PERU: TEEN ADVENTURE ITINERARY:
Day 1 Depart U.S. / Arrive Lima
Day 2 Lima / Cuzco
Al Fresco Lunch, Sacred Valley of the Incas
Fly to Cuzco — "navel of the world" according to the Inca, who
made it the ancient capital of their empire. The Inca were known
as master builders, and as you look closely at Cuzco's Spanish
Colonial structures, you'll see that many sit on top of Inca
walls.
This afternoon, we depart into the highlands to the traditional
village of Chincero, where we enjoy an al fresco lunch amid
spectacular scenery and Inca terraces. Continue into the
mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas to the village of
Ollantaytambo (remember: double Ls are pronounced like Y) for
dinner and overnight. B, L, D
Day 3 Machu Picchu
Train Ride, Explore Machu Picchu
Today's journey begins with a dramatic train ride down the
rugged gorge of the Vilcanota River. We arrive in the village of
Aguas Calientes, and check into our hotel. After lunch, board a
shuttle bus for the 25-minute ride up the mountainside to Machu
Picchu. Perched on a rocky, precipitous ridge at 7,800 feet
above sea level, these fabled ruins stir the soul.
Machu Picchu's origins remain shrouded in mystery — why it was
built, then abandoned, no one knows. But like thousands of
travelers before you, you may feel its spiritual power. Spend
the afternoon exploring its fascinations. B, L, D
Day 4 Accha Alta
Weaving Workshop, Camping
This morning, we return to Ollantaytambo by train, and continue
up the Sacred Valley in our expedition van. We stop for lunch at
a local restaurant in the valley before traveling by van to the
tiny hamlet of Accha Alta, to learn how traditional weavers make
their extraordinary textiles using techniques that have been
passed down through generations. You have the opportunity to
purchase one-of-a-kind folk arts here in a friendly, hands-on
environment. Afterwards, we continue to the trail head at
Sonttoccocha (14,000 feet), where our camp is set up. B, L, D
Day 5 Accha Alta
Trekking, Camping
In the morning, with the camp gear transported by horseback, we
cross a pass at 14,300 feet, then enjoy a day of walking through
high country. The pathways we traverse are home to herds of
llamas (that's "yamas") and alpacas tended by modern shepherds.
Camp near Quilcani at around 14,000 feet after hiking 6 miles.
B, L, D
Day 6 Acchu Alta / Cuzco
Walking, Pisaq and Saqsayhuaman Archaeological Sites
We enjoy a 2-mile stroll downhill to board the waiting van bound
for Cuzco. En route, we'll stop at the ruins at Pisaq, which
include one of the largest known cemeteries from the
pre-Columbian era. We also pause at the ruins at Saqsayhuaman,
once a mighty Inca fortress. On arrival in Cuzco late this
afternoon, we check into our hotel in this colorful, walkable
city. B, L, D
Day 7 Cuzco
Inca Ruins, Spanish Cathedral, Artisan Shops
This morning after breakfast, we take a walking tour of the Inca
ruins the city is so well known for, including the Koricancha
Sun Temple. Along the way, we stop at the Cuzco Center for
Traditional Textiles and view Cuzco's magnificent Spanish
Cathedral, with its altar of solid silver and a bell, made of
silver and gold that can be heard over 25 miles away! After
lunch, explore the artisan shops — and perhaps pick up some
souvenirs — around the San Blas neighborhood. B, L, D
Day 8 Lima
Colonial Lima, Bridge of Sighs, Farewell Dinner
Return to Lima, seeing a few sights on the way to the hotel.
You've gotten to know not just a fascinating culture and land,
but new friends with whom you shared it. What was the highlight?
Talk about it tonight at the farewell dinner — it won't be the
same for everyone. B, D
Day 9 Lima / Return Home
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