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Compare Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu by Road Scholar vs Peru with Machu Picchu 2023 Classic Group by Insight Vacations

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Duration 13 days 10 days
Price From $ 4,349 $ 4,157
Price Per Day $ 335 $ 416
Highlights
  • Hike the famed Inca Trail from Pisacucho to Machu Picchu
  • Experience the “Lost City of the Incas” through an on-site lecture or an optional hike to the summit of Wayna Picchu
  • Learn about the remarkable Incan agriculture system in the Sacred Valley
  • : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
  • : Our Well-Being Directors take a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met (available on tours with 21 or more guests).
  • : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
  • Cusco: In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a memorable Celebration Dinner at Calle del Medio, where you'll enjoy innovative interpretations of classic Peruvian Creole dishes while toasting to your new adventures.
  • Cusco: Enjoy an immersive slow-cooked Cusquenian lunch at Pacha Papa. Lunch will be served al fresco at the courtyard of a historic mansion in the artsy neighbourhood of San Blas.
  • Machu Picchu: Head back to your hotel to unwind, before sitting down to a Highlight Dinner with your fellow travellers.
  • Sacred Valley: Make your way to the small lagoon of Laguna Piuray where you’ll enjoy your Highlight Lunch of Pachamanca, a traditional Peruvian feast.
  • Sacred Valley: Enjoy lunch at Altar Inca with impressive views of the Sacred valley surrounded by the breathtaking Andes Mountains.
  • Lima:  Make your way to Lima's Pueblo Libre District and indulge on a Highlight Lunch in the Museo Larco's 18th century garden.
  • Lima: Unwind at your luxury abode, before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers in the evening for a Welcome Dinner.
  • Dining Summary: 9 Breakfast (B), 4 Dinner with Wine (DW), and 5 Lunch (L)
  • Cusco: Start your day with a walking tour of Cusco, before heading to Sacsayhuaman.
  • Cusco: Once you arrive, head on a walking tour of Cusco with a Local Expert. Explore what's known as the "historic capital" of Peru as you discover its ancestral magic through visits to the cathedral and the Korikancha temple.
  • Machu Picchu: Transfer to the station for your 360° IncaRail train ride. This train ride offers an unforgettable experience journeying through the Andes Mountains in style with large panoramic views allowing guests to enjoy the amazing scenery of the lush mountains and the Urubamba River en route to Machu Piccu Pueblo.
  • Machu Picchu: On the way, visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, consisting of a large fortress built in the 1400s, a stepped terrace, and an area known as the Princess Baths, where ceremonial bathing took place. Later, stop by a a local house in the village and meet the family living there.
  • Sacred Valley: Start your day with a visit to the Maras salt pans, where the Incas once harvested their salt. Today, salt from this regions is exported to the entire world. Afterwards, make your way to Moray where you'll visit an archaeological labratory.
  • Cathedral of Lima: This morning, explore Peru's buzzing capital with your Local Expert, including the Cathedral of Lima, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace and City Hall.
  • Lima: After lunch, meet a local guide who will take you around the Museo Larco, a private museum located in Lima's Pueblo Libre District and home to the largest collection of Pre-Columbian art.
  • Cusco: This evening, make your way to Cusco's planetarium to learn more on how the Incas interpreted the stars. After a reception with hot wine (or tea) and appetizers, local experts will explain and share stories about the influence the stars had on Andean culture. You'll then be led to a room specially accommodated to view the ancient night skies, weather permitting.
  • Machu Picchu: In the afternoon, take your first guided visit to Machu Picchu with Local Experts where you’ll explore the sophisticated 15th century Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains.
Trip Style Group tour Group tour
Lodging Level Standard Premium
Physical Level
  • 4- Strenuous
  • 0- Wheelchair accessible
Travel Themes
  • Cultural
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • 50 plus
  • Hiking & Walking
  • Education / Learning
  • National Parks
  • Cultural
  • 50 plus
  • Education / Learning
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Aguas Calientes
  • Cusco
  • Inca Trail
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Pisa
  • Sacred Valley
  • Urubamba
  • Cusco
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Sacred Valley
Flights & Transport Ground transport included Airfare included
Activities
  • Culture
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Nature
  • Ruins & Archaeology
  • Culture
  • Historic sightseeing
Meals Included
  • 28 Meals
  • 11 Breakfasts
  • 9 Lunches
  • 8 Dinners
  • The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Low Salt, Low Fat, Gluten Free
N/A
Description The Incas created the largest pre-Columbian empire in the Americas. Hike and learn about their grand achievements as you explore sacred ruins, the Inca Trail and iconic Machu Picchu. Feast on Peruvian delicacies in Lima, tour the ancient Korikancha temple in Cusco and adventure through the Ollantaytambo ruins of Machu Picchu, on this 10-Day exploration of Peru. Embark on a Private Planetarium Tour in Cusco and uncover the influence of astronomy on Andean culture. Join a Local Expert in Machu Picchu for a guided tour through the ancient ruins—set high in the Andes against breathtaking backdrops. Visit the salt pans of Maras in the Sacred Valley where the Incas used to harvest the mineral and visit with a local Quechua Weaver to learn their ancient weaving techinques in a private presentation. In Paracus, be sure to pause at the Pisco distillery to sample this tasty local aperitif.
Itinerary: Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Day 1
In Transit to Program, Arrive Lima
Location: Lima Hotel: Four Points by Sheraton Miraflores
Activity note: This is an international travel day; no meals or program activities are scheduled on this day. Hotel check in from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Upon arriving at the hotel, check in and get your room assignment. Then take some time to freshen up and relax.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Evening: At leisure. Settle in and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

