MACHU PICCHU PRE-VOYAGE EXTENSION
Days
Joining our extension in Peru is an unparalleled experience of Inca wonders, colonial cities, and a rich cultural heritage. A
knowledgeable, enthusiastic staff caters to your daily interests and provides insight. This extension will enable you to:
See daybreak over the ruins at Machu Picchu from the fabled Sun Gate, with only a handful of visitors
Discover Cusco’s array of cultural influences and explore the Sacred Valley of the Inca with a National Geographic expert
Explore the massive stone Inca stone fortress of Ollantaytambo
Ancient civilizations & modern day life
The genius of the Inca architects is evident in the ruins left standing today. At Machu Picchu, the terrain is so jagged that
only 35% of the territory has been examined. The harsh surroundings are strategic to Machu Picchu, lending this sanctuary
a fusion of beauty and harmony with nature. Mountain-top views from this ancient citadel are a photographer's dream.
Cusco, capital of the Inca dynasty, was once a holy city. As a result, many splendid styles of architecture are found here.
Contemporary Cusco is surrounded by sculpted agricultural terraces from long ago. Our guides reveal the wonders of
ancient civilizations, and reveal the Inca influence in contemporary life, too.
Travel with an exceptional team
You will experience Peru’s wonders as part of a small group. And each of our guides is local and veteran—they know
these sites intimately, focusing on the history and far-reaching cultural influence to add to your understanding and
appreciation. In addition, a National Geographic writer and historian will spend time with you in the Sacred Valley of the Inca
to add extra layers of insight.
DAY 1:
Lima, Peru
Fly to Lima, and spend the night at a hotel. (B)
DAY 2:
Lima/Cusco/Sacred Valley of the Inca
This morning fly from Lima to Cusco and drive to the Sacred Valley, one of
the strongholds of Inca culture. We visit Awanacancha, a farm where
llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas are bred. Enjoy the scenery as we
make our way to Pisac, gateway to the Sacred Valley. Pisac has an “old
town” and a “new town” from the Colonial era. We’ll visit the exceptionally
colorful food market and the picturesque Inca ruins. Later we check into our
hotel, the gracious Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, in a dramatic setting
beneath the mountains of the Sacred Valley. (B,L,D)
Cost Includes:
Accommodations, meals indicated,
transfers, sightseeing, transfer and
entrance fees.
Cost Not Included:
All airfare, personal items and immigration
fees.
Call us at 1.800.397.3348 or call your Travel Agent. In Australia, call 1300.361.012 • www.expeditions.com
DAY 3:
Sacred Valley of the Inca
Peter Frost will join us as we visit the massive Inca fortress of
Ollantaytambo, built in dramatic fashion on a hillside. Then attend a traditional
weaving demonstration by National Geographic grantee Nilda Callanaupa.
Enjoy an outdoor lunch with a demonstration Paso horses, known for their
distinctive gait. Visit a local pottery studio, featuring ceramics made with
ancient Peruvian techniques and designs. After dinner, there’s a stirring
folkloric dance performance. (B,L,D)
DAY 4:
Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu
This morning, we take the Vistadome train through the spectacular Urubamba
Valley, past rivers, gorges and forests, and then drive up to Machu Picchu.
This greatest of Inca sites occupies a must-be-seen location atop a mountain
surrounded by other Andean peaks, with the Urubamba River flowing
through the valley far below. Built around 1450 and occupied for about a
century, Machu Picchu likely functioned as a religious center. The outside
world became aware of Machu Picchu as a result of Hiram Bingham’s
explorations in 1911. This afternoon, we’ll have a guided visit to the site,
seeing its many aspects including the Temple of the Sun, the ThreeWindowed Temple, the Sacred Plaza, and the outstanding stonework of the
Principal Temple. There will be plenty of chances to take photos of the iconic
vistas here. As a special treat, we’re fortunate to be among the relatively
few to stay atop the mountain at the 31-room Belmond (formerly OrientExpress) Sanctuary Lodge, just adjacent to the site. (B,L,D)
DAY 5:
Machu Picchu/Cusco
Our accommodations at the Sanctuary Lodge allow you to hike in the early
morning to the Sun Gate, the ancient final checkpoint on the route to Machu
Picchu, so you can watch the day break over the quiet ruins. The rest of the
morning is free for you to explore Machu Picchu further. After a train and
bus ride we arrive in Cusco in the late afternoon for two nights at the superb
Belmond (formerly Orient-Express) Monasterio Hotel. (B,L,D)
DAY 6:
Cusco
Explore the Inca Empire's capital city of Cusco. The Plaza de Armas, with
great colonial buildings including the impressive Cathedral, lies at the heart of
this city. There are many fine examples of Inca stone walls all around Cusco,
but none more remarkable than Sacsayhuamán, the vast fortress that lies
above the city. After our visit there, the afternoon is open to stroll around the
city. Relax, shop or visit one of the museums or convents including convent
of Koricancha. Dinner is on your own. This evening, experience the music of
the Andes at a presentation of indigenous instruments. (B,L)
DAY 7:
Lima/Embark
This morning fly to Lima. We spend the rest of the day exploring Lima’s
golden past, visiting the colonial market, the Indian market and the Larco
Herrera Museum, with an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art. Lima’s
historic center is a World Heritage site. In the late afternoon we embark
National Geographic Explorer and begin our voyage. (B,L,D)
Call us at 1.800.397.3348 or call your Travel Agent. In Australia, call 1300.361.012 • www.expeditions.com