Transfer to Lima airport. Upon arrival in Arequipa, Tour the lovely "White City", including the Santa Catalina Convent, Plaza de Armas, La Compañía cloisters and the districts of Yanahuara and Chilina, with a magnificent view of the Misti Volcano. Afternoon at leisure.
Meals: B
Flight: 1h 15'
| Day 2- AREQUIPA /COLCA CANYON |
Early morning departure for a two-day overland trip to the Colca Valley. Drive across Pampa Canahuas within the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, habitat of herds of vicunas. Admire beautiful pre-Columbian terraces still being employed by native Collaguas.
Meals: B / L/ D
Bus: 4 h
Early departure to Condors Cross, near to town of Cabanaconde, a natural observatory from which you can see the deepest part of the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world (3,000 mts/9,800 ft). Afternoon at leisure.
Meals: B / L/D
| Day 4 - COLCA CANYON/ PUNO / LAKE TITICACA |
Departure for a 7-hour bus ride to Puno. Begin your adventure in Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Meals: B / L
Bus: 7h
Full-day motor-boat excursion on Lake Titicaca to visit the unique floating islands of the Uros. For hundreds of years, this "Water Tribe" has relied on totora reed to build their floating villages, modest homes and boats. Continue to Taquile Island, inhabited by Aymara natives who have developed the best hand-weaving technique in the world.
Meals: B / L
Boat:
Prepare to enjoy views of Andean landscapes spotted with little villages and herds of llamas and alpacas as you drive to the Cusco area. On the way, visit the pyramid complex of Pucara and the Temple of Raqchi, a spectacular energetic sanctuary dedicated to the Creator God Wiracocha, and Andahuaylillas, a picturesque colonial village. Evening arrival to Cusco.
Meals: B/ L
Bus: 8 h
Morning at leisure. In the afternoon explore this most magical city, capital of the Inca Empire (15th century) on a tour including Plaza Regocijo, Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, Santo Domingo Monastery -the legendary Korikancha Temple- and the old town. Drive out of the city to visit the Inca sites of Tambomachay, Kenko, Puca-Pucara and impressive Fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
Meals: B
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| Day 8 - CUSCO / SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS |
Drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, strolling through the Inca living town where time seems to have stopped 500 years ago. Lunch at a nearby inn. Shop in the lively and colorful Indian Pisac market where locals following ancient traditions, sell or exchange their products.
Meals: FB
Bus:
Day 9 - SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS / MACHU PICCHU |
Transfer to Ollanta train station for Orient Express' Vistadome train service to Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Guided tour of the marvellous citadel, visiting the main plaza, the royal quarters, the Temple of Three Windows, the circular tower and the sacred Sun Dial and burial grounds. Enjoy lunch at Orient Express' Sanctuary Lodge next to the citadel. Dinner at Indio Feliz restaurant in Aguas Calientes town.
OPTIONAL: Express Inca Trail hike available upon request.
Meals: FB
Train: 1 h 40'
Day 10 - MACHU PICCHU / CUSCO |
Early rise is recommended to admire Machu Picchu at sunrise, a truly mystical experience. For the hiking enthusiasts, going up the Huayna Picchu peak overlooking the site or trekking the original Inca trail to the Intipunku or Sun Gate is suggested. Afternoon Orient Express' Vistadome train service to Cusco station and transfer to selected hotel.
Meals: B
Train: 3 h
Day at leisure. Enjoy Cusco´s colonial churches and mansions built over original Inca constructions, admire its beautiful plazas or just stroll its picturesque cobblestone streets. Visit San Blas quarter, or simply spend the day shopping.
Meals: B
Transfer to Cusco airport. Upon arrival in Lima, transfer to your hotel or assistance for international flight connection.
Meals: B
Flight: 1 h 15'
