Peru and Machu Picchu
8 Day Escorted Tour

The morning mist clears and the mystical city of Machu Picchu slowly emerges from night shadows, and you are among the privileged few to enjoy this amazing scene in the quiet hours before the throngs of visitors begin to arrive. See the wonders of modern-day Lima and the ancient city of Cuzco, and visit the fortress ruins at Sacsayhuaman and Pisac on this exceptional program of exploration. Click Here For Itinerary

Inclusions:

• On-tour air Lima/Cuzco/Lima
• 3 nights at the Country Club Hotel in Lima
• 3 nights at the Monasterio Hotel in Cuzco
• 1 night at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located within the sanctuary of the Machu Picchu Inca Citadel
• 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners
  
  Note: Bottled water included with all meals.

Highlights:

• Ride the rails through the Urabamba Valley aboard the panoramic Vistadome train
• Visit the famous Gold Museum in Lima
• Tour Cuzco, the oldest inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere
• Tour the fascinating Sacsayhuaman fortress
• Explore Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide

• Explore the extraordinary ruins of enigmatic Machu Picchu in relative solitude after the crowds depart
• Overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

Day 2 BL
Lima City Tour/Gold Museum
Begin your day by meeting everyone at a morning welcome reception before hearing a presentation about the history and culture of Peru. Lima, the main gateway into Peru, has long been considered the colonial capital of South America. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish as their South American capital, Lima was called "the City of Kings" by the Spanish conquistadors. On your tour this afternoon, see the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, the Cathedral, the Santo Domingo or San Francisco convents, and the modern garden suburb districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. At the Gold Museum, see the ancient relics and shining treasures of the mighty Incas. COUNTRY CLUB HOTEL

Day 3 BL Cuzco/Sacsayhuaman

Today, board a flight bound for the oldest inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere, Cuzco. Enjoy a guided city tour of Cuzco, and several ruins including Kenco and Tambomachay. With your guide, journey into the "Valley of the Incas" to the Sacsayhuaman fortress. According to historical records, as many as 20,000 men were involved in the construction of this immense stronghold. Built from 100-ton granite blocks, it was designed and erected with such perfection that no mortar was needed to secure these precisely-carved stones. Later, see the hillside fort, Puca Pucara, which most likely served as a lookout post and stopping point between Cuzco and the Sacred Valley. Tonight you are at leisure to explore before settling into the MONASTERIO HOTEL.

Day 4 BLD
Machu Picchu
This morning, travel aboard the Vistadome train from Cuzco to the archeological wonder of Machu Picchu, which was built at the end of the 14th century. Machu Picchu was obviously a highly-planned and carefully-built city, made up of two clearly different sectors, one agricultural and one urban. With mountains towering to one side, and a whitewater river roaring far below, this solemn fortress is a fascinating remnant of a once-bustling city that was mysteriously abandoned after the middle of the 16th century. Secreted amidst dense jungle vegetation and steep hills, Machu Picchu remained undiscovered by the modern world until 1911. This oncehidden, enigmatic city presents modern archaeologists and philosophers with an array of mysteries. Was it a royal estate? Why was such an intricate city, with an estimated population of nearly 1,000, suddenly abandoned centuries ago? Learn the many legends and strange truths of these ancient ruins from your local guide. Since tonight's accommodations are at the Sanctuary Lodge, you can stay on to explore after everyone leaves. Tonight, witness the moonlight drift across Machu Picchu while you enjoy a stay at the unique MACHU PICCHU SANCTUARY LODGE.

Day 5 BL Machu Picchu/Cuzco

As the sun rises over the mountains, watch the morning mist disappear once again to reveal this awe-inspiring city, probably the most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire. The giant walls, terraces and ramps seem as if they have been cut naturally into the continuous rock escarpments and they fit perfectly to the incline of the land. In the afternoon, return to Cuzco aboard the "Inca Train." Sip a cup of tea and enjoy panoramic views as the beautiful greenery of the Urabamba Valley and the sacred valley of the Incas. MONASTERIO HOTEL

Day 6 BLD
Pisac Excursion
Travel to Pisac to see the ruins of a citadel, once accessed by a vital Inca road that snaked its way up the canyon that enters the Urabamba Valley. This ancient citadel once controlled a route that connected the Inca Empire with Paucartambo. The stonework and panoramas from here are magnificent--patch-worked by patterned fields and rimmed by vast terracing cut out of solid rock. In the upper section lies the main Sun Temple and above the temple are still more unexcavated ruins and hidden burial sites. Later, visit the studio of Cuzco's famous ceramists, "Donde Pablos." This restored colonial farmhouse is now home to a workshop and gallery. Observe local artisans working in the tradition of their Incan ancestors. Visit the market for a taste of colorful local life before you return to Cuzco. MONASTERIO HOTEL

Day 7 BL
Cuzco/Lima
Fly back to Lima this morning. Those who choose to take the Bolivia's Lake Titicaca independent extension will fly to La Paz this morning. In Lima, enjoy a farewell lunch, then the remainder of your afternoon and evening is free. Perhaps a stroll through the Indian handicraft market is in order before you pack for your early morning departure. Transfer to the airport for your overnight return flight home. COUNTRY CLUB HOTEL

Day 8 B
Conclude
You might choose to extend your vacation by flying to Quito for the Galapagos Islands Discovery Cruise Adventure. Otherwise, arrive back in the United States to make your domestic flight connection home. Muchas gracias! Back to Top

The above rates are presented as a guideline only.
Please contact Quality Travel at 1-800-331-5601
for actual pricing and availability.