Overseas Adventure Travel - Real Affordable Peru 2022 YOUR O.A.T. ADVENTURE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE - Overseas Adventure Travel
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YOUR O.A.T. ADVENTURE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE®
Real Affordable Peru
2022
Small Groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed! (average of 13)
®
Overseas Adventure Travel
The Leader in Personalized Small Group Adventures on the Road Less Traveled
1
Dear Traveler,
I can’t wait to see where my next journey will take me. I know you’re eager to explore the world, too, and our Real
Affordable Peru itinerary described inside is a perfect start.
Exactly how your adventure unfolds is up to you, because you can customize it. Arrive early and stay later by
adding a pre- or post-trip extension, spend time in a Stopover city, or even combine 2 or more trips. More than
80% of our travelers choose to tailor their adventure. Also, because we’re the leader in Solo Women Travel,
we’re offering 22 exclusive women’s departures in 2022.
As for Real Affordable Peru, thanks to your small group of 8-16 travelers (average 13) you can expect some
unforgettable experiences.
Here’s one that stood out for me:
As I finished the ascent to the top of Machu Picchu at sunrise, I was winded and awestruck. The air up there was
thin, and it was still and quiet. Gazing silently down at the ancient town and cloudy mountain vistas, I felt so
small thousands of feet high in the Andes. The only thing more awe-inspiring than the mystical landscape was the
welcoming nature of the Peruvian people.
You’ll see what I mean when you experience A Day in the Life of a Chinchero community, where you’ll meet some
of the students and teachers at a local primary school, supported in part by Grand Circle Foundation, and witness
daily life in the Peruvian education system. Then, you’ll continue to a weaving cooperative where you’ll learn how
the weavers create complex patterns in colorful cloth before sitting down to share a meal with members of the
community.
So you’ll experience the true culture, we don’t shy away from controversial topics. Plus, we make sure all our
Trip Experience Leaders are “insiders” who live in the country. You may be nudged out of your comfort zone,
but you will also be inspired by the wonderful people you meet.
Thanks for letting me dream along with you about Real Affordable Peru. Remember, you can reserve with confidence
thanks to our Risk-Free Booking policy: learn more at www.oattravel.com/riskfree-booking. You can also call our
Regional Adventure Counselors at 1-800-955-1925 to answer any question you might have.
Love and peace,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Overseas Adventure Travel
P.S. I thought our 3 most popular videos about Peru would help inspire you for the adventure ahead.
Scan the QR code next to the video to watch.
Created by Jennifer T., 2-time traveler Peru – Cuzco & Machu Picchu ReelEarth: The Women’s Game
from Springfield, IL
SCAN ME SCAN ME SCAN ME
Open the camera feature on your mobile device, and hover the lens over this code to scan it. A pop-up notification will take you directly to the video.
2
CONTENTS
A Letter from Harriet Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The O.A.T. Difference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Grand Circle Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The Leader in Solo Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
REAL AFFORDABLE PERU ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS:
Your Adventure at a Glance:
CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE
Where You’re Going, What it Costs, Peruvian Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
and What’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Shopping: What to Buy, Customs, Shipping &
Your Detailed Day-To-Day Itinerary . . . . . . . . 12 More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Pre-Trip Extensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Post-Trip Extensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY
Dates & Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Peru. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 78
Peru: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION Colombia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements. . . 49 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 80
49
No Visas Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Colombia: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . 51
Vaccines Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 RESOURCES
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Suggested Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Suggested Film & Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Tipping Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . 59
59
Optional Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communicating with Home from Abroad . . 60
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . 62
Suggested Packing Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Electricity Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . 69
O.A.T. Health & Safety Measures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
3
EXPERIENCE THE O.A.T. DIFFERENCE
in Peru
This adventure not only showcases iconic sights, but takes you beyond them to experience the
culture through unique activities, engagement with the natural world, and authentic encounters
with local people. Since our founding in 1978, O.A.T. has become America’s leader in personalized
small group journeys on the road less traveled.
SMALL GROUPS: 8-16 TRAVELERS LOCAL MODES OF TRANSPORTATION
(AVERAGE OF 13)—GUARANTEED To see the world like the locals, you should
The world feels more intimate and engaging travel like one. Our small group size allows
when your experience of it is also personal us to take the roads and waterways that are
and genuine. That’s why our groups never less traveled, and we often follow them using
exceed 16 travelers. This gives you access to the same unique modes of transportation
people and places larger groups simply can’t that the locals use—be it a canoe, a camel or a
reach. More authentic interactions. Deeper vintage cab.
bonds with your travel mates. Personal service
from your Trip Experience Leader. Smoother UNIQUE LODGINGS
transitions. And a far more satisfying Our lodgings reflect the local character,
experience than any traditional tour offers. from smaller family-run hotels and historic
manors to comfy inns. Occasionally, larger
THE BEST TRIP EXPERIENCE LEADERS hotels closer to city centers are used. Wherever
Your English-speaking, O.A.T. Trip Experience you stay, you’re assured fine comfort and
Leader is a resident of the region you are visiting, hospitality.
so you will get a true insider’s perspective
that brings each place alive—the stories, food, OUR WORLDWIDE OFFICES
customs, hidden treasures and more. With 36 regional offices around the world,
we are perfectly poised to leverage our local
AUTHENTIC CULTURAL CONNECTIONS relationships to deliver an excellent experience
Engage with local people through visits to and value. During this trip, you’ll be supported
farms, factories, markets, and artisans’ studios; by our team in Cuzco.
school visits; Home-Hosted meals; and more.
Marvel at ruins of the Incan Empire in Machu Picchu Delve into Peruvian culture in the village of Chinchero
4
THE PILLARS OF DISCOVERY
Enriching. Inspiring. Unforgettable. These features form the foundation
of your Real Affordable Peru adventure.