Day 2
Orientation, Intro. to Peru & Inca Trail, Lima Field Trip
Location: Lima Meal: B,L Hotel: Four Points by Sheraton Miraflores
Breakfast: At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers choices such as a rotating variety of hot dishes, eggs, meat, cheese, vegetables, cereals, seasonal fruits, breads, yogurt, juices, milk, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Meals on our program feature local cuisine. In many cases, they will be plated and served set meals; in others, we will have buffets with multiple options. Beverages include coffee, tea, water; other beverages are usually available for purchase. Transfers to /from program activities will be by bus, unless specified otherwise. If you feel unwell or anxious about your abilities before or during hiking activities, it is essential to notify the Group Leader. If you are incapable of participating or opt not to participate in the hikes, arrangements will be made to return you to Cusco at your cost. Once we are on the Inca Trail, there is no opportunity to depart from the program until we reach the end. (See the NOTES section for details.) When we reach the official control point at the start of the Inca Trail, each participant’s original, valid passport must be presented to officials. Periods in the schedule labeled “free time and “at leisure” offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable while going out to explore on your own, engaging in available activities independently, making new friends among fellow participants, or simply relaxing. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. We’ll complete the morning with a presentation by the Group Leader providing a brief Introduction to Peru, Inca culture and history, and the Inca Trail and the Sacred Valley.

Lunch: At a local restaurant with a presentation on local Peruvian dishes, ingredients, and meal preparation.

Afternoon: We will embark on an expert led field trip in Lima’s historic downtown, beginning with a visit to the historic Plaza de Armas, the official center of the city and the original site upon which Lima was founded. We will explore La Catedral, an architectural masterpiece built in 1534, and the Church of San Francisco with its library and collection of fine paintings and frescoes. We’ll also see exteriors of the Presidential Palace, where soldiers guarding the palace offer an excellent photo opportunity; the Archbishop’s Palace; City Hall; the Desamparados train station; and Moorish-style houses and balconies along Lima’s old streets. We’ll then join in a favorite pastime of Limeños, an afternoon walk along the city’s Malecon (waterfront) in Miraflores with its magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and landscaped parks.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like of the many options for Peruvian cuisine and local fare. Please see "Notes" section for a list of restaurant recommendations.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and our flight to Cusco in the morning.

