Eco-Zone Explorers

With Isabelle Alvarez, Resource Person and Tour Conductor

JULY 11 – 28, 2012

Peru is well known for its Andean Cordillera and the legacy of the Incas, the latter being well represented by its renowned and well visited lost Inca city of Machu Picchu. However, we ignore too often that Peru is more than that since a large part of its territory lies within the Amazon basin rainforest east of the Andes.

This 18 day educational journey is intended mainly to make you discover this amazing rainforest of Peru by taking you to the Manu Biosphere Reserve, located in the Amazon Basin of southeastern Peru. This biosphere, also a World Heritage Site, with over 1,8 million ha., and extending from the Puna of the highlands at13,000ft to the lowland tropical rainforest at 666ft, is one of the jewels of Peru. It has an international reputation especially amongst the scientific community since it holds one of  the world’s highest levels of biodiversity, including 13 species of monkeys and approximately 1000 species of birds, both being world records.

Since the Incas could not live apart from the rainforest to which they made several expeditions to enlarge and protecttheir realm and gain access to products from other ecological zones, we cannot travel to the rainforest without first visiting the highlands and the legacy of the Incas and that of the Spanish conquistadors who also explored the rainforest of Manu. We will then visit Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and a World Heritage Site, the Sacred Valley of the Incas with the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo and the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, also a World Heritage Site. The group will visit one or two local projects, most likely projects involving children.

A short visit to Lima will serve as an introduction to our journey.

Goal and Philosophy of the Trip

Through this dual environmental and cultural exposure, this journey’s ultimate goal is to make us reflect on our lives, on our connection to the rest of the world and on our footprint on the environment as well as the actions we can take to reduce it.  Hence, the group will be encouraged to engage in evening conversations as often as possible to share their impressions and concerns, and to discuss topics related to the areas visited, the environment and communities.

Sustainability and education are the leading drivers of this journey in which, as responsible travelers, we will observecodes of conduct and guidelines in order to minimize our negative impact on the environment and maximize our positive contribution to local communities. When organizing this trip, we carefully chose the services of hotels and other businesses that are as environmentally and socially responsible as possible.

This trip was designed by Isabelle Alvarez, the Resource Person and Tour Conductor for this trip. Her two partners, Worldwide Ecotours, http://www.worldwideecolodges.com/wp/tours-and-expedition-planning/, and InkaNatura Travel, www.inkanatura.com/aboutus_inkanatura.asp, were chosen because of their commitment to sustainability and conservation.

Highlights of the Trip

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Lima center, Cusco, Machu Picchu and Manu Biosphere Reserve.
• Protected Areas: Machu Picchu National Historical Sanctuary, Manu Biosphere Reserve (the largest tropical rainforest biosphere reserve in the world , holding one of the highest levels of biodiversity
• Rainforest communities belonging to different ethnolinguistic groups (Machiguenga, Amarakaeri, Huachipaeri and Yine)
• Andean Quechua linguistic group, especially in Cusco, Pissac, Ollantaytambo and Paucartambo
• The Amazon rainforest with its meandering rivers and primary and secondary forests, and its living creatures
• The beautiful and colorful macaws and parrots, as well as the outstanding national bird of Peru, the Andean cock-of-the-rock.

Who This Tour is For

This tour is for participants who:

• Are mainly adults (no age limit). Youth are welcome but it depends on the child, on his/her experience travelling, and if he/she is comfortable being with a group of adults.  Youth must be accompanied by adults.
• Are in reasonably good health and somewhat physically active.
• Have an interest in sustainability, conservation, and local cultures.
• Have a spirit of adventure and a passion for the outdoors.
• Speak English, Spanish or French. The Resource Person and Tour Conductor is trilingual and the local guides are bilingual (English-Spanish) and sometimes speak French too.

Itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)

July 11

Travel from Calgary to Lima.

July 12

We have one day to explore Lima. Our tour will include the Huallamarca huaca in San Isidro, the Museo de la Nación, central historical Lima with its Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Monasterio de San Francisco, the Iglesia de Santo Domingo and the Plaza San Martín, and finally Miraflores with its Parque del Amor. (B, L, D)

July 13

Travel from Lima to Cusco. The group will have a free and easy afternoon to adjust to the high elevation (just above 11000ft). This will be the perfect occasion for the group to have a taste of Peruvian culture by savoring the mate de coca or coca leaf tea, a natural remedy highly recommended to alleviate altitude sickness. In the evening we will meet to discuss the program for the next five days. (B,D)

July 14

We will spend the day strolling the streets of Cusco and visiting: the Qorikancha (temple of the sun), the Plaza de Armas with its Cathedral and many surrounding churches, the neighborhood of San Blas and its Museo Inka, and finally the Plaza de San Francisco and its nearby Central Market.  (B, L)

July 15

Today´s excursion will take us to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On the way we will stop at the ruins of Saksayhuaman. Then we will head down to the valley where we will visit colonial Pisac with its colourful food and craft market as well as art and craft galleries. We will stop in Urubamba for lunch before heading to Ollantaytambo with its narrow cobblestone streets and massive Inca fortress above. We will spend the night in Ollantaytambo.  On this day we will visit a local school. (B, L, D).

