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In this adventure-packed itinerary, get up close and personal with the fascinating lost citadel that is Machu Picchu, a mystical remnant of the ancient Inca civilization. Towering high above lush vegetation and dreamy mists on the eastern slope of the Andes, this wonder of the world is a bucket list for many. With its diverse ecosystems, terrains and cultures, Peru is a gem for the adventurous thrillseeker and curious traveller.
Upon arrival to this exciting and vibrant Peruvian capital, you'll be picked up from the airport and transferred to your accommodation for the night, the 1900 Backpackers Hostel. Filled with colonial-era riches and deeply rooted in culture, Lima is postcard-perfect at every turn. As the only South American city that faces the ocean and a melting pot of different cultures, it is no surprise that Lima has rightfully earned the title of gastronomic capital of Latin America. After a late afternoon briefing with your guide about your tour tomorrow, enjoy the rest of your evening as you please, whether you're exploring Lima by foot - or by mouth!
Your day tour of Lima begins with a view of the incredible archaeological site of Huaca Pucllana, a staggering adobe pyramid not to be missed. This city was the ceremonial and administrative heart of the Lima Culture, a society which developed in the Peruvian Central Coast between the years of 200 AD and 700 AD. Your next stop will be in downtown Lima, where you'll visit important UNESCO sites such as the Government Palace, Plaza Mayor, San Martin Square and Cathedral - and learn a whole lot about the city's rich history! The last stop of the tour will be a visit to the bohemian quartier of Barranco, which has garnered a reputation for being the coolest neighborhood in the city. After having lunch at your leisure, you'll be transferred to the airport in the afternoon where you'll be flying into Cusco. After a quick flight, you'll be transferred to your accommodation of the night, the eclectic and much-loved Supertramp Hostel.
After breakfast at your leisure, you'll begin the day's excursion through the Urubamba valley, also known as the 'Sacred Valley of the Incas'. Located about 500m (1500ft) lower than Cusco at 2900m (9514ft), this trek will help ease into the high altitudes. Your first stop of the day will be the unmissable and bustling Pisac market, where you'll experience authentic local culture and way of life - be awed at the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans hard at work, and even try your hand at bartering for handmade goods! After a local meal for lunch served in the city of Urubamba, you'll continue on to a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo, a well-preserved example of the superiority of Inca city planning. Be prepared to have your breath taken away by the stunning lush vistas that lay at your feet - you'll want to make sure you have extra camera batteries for this!
Today you'll be experiencing the true gem of Peru and the world wonder that has captured the hearts and imagination of so many - Machu Picchu. You'll be ready at 6:00 AM (it's worth it, we promise!) at the entrance gates for sunrise, known as Inkti Punku. This is a transformative and spiritual journey where you'll get to see the sun rise above mystical and surreal clouds to illuminate the wonder that is Machu Picchu. Your tour guide will share secrets and mindblowing facts about the history of Machu Picchu - this will be a truly unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience! You'll then hop on a shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes later in the afternoon and then by train to Ollantaytambo, where a driver will pick you up to return to Cusco. You'll spend the night back at the Supertramp Hotel Cusco.
Good morning! After breakfast at your own leisure, you'll be transferred to the airport where you'll take your return flight back to Lima. What a wonderful adventure it's been - hasta la vista!
