Day 1: Cusco
Assistance on arrival in Cusco and transfer to the hotel.
Free time to take a short rest to be acclimatized to the altitude.
In the afternoon, city tour of Cuzco visiting the Main Square,
the Cathedral and the Temple of the Sun or Korikancha; take
a pleasant walk in the the bohemian district of San Blas,
house of the most re-known craftsmen of Cuzco, visit to its
beautiful church that houses an impressive pulpit, a filigree
woodcarving bearing the fruits of the region and visit some
artisans workshops located in its small Main Square. On the
way back, pass by the Hatunrumiyoc Street where you can appreciate
the famous Twelve-angled stone.
Then, drive out of the city to visit the Inca sites of Kenko,
Tambomachay, Puca Pucara and the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman,
built strategically on a hill overlooking Cusco; famous for
its enormous carved stones joined with astounding precision
to form the outer walls. Some of these stones stand over 9m
/ 30ft tall and weight over 350 tons.
Back to the Hotel, free night.
Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas
Excursion to the "Sacred Valley of the Incas", a
succession of picturesque towns, agricultural terraces and
archaeological sites. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays,
we´ll have the opportunity to bargain with vendors or
stroll at the Pisac's typical Indian market, with a catholic
mass service on Sunday (celebrated in Quechua, the native
language).
Lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley.
In the afternoon pass through Calca and Urubamba towns to
arrive to the Inca Fortress and Citadel of Ollantaytambo,
which was built to guard the entry of this part of the valley
and protect it from enemies of the lower jungles; consisting
in a series of superimposed terraces of carved stones accessed
by long staircases. We will have the opportunity to walk through
the quaint streets of the nearby town, religious and agricultural
centre during the Inca Empire, and get a clear idea of the
military strategy against possible invasions. On our way back
to Cusco we will visit the picturesque Andean village of Chinchero
where the remains of what was the royal hacienda of Tupac
Inca Yupanqui lies. Admire its well preserved Inca Wall at
the Main Square, visit the beautiful colonial temple built
on Inca foundations, with interesting frescoes on the portico.
Back to Cusco in the afternoon.
Day 3: Machu Picchu
The day starts with an early morning rise to transfer to Cusco
train station for a four- hour train journey to the famous
Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, also known as "The Lost
City of the Incas". Arrive at Aguas Calientes station
followed by a 30-minute bus drive, climbing 6km of winding
road, to the incredible Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we´ll
participate in a guided tour of the Citadel, visiting the
Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial, the Royal
Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and various burial
grounds. After the tour you will have time to stroll around
the archaeological site at your leisure.
Back to Cusco by train in the afternoon, transfer to the Hotel
Day 4: Cusco
After breakfast, transfer assistance on your departure. End
of our services. |