July 16

We take an early train to Aguas Calientes where a bus will take us up to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu.  We will spend the rest of the day at the sanctuary. (B, L, D)

July 17

After a quick morning tour of Aguas Calientes, we will take the train back to Cusco. Afternoon at leisure in Cusco. (B)

July 18

We leave the Andean highlands to begin our 8-day journey to the Manu Biosphere Reserve and surroundings in the rainforest of southeastern Peru. On this first day the road takes us in a few hours from the Puna or tropical alpine grassland to the Yungas or cloud forest, where we will find our first lodge. We will pass several Quechua Andean communities, including Paucartambo. We will also stop at Oropesa (famous for making local bread), the Chullpas of Ninamarca (some pre-Inca burial tombs), and at a cloud forest research station where an amazing canopy walkway awaits us. (B, L, D)

July 19

Early morning we will go for a walk in search of the outstanding cock-of the-rocks, Peru´s national bird. Then we will continue our journey down through the cloud forest to finally reach the lowland rainforest. En route we will stop in Patria and Pillcopata, two rural communities of settlers. In Patria we will visit a coca plantation. In Pillcopata, we will meet with some of the members of Huacaria, a rainforest native community of Machiguengas. Then we will continue on to Atalaya where we will board our dugout motorized canoes that will take us downstream on the Alto Madre de Dios River to our lodge located in Manu Biosphere Reserve. On route we will stop in Shintuya where we will meet with its native people. We will arrive at our rainforest lodge before dusk (B, L, D)

July 20-22

Pantiacolla Lodge, at the base of the Pantiacolla Mountains, is set in a beautiful rainforest of bluffs overlooking the turbulent Alto Madre de Dios. Its 900 ha. of land offer miles of trails traversing a variety of habitats.  Our activities during the three days at the lodge will include: day and night guided walks; going to a macaw lick; great opportunities at all times to observe the so many species of wildlife that inhabit the highly diverse forests of Manu, including howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, brown capuchin monkeys, peccaries, deer, agouti, birds and many others; fishing; bathing in the nearby hot springs; and relaxing on the beach or simply on the hammocks hanging outside our rooms. We will also engage in evening discussions to share our impressions and if possible we will meet with special guests from nearby communities. (B, L, D)

July 23

Today we resume our downstream boat journey to the Yine Lodge on the banks of the Madre de Dios River. En route we will make two stops. The first one is Diamante, a native community of Yine. We will meet with some of its members who will show us their school, catholic chapel, gardens and craft work. Our second stop will be at Boca Manu, located at the mouth of the Manu River. This is a relatively significant community of settlers where we find a medical station, a school and some basic small stores, bars and restaurants. We will have time to enjoy some refreshments. We will arrive at our lodge before sunset.  (B, L, D)

July 24-25

Early in the morning our canoes will take us to Manu Wildlife Center, two hours downstream on the Madre de Dios River, where we will spend the next one and one half days. Although located outside the Manu Biosphere Reserve, the forests of MWC are still highly diverse and scientists often come here to do research. Our activities will include guided walks, going to a forest mammal lick and a river bank parrot and macaw lick, accessing lake floating platforms as well as canopy platforms. All these will give you great opportunities to sight the vast array of wildlife species that inhabit this area amongst which tapirs, deer, black spider monkeys, giant otters, macaws, and curassows. We will also engage in evening discussions to share our impressions and will have time to relax. (B, L, D)

July 26

Our dugout canoes will take us on our last river journey downstream to Puerto Maldonado where we will catch our afternoon plane to Cusco. The rest of the day in Cusco will be spent at leisure. (B,L)

July 27

This day gives the group the opportunity to do some shopping since Cusco has many places to buy crafts and Alpaca clothing.  Those interested can also visit other places of interest in Cusco (e.g., museums), around Cusco (e.g., the salt mines of Maras, and Moray) or one can head back to Sacsayhuaman above the city to take some last great pictures. We will also have our concluding meeting and dinner. (B, D)

July 28

Travel from Cusco to Lima where we will catch our flight back to Calgary. (B)

July 29

We arrive in Calgary.

