DAY 4 – Terraces of Moray, Saltpans of Maras.​

Wayra Sol y Luna Ranch Barbecue with Live Show The unique archaeological site of Moray, found in the highlands above the sacred valley of the Incas. We will have a short hike in one of the most extraordinary examples of Inca landscaping.

Intriguing agricultural terraces were built here that gradually reduce in size as they descend into a natural depression formed by the mountainside. Then tour the Saltpans of Maras, where salt spring water is still produced using the same methods as in the Pre-Inca period.

Afterward, stop at the Wayra Sol y Luna Ranch just outside of Urubamba. Here, a delicious barbecue lunch awaits you on the garden view terrace. Witness a lively Peruvian Paso horse demonstration, performed by (Challenges) on horseback, dressed in their finest linen outfits.

This authentic performance is a wonderful display of coordination, discipline, and passion that sheds light on the strong Spanish influence in the highlands. Return to your hotel with the rest of the day at leisure

Overnight: Sacred Valley
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5 – Pisac, Andean Colorful Market, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes

This morning, we drive to the vast Pisac complex, where our walking tour reveals a moon temple similar to the one found at Machu Picchu. Descending to the rustic Andean village of Pisac, we follow the crowds to the traditional Andean market where stalls extend from the main plaza into the inclined streets leading to the foot of the mountain.

Hundreds of vendors appear, with stalls engulfing the streets in a blanket of vivid colored crafts from hand-knit woolens to trinkets and alpaca clothing.

After time at leisure in Pisac, we visit the ruins of the Incan fortress in Ollantaytambo, the last stand of the Incas in their defense against the Spanish conquistadors. This site, abandoned before completion, offered archaeologists a glimpse into the sophisticated engineering of the Incas.

Next, at the Ollantaytambo train station, we board the Vistadome train that travels along the scenic Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, with spectacular panoramic views of Machupicchu Canyon.

We’ll check into our hotel at the foot of Machu Picchu in a Garden of Eden setting amid orchids, waterfalls, and hummingbirds. Tonight, a gourmet à la carte dinner.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6 – Machu Picchu and Private Spiritual Ceremony

An unforgettable and Unique day exploring the crowning achievement of Inca masterpiece engineering architecture the mystical ancient citadel of Machu Picchu! Declared by UNESCO as one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” Machu Picchu was virtually unknown to the western world until Hiram Bingham’s rediscovery in 1911.

View the majestic wonders of this 15th-century retreat, abandoned nearly 100 years later with the arrival of the conquistadors.

Highlights

See the highlights of the site including the:

• Imposing Temple of the Sun,
• House of the Priest,
• Sacred Plaza, and the intricately carved rock likely used as a sundial by the ancient Incas.

The images of this glorious monument to a lost civilization will truly be a lifelong memory. The rest of the day is yours. Perhaps re-visit the citadel, hike on your own or just relax and surround yourself with the magic and tranquility. This evening, join a local Shaman for a private Spiritual Ceremony sharing the Andean ritual exalting Mother Earth.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7 – Inca Express Machu Picchu to Cusco.​

A morning walk in the small town of Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo) takes you to the hot springs for which the town was originally named. Continue your walk (about one mile) to the Machu Picchu Museum, offering a deeper understanding of what is currently known, and still unknown, about Machu Picchu, one of the world’s greatest wonders.

After lunch at the hotel, the Vistadome train takes you back to the station in Ollantaytambo. The hotel in Cusco is a beautifully restored monastery and national monument that combines centuries-old charm with luxury – clustered around a tranquil central courtyard. Tonight, perhaps stroll in Cusco and enjoy the high-energy restaurants, cafes, and clubs.

Overnight: Cuzco
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8 – Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Pukara Fortress, Temple of the water.​

On this day of discovery, we visit the ruins of Puka Pukara, a red Incan fortress that stands on a hill with views over the surrounding countryside and the Sacsayhuaman temple, a superb example of Inca megalithic construction techniques. Here, using massive boulders, the walls were carved and fitted together with incredible precision and amazingly without a single drop of mortar to hold them in place. Then to Qenqo mausoleum, one of the finest examples of artfully carved rock displaying complex patterns of geometric reliefs and puma designs.

On top of the rock, view the embedded zigzag channels which served to divert liquids or sacrificed llama blood for purposes of divination. With the afternoon at leisure, perhaps re-visit some of Cusco’s interesting sights, or pamper yourself at the hotel. A private reception this evening includes cocktails and a stirring performance by a local choir in the hotel’s beautiful and historic chapel

Overnight: Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9 – “The Royal City” of Cusco, Temple of the Sun-San Pedro Market optional​

Cusco often called “The Royal City,” a walking tour to the top of San Blas Hill, the Bohemian district of the city where many artists live, alive with galleries and studios, accented by flower-laden balconies. On to the colonial section of the city, a UNESCO declared World Heritage Site, built in the 16th century atop existing Incan foundations, creating a one of a kind architecture. Visit the Cathedral, the Santo Domingo church, built on top of the religious complex of Koricancha that once held the extraordinary Temple of the Sun, deemed the center of the Inca world dedicated to its highest Gods.

This temple’s walls and floors were allegedly once covered by sheets of solid gold. Afterward, we visit the farmers market called San Pedro Market, to see the overwhelming variety of local goods, including flowers, crafts, and even witchcraft items. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. This evening, enjoy an à la carte dinner

Overnight: Cuzco
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10 – Cusco back to Lima
Return to Lima by flight.

The rest of the day is yours to re-discover some of Lima’s fabulous treasures or shop for handmade silver jewelry, knits, and other local crafts. On the last evening in Peru, a glamorous Farewell Reception and Dinner at the world-famous La Rosa Nautica restaurant, a Victorian-style building perched over the Pacific. Share memories of your remarkable journey in Peru with your newfound friends, promising to meet again.

Overnight: Lima
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11 – Depart Peru
Transfer from the hotel to the airport for your departure flight*

*Some flights depart shortly after midnight in the very early morning of Day 11 and will require a transfer on Day 10. Transfers depart the hotel approximately 4 hours prior to flight time.
Meals: Breakfast

END OF TOUR

Due to the high elevation, travel in the Peruvian highlands may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider.