Machu Picchu Expedition

Upon arrival at Lima Jorge Chavez airport, follow the directional signs to immigration and proceed to the baggage claim area. From there, proceed to customs. Once you have cleared customs, you will find yourself in the international arrivals area. Here, our attentive staff members, identifiable by the personalized sign bearing your name, will warmly receive you. They will then accompany you to your hotel, situated in Miraflores, widely regarded as the most appealing and secure neighborhood in Lima. Personalized transfer service from Lima airport to your designated hotel. Estimated driving time from Airport to Hotel: forty-five minutes. Sit back, relax, and let our experienced driver transport you directly to your hotel, allowing you to begin your trip with convenience and peace of mind. Once you reach your hotel, our attentive team will be present to facilitate a smooth check-in process and address any requirements or inquiries you may have throughout your stay. Additionally, you and our staff will coordinate a convenient time for a pre-tour meeting, ensuring that all necessary details and arrangements for your upcoming activities are discussed and organized. Overnight in Lima at Casa Andina Miraflores Premium Hotel – Superior Room *Lima city is located at an altitude of 80 meters (262 feet) above sea level.

After breakfast, you will be transported to Lima's Historic Center, a delightful area characterized by its charming narrow streets, picturesque squares, and intricate balconies that showcase the city's colonial architecture. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, the Historic Center holds immense historical significance, as Lima played a pivotal role in shaping the New World between the 16th and 18th centuries. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore notable plazas such as San Martin square and the Plaza Mayor, the main square. As you wander through the Plaza Mayor, you will encounter the magnificent baroque cathedral, the Government Palace, and the Archbishop's Palace, distinguished by its exquisite carved wooden balconies. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you will stroll along the main streets of Lima Antigua, where you will discover remarkable landmarks, enchanting balconies (Lima boasts an impressive collection of over 1500), and colonial houses adorned with intricate Moorish-style balconies that once housed the early Spanish settlers. One of the highlights of the Historic Center is the San Francisco Monastery, a revered religious complex dating back to the 16th century. Its impressive architecture, including a grand church and monastery, will leave you in awe. Inside the San Francisco convent, you will have the opportunity to explore the largest collection of religious art in the Americas. Additionally, beneath the convent lies an extensive network of catacombs that served as the colonial-era cemetery, adding a fascinating layer of historical depth to your Lima experience. To conclude your Lima tour, you will be driven to the upscale district of Miraflores, nestled along the scenic coastline. Miraflores offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and boasts beautiful parks, including the Parque del Amor (Park of Love), adorned with mosaic artwork and a romantic sculpture. You can also explore the vibrant Larcomar shopping center, which provides a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options to suit your preferences. Flight Lima – Cusco After lunch, you will be transported to Lima airport in preparation for your flight to Cusco city. Our team will be there to assist you with the check-in process, including dropping off your baggage, and then accompany you to the security check area (Please note that gate assignments and departure times are subject to change, so we recommend checking the airport monitors for the most up-to-date information). Upon arrival at Cusco airport, simply follow the signs to the baggage claim area. Once you have retrieved your luggage, our welcoming staff will be waiting for you in the arrivals area. They will then drive you to your comfortable hotel located in the center of Cusco city. Free time to adjust to the altitude.

This morning you will be collected from your hotel and embark on a smooth journey to the Incas’ sacred valley, you will have the opportunity to visit the Awanacancha center and the charming Pisac village and Market, adding an enriching cultural experience to your day. Cusco – Awanacancha. Feed Llamas and Alpacas! Estimated driving time: one hour This morning, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of llamas and other Andean camelids. Located in the beautiful Sacred Valley, Awanacancha offers a unique and educational experience. As you arrive at the center, you will be greeted by the sight of these magnificent animals grazing in the picturesque surroundings. Awanacancha is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional Andean textile techniques, and llamas play a significant role in this process. You will have the chance to get up close and personal with the llamas, observing their unique characteristics and learning about their importance in Andean culture. Here you can witness traditional weavers in action, skillfully crafting intricate textiles using llama wool. These textiles showcase the vibrant colors and intricate patterns that are emblematic of Andean culture. You will have the opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry involved in this ancient tradition. Awanacancha – Pisac Market & Empanadas Estimated driving time: twenty minutes Following your visit to Awanacancha, you will be transported to the serene Quechua village of Pisac, where you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant Quechua culture. The village is known for its renowned Indian market, which showcases a wide array of unique handicrafts and fascinating souvenirs. As you explore the market, you will have the chance to interact with local Quechua families, many of whom are dressed in traditional attire, and learn about their craftsmanship. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the delicious Empanadas, a local specialty, prepared in traditional wood-burning ovens. After the visit to Pisac market, you will be driven to the Inca town of Ollantaytambo! Ollantaytambo and Qosqo Ayllu. Machu Picchu Pueblo Estimated touring time: two hours. Today, your guide will introduce you to the fascinating Inca terraces of the Ollantaytambo fortress. You will not only be treated to breathtaking views but also learn about the historical significance of this site as one of the last strongholds of the Incas against the Spanish invasion. Your tour will also include a visit to Qosqo Ayllu, an ancient Inca town that has preserved its original walls and layout from the Inca era. It is remarkable to witness how this town continues to be inhabited to this day, offering a glimpse into the enduring legacy of the Incas. After exploring Ollantaytambo, you will be transferred to the train station, where you will board the vista dome train that will take you to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). This scenic train journey will provide you with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, immersing you in the beauty of the sacred valley as you approach your destination. Vista dome train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) Upon arrival at Machu Picchu train station, you will be welcomed by your hotel staff (who will have a sign with your name) and escorted to your hotel. *This evening, your guide will contact you to set the time for your Machu Picchu tour. Overnight in Aguas Calientes at Casa Andina Machu Picchu Standard Hotel – Superior Room Meals included: Breakfast *Aguas Calientes is located at an altitude of 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level.

Hotel pickup time: to be confirmed Once you have completed the registration process at Machu Picchu, you will commence an enthralling expedition through the enigmatic remains of this Inca citadel. Guided by a well-informed expert, you will delve into the complex architecture, revered temples, and meticulously crafted stone edifices that form the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage site. As you traverse the terraced fields, intricate staircases, and intricate stone walls, you will have the opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River below. Your guide will point out notable features such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Temple of the Three Windows, unraveling their significance and symbolism. The tour will provide you with insights into the historical significance and cultural significance of Machu Picchu. You will learn about the Inca civilization, their advanced engineering techniques, and the spiritual beliefs that shaped their lives. By the end of the guided tour, you will have gained a deeper understanding of Machu Picchu's historical and cultural importance, leaving you with a profound appreciation for this remarkable archaeological site. Following your unforgettable excursion to Machu Picchu, you will have the opportunity to savor a delightful lunch in Tinkuy Restaurant, conveniently situated within the premises of the Sanctuary Lodge. Buffet Lunch in Tinkuy Restaurant Following your meal, you will hop on the bus to Machu Picchu Pueblo and then proceed to board your train at Aguas Calientes station, which will take you to Ollantaytambo. Vista dome train journey from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo. Cusco Once you arrive at Ollantaytambo train station, our local team will be there to greet you. They will have a sign with your name on it, and they will provide transportation to your hotel in Cusco city. Overnight in Cusco at Casa Andina Premium Cusco – Superior Room Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch *Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level.

Hotel pickup time: 14:00 pm. Estimated guided touring time: four hours. This afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel for an unforgettable experience exploring the beautiful city of Cusco, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour begins with a leisurely stroll to the city's main attractions, starting with the renowned Plaza de Armas, the central square. From there, you will visit the Cusco Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece constructed in 1559. Inside, you will find a remarkable collection of over 400 paintings from the Cusco school, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. As you wander through the narrow Inca streets surrounding the Plaza, you will marvel at the massive Inca walls that form the foundation of the city. Your tour also includes a visit to the magnificent Koricancha, known as the Temple of the Sun during the Inca era. This sacred temple once boasted walls adorned with solid gold sheets and a courtyard adorned with golden statues and ornaments. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Santo Domingo Church, a Spanish colonial construction built upon the ruins of the Koricancha. After exploring the city of Cusco, the tour will continue to the remarkable fortress of Sacsayhuaman. This Inca stronghold features perfectly fitted walls constructed with enormous stones. Here, you will unravel the secrets of the Incas and gain insights into their impressive architectural skills. The tour will then proceed to Qenko, a site featuring intricately carved living rocks, followed by Puca Pucara, an Inca lodging site. Finally, you will visit Tambo Machay, known as the Baths of the Inca, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Inca city and its surrounding areas. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will provide informative commentary, offering a deeper understanding of the rich history and cultural significance of each site you visit. Overnight in Cusco at Casa Andina Premium Cusco – Superior Room Meals included: Breakfast.

Hotel pickup time: to be confirmed. Hotel to airport estimated driving time: twenty-five minutes. After enjoying your breakfast, our staff will pick you up from your hotel and provide transportation to Cusco airport, where you will catch your flight to Lima. Throughout the process, we will assist you with flight check-in and baggage drop-off, ensuring a smooth journey. Once you arrive at the airport, we will guide you to the security check area (Please notice that gates and departure times may be subject to change, it is recommended to check the airport monitors for any updates). Upon arrival at Lima airport, you can easily navigate to the baggage claim area following the designated signs. Once you have collected your luggage, you will find yourself in the domestic arrivals area. Our friendly staff will be there to welcome you, holding a sign with your name, and assist you with your International Flight check-in. International Flight Meals included: Breakfast.