Journey to the Incas - 6 days from Cusco

Explore the ancient Inca world from the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Pisac Market and stunning Machu Picchu.  Wander the cobbled streets of Cusco, soaking up the unique atmosphere.

TRIP SUMMARY:

• Daily Departure
• Duration 5 night stay
• Tour Focus: Inca and Spanish history, culture, art & architecture
  
• Group Size : Min 2

• Accommodation  5nights in boutique hotels including breakfast
  
• Airport transfers,
  
• English speaking guides
• Private tour of Sacred Valley including gourmet lunch
  
• Vistadome train service to/from Machu Picchu town
• Return bus transfer Machu Picchu site
• Walking tour of Machu Picchu
  
• Buffet style lunch at Sanctuary Lodge 
  
• Private walking tour of Cuzco and surrounds
  
• Tour admission fees

ITINERARY:
Day 1 - Cusco to Sacred Valley of the Incas
Arrive to Cuzco, and transfer out to the beautiful Urubamba Valley  (Sacred Valley of the Inca’s) where we’ll spend the next two nights. After driving through beautiful scenery, visit the village of Chinchero located 28
Km. (17 miles) from Cusco.  The main plaza, the nearby Inca ruins and the market where bartering is still
practiced, are some its many attractions (market only Sundays).  Afterwards, visit Maras (saltmines of the Inca period still in use) and Moray (an experimental agricultural center from the same period). Arrive at your boutique hotel, an 18th century Monastery Enjoy for the next 2 nites your stay at a colonial style 18th century monastery.

Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas]
Today explore the beautiful Urubamba Valley. Start with an excursion to the village of Pisac, shop at the colorful Indian (Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday) / handicraft (the other days) market.   A short visit to
the ruins of Pisac is also included. Today lunch is included at Rancho Wayra  a fun and casual experience.
You will savor a selection of the choicest cuts of beef, pork, chicken and rainbow trout.  These will be grilled over hot coals and served with native potatoes, together with the best cold meats, vegetables, delicate sauces and fresh salads.  A Peruvian Paso Horse show included during lunch.  Following lunch then visit the town and fortress of Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town

Day 3: Machu Picchu
A highlight of the trip is taking a scenic train ride through  the spectacular Andes and Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes – then transfer by coach to Machu Picchu – the “Lost City of the Incas”. Machu Picchu,
rediscovered by archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911, is one of the most  beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world. After our guided  tour of Machu Picchu you have time to meander before enjoying a buffet style lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge. Late afternoon enjoy your vistadome train back from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.  Checkin to your boutique hotel in the Artisan neighbourhood of San Blas.

Day 4 - Cuzco
A half day tour today reveals  to us the ancient city that was known by the Incas as the “Navel of the
World”. table followed by a visit of the surrounding ruins of Puka Pukara, Kenko, Tampu Machay, and
the renowned fortress and religious site of Sacsayhuaman, famous for its cosmic energy. Cuzco  is an exquisite mix of Incan and Spanish colonial influences.

Day 5:  Cuzco
This is a free day to explore Cuzco and enjoy the special atmosphere.  Browse in the many craft shops, enjoy a coffee overlooking the plaza, or relax in the courtyard of your colonial style hotel. Your guides will be able to provide you with a host of incredible options within the city and beyond from visiting local markets and artisan shops, to the many varied community projects working with local indigenous groups. Cuzco us home to some of Peru's finest restaurants and is known for its ecclectic mix of bars. The Fallen Angel is a must for anyone seeking a unique mixture of kitsch and ultra cool.

Day 6: Departure
Enjoy your buffet breakfast take in some last minute shopping before being transferred to the airport for your onward travel.