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION (GCF) VISIT A DAY IN THE LIFE
GCF was established in 1992 to help change Do you ever wonder, “What would it be like
people’s lives in the world where we live, to live here?” when you visit new lands? Let’s
work, and travel. To date, we have pledged or find out during your O.A.T. A Day in the Life, an
donated $200 million worldwide. exclusive, immersive experience that places you
in the heart of a community where you’ll meet
You’ll see GCF’s work in action when we visit
various people where they live, work, and play;
a local elementary school for a spirited
visit the neighborhood school; lend a hand with
encounter with some of the children. Here, the
daily chores; and break bread with our hosts.
children will introduce us to some traditional
songs and dances, followed by a conversation This adventure includes A Day in the Life of the
with their teachers and families and some free mountain weaving village of Chinchero. Our
time with the children one-on-one. experience will begin with a visit to a local
elementary school where we’ll have the
CONTROVERSIAL TOPICS opportunity to meet some of the students
Every culture has its joys and achievements, and teachers. Then, we’ll enjoy a walking
and we celebrate them all. But every place tour of the community and visit a weaving
also has its challenges, and to gloss over them cooperative where we’ll see how Peruvian
would not do justice to those whose stories weavers create complex patterns in colorful
need to be told—nor to you, as a traveler who cloth as their ancestors have for centuries
deserves more than a sugar-coated version of before sitting down to share lunch with some
things. So our Trip Experience Leaders will of the people from the community.
lead frank discussions on controversial issues,
and introduce you to people whose stories will HOME-HOSTED EXPERIENCES
expand your understanding. Stories shared. Differences solved. Taste buds
engaged. Good will extended. It’s amazing the
For example, we’ll speak to an expert in
things that can happen across a kitchen table,
Russia about free speech and the popularity
so we’ll break into groups of 4-5 to join a local
of President Vladimir Putin on our Baltic
family in their home for a snack or a meal. This
adventure; in Zambia, we’ll have a candid
is a rare opportunity to witness family life, learn
conversation with a park ranger in Kafue
local customs, and taste some home-cooked fare.
National Park on trophy hunting, a
controversial sport which generates around On this adventure, we’ll learn more about the
$200 million in annual revenue across Africa; rich culture of Peru when we share a meal
and we’ll meet a local Tangier woman to with a local family in their home. We’ll try our
discuss women’s roles and the challenges they hand at preparing some Peruvian specialties
face in contemporary society on our Morocco before sitting down with the family to savor our
adventure. culinary creations. Take this opportunity to gain
an intimate glimpse into daily life in Peru, and be
sure to ask your hosts about cuy, a local delicacy.
5
You're in control with
THE FREEDOM TO PERSONALIZE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Exclusively with O.A.T.
Your Choice. Your Adventure. Your Way.
It’s your adventure, so why not make it exactly what you want it to be? We offer an exclusive
variety of options that let you tailor your adventure so it’s completely your own. In fact, O.A.T. is the
only travel company to offer this level of flexibility and choice for a truly personalized experience.
PRE- OR POST-TRIP EXTENSIONS 2. Great value: All extensions include
Every O.A.T. adventure offers at least one accommodations, daily breakfast, and
optional pre-trip and one post-trip extension. airport transfers.
Here’s why more than 55% of O.A.T. travelers 3. Continuity and camaraderie: You’ll usually
choose to take a pre- or post-trip extension: travel with the same Trip Experience
Leader who leads your main trip, enjoying
1. You’ll maximize your discoveries—often
more of his or her insider expertise—and
in an even smaller group than your main
more time to bond with the group.
adventure (on average, 6 travelers with a
dedicated Trip Experience Leader)—and
take advantage of your included airfare.
Optional Extensions offered with your South America adventure
The Peruvian Amazon: Treks, Cruises & Peru: Lima, Paracas & Nazca Lines
Indigenous Communities 5 nights pre-trip from $1295
6 nights pre-trip from $1295
An indigenous village, Amazon River, Nazca Lines, Paracas, Peru
Iquitos, Peru
Southern Peru: Lake Titicaca's Sacred NEW! Colombia: Colonial Cartagena &
Landscape & Highland Culture Mountainous Medellín
4 nights post-trip from $845 6 nights post-trip from $1895
Floating village, Uros Islands, Lake Titicaca, Peru Cartagena, Colombia
6
ARRIVE EARLY, STAY LATER plan, and restaurants you visit. If you’d like
Extending your time abroad—with us or ideas about how to spend this time and
on your own—is the best way to broaden what to see and do, our Regional Adventure
your experience. It’s also a practical way Counselors can provide recommendations
to maximize the value of the international when helping you plan this option.
airfare covered in your main itinerary. COMBINE ADVENTURES
You’re already overseas. Why not see more
Expand Your Discoveries Before
and maximize your value by avoiding the
or After Your Adventure
cost and length of another international
Arrive early in the first destination on your flight? Here’s why 2,250 O.A.T. travelers
pre-trip extension or main adventure, or stay combined two or more adventures in 2019:
later in the last city on your main adventure or
post-trip extension. By coming early, you can • Save a total of $600-$3000 per person when
rest after your flight and adjust—with time to you combine two adventures compared to
explore. By staying later, you have extra time the cost of taking each trip separately.
to relax, pack, or continue exploring. • Apply the 5% or 6% Frequent Traveler
Credit you earn on your first trip to your
This option lets you take advantage of our
second trip.
lower group rates, with prices from $50 per
person per night—including accommodations, • Sir Edmund Hillary Club members save an
private airport transfer, and daily breakfast. extra $250-$350 per person when booking
multiple trips in a calendar year.
• Arrive early in Lima before your main
• Our Regional Adventure Counselors make
adventure or Peru pre-trip extensions,
all the arrangements for a seamless
or stay later after your main adventure
experience.
or Peru post-trip extension for $50 per
person, per night Combine this trip with our Chile & Argentina:
The Andes to Patagonia adventure—for a total
• Remain in Medellín after your Colombia
cost of $6290-8590 per person—and save
post-trip extension for $75 per person,
$1000-1800 per person versus taking each
per night
trip separately.
Accommodations are at the same hotels where
you begin or end the main trip and optional AIR PREFERENCES
extensions, so transitions will be seamless. 54% of our travelers customize their air
itineraries:
NEW! Stopover in any major
international city • Choose your departure city and airline
Travelers with O.A.T. airfare have the • Depart from one city and return to another
opportunity to stopover in popular cities en
• Upgrade to Premium Economy or
route to your main adventure. Speak with one
Business Class
of our Regional Adventure Counselors to learn
more about your options and to arrange your PERSONALIZED PRIVATE ADVENTURES
international airfare. Travel on a private departure with as few as
You are free to choose however you’d like five travelers and your own Trip Experience
to spend this additional time exploring, Leader. An additional cost will apply depending
including the tours you take, activities you on the number of travelers in your group.