Cost

Price in CAD$ per person, based on 15 participants and double occupancy: $5,450

• Single room supplement: $1,030
• If you are willing to share your room, we can try to make a roommate match.
• Included: all taxes, all domestic flights (Lima-Cusco-Lima and Puerto Maldonado-Cusco), all surface travel, all transfers, accommodation, all meals as listed in the itinerary, local Peruvian guides, entrances to sites, canopy walkway, visits to local communities and projects and respective donations, accompanying resource person and tour conductor, pre-departure orientation sessions (5 hrs) and trip handbook.
• Not included: international flights, local airport departure taxes, meals not included in the itinerary, travel insurance, tips and local gratuities, alcoholic beverages and personal expenses.
• Price based on: the costs and exchange rate at the time of printing and is subject to change to reflect any changes in hotel rates, entrance fees, airfares, fuel surcharge, currency rates, land costs and others beyond our control. Therefore, there are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment.

For More Information on the Trip Please Contact:

Isabelle Alvarez        ialvarezal@hotmail.com

Tel: 1-403-264-5348

Ruth MacRae               rmacrae@worldwideecotours.com

Tel:  1-403-247-8843              Toll Free:  1-888-788-2378

 

 

 

 

 

Journey into a sacred land and discover our links with the past. In all great civilizations engineers have worked at providing a safer environment for their inhabitants.
From providing water to designing transport to constructing buildings, they help define how a culture perceives itself.
Join us in a tour that celebrates the achievements of those engineers who participated in developing some of the greatest civilizations of the world.

Nazca-Chimu-Moche-Inca

Day 1
Arrive in Lima, the capital city of Peru. Since arrival is late in the day, you will be escorted to your hotel for the night.
Day 2
This morning you will be given the opportunity to see some of the sights of Lima. An escort will pick you up at the hotel for a city tour. Highlights of the tour include the catacombs of San Francisco and the National Museum. Also included is the cathedral in the main plaza (Plaza des Armas), which contains the remains of the Spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro and exemplifies colonial architecture. (B,D)
Day 3
This morning a driver will pick you up for a full day to Nazca. On route, you will see the most common features of the Peruvian environment – the garua, which is a coastal mist formed by the upwelling caused by the Humboldt Current. As well, the desert, which covers 1/3 of Peru, is present for much of the drive. You will also be able to see the impact of the Andean rivers on the coast. At these locations the desert becomes an oasis and it is in these regions that the early cultures flourished. (B,L,D)
Day 4
Your morning will begin early as you prepare for a flight over the Nazca lines. Lasting about thirty minutes, you will be able to see the geometric patterns formed by a culture hundreds of years ago.

The Paraca-Nazca culture began around 200 BC. Their most famous achievement is the construction of the Nazca lines. Different theories, ranging from extraterrestrial space vehicle landing strips to aquifer locators, abound as to why the lines were constructed. While the reason for their construction remains a mystery, their present existence gives testimony to the Nazca’s advanced ability to visualize perspective.

Also see a goldmining workshop, and visit the Cantallo aqueducts, which still provides irrigation water today. Return to Lima (B,L)

Day 5
Today you will begin your tour of some of the ancient coastal cities of Peru, north of Lima. A driver will escort you to the airport where you will embark on a journey to the Chimu and Moche ruins around Trujillo.

Flourishing around 100-800 AD, the Moche empire is noted for its metallurgy, fine ceramics, large pyramids and intensive irrigation. In the same region, the Chimu empire prospered from around 1000 AD to the time of their conquerors, the Incas (~1470 AD). Ruling a kingdom 1000-km along the coastline, their imperial city, Chan Chán is the largest city of adobe in the world. Enclosing 28 sq. km, the royal city contains walk-in groundwater wells, irrigation complexes and agricultural storerooms.

