[ Print This Page ]
Abercrombie & Kent
OFFER ID 1677251
The sky-high citadel of Machu Picchu makes Peru a South American staple, but beyond the Sacred Valley of the Incas lies a country of extraordinary landscapes and globally acclaimed fusion cuisine.
This tailor-made itinerary is filled with sights and experiences unique to Peru, a land of epic scenery and astonishing archaeological sites, of remote Andean villages and stately colonial architecture. In Lima, try out top restaurants that have shaped the city into the culinary capital of South America. Inland, the staggering Sacred Valley is the epicenter of Inca culture and the home of Machu Picchu. Finally, you’ll arrive in Cusco, a high-altitude, historical city in the sky.
7 nights | Call for pricing
1 Arrive Lima, Peru
Bathed in sunshine and kissed by the Pacific, Lima boasts 80 miles of coastline. Colonial architecture — a legacy of its Spanish past — meets the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis. The culinary scene has earned the reputation as Latin America’s gastronomic capital. Here, chefs innovate with indigenous ingredients from the Andes to the Amazon.
The Larco —a majestic 18th-century mansion nestled amidst lush gardens — houses treasures of Peru’s pre-Columbian past. Within its walls, a collection of over 45,000 artifacts comes to life — ornate ceramics, enigmatic mummies, a dazzling display of gold and intricate textiles woven from feathers, each piece a showcase of the ingenuity and artistry of ancient civilizations.
The Sacred Valley, shaped by the mighty Urubamba River, is a land of fertile farmland and traditional communities. Time-honored farming practices and ancient handicrafts thrive amid breathtaking scenery while trekking routes wind through the picturesque region. The impressive Incan citadels of Pisac and Ollantaytambo stand as testaments to the past. In local workshops, llama and alpaca wool are transformed into vibrant textiles, showcasing the artistry of textile creation.
Immerse yourself in Andean culture with a half-day visit to a highland community near Chinchero. Experience the daily life of the Quechua people, descendants of the Inca Empire, as you interact with farmers and weavers in their village. Enjoy authentic local cuisine, learn about ancient healing practices, and witness the creation of intricate textiles. A visit to the Sacred Valley School with A&K Philanthropy offers a chance to connect with the community and support local education.
The journey continues with a visit to Ollantaytambo, a formidable fortress where massive terraces cling dramatically to the mountainside. From here, the path leads deeper into the Andes, culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. No number of visitors can diminish the mystique of this 15th-century citadel, perched majestically in the clouds. Reaching this ancient wonder can involve a challenging four-day, 27-mile trek along the Inca Trail. However, a more accessible option — a scenic train ride— awaits.
Machu Picchu comes to life in the soft light of dawn and again as the sun dips below the horizon. Explore the ruins during these magical hours, when the site is shrouded in stillness, learning the significance of this ancient citadel with an expert guide. Then, linger in the quietude, soaking up the singular energy of the site.
Envisioned as a puma by the Incas, Cusco stretches along the Huatanay valley. San Blas — a UNESCO-protected historical quarter — provides a lively counterpoint with its tempting cevicherias and unique artisan shops lining colonial streets. High above and absent of mortar, Sacsayhuamán stands as a powerful reminder of Incan skill, its massive stone blocks meticulously joined. The traditional attire of the local people adds a final touch, a testament to the region’s enduring cultural heritage.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
5970 Guilford Rd.
Rockford, IL 61107
USA
(815) 398-8888
(800) 824-3164