7
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION
Changing people’s lives, one village, one school, one person at a time
ON THIS ADVENTURE …
Dear Traveler,
Since our inception in 1992, the Grand Circle
In 1992 we established Grand Circle Foundation has pledged or donated more
Foundation, an entity of the Lewis Family than $200 million to projects around the
Foundation, as a means to give back to the world. Here are just a few of the ways we have
world that had already given us so much. partnered with the communities on this trip.
We’ve pledged or donated more than $200
million worldwide to support the education Cruzpata Elementary School
of young people and the preservation of Total Donations: $105,309
international treasures and UNESCO World
Cruzpata Elementary School serves 150 children
in Izcuchaca, an agricultural community near
Heritage Sites, and the conservation of
Chinchero. With the support of GCF, the school
natural resources for future generations.
has built new bathroom facilities and a kitchen;
Of course, none of this would be possible purchased new desks and chairs; installed new
without your help. A portion of the playground equipment; and purchased traditional
proceeds of every adventure is donated to folklore costumes to preserve their culture by
Grand Circle Foundation—so just as your practicing traditional dance and music.
life will be enriched by the discoveries
One Planet
you’ll make on your journey, you’ll also
Total Donations: $56,230
help to enrich the lives of the people With GCF funding, One Planet is training indigenous
you’ll meet along the way. Thank you groups in the Amazon, such as the Maijuna
for traveling with us, and for helping to community, to raise stingless bees—a species that
change people’s lives. produces a highly valued type of honey known
for its unique taste and medicinal qualities. This
Love and peace,
community-based stingless beekeeping project
empowers the Maijuna to earn sustainable income,
providing alternatives from other more destructive
Harriet R. Lewis economic activities. This income can then be used
Chair, Grand Circle Foundation for school supplies, health care, and other basic yet
critically important family expenses to support the
community.
SCAN ME See how Grand Circle
Foundation is giving back
in this video
Open the camera feature on your mobile
device, and hover the lens over this code to
scan it. A pop-up notification will take you
directly to the video.
www.grandcirclefoundation.org
8
THE LEADER IN SOLO TRAVEL
in Peru—and Around the World
ON THIS ADVENTURE …
FREE Single Supplements: We don’t charge The leader in solo-friendly
a single supplement on this adventure and travel for Americans—by
optional trip extensions—a savings of up to
the numbers
$3795 per person compared to other travel
companies. But single spaces fill quickly, so
early reservations are advised. More than 50% of all O.A.T.
travelers are women who travel solo
One of our most popular trips for solo
travelers. More than 900 solo travelers joined
us on this adventure in 2018 and 2019—either In 2022, we’re offering 30,000
independently or sharing a room with a singles spaces across all O.A.T.
mother, daughter, sister, or friend. adventures. That’s 86% more than
High ratings: More than 95% of these solo offered in 2019
travelers rated their adventure excellent.
On average, half of your group will also be 92% of our 30,000 single spaces
traveling independently, so it’s easy to forge have FREE Single Supplements. The
special bonds as you experience unforgettable remaining 8% have the lowest single
moments together. supplements in the industry.
You’ll be in good hands, thanks to your
dedicated local Trip Experience Leader (a In 2022, we’re offering 25 exclusive
resident of Peru), and the expertise of our women’s departures on some of our
regional office team in Cuzco. most popular itineraries
Increased Single Space: In 2022, we have 164%
more single spaces than in 2019, with up to 8
single spaces per departure. See available FREE SCAN ME
NEW! 101+
single space at www.oattravel.com/rap2022.
Tips for Solo
Exclusive Women’s Departures: We are Women Travelers
thrilled to offer a women-only departure of This complimentary, 96-page
Real Affordable Peru: September 4, 2022. Space booklet is a comprehensive
is limited so don’t delay. Join our traveling collection of savvy tips
sisterhood today! specifically for seasoned women
travelers going solo. Learn about
safety for solos, packing like a pro,
the best travel apps, self-care on
the road, and more. Scan this code
to view an online copy or to request
one by mail.
9
Real Affordable Peru Small Group Adventure
Peru: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cuzco
Countries: 1 | Cities: 3
Small groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed!
It’s Included
(average of 13)
FROM PER DAY DAYS • Explore in a small group of 8-16 • 24 meals—daily breakfast, 9 lunches,
travelers (with an average group and 5 dinners (including 1 Home-
$ 2495 $ 227 11 size of 13) Hosted Lunch)
Including international airfare • International airfare, airport transfers, • 8 small group activities
FREE Single Supplement
government taxes, fees, and airline fuel
surcharges unless you choose to make
• Services of a local O.A.T. Trip
Experience Leader
your own air arrangements
• All land transportation and • Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and
luggage porters
Maximize Your 2 internal flights
• Accommodations for 10 nights • 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward
Discoveries & Value your next adventure—an average of $204
Optional extensions:
SCAN ME
The Peruvian Amazon: Treks,
Cruises & Indigenous Communities Watch our #1 most popular video
6 nights pre-trip from $1295 for this adventure
Travel from only $216 per night
Open the camera feature on your mobile device, and hover
Peru: Lima, Paracas & Nazca Lines the lens over this code to scan it. A pop-up notification will
take you directly to the video.
5 nights pre-trip from $1295
Travel from only $259 per night
Southern Peru: Lake Titicaca’s Sacred
Landscape & Highland Culture
4 nights post-trip from $845
Travel from only $212 per night
New! Colombia: Colonial Cartagena
& Mountainous Medellín
6 nights post-trip from $1895
Travel from only $316 per night
Indigenous Quechua woman weaving
traditional cloth, southern Peru
Real Affordable Peru
10Itinerary Summary
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A
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amb
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Pre-trip extensions: 6 nights in The
ac
Sillustani Islands Island
Ollantaytambo Puno Lake Peruvian Amazon: Treks, Cruises &
N
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Chucuito Indigenous Communities OR 5 nights in
Paci
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V ENEZUEL
P E R U
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M
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COLOMBIA
PRE-TRIP EXTENSIONS Medellín
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Lim
Lim
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S
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Pa c i f
Explorama Lodge
P E R U 4-5 Fly to Cuzco • Sacred Valley
IA
P Ceiba Tops
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E az To/From U.S.
