SOUTHERN TREASURES | 14 NIGHTS

Explore Bohemian Barranco

Barranco is Lima´s smallest yet most lively district, with its bohemian charm and air of inspiration. It is an eclectic mesh of past and present, of grand colonial mansions and stylish, trendy restaurants, boutique shops and equally inviting bars. The district is home to many of Peru´s artists, writers, and musicians, and is the hub of creativity in Lima. Let Barranco romance you!

Please allow approximately three to four hours for the entire experience. 

Hike Moray, Maras & Pichingoto

Hike Moray, Maras & Pichingoto
This easy to medium hike descends through the Sacred Valley from 11,152 ft (3,399 msmn) to 10, 824 ft  (3,299 msmn) including the sights of Maras and Moray. Spectacular views of the Vilcanota Mountain range, Andean villages and the bucolic life in the Andes are the highlights of this journey.  Set in the peaceful pastures of the Sacred Valley lie several enormous circular, terraced depressions in the earth, whose purpose remains uncertain. Although their crop circle-like appearance invites otherworldly hypotheses, we think these unusual Inca ruins were actually a sophisticated crop laboratory designed to study the optimum growing conditions for different species. Continue on to the salt mines of Maras, where seeing the locals mine for salt by hand is truly a unique experience. You will have the option to buy some salt directly from the source, supporting the local economy and making an excellent souvenir. 
Descend to the small Quechua village of Pichingoto including hand-made stone and earth housing attached to the rock sides of the large basalt rock cliffs and overhangs. A gourmet box lunch shall be provided en route. 

Please allow approximately six hours hiking (you can decide to hike all the way through or only parts of the hike) and eight hours for the entire experience.

Explore Machu Picchu

Meet your guide at the exit of the train station or in the lobby of your hotel for a short walk to the bus station and a 20-minute bus ride up to Machu Picchu Citadel (elevation: 8,000 ft. – 2,432 m.a.s.l.). Scratching the surface of the heavens from its place atop the grandest of mountaintop pedestals, it is easy to lose yourself in the mystique and grandeur of this enigmatic citadel. Soak in the energy and atmosphere of one of the most significant archeological sites on the planet while your guide helps you uncover the secrets behind key areas of interest such as the Sun Dial, the Guard House, the Sacred Plaza and the Temple of the Sun.

Please allow approximately three hours for the guided route and four hours for the entire experience | You must show your passport in order to be allowed to enter Machu Picchu Citadel.

Hike Wayna Picchu

Upon your arrival in Aguas Calientes, take a short walk to the bus station with your guide, followed by a 20-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu citadel (8,000 ft. – 2,432 m.a.s.l.). This ascent is an absolute must-do for the adventurous!  Your switchback ascent brings you in up to one hour and half from the archaeological site to the spectacular summit of Wayna Picchu for an extremely privileged panoramic view of Machu Picchu Citadel and the jagged, larger-than-life Andes. After a short rest, descent in about forty minutes. This hike is as rewarding as it is demanding.; be prepared for a short section of narrow mountain-side stairs that are not for the faint of heart.

Please allow up to two hours hiking and up to four hours for the entire experience | You must show your passport in order to be allowed to enter Machu Picchu Citadel.

Highlights of Cusco and San Blas

Explore the city that has gained world-wide fame and UNESCO World Heritage protection for its enthralling architecture and vibrant local culture. Spanish walls and roofs fuse harmoniously with Inca walls and foundations, suggesting a peaceful balance between the two cultures that starkly contrasts the true, conflict-ridden history of Cusco. Your guide will provide insight and anecdotes about the plazas, churches, and points of interest around the Main Square before continuing onto San Blas, the arts district of Cusco since Inca times and the nucleus for religious art and propaganda for the entire continent of South America during the Spanish Conquest.
 
Please allow approximately three hours for the entire experience.