Although the city of Chan Chán is comprised of nine complexes, many of the buildings are washed down from weathering and rains caused by El Nino, because most of the city was constructed of adobe. You will be able to tour the Tschudi complex, which highlights many of the Chimu styles. (B,L,D)

Day 6
A morning tour will take you to the Moche “pyramids of the sun and moon” (Huacas del Sol y de la Luna). 700 years older than Chan Chán, the pyramid of the sun is the largest pre-Columbian building in Peru. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to see the Moche Ascope aqueduct and the La Cumbre canal, which is still in use today. (B,L)

Day 7
Today you will be transferred to the airport for an early flight to Lima, then the former silver mining town of Puno by Lake Titicaca. Located in the Peruvian altiplano, Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America. At an altitude of 3820 meters, it is famous for the reed boats and floating islands of the Uros people. It is also the southern portion of the former Incan empire. (B)

Day 8
In the morning you will be taken on a tour of the floating islands. The tour will be approximately four to five hours and you will have the opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods and souvenirs. The afternoon you will be free to enjoy the sights of Puno, and in the evening you will be treated to dinner. (B,L)

Day 9
An early morning flight will take you to the sacred city of the Incas – Cuzco. After a leisurely morning in town, where you can buy souvenirs, you will be given a guided tour of the Inca Museum. (B)

Day 10
Today will be the day for exploring ruins, as your guide takes you to the special Inca site of Sacsaywamán, just outside of Cuzco. The site was used for both religious and military purposes and was the base used by the Incas, when they rebelled against the Spanish conquistadors.

After a violent battle, the Spanish regained control of the fortress, leaving the bodies of the dead Incas to the condors. To this day the city of Cuzco has incorporated condors in its coat of arms.It has been speculated that the Incas designed Cuzco to resemble a puma when seen from the air, with Sacsaywamán forming the head. Some of this resemblance can be seen from ground level, where large zigzag walls are said to constitute the puma’s teeth. On this site there is a large tank-like structure containing stone conduits, said to provide water for up to 5,000 soldiers.

This afternoon you will be taken along the Sacred Valley of the Incas to another Incan ruin – Ollantetambo. This is where the defeated Incan leader, Manco Inca, retreated to after his defeat at Sacsaywamán. It was here that the Spanish suffered an ignomious defeat at the hands of Manco Inca, who strategically used the steep terracing and channels for flooding out the Spanish at the base of the site. The victory was short-lived though, when the Spanish returned in force to flush out the Incan warriors. This site, including the village at it’s base, exemplifies the best of Incan engineering. The town has extensive overland drainage control, including open channels designed for drainage to deal with the torrential downpours, and as a source of local drinking water. The courtyards by the houses show how the water during the rainy season was channeled into elaborate fountains. The “fortress” exemplifies the terracing and stonemasonry for which the Incas were famous. Although many stones weigh between kilograms, the finishing is so fine that a piece of paper can not be slipped into the joints. Also visible is the comparative architecture of the Spanish, which was constructed on top of and adjacent to the Incan structures.

En route to Ollantaytambo there will be a stop to view the Maras salt pans. (B,L)

Day 11
This morning you are free to explore Ollanta fortress as you wish.

In the afternoon you will embark on one of the most exciting journeys in the world – the train to Machu Picchu. Not know to exist by the Spaniards, Hiram Bingham brought Maccu Picchu to world attention in 1911, when he was searching for the last Incan stronghold of Vilacamba. The purpose of the site is still unknown, although there are many theories. One of these theories held that the site was used to house women for religious purposes, and was based on the fact that over 80% of the burial sites uncovered here contain the skeletons of women. (B)

Day 12
Today you will be taken to Machu Picchu to enjoy the ruins. An on-site guide will provide a preliminary tour, then you may explore until closing. On site you will be able to see the ceremonial baths, the pillar used for calculating the solstice, and a stone model presumed used by the original designers of Machu Picchu. If you wish, you may return early to Aguas Calientes. (B,L)

Day 13
The morning will be your return trip to Cuzco by train. In the evening you will be provided with a dinner with entertainment that celebrates the various cultures of Peru. (B, D

Day 14
Today you will fly from Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado – a small former rubber-producing town situated at the confluence of the Madre de Dios and the Tambopata rivers. There you will be met and transferred to the Tambopata river port and embark on a two-hour boat trip to your ecolodge where you will see the future of  tourism in a rainforest environment. Depending on the arrival time of the plane we will have a box lunch aboard the boats or have lunch upon arrival at your lodge. During our voyage we may see bird species typical of the river or forest adege such as: Black Skimmer, Pied lapwing, Capped Heron, Jabiru Stork, Roadside Hawk and several species of kingfishers, swallows and flycatchers. You will receive a short orientation and a complete briefing of the lodge and the Ese’eja Ecotourism Project before our afternoon activity – Ethno botany. In this activity, we will hike the trails around the lodge with an Ese’eja native, who will explain to us the everyday uses of forest medicine, construction, food and fiber. At some point in our walk, we will visit a small parakeet clay click. Dozens and sometimes hundreds of Blue Head Parrots, Orange-Cheeked Parrots, Cobalt-winged parakeets and sometimes even the rare Rock Parakeet congregate here on clear days to ingest clay. This congregation creates a riotous and colorful wildlife spectacle where the greens, oranges, reds and blues of the parrots dance around the bank as each individual parrot competes for their choice beakful of clay. (L, D)

