Stretching across a ragged, 7,000-foot-high hilltop in the midst of the Andes, the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu mystify and intrigue travelers and historians alike. A trip to the remote Peruvian site is a must-do for tourists in Peru, and while some visitors join organized tours prior to their departure, many others venture to the site as independent travelers. If you're planning your own trip to the iconic site, read our tour guide to make the most of your visit.
Wander through the historical temples, homes, baths, and plazas of the famous Inca Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu
View the majestic water dancing of El Circuito Magico del Agua in Lima at the fountains near the downtown area
Learn how to craft textiles and imitate nature’s vibrant colors by hand when visiting the Center of Traditional Textiles
Travel a portion of the Upper Urubamba River on class II and III rapids rafting excursion, which is safe and fun for the whole family
Climb the unique agricultural terraces of Moray, where the Inca cultivated varieties of crops with microclimates changing up to 25 degrees Fahrenheit
Discover ancient history at Lima’s Huaca Pucllana adobe pyramid, which was erected around the 6th century AD
Traverse the Incan splendors of Cusco at Coricancha, the former Sun Temple draped in gold
(Day 1): Lima – Arrive in Lima and Enjoy the Remaining Day at the Family’s Leisure
(Day 2): Lima – Explore Historic and Cosmopolitan Lima
(Day 3): Sacred Valley - Fly to Cusco to Visit the Textile Center and Pisac Town
(Day 4): Sacred Valley – Enjoy a Rafting Excursion and the Ruins of Ollantaytambo
(Day 5): Sacred Valley – Relish a Biking Adventure to View the Towns Moray and Maras
(Day 6): Sacred Valley – Experience the Excitement of a Half-Day in Machu Picchu
(Day 7): Cusco – Transfer to Cusco to Find Spanish Colonial Charm and Inca Style
(Day 8): Cusco – Depart for Home
Cultural / Arts & Crafts Tours / Cultural Activities / Educational / Historical Sites / Local Food / Market / Bazaar / Trekking / Walking Tours / Outdoors & Sports / Biking Tours / Hiking / Nature / Outdoor Adventures / Rafting
Leisure / Family Vacations / Educational / Child Friendly / Outdoors & Sports / Outdoor Adventures
Leisure / Outdoors & Sports / Spectacular Scenery / Child Friendly
Lima, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Moray, Maras, Pisac
DETAILED ITINERARY
Today, you’ll arrive Lima. After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, you’ll be transferred to your comfort as well as a conveniently situated hotel. Settle down into your room, relax for some time and prepare for your Peru tour ahead.
In Cusco, Andean history comes alive. Quechua-speaking locals of the Incas fill the alleys and markets, colonial churches are situated over smooth stonework, and Peru’s rural farmers dressed in colorful attires move across the plazas. Later in the afternoon, you’ll explore the largest open market of Cusco as well as the neighboring witches’ market. After trying a few distinctive local foods, make your way to the Center for Traditional Textiles in Cusco, which is a local organization dedicated to preserving the weaving traditions of the region. Witness weavers demonstrating their craft and also get to learn about the history as well as processes of Peru’s most famous art form.
This morning, traverse into one of the most gorgeous areas of Peru. The Sacred Valley is going to be the highlight of your Peru Tour and you will see why! As per your interests and the weather, the day would be flexible. Visit one of the amazing textile markets in the area and test your bargaining skills with the locals. If you are seeking adventure, hike up to the stimulating ruins of Pisac or take a short stroll through the countryside to the less-traveled town of Maras, where pre-Columbian salt mines are still in operation. Head out to the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, which is considered a nursery to experiment with and modify various varieties of crops. Finally, you’ll head out to the living Inca City of Ollantaytambo.
Today, you’ll get to visit the undervalued ruins of Ollantaytambo early in the morning before the larger groups of travelers reach here. During the Inca Empire, Ollantaytambo acted as a royal estate and afterward a refuge when the Spanish conquered Cusco. The ruins exhibit sweeping terraces, huge building blocks as well as amazingly preserved architecture. In fact, the town itself is still set out in a way as it used to be during the Inca empire, allowing its tourists to catch a glimpse of the history which still exists within its territories.
This morning, you’ll board the train to Machu Picchu and follow the Urubamba River as rumples its way towards the Amazon and the holy city of Machu Picchu, Peru. After check-in at the hotel and relishing lunch at Aguas Calientes, start your journey of exploring Machu Picchu, which is the former retreat of Inca kings. Wander along ancient canals that still carry water from the high mountains to the baths that are used by Inca priests. As tourists, you are welcomed to dip your hands peacefully in the cool water. After meandering amongst the huge complex of ruins and receiving a well-guided tour of Machu Picchu, you will return back to Aguas Calientes which is situated at the base of Machu Picchu. Enjoy one of the many amazing local restaurants or soak in the hot springs after having a tour of one of the most incredible archaeological sites in the world.
Today, you’ll return to the ruins at Machu Picchu and do some more of exploration. It is recommended to reach here early in the morning so as to witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu and can also hike to the top of Huaynapicchu for some magnificent views of the entire area. Other options for you within the citadel include walking the comparatively easy routes to the Temple of the Moon or the Sun Gate. Otherwise, you can just walk among the wide expanse of ruins and explore it as much as you wish.
After having your time in the ruins, you’ll return back to Aguas Calientes in order to catch your train toward Cusco. On reaching, settle into your hotel, relax and make your way out to a popular Cusco culinary adventure.
Today is entirely free for you to relax and explore on your own or with your guide. Visit the churches and make your way to the surrounding ruins, such as the expansive Sacsayhuaman ruins overlooking Cusco. You can also meander through the buzzing Plaza de Armas situated in the heart of Cusco, watch people from the cafes and restaurants, shop in the local markets that line these adorable streets. For those looking for some activities, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, or horseback riding can be arranged. In the evening, you can enjoy some of Cusco’s varied and stimulating nightlife where excellent food and live folk music overflow! Enjoy your last night of your Peru tour to the fullest.
Price
Leisure customizes the price on final accommodation choices, travel dates, and other custom preferences. Please inquire for a custom quote.
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