LIV
Islands
m
A
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Internal flight
R Paracas Ica
U Land route 6-7 Train ride through the Sacred
ea
Iquitos Rail route
BO
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Boat route Valley • Machu Picchu
To/
To
o/fro
fro
rom
om Liima
im
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ma Nazca Lines Overflight 0 Miles 80
8-10 Machu Picchu • Return to
Cuzco
What to Expect
11 Fly to Lima • Return to U.S.
Post-trip extension: 4 nights in Southern
Pacing: 4 locations in 10 days; early sightseeing on 1 day Peru: Lake Titicaca’s Sacred Landscape &
Physical requirements: Travel over city streets, rugged paths, and unpaved roads; Highland Culture
walk over rough, steep, and sometimes slippery trails without handrails; and climb
many high and uneven stone steps at Inca ruins.
Flight Time: Travel time will be 6-14 hours and will most likely have one connection
View all physical requirements at www.oattravel.com/rap2022
Arrive Early, Stay Later
Prices below include accommodations,
daily breakfast, and private airport
Peru: The O.A.T. Difference transfer.
• Arrive early in Lima before your main
Our Best Value in Over 5 Years: Save up to $400 per person, and travel at the adventure or Peru pre-trip extensions,
lowest price and per diems in the industry. or stay later after your main adventure
or Peru post-trip extension for $50 per
People-to-People Experiences: Savor local dishes that you helped prepare with person per night
an Urubamba family in their home, and visit a small bakery near Cuzco, where
you’ll sample pan chuta bread and discuss this age-old tradition with the bakers.
O.A.T. Exclusives: Spend A Day in the Life of the mountaintop village Chinchero,
where you’ll meet women weavers to learn about their timeworn craft, and enter
the classrooms of a nearby Grand Circle Foundation-sponsored school to get to
know the young students.
More than 95% of travelers
rated this trip excellent
Information & Reservations 1-800-955-1925 www.oattravel.com/rap2022
11Real Affordable Peru
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
6 nights in The Peruvian Amazon: Treks, Cruises & Indigenous Communities
Day 1 Depart U.S. • Arrive Lima, Peru Day 5 Visit Yanamono Clinic • Discover
Ceiba tree
Day 2 Explore Lima’s Miraflores District
Day 6 Rain forest canopy walk • Explore
Day 3 Fly to Iquitos • Boat to lodge
medicinal gardens
• Afternoon & evening rain forest
excursions Day 7 Birdwatching walk • Boat to Iquitos
• Fly to Lima • Begin main trip
Day 4 Walk Bushmaster Trail • Visit Yagua
village • Explore by boat
OR
5 nights in Coastal Culture & Ancient Mysteries of
Peru: Lima, Paracas & the Nazca Lines
Day 1 Fly to Lima, Peru Day 4 Nazca Lines Overflight • Visit
pisco factory
Day 2 Explore Lima
Day 5 Ballestas Islands & Paracas Dunes
Day 3 Lima • Transfer to Paracas
Day 6 Overland to Lima • Begin main trip
Day 1 Depart U.S. • Arrive Lima, Peru Communities pre-trip extension or the Coastal
Culture & Ancient Mysteries of Peru: Lima, Paracas
• Destination: Lima
& the Nazca Lines pre-trip extension. Depending
• Accommodations: Best Western Plus Urban
on where we stay, our hotel will likely be
Larco or similar
located in the heart of the vibrant Miraflores
Evening: You depart from the U.S. and fly to District and offer an on-site restaurant.
Lima, Peru, arriving late in the evening or early Rooms typically feature air conditioning,
morning. An O.A.T. representative will greet cable TV, minibar, telephone, and private bath
you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, with shower.
where you’ll meet up with travelers who took
The Peruvian Amazon: Treks, Cruises & Indigenous
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
12Freedom To Explore: Make the most of your and bougainvilleas, a bush typically accented
explorations in Lima on these off-the-beaten with vibrant pink flowers. Stop at Puente de
path activities. These recommendations are los Suspiros, or the Bridge of Sighs, to enjoy
designed by our team of local experts with panoramic vistas of the city. Or, explore Plaza
women travelers in mind. San Francisco, which houses the towering
Iglesia San Francisco.
• Explore the Gold Museum of Peru: Travel
back in time and see private collections of • How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute taxi
pre-Hispanic gold, ceramics, and textiles. ride, about $7 USD.
Many of the gold, silver, and gilded copper • Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week, but
pieces the museum holds are considered the our regional associates in Peru suggest
most important in pre-Columbian history. visiting from 2pm-6pm to avoid larger
crowds.
• How to get there: About a 25-minute taxi • Cost: Free.
ride, approximately $15 USD one way.
• Hours: 10:30am-6pm, daily. Day 2 Lima • Discover Miraflores district
• Cost: A ticket is around $10 USD.
• Destination: Lima
• Experience the historic Miraflores district
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
on a Mirabus Panoramic Tour: Discover this
• Accommodations: Best Western Plus Urban
bustling area from a different vantage point—
Larco or similar
atop a double-decker bus. As you cruise
along, take in sweeping views of the Pacific Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
Ocean, ornate mansions, scenic parks, and featuring Peruvian and American options,
a 1500-year-old burial ground for pre-Inca beginning at 6:30am.
remains. These bus tours are very popular
Morning: Free for your own discoveries—you
among Peruvians. Perhaps you’ll strike up
may choose to relax at the hotel after
a conversation with a local and learn more
yesterday’s travels and get acquainted with
about their day-to-day life and culture.
your Trip Experience Leader and fellow
• How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute walk. travelers—including those joining us from
• Hours: 11am, 2pm, 3:30pm, 5pm, Monday- our optional pre-trip extension to Peru: Lima,
Friday; 11am, 1pm, 2:45pm, 4pm, 5:30pm Iquitos, the Amazon or New! Peru: Lima, Paracas,
Saturday-Sunday. Nazca Lines.