Day 3
Fly to Cusco, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo Ruins
Location: Sacred Valley/Yucay Meal: B,L,D Posada del Inca - Yucay
Activity note: Flight from Lima to Cusco is approximately 1.5 hours. The weight limit for checked luggage on this flight is 50 pounds/23 kg. The drive to Urubamba by car is about 38 miles, approximately 1.5 hours; other drives are shorter distances. Ollantayambo is very hilly with about 100 stone steps to the top of the fortress at an altitude of 9,100 feet. Walking the ruins at Ollantaytambo ruins takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We’ll check out and depart to the airport for our morning flight to Cusco. High elevations can have an adverse effect on hikers, even those in good shape, so program activities in the Sacred Valley are designed to help participants acclimate to higher elevations prior to starting the Inca Trail hikes. The Group Leader will monitor everyone’s ability to adjust to the altitude during this time. Upon arrival, we’ll board a bus and meet our local guide. Then, we will begin the transfer to the Sacred Valley for lunch.

Lunch: At a local restaurant. We’ll have a plated and served meal with salad, entrée, and soda or water; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: We will vsit the Ollantaytambo ruins and have a site lecture. We’ll learn about the engineering genius of the Inca demonstrated by the extensive terracing and irrigation present at the site. Running water still flows through the town in aqueducts. The Inca emperor Pachacuti built Ollantaytambo in the 15th century as part of his royal estate. In the mid-15th century after Pachacuti’s death, the Spanish conquest of Peru began. The Inca emperor at that time was Manco Inca who used Ollantaytambo as a stronghold against the Spanish. His army won a small victory nearby against Spanish forces. Though, shortly afterwards Manco Inca decided the site was not secure enough and fled with the remaining members of his empire to Vilcabamba where the Inca famously made their last stand against the Spanish. We will hike up several terraces at the archaeological site. Afterwards, transfer to the hotel. We’ll check in with time to freshen up and relax before dinner. You might like to take a stroll around the hotel grounds and gardens.

Dinner: In the hotel restaurant, we’ll have a plated and served meal with appetizers, choice of main dish, dessert, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 4
Sacred Valley, Moray Inca Ruins, Salinas Salt Pans
Location: Sacred Valley/Yucay Meal: B,L,D Posada del Inca - Yucay
Activity note: The drive to the Maras Salt Pans is about 30 miles, approximately 1.5 hours; other drives are shorter distances. Hiking 1.5 miles, approximately 1 hour, downhill trail.

Breakfast: In the hotel restaurant.

Morning: We’ll set out on a hiking field trip to Moray, where a local expert will give a presentation. The large series of circular terraces were built by the Inca as an outdoor agricultural research station. Walking around the terraces as they decrease in size to a central point will provide a good opportunity to acclimate in preparation for the Inca Trail. We’ll continue our exploration with a hike to the Salineras de Maras (Salt Pans of Salinas) for a demonstration of the salt extraction process.

Lunch: At a local restaurant, we’ll have a buffet lunch with a variety of appetizers, main dishes, salads, desserts, and bottle of water included.

Afternoon: Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the afternoon is free. We’ll regroup before dinner for a presentation on the crops of the Inca, a source of health and energy.

Dinner: Restaurant plated and served meal.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 5
Sacred Valley, Pisac Hiking, Market
Location: Sacred Valley/Yucay Meal: B,L,D Posada del Inca - Yucay

Activity note: Pisac elevation is approximately 11,000 feet. At ruins, paved walkways, intermittent and sloping dirt paths, some sections uneven, steep, narrow. Walking the ruins takes approximately 2 hours. Wear hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen bring water.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We will board the bus and ride to Pisac for a hiking field trip in the vicinity of the Pisac ruins to help us acclimatize. This trail is similar to the Inca Trail routes. The beautiful site high above the Urubamba River features one of Peru’s only remaining “intihuatanas” — enigmatic carved rocks that were used for astronomical observation. The ruins are notable for their Inca waterworks and large, curving agricultural terraces offering excellent views of the Sacred Valley. We’ll then descend to the town.

Lunch: At Pisac, we’ll have boxed lunches.

