Peru Private Journey

The realm of the Incas holds innumerable treasures, from lush cloud forests to majestic hilltop fortresses set beneath lofty snow-clad peaks. Explore the heritage of the Inca capital, Cusco, discover the legendary Sacred Valley of the Incas, then set your eyes on incomparable Machu Picchu, the awesome wonder of the Americas.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Day 1
Cusco, Heart of an Empire

With its maze of cobbled streets and beautiful broad plazas, Cusco is an entrancing city with a unique blend of historical and contemporary cultures. Your private tour takes in Cusco’s lively traditional markets, the artisans’ quarter of San Blas, and, above the city, Sacsayhuaman fortress, whose massive walls of superbly interlocking stone blocks zigzag for almost half a mile.

Days 2-3
Inca Fortresses, Quechua Villages

The magnificent Urubamba Valley, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is filled with traditional Quechua villages and Inca ceremonial sites in fantastic settings. The Incas placed their sacred sites high above their beloved valley, and the crown jewel, Machu Picchu, is perched on a promontory at its easternmost reaches. Explore the off-the-beaten-path village of Chinchero, an old colonial settlement set on a commanding rise at the head of the valley, and meet Quechua master weavers with their intricately crafted textiles. Walk through the ruins of Pisac, the largest fortress-city complex of the Incas, possessing the lofty setting of a condor’s nest, then climb up to the grand stone ruins of majestic Ollantaytambo, terraced beneath the soaring peaks of the Andes. Below the ruins, stroll the lanes of the traditional town of Ollantaytambo, the only Inca settlement still inhabited in Peru—the town retains its original Inca street plan and trapezoidal shape.

Days 4-5
Machu Picchu, Lost City of the Incas

Perched on the edge of a sheer precipice above the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu is simply breathtaking, not only for its stunning setting but for the many beautiful structures of intricate stonework. This bewitching sanctuary is the most perfect surviving example of Inca architecture, never looted or damaged by the Spanish conquistadors. A guided walking exploration acquaints you with the mysteries of this stone citadel, a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget. Return to Cusco on the late afternoon train on Day 5.

Days 6-7
Cusco

Enjoy a final day to savor Cusco, to sample its Nuevo Andino cuisine and fine restaurants, wander the cobblestone streets, or visit its art galleries and museums. Depart on Day 7.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Optional Extensions

If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:

• Arequipa and Colca Canyon Exension (4 days)
• Amazon Rainforest Extension: Reserva Amazonica (3 days)
• Sipan and Chan Chan Extension (4 days)
• Lake Titicaca Extension (3 days)

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 1, Easiest. It features vehicle-based sightseeing and day walks, with hotel accommodations throughout. Most of the walking is at considerable altitudes, ranging from 8,200 feet at Machu Picchu to 11,200 feet at Cusco. We do recommend that everyone make special efforts to get in good physical condition for the trip, as it will greatly increase your enjoyment.

Explanation of Trip Levels