• Cost: About $5 USD.
Around 11am, we’ll gather in the hotel lobby
• Stroll through the Barranco Bohemian
for a 1-hour Welcome Briefing during which
District: Cutting through seaside cliffs, this
we will introduce ourselves and review our
distinctive district once served as a walkway
itinerary in more detail (including any changes
to allow fisherman to easily pass through
that may need to occur). Logistics, safety and
the city to the beach. Now, it is a bustling,
emergency procedures, and any questions will
shop-lined area teeming with the smells
also be discussed. This is a great chance to get
of traditional cuisine wafting from local
to know fellow members of your small group.
restaurants and vendors peddling their
Then, it’s time to begin our explorations:
products. As you take in the local hustle and
We’ll set out from the hotel and walk about 15
bustle, you can also enjoy the scenic beauty of
minutes to a nearby restaurant.
the area. The district is lined with native trees
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13Lunch: At a local restaurant around 12:30pm, to mingle with the fishermen and vendors,
featuring typical Peruvian cuisine. and browse the day’s catch. Around 8:45am,
we’ll board our small bus and drive about 45
Afternoon: Around 2pm, we’ll take an
minutes to reach Lima’s Larco Museum. The
orientation walk through the boulevards and
museum contains an impressive collection of
plazas around our hotel—situated in the stylish
ceramics, gold and silver items, and textiles
Miraflores district, which is a cultural and
from Peru’s pre-Columbian history, all housed
artistic center full of small cafés, fine shops,
in a former mansion with lush gardens. We’ll
and art galleries. After our walk, we’ll return
spend a little more than an hour exploring the
to the hotel around 3:30pm. The rest of your
museum’s art and artifacts, and then board our
afternoon is free for you to explore the city on
bus around 10:45am to set out on a 30-minute
your own.
drive to Lima’s colonial downtown. Once
Dinner: On your own—ask your Trip there, we explore Lima’s colonial streets and
Experience Leader for local restaurant architecture—evidence of the city’s Spanish
recommendations. You might like to try heritage.
ceviche—Peru’s national dish consisting of raw
We’ll board our bus once more around 12pm
fish “cooked” in citrus juices.
and head in the direction of our hotel, stopping
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the along the way in the bustling Barranco
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Trip neighborhood in time for lunch around 1pm.
Experience Leader for recommendations.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Trip Experience
Leader for local restaurant recommendations.
Day 3 Explore Colonial Lima Perhaps you might like to try aji de gallina, a
• Destination: Lima chicken dish served with a spicy pepper sauce.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries in
• Accommodations: Best Western Plus Urban the neighborhood—ask your Trip Experience
Larco or similar Leader for recommendations.
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
We’ll reconvene at the bus just before 2:45pm
featuring Peruvian and American options,
and drive the remaining distance to our hotel,
beginning at 6am.
arriving around 3pm.
Morning: Today we embark on a tour of Lima’s
After taking a few hours to settle in, our small
colonial sites. Founded by the conquistadors
group will gather at the hotel lobby around
in 1535, Lima became Spain’s largest and
6:30pm. From there, a 15-minute bus ride will
wealthiest city in the New World. The city has
take us to our dinner destination.
a proud history, including the founding of one
of the first universities in South America, the Dinner: We gather for a Welcome Dinner at
Universidad de San Marcos, in the middle of the a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to
16th century. Today, Lima’s historic city center sample traditional Peruvian dishes as you mix
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. and mingle with your fellow travelers.
We begin our day around 8am by driving about Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
15 minutes to a fish market, where a local rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Trip
guide will join us. Here, we’ll have the chance Experience Leader for recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
14Day 4 Fly to Cuzco • Controversial Topic: Lunch: We’ll enjoy a boxed lunch during our
Coca’s role in local culture and cocaine drive through the Sacred Valley.
production with Fortunata Palomino • Afternoon: We continue our drive along a
Explore the Sacred Valley and Pisac Ruins switchback road leading to the ancient upper
• Destination: Urubamba city of Pisac, arriving around 2:30pm. These
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner mythic ruins are situated in a spectacular
• Accommodations: Villa Urubamba or similar location atop a buttress ridge, with agricultural
terraces—constructed by the ancient Inca
O.A.T. Exclusive Activity: Today’s activities people—curling around the hill in graceful
include a conversation with a coca vendor curves, and gorges on either side. When we
about the Controversial Topic of the plant’s arrive, we’ll take a short trek into the ancient
use in Peru. Coca leaves are an essential part of city, where we explore its well-built stone
Andean culture; however, they are also used to dwellings and temples, and enjoy sweeping
produce cocaine, which has made the plant a vistas both up- and downstream in the
prime target in the war on drugs. Today, we’ll Urubamba Valley. Pisac’s highly defensible site
discover how forced eradication has impacted guarded both the Valley and a high jungle pass
local customs and livelihoods. Read more about to the northeast.
this illuminating conversation below.
We depart Pisac around 2:30pm and embark on
Activity Note: We rise early this morning for our approximate 1-hour journey to our Sacred
our flight to Cuzco. We will spend tonight and Valley hotel. On the way, we’ll stop at a market
the next few nights at elevations above 9,000 around 3pm, where we’ll meet Fortunata
feet. We recommend staying hydrated while at Palomino, a local vendor of fruits, coffee,
high altitude. Travelers may rest at the hotel if and coca leaves. After perusing the wares for
necessary. sale in her stall, we’ll head to a private room
Early Morning: We have an early wake-up call at the market to speak with Fortunata about
of 5:30am this morning. the Controversial Topic of coca production in
Peru, and the struggle to balance the plant’s
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel traditional role in society with its high value on
featuring Peruvian and American options, the black market as a key ingredient in cocaine.
beginning at 6am.
Fortunata grew up in the extremely remote
Morning: Around 7am, we’ll check out of our Yanatile Valley, an agricultural region famous
hotel and, with our luggage, board our bus for its coffee, citrus, and coca output. She
and drive about one hour to the Lima airport. moved to the larger town of Lamay so her
We continue our adventure with a flight to the children could attend school, but her husband
mountain-ringed city of Cuzco around 9:45am. remained in Yanatile to work as a day laborer
Situated at an elevation of 10,909 feet, this on the plantations. Fortunata makes the
city was the capital of the Incan world and is a 120-mile journey to Yanatile once a week to
UNESCO World Heritage Site. We touch down collect fruit and coffee for her produce stall.
around 11:30am, and then drive by bus into the Every three months, she also brings coca leaves.