Afternoon: We’ll continue walking in Pisac and its busy, colorful market. This rustic Andean village that grew up at the foot of the original Incan settlement has become well known to visitors. The artisan market hosts hundreds of vendors offering ceramics, clothing and knitted goods including those made of alpaca, jewelry, scarves, and trinkets of many kinds. Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the afternoon is free time. We’ll gather with our Group Leader before dinner for a final briefing session on the Inca Trail in preparation for our hikes.

Dinner: Hotel plated and served meal.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Day 6
Begin Inca Trail, Hike to Patallaqta Ruins & Huyllabamba
Location: Inca Trail Meal: B,L,D Inca Trail Camp
Activity note: The drive from Pisac to Ollantaytambo is about 36 miles (58 kilometers), approximately 1 hour. The drive from Ollantaytambo to Piscacucho is about 51 miles (82 kilometers), approximately 1.5 hours. The total hiking distance today is 7.8 miles, approximately 7 hours; maximum altitude point 9,842 feet.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: This is the day to decide if you will hike the Inca Trail or return to Cusco. Once we begin hiking on Day 7, there is no turning back We’ll check out and depart for Ollantaytambo, where we’ll stop briefly for last minute purchases. We’ll then transfer to Piscacucho, where we will meet our porters and have a final bathroom stop. Formal registration procedures are required at the official control point at the start of the Inca Trail. Original, valid passports must be ready to be presented to the officials. Once done with registration, we will cross a footbridge over the Urubamba River and start our hike! After the first leg of the hike, we’ll stop for a brief rest break and a snack. Moving on, we’ll arrive at the Patallaqta viewpoint and see classic Inca ruins at the intersection of three valleys — a wonderful photo opportunity.

Lunch: En route, we’ll stop for a sit down lunch. Trail lunches will include a main dish and drink.

Afternoon: We’ll continue walking hiking for about 5 hours to the first campsite. It’s time to rest and enjoy an extended tea break to revive body, mind, and spirit.

Dinner: In the dining tent, dinner will include soup, a main dish, dessert, and hot beverages.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 7
Inca Trail, Huayllabamba to Pacaymayo
Location: Inca Trail Meal: B,L,D Inca Trail Camp
Activity note: Total distance 5.5 miles; estimated walking time 7 hours; maximum altitude point 13,779 feet.

Breakfast: Early morning wake-up call with a hot beverage followed by breakfast at the camp. Foods will vary daily from pancakes to scrambled eggs, cheese, oatmeal, quinoa, fruit, bread, hot chocolate, coffee, tea.

Morning: The first portion of our hike this morning will take approximately 1.5 hours through tropical subalpine forest with opportunities to see bromeliads and orchids. We’ll have a stop at Ayapata to see the landscape and a rest break with an opportunity to use the local toilet facilities. We’ll then continue hiking on ascending stairs for approximately 2.5 hours.

Lunch: Trail lunch en route.

Afternoon: Next, we’ll set out on a 2-hour hike to Abra Warmiwañuska, the first pass, at an elevation of approximately 13,776 feet. From there, we’ll descend to our second campsite at Pacaymayo (11,580 feet) for tea time and relaxation.

Dinner: In the dining tent.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 8
Inca Trail, Pacaymayo to Phuyupatamarka
Location: Inca Trail Meal: B,L,D Inca Trail Camp
Activity note: Hiking up to 5 miles, approximately 7 hours; some sections with wet stones, mud, uneven steps. Maximum altitude point approximately 12,795 feet.

Breakfast: At the camp, early morning wake-up call with a hot beverage, followed by breakfast.

