Peru: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu

Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport by our local representative who will escort you to your hotel via private coach. The balance of the day you are free to relax or explore on your own. Perched on the cliffs above the sea, this capital city features expansive views, lovely city parks with unique statues, a variety of neighborhoods and colonial architecture.

We'll visit both the colonial and modern sections of this "City of Kings". Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza de Armas with its cathedral and palace; and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace, modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima drive through the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro.

Starting with a delicious Pisco Sour, a traditional Peruvian aperitif we'll see a spectacular, folk dance ensemble, while sampling exquisite Peruvian food. One of Lima's premiere dance troupes transports you through the different regions of Peru, and across the ages, by way of their traditional costumes and dances rich in history.

We'll transfer to the airport for the short flight to the colonial town of Cusco, ancient capital of the Incas, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere. Upon arrival, enjoy a tour en route to your hotel to see Cusco's Cathedral, Santo Domingo Church & the Plaza de Armas. We'll also visit the nearby ruins of Kenko, Puca-pucara, and Tampumachay as well as the Sacsayhuaman fortress. You'll want to spend the rest of the day adjusting to the altitude - 10,000 feet above sea level.

Tour the Andean village of Chinchero, one of the best artisan markets in Peru, and visit with Nilda Callanaupa Alvarez. Her organization is dedicated to preserving ancient textile designs and weaving techniques from all over the Andes. As an accomplished artist she will lead a workshop on traditional back strap weaving techniques. Then visit Pisac, the first settlement outside Cusco, where we can shop in the artisan market and gaze upon the fortress clinging to the cliffs. Our last stop is Ollantaytambo to see the templefortress dating back to the Incas.

Early wake-up for the scenic train ride along the river, through the Sacred Valley of Urubamba, to the small town at the base of the "Lost City of the Incas." Formerly called Aguas Calientes, it's now named for the iconic Machu Picchu soaring above. There are 3 trains of varying quality, comfort and price running roughly the same 3-hr route.

Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, this is truly one of the most spectacular sites on earth. Dating to the 1400's, it was hidden by semi-tropical jungles until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Incan "Virgins of the Sun" took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. A shuttle bus takes visitors on the 20-minute ride up the steep, winding dirt road where you'll have a guided tour of the fabled ruins. You can almost feel the eternal serenity emanating from the structures as you stroll the grounds. This ancient ceremonial marvel is unrivaled and one cannot help being impressed by the awe-inspiring story behind it.

We'll take the train back to Cusco for one last night in the clear mountain air of the Andes. This beautiful city is a contrast in modern and indigenous styles, giving it a rare personality that has stood the test of time.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport via private coach for your departure flight connecting in Lima.