Sacred Valley of the Urubamba River, where the While coca is legal for personal use in Peru,
lower elevation eases our transition to the high its production and distribution are strictly
altitudes of the Andes. controlled. Fortunata must be extremely careful
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15when transporting the crop—if the police were per kilo. For impoverished Peruvians, many of
to discover it during a routine stop, Fortunata whom make less than $2 per day, the choice is
could be detained. clear. As a result, farmers often clash violently
with authorities over the destruction of their
Coca has been a staple of Peruvian culture for
livelihoods.
millennia. Locals, especially in the Andean
areas, use the leaves in religious rituals and The efficacy of these decades-long anti-coca
also chew them to alleviate fatigue, postpone campaigns is up for debate. In 2015, Peru lost
hunger, and prevent altitude sickness. Some the title of the world’s top coca cultivator to
research even backs up the traditional wisdom: Colombia; however, since that victory, the
When taken in small doses, coca has been amount of land used for illegal coca farming has
found to be both psychologically beneficial been increasing (up 14% percent between 2016
and nutrient rich. However, the plant’s role in and 2017). Of all the coca grown in Peru today,
cocaine production has put it in the crosshairs nearly 90% winds up in the illegal drug trade.
of international lawmakers.
According to some experts, these statistics are
Cocaine was first developed in 1859 for evidence that coca eradication efforts have
medicinal use; its popularity as a recreational failed to stem demand for cocaine. The solution
drug did not catch on until the early 20th they propose is decriminalization, which
century. But as cocaine use became more could reduce drug related violence and remove
widespread, so too did the world’s efforts to negative stigmas associated with cocaine and
combat it. In 1961, the United Nations Single coca use, which disproportionately impacts
Convention on Narcotic Drugs listed the coca the poor. Indigenous rights advocates also
leaf as a Schedule 1 drug, placing it in the same take issue with the current hardline approach,
category as cocaine and heroin. The convention calling the demonization of coca culturally
mandated that coca chewing be abolished insensitive and in direct violation of the U.N.’s
and that all illegally cultivated coca bushes be 2007 Declaration on Indigenous Rights, which
destroyed. promises to protect indigenous traditions.
In the years that followed, U.N. monitoring During our hour-long conversation, Fortunata
bodies have continued to advocate for the will spend approximately 20 minutes detailing
eradication of illegal coca farms, and the coca’s role in Peruvian life and explaining
Peruvian government has heeded the call. With how the government’s crackdown on coca
significant funding from the United States, production has impacted her family and
provided as part of the country’s “war on neighbors. Afterward, we’ll have approximately
drugs,” Peru wipes out tens of thousands of 40 minutes to ask any questions we may have.
acres of coca plants every year, with the goal We’ll also have the opportunity to try some
of eradicating nearly 62,000 acres of illegal coca for ourselves to better understand why it is
crops in 2021. so central to life at high altitudes.
These eradication efforts are often met with We’ll bid farewell to Fortunata around
considerable resistance. Coca is one of the most 4pm and continue making our way to our
lucrative crops for Peru’s poorest farmers. Drug Sacred Valley hotel in Urubamba, arriving at
traffickers will pay up to $5 per kilo of coca approximately 4:30pm.
leaf, whereas legal coca and alternative crops
(like bananas and cocoa) fetch less than $2
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
16Perched beside the Urubamba River under a more intimate experience, we’ll be divided
Chicón Mountain, Urubamba is located among into smaller groups of no more than 5 for our
some of the Sacred Valley’s most iconic Incan dinner. Read more about this activity below.
ruins—including, of course, Machu Picchu.
Activity Note: Today’s activities take place at
It’s also a historic hub of commerce in the
elevations above 9,000 feet. We recommend
region; vendors from all across the Sacred
staying hydrated while at high altitude.
Valley come to the vibrant outdoor market
Travelers may rest at the hotel if necessary.
here to sell coffee, cheese, produce, fruit, and
even clothes and cookware. Depending on Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
where you stay, you may have access to a hotel featuring Peruvian and American options,
lounge and restaurant. Rooms may include beginning at 6am.
cable TV, wireless internet, air conditioning,
a private bathroom, and a personal safe. We’ll Morning: We board our bus around 8:30am
check in, followed by a couple of hours to for an approximately 30-minute drive to the
relax. Depending on where you stay, you may splendid Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo. We’ll
have access to a hotel lounge and restaurant. walk amid the remains of this ancient fortress
Rooms may include cable TV, wireless internet, of gray and rose-colored granite, discover its
air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a ancient baths, and climb up the huge terraces
personal safe. We’ll check in, followed by a guarding its hilltop temples. Then, we’ll enjoy
couple of hours to relax. At 6:30pm, embark a chance to meet some of the local people who
on an orientation walk so your Trip Experience dwell in the traditional town nearby.
Leader can show you where to find restaurants,
We continue our discoveries with a bus ride
bars, and other entertainment that you can get
of about 20 minutes to reach the banks of the
to on foot in your free time.
Urubamba River, where we embark on a float
Dinner: At our hotel around 7pm, featuring trip aboard inflatable rafts—an enjoyable
typical dishes of the region. way to experience the enchanting Andean
landscape. It’s little wonder that the Incas
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the regarded the Urubamba Valley as sacred
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Trip ground. Here their culture was born, and here
Experience Leader for recommendations. they found a true life-source—the area’s
mild climate and fertile soil, which yielded an
Day 5 Raft the Urubamba River • abundance of fruits and vegetables. As we float
Explore Ollantaytambo Inca Fortress • along the river, we’ll observe the networks of
Home-Hosted Lunch terraces on either side, constructed entirely by
hand, which transformed steep mountainsides
• Destination: Urubamba
into acres of arable land that helped feed a
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
civilization, and which remain in use today,
• Accommodations: Pisonay Pueblo or similar centuries after their construction.