Morning: We’ll start the day with a hike of approximately 1 hour to the Runkuracay archaeological site with superb views overlooking the Pacaymayo Valley. Runkuracay, the Egg Hut, is about halfway up the climb to the second pass. It was probably built as a lookout point for watching the highway, and perhaps also as a “tambo” — a traveler's lodging and temporary storehouse. We’ll then move on, hiking to Runkurakay Pass, the second on the trail. After reaching the pass, we’ll continue downhill for approximately 1 hour before arriving at the narrow staircase that will take us into Sayacmarca, “Inaccessible Town.” The ruins of Sayacmarca are the remnants of a fortress or travelers' lodge used by the Inca. It was built on a narrow mountain ridge with only one entrance — probably planned as a means of defense. The thatched roofs are long gone, but an observatory, small plaza, ritual baths, housing complex, and other constructions remain. The lack of agricultural terraces and farmland point to a dependence on outside suppliers, a big weakness in times of war. In its heyday, Sayacmarca is thought to have housed as many as 200 people. Leaving the ruins, we’ll continue our hike and stop for lunch.

Lunch: At Chaquicocha, trail lunch.

Afternoon: We’ll continue hiking for another 1.5-2 hours to the next campsite at Phuyupatamarka, elevation 10,695 feet. There, we’ll relax with a tea break and some “down” time before dinner.

Dinner: In the dining tent.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 9
Machu Picchu, Phuyupatamarka, Wiñay Wayna, Intipunku Ruins
Location: Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes Meal: B,L,D Hotel: El MaPi Hotel
Activity note: Hiking up to 7 miles, approximately 5 hours; mix of flat paths, uneven steps including approximately 2,000 Inca steps down; altitude point 11,811 feet. Early wake-up call to witness the spectacular sunrise. Have your cameras ready! Hot beverages provided.

Breakfast: At the camp.

Morning: We’ll begin hiking the trail towards the Phuyupatamarka archaeological ruins, located less than 1/2 mile (approximately 15 minutes) from the camp. As we hike through the ruins, our Group Leader will give us an explanation of the site. The ruins of Phuyupatamarka — “Cloud Level Town” — include many terraces and a series of ceremonial baths. A large platform on the highest part of the site once served as an open-air temple, the Temple of the Sun. We’ll continue hiking for another 3.5 hours and arrive at Wiñay Wayna in time for lunch.

Lunch: At Wiñay Wayna archaeological site.

Afternoon: We estimate that this final stretch of the Inca Trail will take approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Once at Intipunku — “Sun Gate” — we will begin the descent into Machu Picchu, just as the late afternoon shadows begin to accentuate the mysterious citadel. After a quick walk through the ruins, we’ll board the bus to Aguas Calientes and check-in at our hotel. Have a hot shower and get a good night's rest in preparation for tomorrow morning's activities in Machu Picchu.

Dinner: At the hotel, we’ll have a set plated meal with appetizer, main dish, dessert, hot beverages and water.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for our early morning (7:00 a.m.) field trip to Machu Picchu. As the UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription states, “Embedded within a dramatic landscape at the meeting point between the Peruvian Andes and the Amazon Basin, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is among the greatest artistic, architectural and land use achievements anywhere and the most significant tangible legacy of the Inca civilization…Built in the fifteenth century Machu Picchu was abandoned when the Inca Empire was conquered by the Spaniards in the sixteenth century. It was not until 1911 that the archaeological complex was made known to the outside world.”

Day 10
Machu Picchu, Train to Ollantaytambo, Bus to Cusco
Location: Cusco Meal: B,L Hotel: Sonesta Hotel Cusco
Activity note: Train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is approximately 1.5 hours. Bus transfer from Ollantaytambo Station to Cusco is about 1.5 hours. We recommend wearing or bringing a long-sleeved shirt as in the past some participants have complained about “no-see-ums.” For those who wish to hike independently to the summit of Huayna Picchu, the trail is narrow, rocky, very steep and strenuous; no handrails. See NOTES section of the preparatory materials for details.

Breakfast: Early at the hotel.

Morning: We’ll check out of the hotel and keep our luggage in storage until after the field trip. We’ll then board a bus to the Machu Picchu ruins for a field trip and on-site presentation by our Group Leader on the ruins, their history, and latest discoveries. There will also be time for personal independent exploration and close up views of the fascinating features of this astounding and mysterious Inca settlement that interest you most. Independent activity. For those who are highly motivated, highly energetic, and have great strength and stamina, you may wish to hike another portion of the Inca Trail to the summit of Huayna Picchu for an amazing overview of Machu Picchu. (Additional cost, see NOTES section for details.) At the conclusion of our field trip, we’ll board the bus and return to Aguas Calientes town, then walk to the hotel.