Why did the Inca believe that the long valleys  in the Andes were sacred? This tour explores many fascinating ruins and developments of the ancient Inca and their modern descendants. You begin the journey with a visit to the Larco Museum in Lima which chronicals 3000 years of civilisation in Peru. You then fly to Cusco and the Sacred Valley to continue the exploration seeing some less visited sites as well as the amazing citadel of Machu Picchu. Your visit will also be directly helping local people in protecting cultural heritage and biological diveristy.

Day 1: Arrival in Peru
You will arrive at the airport and be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel in Miraflores.

Day 2: Larco Museum
Mid-morning your guide will take you to the Larco Museum.  This private museum opened in 1926 and features the finest gold and silver collection from Ancient Peru and the famous erotic archaeological collection. After a visit here you will be taken back to the hotel for some free time.(B)

Day 3: Flight to Cuzco and  City Walking Tour
According to the legend, the city was built by Inca Pachacuti, who transformed Cuzco from a sleepy city-state into the vast empire of Tahuantinsuyu. The first Spaniards arrived in 1533, and undertook the construction of a new city on the foundations of the old Inca city, replacing temples with churches and palaces with mansions for the conquerors. Your guided walking tour will include:
1. KORIKANCHA or Temple of the Sun. As Cuzco was the center of the Tahuantinsuyo (Inca Empire), this is one of the most important of Inca temples.
2. CUZCO CATHEDRAL:  The Cathedral was finished in 1664, more than one century lafter constuction began on the site of and Inca palace. Balance of day is free. (B)

Day 4: Urubamba
Today we will have a full-day tour of Urubamba and the Sacred Valley to see two of the Inca’s most generous gifts to the world: beautiful hand made weavings and potatoes. We will start with Andean Weaving Village. Textile production has profound historic and cultural significance in the Andes, and this community is part of a highly successful National Geographic Society-supported project to rescue and revive this way of life. Women are the owners and drivers of this activity, and we will see how their gregarious processes of spinning, the gathering and use of natural dyes, the setting up of looms and the creation of designs, are fundamental to the family and social bonds of these highland communities. Next you’ll visit the Potato Park Indigenous Bio-cultural Heritage Area: The Potato Park focuses on protecting and preserving the   indigenous bio-cultural heritage by showcasing  sustainable use of agro-biodiversity. Lunch included at the Potato Park. We then continue to the town of Ollantaytambo for the night.
B, L

Day 5: Machu Picchu
This morning you will embark on one of the most exciting journeys in the world – the train to Machu Picchu. Not known to exist by the Spaniards, Hiram Bingham brought Machu Picchu to world attention in 1911, when he was searching for the last Incan stronghold of Vilacamba. You will have the balance of the day to explore the citadel of Machu Picchu after your guided tour. Late in the afternoon you board the last train to Ollanatytambo.(B,L)

Day 6: Ollantaytambo, Maras and Moray.  By now it will be clear why the Inca called this area the Sacred Valley. The ability to grow crops was a gift from Pachamama and the Inca used this gift in the most ingenious ways. Ollantaytambo is called a fortress, but its not. Its an agricultural terrace and the structures at this site outlast the ones built by the Spanish. At Maras and Moray you’ll more ingenuity. The first site is a series of concentric terraces that grow vegetables and crops in varying elevations and microclimatic conditions. By carefully noting the crop maturity in the terraces Inca farmers were able to predict the harvesting times of similar crops planted elsewhere in the valley. The second site is a salinera where a series of terraced evaporation ponds extract salt from the trickling water as it makes its way through the system.  After here you will be overnight in Cusco.(B,L)

Day 7: Tipon
This morning you will see the great water fountains and canals of Tipon. During the rainy season, these fantastic structures really show how clever the ancient Inca were at adapting their environment. In fact there have been research projects done to understand just how the managed this. Return to Cusco for the balance of the day. B,L

Day 8: Transfer to Aiport and flights out. (Note that many international flights leave Lima very late in the evening.)

INCLUDED: Accommodation in Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu town. Private English- speaking, registered guide, private transport, the vistadome train & bus transfers to Machu Picchu. Entrance to all Cusco & Sacred Valley Inca Sites, Korikancha, Cathedral,  and Machu Picchu. Meals only as indicated: B- Breakfast, L- Lunch, D- Dinner.

