night exploring the vibrant city or resting and relaxing.
Departures. Or, stick around a few extra days (highly encouraged!) to enjoy Cusco. We offer an optional tour to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley. It's worth the extra stay!
Interested in a private tour, alternate dates from what’s listed, or other questions or inquiries? We’d love to help!