Raft one of Peru's high lakes, gliding along the Urubamba River and glimpse Andean life en route. Then, begin your hike on the Inca Trail following the river past Incan ruins. Climb to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate and the highest point on the trail, for spectacular views of the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu.
Depart for Cusco and a city tour. Stop to see the Cathedral
on the Plaza de Armas and the Santo Domingo Temple. Just outside
the city, visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman. Compiled of massive
stones fitted together with incredible precision and no mortar, not
even a piece of paper fits between the cracks. Continue to Qenqo,
an Incan shrine dedicated to the "Earth Mother"; the fortress of
Puka Pukara; and Tambomachay, a sacred bathing place.
Day 2
Enjoy a rafting experience, gliding along a river and
passing scenes of Andean life. This afternoon explore Pisac, known
for its handicrafts including ponchos, wall hangings and jewelry.
Just above the village, see the Pisac Incan ruins that rest on a
terraced hilltop.
Day 3
Begin your hike on the Inca Trail along the Urubamba
River. Explore the ruins of the ancient Inca and pause to enjoy the
impressive views, continuing through a cloud forest.
Days 4-5
Reach the highest point on the Inca Trail, at an altitude
of almost 14,000 feet. Climb to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, from
which you can take in spectacular views of the sacred citadel of
Machu Picchu.
Days 6-7
Today may bring the chance to walk through Machu
Picchu. Feel its pulse as you visualize the lives of the priests,
craftsmen and servants who inhabited this seemingly
uninhabitable citadel.
Day 8
Board a flight to Lima and then transfer to your hotel. This
afternoon, enjoy a city tour of the "City of the Kings" and some of
its famous sites: Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, City Hall, the
Cathedral and the Archbishop's Palace.