We offer a slower paced in more depth tour of the Sacred Valley to allow you a relaxed and intimate visit to this truly remarkable area. Hotels are generally boutique style locally owned, moderate level.

Day 1: Lima   You will arrive at the airport and be met by our local representative and transferred to a comfortable hotel in Lima.

Day 2: Cuzco   A morning flight will take you to Cuzco. A leisurely day in town where you will be escorted by your guide on a walking orientation tour of the areas near your hotel. You can relax today in the ancient Inca capital and adjust to the high elevation. (B)

Day 3: Cuzco    Today will be the day for exploring ruins with a visit to the Koricancha, Tambomachay with their water fountains; Kenko, the religious center; Puca-Pucara, the red fortress, and finally the fortress of Sacsaywaman. All thes sites are important and fascinating developments that the pre-columbian Inca people designed and built. (BL)

Day 4: Sacred Valley   Full day tour to the Sacred Valley of the Inas  us visit the Indian Market and ruins of Pisac in the morning and Ollantaytambo fortress in the afternoon. This site, including the village at it’s base, exemplifies the best of Incan engineering showing in stark contrast the advantage of the Incan building technology over the later Spanish. Overnight at Ollantaytambo.(B,L)

Day 5: Sacred Valley   Full day tour to visit Chinchero, Maras and Moray. Famous for its salts and exploited from Inca times until today Maras is a fascinating visit due to the wonderful show of hundreds of salt ponds.  Moray is located 9 Km away from Maras and has elliptical irrigation terraces that were used as an ingenious Inca agricultural center.  This is a lovely day of mild walking around sites.(BL)

Day 6: Machu Picchu    Today you will embark on one of the most exciting journeys in the world – the train to Machu Picchu. Not known to exist by the Spaniards, Hiram Bingham brought Maccu Picchu to world attention in 1911 when he was searching for the last Incan stronghold of Vilacamba. Your guide will accompany you on the train and provide a guided tour at Machu Picchu. Late in the afternoon, the guide will return to Cuzco as tomorrow is a free day.(B)

Day 7: Machu Picchu – Cuzco    Today will be a chance revisit Machu Picchu on your own before the morning trains come in with the tourists (second day entrance fee is not included) There are local hikes you may take and about mid-day you will be able to return all the way to Cuzco by train where we will be meeting you again for a transfer to your Cuzco hotel. This evening you will have a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant.(B)

Day 8: Transfer and flight back to Lima and onward flight home.

Daily Year Round Includes: 7 nights accommodation, Guided walks and tours as described. all transfers, meals as noted (BLD = breakfast, lunch, dinner), all local taxes. Can be modified to suit your time and interests. Airfares not included.

AREQUIPA CITY TOUR- COLCA CANYON HOTSPRINGS & CONDORS – LAKE TITICACA FLOATING ISLANDS – CUSCO INCA CAPITAL – SACRED VALLEY –PISAC MARKET- OLLANTAYTAMBO – FULL MACHU PICCHU TOUR – CUSCO

This trip is ideal for travellers looking to experience the best of Southern Peru in just eleven days plus have the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu. There are both set departures where you can join in with a group about once per month and private departures for 2 or more that can operate any day.

We begin our journey in the ‘White City’ of Arequipa in Southern Peru dominated by the stunning conical “El Misti” mountain. At 2600m Arequipa is the ideal place to begin our acclimatisation to the rarefied air of the Andes. One can explore Arequipa’s fine Plaza, the ice mummy museum or visit the many alpaca textile shops. We then board a private minibus and head off through remote villages to the impressive Colca canyon and the delightful Colca Lodge. Here we have the chance to see Condors over one of the world’s deepest canyons, hike to local ruins or just relax in some of the finest hot-springs imaginable.

A spectacular drive through the altiplano brings us to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca.  This busy lakeside town is the base for our day trip on Lake Titicaca. We take a private express boat to visit the floating reed islands of Uros and Taquile Island. These are renowned for their ancient way of life, weavings and spectacular views of the lake.

We then take one of the World’s classic railway journeys* from Puno across the high plains to Cusco. We spend a day exploring Cusco, the former Inca Capital – a wonderful place to explore full of culture, history, good restaurants and fun nightlife.

Now fully acclimatised, our next adventure takes us to the local ruins surrounding Cusco and through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing local markets and the Inca Fortress town of Ollantaytambo, before arriving at the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. After a night in the colourful town of Aguas Calientes, we spend a whole day exploring the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. The return to Cusco is by luxury train and bus with a final free day for any last minute sightseeing and souvenir hunting before heading back to the airport for your ongoing flight.