O.A.T. Exclusive Activity: This afternoon we’ll
After our rafting excursion, it’s time to whet
join a local family for a Home-Hosted Lunch
our whistles: An approximately 15-minute
featuring typical Andean cuisine and lively
bus ride takes us to a local bar where you can
cultural exchange. This is a unique opportunity
sip chicha, a beer brewed from corn. The bar,
to connect with everyday citizens and enhance
or chicheria, is a family-owned favorite of
your understanding of local life. To facilitate
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
17the local farmers, so you may have a chance Dinner: At a local polleria restaurant, where
to make some new friends during our time we will have the opportunity to taste one
here. You’ll also have the chance to learn of Peru’s most popular dishes, pollo a la
how chicha is fermented and distilled. From brasa (rotisserie-style chicken).
there, we drive 15 minutes to the home of
Evening: We’ll return to our hotel around 8pm.
a local Peruvian family, where we’ll enjoy
You have the freedom to spend the rest of your
a Home-Hosted Lunch. Here, we’ll be divided
evening as you wish—ask your Trip Experience
into even smaller groups of no larger than 5 for
Leader for recommendations.
an intimate local experience.
We’ll arrive at the local family home, which Day 6 Train ride through the Sacred Valley
will likely be a single-family tile-roofed home
• First Visit to Machu Picchu
typical of the area. A member of the family will
• Destination: Aguas Calientes
show us around the house and give us a glimpse
into rural life in Peru, including the unique • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
structure of the home. • Accommodations: Casa Andina Standard
Machu Picchu or similar
We’ll likely see a small garden where the family
Activity Note: Today’s activities take place at
grows fresh vegetables and aromatic plants
elevations above 7,900 feet. We recommend
featured in many Andean dishes. Homes also
staying hydrated while at high altitude.
typically have a small guinea pig or poultry
Travelers may rest at the hotel if necessary.
farm behind their houses. Kitchens are located
adjacent to the home, not inside—as families Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
prefer to use firewood over gas or electricity beginning at 6:30am, featuring Peruvian and
to prepare meals. We’ll head there to help the American dishes.
family prepare an appetizer.
Morning: Today, we set out on a spectacular
Lunch: With the local family in their home. The train trip into the gorge of the Urubamba River
appetizer we savor will depend on the season, and on to Machu Picchu, the legendary “Lost
ranging from traditional Andean quinoa soup City of the Incas.”
or black potato soup, to stuffed peppers or corn
tortillas. The main course will be a Peruvian But first, around 8:30am, we are in for a special
staple: roasted guinea pig. We’ll chat with our treat when we get an up-close glimpse of
hosts about how this ancient dish is prepared, a curandero ceremony, a healing ritual with
as well as chat about what day-to-day life looks Inca roots—performed by a mestizo medicine
like in Urubamba. man—that draws on an assortment of ancient
and modern substances and symbols, combined
Afternoon: We’ll bid farewell to our hosts with coca leaves and the energy of the sacred
around 2:15pm and drive back to our hotel in mountains and Mother Earth.
Urubamba, arriving around 2:30pm. Once there,
you will have a few hours of free time to rest Around 10am, we board our bus and drive to the
after the day’s activities, or make independent Ollantaytambo train station, where we’ll catch
discoveries in the town. At 6:30pm, our small our train to the next leg of our journey.
group will meet in the hotel lobby and drive
Lunch: We’ll enjoy a boxed lunch on board
about 15 minutes to a nearby restaurant.
the train.
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18Afternoon: After a scenic train ride through the Incas’ devotion to their sun god. (The fact that
Sacred Valley, we arrive in the village of Aguas nearly all the unearthed human remains are
Calientes around 1pm, where we’ll return after female also points to Machu Picchu as a site of
our exploration of Machu Picchu this afternoon. religious sacrifice.)
Most travelers visit Machu Picchu on a day trip,
As for the fate of Machu Picchu’s people,
which makes for a hectic pace and only limited
the theories are even more far-reaching
time at this unique archaeological wonder; our
(and theory is all we have, for the Incas
overnight stay in Aguas Calientes allows us to
left no written record). It is known that
explore at a more relaxed pace and return to
smallpox decimated the population in the
continue our discoveries of this famous city the
early 16th century, but the remainder may
next morning.
have succumbed to drought or disease, been
We’ll board a bus around 1:30pm and travel conquered by the Spanish, or simply abandoned
about 30 minutes to Machu Picchu, which—like the site.
Lima and the city of Cuzco—is also a UNESCO
We can consider this mystery as our own
World Heritage Site. This ancient city was a
expedition alights on this mountaintop site
place little known not only to foreigners, but
this afternoon, as our expert Trip Experience
also to the Inca people—only a select few were
Leader and a local assistant give us a complete
ever allowed to visit this mysterious sanctuary.
and compelling look at this fabled “Lost City,”
Even though it was “discovered” by Hiram
explaining the speculation surrounding Machu
Bingham in 1911, Machu Picchu remained
Picchu’s place in the Inca world. Beginning
inaccessible until the 1940s, when the Inca Trail
around 2pm, we’ll trek across its terraced
was found by an archaeological expedition.
landscape, stroll its ancient streets, and
Inching up to the edges of cliffs high above discover remnants of its Ritual Baths, Palace
the Urubamba River—and seemingly floating of the Princess, Main Fountain, and Sun and
among the clouds—the mystical stone city Condor temples. We’ll have ample time to
stretches boldly across a high ridge in the explore, reflect, and ponder the enigma of
Andes Mountains. Much of the mystery this man-made wonder, both with our Trip
surrounding Macchu Picchu stems from the Experience Leader and on our own.
Inca’s seemingly impossible engineering
Around 5pm, we return to Aguas Calientes by
feats; without mortar, they somehow placed
bus and check in to our hotel, where amenities
the stones so perfectly, and built underground
will likely include laundry service and an
foundations so strong, that when earthquakes
ATM. Each room typically features cable TV,
hit, the stones simply “dance” and then fall
a safe, wireless Internet access, and a private
right back into place. They are also so expertly
bathroom with a hairdryer. You’ll have a little
arranged that the cracks between rocks can’t
more than an hour to settle in and freshen
even be penetrated by a credit card.
up. Then, our small group will reconvene
Ensuing explorations uncovered relics just before 7pm for a 5-minute walk to our
indicating that the “Lost City of the Incas” dinner locale.
may have been the religious center of Inca life.