Lunch: At a local restaurant, we’ll have a set plated meal with appetizer, main dish, dessert, hot beverages, water.

Afternoon: Next, we’ll transfer to the Aguas Calientes train station and board the train back to Ollantaytambo Station. There, we’ll board the bus to Cusco and check into our hotel with some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 11
Sacsayhuaman Ruins, Cusco Orientation, Music Presentation
Location: Cusco Meal: B,D Hotel: Sonesta Hotel Cusco
Activity note: Mostly flat terrain, few steps.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: Our next field trip is to the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman where our Group Leader will discuss this amazing fortress that forms the head of the Puma design of old Cusco. It is a wonder of technical achievement and a testament to human will. It is a mystery how it was constructed, as the stones are not native to the region and the majority of them weigh over one ton. The largest rock is more than 300 tons. Sacsayhuaman is constructed of huge polygonal blocks which interlock with one another so precisely a knife blade cannot be inserted between them. Returning to Cusco, we’ll embark on a walking field trip orientating ourselves to the city with visits to the Koricancha sun temple, the Plaza de Armas, and most important streets.

Lunch: On your own to explore local fare.

Afternoon: Free Time. Take this opportunity to explore Cusco on your own. We’ll regroup before dinner for a presentation-performance by local experts with traditional Inca instruments and music.

Dinner: At a local restaurant, we’ll have our farewell dinner, a buffet with an alcoholic beverage included, with local entertainment. Share your favorite experiences of this amazing journey with new Road Scholar friends. Other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

Day 12
San Pedro Market, Flight to Lima, Program Concludes
Location: In Flight Meal: B

Activity note: Hotel check-out from 10:00 a.m. Flight from Cusco to Lima is approximately 1.5 hours, book flights departing Lima from 9:00pm. The weight limit for checked luggage on this flight is 50 pounds (23 kg). There is no hotel stay included in Lima.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will set out on foot from the hotel, walking through Cusco with our Group Leader to arrive at the San Pedro Market. This small, local market is where many Cusqueños shop for fruit, produce, snacks and other kitchen staples, gifts and trinkets, and enjoy a meal. Our Group Leader will take us around the locale and provide insight into some of the goods offered. We will have the chance to interact with locals and purchase snacks and souvenirs. Following this visit, we will have time for independent exploration. The center of Cusco is a history lesson where modern and colonial buildings were built on top of Inca foundations and colonial churches dominate the central square. Our Group Leader will establish a meeting time for us all to reconvene back at the hotel in preparation for the late afternoon transfer to the Cusco airport.

Lunch: On your own.

Afternoon: We’ll say goodbye to our Group Leader and transfer to the Cusco airport for the flight to Lima's Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chávez (LIM). Upon arrival in Lima, we’ll check in for our international flights this evening.

Dinner: On your own.

Evening: Upon arrival to Lima you will connect with your evening flights out of Jorge Chávez International Airport to the U.S. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Day 13
In Transit From Program
In Flight

Itinerary: Peru with Machu Picchu 2023 Classic Group

Day 1: Welcome to Lima

Arrive in Lima for the first day of your journey. In the evening meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers at the hotel bar for a welcome dinner and drinks.

Day 2: Explore Lima Relaxed Start

Explore the colourful capital of Peru this morning with your Local Expert. Delve into its colonial past and see key attractions, including the Cathedral of Lima, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace and City Hall. Visit the San Francisco Monastery and its underground cemetery. One for those with an appreciation for art, head to Museo Larco, a private museum located in Lima’s Pueblo Libre District. It is the highest-rated museum in South America and houses the largest collection of Pre-Columbian art. Indulge in a Highlight Lunch with an 18th-century garden as your backdrop. After lunch, meet a local guide who will take you around the Museo Larco and share the museum’s private collection with you. Delve into Peruvian culture, its ancient history and the country's religious beliefs. Return to your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day 3: Lima to Sacred Valley

Take a transfer to the airport in the morning, where you'll catch your flight to the ancient capital of Cusco. Begin your tour of the Sacred Valley, while taking in impressive views on your scenic drive along the way. After a few stunning photo stops, enjoy lunch at Altar Inca, surrounded by some of the most impressive views of the region. Enjoy a leisurely trip to your hotel for the next couple of nights, where the evening is yours to do as you please. We recommend that you rest in order to adjust to the altitude comfortably.