Those with more time should consider adding on our Amazon Rainforest Jungle Extension.

* Please note: the train only operates four times a week, there is a luxury bus alternative on the other days.

DETAILED ITINERARY

For those requiring Lima hotel, airport transfers and internal flight services within Peru, please contact us for best options and availability.

DAY 1: AREQUIPA: You will meet your guide on arrival off your flight to the “White City” of Arequipa. This is the ideal place to start acclimatizing to the rarefied air of the Andes and a beautiful city to explore. Arequipa boasts a magnificent marble Plaza de Armas, quaint old town streets, the picturesque Santa Catalina Monastery (included in your tour) and Juanita the Ice maiden museum (optional). Alpaca wool is Arequipa’s finest export and there are plenty of opportunities for treating yourself to some stunning textiles here. (B)

DAY 2: AREQUIPA TO COLCA CANYON: Driving out of Arequipa we enjoy spectacular views of the mountains surrounding the city before climbing high into the Andes and descending into the amazing Colca canyon. The Colca canyon is one of the World’s deepest canyons and is home to Condors and a fascinating local culture, totally different from any other place you will visit on this trip. We over night in the charming Colca lodge. Soaking in the World class hot-springs is the prime activity here, closely followed by exploring the lodge’s restaurant, bar or games room. Dinner can be taken either a la carte or try their delicious Alpandina buffet to sample Peru’s finest. (B,L)

DAY 3: CRUZ DEL CONDOR AND COLCA CANYON: The private guide and minibus are at your disposal for the day. An early morning drive to Cruz del Condor is recommended in search of one of the world’s largest birds, the condor, which nest in the cliffs of one of the world’s deepest canyons (approx. 3,400m deep). Hiking to near-by ruins and a tour of the unique native culture and weavings in the area are also available activities. On return to the lodge plenty of time is left for just relaxing in the hot springs, taking advantage of the amazing spa facilities (the hot-rock massage is recommended) or book  up more hiking, horse riding, biking or fishing trip at the in house adventure agency. (B,L)

DAY 4: COLCA CANYON, SILUSTANI AND PUNO / LAKE TITICACA: A spectacular drive through the high Andes, passing beautiful lakes, Vicuña herds and huge vistas as we travel on a newly asphalted road to Juliaca and on to our destination of Puno. En route we can take a visit to Silustani ruins, whose fascinating circular burial chambers pre-date the Incas. The amazing stone work of this early civilisation was obviously a strong influence on the famous Inca stone masons.

In Puno we check into our hotel and can explore this interesting town and barter for locally hand-knitted woollen goods. (B,L)

DAY 5: LAKE TITICACA – UROS AND TAQUILE: Lake Titicaca is a photographer’s dream, its clear sapphire water and the astounding blue skies are mesmerizing. A full day’s boat trip with your own private guide and shared rapid boat ensure you see all the sights in safety and style. The famous floating reed islands of Uros and the ancient traditions and weavings of Taquille Island are explained and viewed at your leisure. We have lunch in a typical restaurant before returning to Puno and transferring back to your Hotel (B,L)

DAY 6: ORIENT EXPRESS TRAIN TO CUSCO: Today we board the luxury all day train from Puno to Cusco. This classic Orient Express train journey, repeatedly voted “one of the top ten railway journeys of the world” cuts across the formidable Peruvian Altiplano, whose high plains are rich with llama herds, green Ibises and mountain villages where life is harsh but the resilient locals keep their communities with pride and good humour. On arrival at Cusco train station we transfer to your hotel. This evening we stretch our legs around the spectacular Plaza de Armas and dine in one of the many excellent restaurants as we begin to explore the fascinating city of Cusco. Please note: the train only operates four times a week, there is a luxury bus alternative on the other days. (B,L)

DAY 7: CUSCO LOCAL RUINS: Your guide and minibus are at your disposal for the day to explore Cusco and its outlying ruins. A 0900 pick up for the ten kilometre drive out of Cusco at Inca ruin of Tambo Machay. This is popularly called the Inca’s Bath due to its finely preserved waterfalls, carefully diverted through fine stone channels. The Incas acknowledged water as one of the principal elements of life and revered it accordingly.

A few hundred metres back towards Cusco we visit the site of Puca Pucara. This delightful ruin on a small prominence is believed not to be the ’red fort’ its name suggest but a ‘Tambo’ – a rest house for travelling animals, goods and travellers. We now cut across country following the old Inca road from Cusco to Pisac. The traditional farming methods and highly adapted Andean crops are a treat to see still functioning.