Dinner: At a local restaurant around 7pm,
The temples, astronomical observatory, and a
featuring dishes typical to the Andean region.
remarkable solar clock named Intiwatana, or
“hitching post to the sun” are all signs of the
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
19Evening: We’ll return to our hotel shortly after the ruins in a different light, well before other
8pm. You have the freedom to spend the rest visitors arrive on the train from Cuzco later
of your evening as you wish—ask your Trip this morning. Among the enigmatic remnants
Experience Leader for recommendations. of this Incan sanctuary we find an observatory
meant for solstice worship and a stone altar
Day 7 Second visit to Machu Picchu marking the holy center point between the
nearby sacred peaks. You can wander the
• Destination: Aguas Caliente
sprawling ruins on your own or embark
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
on a hike.
• Accommodations: Casa Andina Standard
Machu Picchu or similar Whichever option you choose, our group will
reconvene around noon and descend by bus to
Activity Note: We have an early wake-up call
Aguas Calientes below. Upon arrival, we’ll walk
this morning to reach Machu Picchu before
about 15 minutes to a nearby restaurant.
the crowds.
Lunch: At a local restaurant around 1pm,
Early Morning: We rise early today—between
featuring traditional Peruvian dishes.
5am and 6am, depending on when you’ll visit
Machu Picchu—to make the most of our second Afternoon: Our small group will return to our
day here. hotel around mid-day. We’ll spend our second
night in Aguas Calientes—a recently added
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
feature—giving you ample time to rest after
beginning at 5:30am, featuring Peruvian and
today’s hike, or explore more of the town.
American options.
Dinner: On your own—ask your Trip
Morning: You’ll have two options for returning
Experience Leader for local restaurant
to Machu Picchu this morning. If you choose
recommendations. Perhaps you’ll sample causa,
the earlier departure, we leave our hotel around
a mashed potato dish that is served a variety of
6:30am and return by bus to Machu Picchu,
ways with meat and vegetables.
ascending toward the ruined city as the sun
crests the peaks of the Andes. We’ll arrive Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
around 7:15am for an early-morning hike rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Trip
of your choosing. One brings you to the Inca Experience Leader for recommendations.
Bridge, where a trail built with impressive Inca
engineering crosses a cliff face. In one spot, the Day 8 Train ride through the Sacred Valley
Incas left a deep gap, which they bridged with
• Explore colonial Cuzco
logs that could be removed to render the trail
impassable to enemies. The second option is • Destination: Cuzco
an ambitious hike to the Sun Gate at the Machu • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Picchu end of the Inca Trail, which offers a fine • Accommodations: José Antonio Cuzco Hotel
view over the ruins. Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
beginning at 6am, featuring Peruvian and
Or, if you’d like to catch some more sleep,
American options.
join the second group departing for Machu
Picchu at 8am, arriving at around 8:30am. You
can remain at the hotel if you wish, but most
travelers appreciate this second chance to see
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
20Morning: We’ll check out of our hotel around the cathedral and go inside to view its many
8am and walk about 10 minutes to the Aguas interior paintings and sculptures, as well as its
Calientes train station. From there, we’ll return collections of colonial art and religious relics.
by train to Ollantaytambo, a ride of about Head for the San Blas neighborhood to see more
1.5 hours through the spectacular Urubamba of Cuzco’s historic architecture and the shops
Gorge. We then continue traveling by bus of artisans along picturesque hilly, narrow
for about two hours to reach Cuzco, arriving lanes. Or take in the city’s Inca Museum (Museo
around 12:30pm. Inka), which is housed in a colonial mansion
and known for its collection of Inca mummies.
Lunch: At a local restaurant in Cuzco around
12:30pm, featuring Peruvian staples. Dinner: On your own—ask your Trip
Experience Leader for local restaurant
Afternoon: We set out to explore Cuzco on a
recommendations.
walking tour around 1:30pm. Called “the navel
of the world” by the Incas, Cuzco was laid out Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
in the shape of a puma, a sacred beast in Inca rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Trip
lore. We’ll visit the site of the Qoricancha Sun Experience Leader for recommendations.
Temple, Cuzco’s most important ceremonial
structure during the Inca era. Historical Day 9 A Day in the Life of Izcuchaca
records of the time note that its walls were
& Chinchero villages • Grand Circle
once covered with 700 sheets of gold studded
Foundation visit: Cruzpata School
with emeralds and turquoise. When sunlight
• Controversial Topic: Building of
streamed through the windows, the reflection
the Chinchero airport with local
of light off the precious metals was blinding.
Then we’ll stroll through the heart of the
community leaders
city at the Plaza de Armas. When the Spanish • Destination: Cuzco
conquistadors arrived here, they often built • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
atop Inca structures, leaving behind a blend • Accommodations: José Antonio Cuzco Hotel
of architectural styles. At the Plaza de Armas,
O.A.T. Exclusive Activities: Prepare for a full
you’ll view the outside of the 17th-century
day of immersive cultural discovery as we
cathedral that was built on the foundation of
spend A Day in the Life of the Izcuchaca village
an Inca palace. This massive structure is one of
and the Chinchero community. We’ll get a
the significant colonial buildings in the city. See
glimpse into Andean culture as we navigate a
whether you agree with many that it is also one
local market and visit a school supported in part
of the most beautiful churches in Latin America.
by Grand Circle Foundation. Later, we’ll learn
After our walking tour, we’ll check in to our about a Controversial Topic as we meet locals
hotel around 4pm. Depending on where we who will discuss the impact of the building of
stay, our hotel will likely offer an on-site the new nearby Chinchero airport. Read more
restaurant serving Peruvian cuisine, a currency about these activities below.
exchange, a souvenir shop, and a hairdresser.
Please note: Alternate activities may be arranged
Each room may feature a minibar, cable TV,
if today’s school visit falls on a weekend or holiday,
safe, and wireless Internet access. You’ll have
as school will not be in session.
the rest of the afternoon free to make your
own discoveries. You could spend return to
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
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