Day 4: Explore Sacred Valley Relaxed Start

Start the morning off with a visit to the Maras salt pans, where the Incas harvested their salt. Today, the salt from Maras is exported to the entire world. Move on to an Incan laboratory in Moray, an archaeological site close to Cusco. Find out more about the ideal altitude to grow crops in the Sacred Valley. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience as you visit a local traditional Quechua weaver in the Sacred Valley and learn about the importance these textiles have in shaping personal and regional identities. Afterward, make your way to Laguna Piuray, where you’ll enjoy a Pachamanca, a traditional Peruvian feast, for your Highlight Lunch. In the evening, transfer to Hacienda Huayoccari, where you'll discover this gem of the Sacred Valley while exploring its grounds and small museum. Sit down for a special Peruvian dinner before heading back to your hotel, the luxurious Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel.

Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu

Transfer to the station for your IncaRail train ride. Enjoy lunch on your way to Machu Picchu pueblo, the gateway village to Machu Picchu. On the way, visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, followed by a stop at a local house in the village’s cobblestoned old town and visit with the family living there. In the afternoon, visit Machu Picchu, where you’ll meet your Local Experts for a guided visit in small groups. They will take you through the ruins and explain their historical and archaeological significance, as well as the importance of their location. Set high in the Andes Mountains, it offers spectacular scenery and history, dating back to the 15th century. End your day with a relaxing dinner and drinks at your hotel.

Day 6: Machu Picchu at Leisure

Take in the breathtaking landscapes of Machu Picchu for a second time. Spend your morning exploring at your own pace, with your Travel Director on hand to answer any queries you may have. The afternoon is yours at leisure. Relax back at your hotel or perhaps explore the town of Aguas Calientes on your own. Spend the evening as you please before sitting down to a Highlight Dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 7: On to Cusco

After breakfast, return by train to Ollantaytambo, where you will transfer to the ancient city of Cusco. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco showcases a mix of Spanish colonial architecture, ancient remains and a lively cosmopolitan scene for modern inhabitants. On arrival in Cusco, head out on a walking tour with a Local Expert. Visit its cathedral and the Korikancha temple, the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The evening is yours at leisure. Ask your Travel Director for local restaurant and bar recommendations.

Day 8: Exploring Cusco

Start your day with a walking tour of Sacsayhuaman, a citadel built in the reign of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, the ninth Sapa Inca of the Kingdom of Cusco. Afterward, choose to join a local expert on a guided hike of the Inca ruins at Puca Pucara. Alternatively you can explore the artisan bohemian neighborhood of San Blas and visit the prestigious art galleries. After lunch at Pachapapa, visit San Blas Church and the surrounding streets, before making your way to San Pedro Market, where you will find local produce. Later, make your way to the city’s planetarium, for a private, after-hours tour. Learn about astronomy, cosmology, and its influence on Andean culture. While here, try some local delicacies paired with hot wine.

Day 9: Leisure time in Cusco Relaxed Start

Choose between an optional visit to Rainbow Mountain, the ChocoMuseo, where you’ll learn more about the chocolate making process, or perhaps relax and simply enjoy the facilities at your hotel? Set in a beautiful 16th century building, make the most of this boutique hotel’s signature spa and Andean-inspired healing treatments, massages, facials and custom spa packages. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable Celebration Dinner at Calle del Medio, where you will toast to your adventures and end of your trip.

Day 10: Depart Cusco

It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers as your trip comes to an end. Take a private transfer to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport.

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