Cultural Peru
Peru has a superabundance of other attractions besides Machu Picchu, including tranquil colonial towns, mysterious pre-Inca ruins, Colca Canyon (a spectacular natural formation that rivals any canyon in North America), and vast Lake Titicaca, with its bright blue waters sparkling in the intense sunlight of the altiplano, the high plains of the Andes.

On this adventure you'll have a unique opportunity to step back into a different world - from that of pre-Incan civilizations to the very spirited present. In the company of expert guides, you’ll see the best of the country’s natural and cultural aspects, from the soaring condors of Colca Canyon and the weavers of Taquile Island to the full-on glory of the Inca world, best exemplified by the haunting remnants of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, described by Christopher Isherwood as "a landscape built by titans in a fit of sheer megalomania."

 

Day 3 - Visit the market at Urcos, the pretty colonial church of Andahuaylillas, the pre-Inca Wari site at Pikillacta, and the Inca terraces at Tipón.

Day 4 - Hike near Huilloc and visit family homes, explore Ollantaytambo.

Day 5 - Tour Pisac and other sites of the Sacred Valley.

Day 6 - By train to Machu Picchu. All day to enjoy the ruins.

Day 7 - At Machu Picchu. Return to Cuzco.

Day 8 - Travel to Puno on Lake Titicaca.

Day 9 - By boat to Taquile Island, a community of weavers and spinners.

Day 10 - Visit Sillustani, a ceremonial site of the Wari period. Continue to Colca Canyon.

Day 11 - Hike and view the condors of Colca Canyon, who soar on morning thermal updrafts.

Days 12-13 - Drive to the colonial town of Arequipa. Tour the city, then fly to Lima. Evening flight home.