With Cusco now in our sights we visit the fascinating Q’enko. This ‘waca’ contains some of the finest examples of Inca carvings in-situ. The eroded limestone fissures have been artfully carved into zigzag channels (from where Q’enko derives its name), pumas, condors, snakes and houses. Bountiful Mummy Niches in the caves, an amphitheatre and the central phallic column all add to the mystery of its multi-functional use. After a picnic lunch we visit our final and most stunning ruin is the extensive Sacsayhuaman. Although the smaller stones of Sacsayhuaman were used to build modern day Cusco, the remaining stones are up to 8.5m high and weigh over 360 tones. The distinctive zigzag ramparts that form are attributed to being Puma teeth, lightening and also fortification. This major centre obviously had many functions with storehouses, administration buildings, reservoir and play area. It was also site of a crucial battle between the Incas and the Spanish. With time and energy permitting we head down to San Cristobal church built on top of Inca Manco Capac’s Palace and a fantastic view point of Cusco. Overnight in Cusco Hotel. (B, L)

DAY 8: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS TO MACHU PICCHU: Your guide and minibus are again at your disposal for the day. An early pick up for the thirty two kilometre drive out of Cusco to the picturesque Andean village of Pisac. The village is famous for its Sunday market and superb Artisan stalls. Old Pisac ruins have much to explore with a circular hike along a well defined through Royal buildings, look-outs, terraces, tunnels and irrigation channels before returning on another good trail to the bus. After lunch near Urubamba, a short drive down the Sacred Valley of the Incas brings us to Ollantaytambo, site of the last battle between Incas and Spanish before the remaining Incas rebels fled into the jungles of Vilcabamba. In this well-preserved village and ruins you can still feel the true magic of the Incas.  Heading to the train station, we take the late afternoon train down the Urubamba River gorge to Machu Picchu town (formally known as Aguas Calientes and check into our hotel for the night. (B,L)

Note: If you wish to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu this could be added to the trip here.

DAY 9: MACHU PICCHU GUIDED TOUR: Early this morning we set off to the fabled “Lost City of the Incas- Machu Picchu”. A short bus ride takes you direct to the ruins (or hike). Once there your guide gives you an extensive walking tour of the ruin and explains the fascinating history of the Incas to you. If time permits you may wish to explore further to the Inca bridge, walk back up the Inca Trail to the sun gate or try the strenuous climb to the top of Huayna Picchu for an awe-inspiring Condor’s eye view of Machu Picchu.  Some may prefer to just relax and take in the awesome location. We return to Aguas Calientes from where we catch the afternoon train return and bus back to Cusco. If we have the energy we can then explore Cusco’s excellent nightlife. (B)

DAY 10: CUSCO: A free day to explore Cusco. From the Plaza de Armas, we suggest a visit to the the Qoricancha Sun Temple, this sacred Inca site was the centre of the Inca Empire Sun-Worship. It had temples for the sun, moon, stars and lightening. There was so much gold, silver and jewels it was said the Spanish took three months to melt all the treasures down. Also the impressive Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas with its famous paintings of Cusco’s great city fire and the last supper where Jesus is eating Guinea pig.  For those looking to relax there are countless excellent bars and cafes overlooking the Plaza de Armas and plenty of bargain hunting to do in the artisan markets.  (B)

DAY 11: TRANSFER TO AIRPORT FOR ONGOING FLIGHTS: Today, we transfer to Cusco airport in time for your internal and international flights home. (B)

Or for those with more time consider one or more of our Excellent Extensions to the Amazon Rainforest, Nazca and the Ballestas islands or more adventures by bike, foot, canoe, raft or horse. Please contact us for more details.

WE PROVIDE: All airport transfers, private vehicle transport and all train/bus tickets. Entrance fees to Sta Catalina monastery, Colca Canyon, Silustani ruins, Taquile island, the Inca ruins surrounding Cusco, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. Three registered, English-speaking, local guides. Extensive First-aid kit & oxygen. A guided tour in Machu Picchu. A bus transfers between the ruins, Transport from Machu Picchu to your hotel in Cusco will be on a train service and bus transfer. Quality  3* accommodation in Arequipa, Colca, Puno and Cusco, Aguas Calientes. All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).

NOT INCLUDED: National or International flights, personal belongings, airport taxes ($6 local, $31 international), personal expenses, travel insurance and tips.

Lima hotels, airport transfers, day rooms, tours and all internal flights are not included but can also be organised and quoted for on request.

Please Note: The price varies according to season, style and availability of accommodations. Please contact us for a free price quote. Groups  of 6 and families are eligible for special rates.