Cuzco, erstwhile capital of the Inca world, is widely acknowledged as the archaeological star in South America’s crown. Imposing colonial architecture lies on top of the perfect rounded stonework of the Incas. Quechua speaking descendants of the Incas still throng the streets, a legacy of past civilisations. Cuzco lies at the southern end of the Sacred Valley, an exceptionally lovely swathe of land dotted with the remains of Inca settlements, sacred temples and ceremonial sites. Of these the most famous is undoubtedly the mountain-top citadel of Machu Picchu at the head of the Inca Trail. Reached by foot or Orient-Express train, the intense spirituality and mystery of this magnificent Inca creation is unforgettable.
Recommended accommodation
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Inkaterra Machu Picchu
Adjacent to Machu Picchu village, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu hotel is a truly unique property offering an authentic travelling experience evocative of the original Royal Inca Retreat to the Sacred Valley.
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Orient Express Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge
Take the Orient-Express train for just three hours from Cuzco to the famous site of Machu Picchu and stay at this magical hotel overlooking the ruins.
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Orient Express Monasterio
High in the Andean heart of historical Cuzco the Hotel Monasterio is a byword for luxury, history and style.
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Hotel Rio Sagrado
Situated at a lower altitude than nearby Cuzco, Hotel Rio Sagrado in Urubamba provides the perfect environment in which to relax and acclimatise, and an ideal base to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
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Sol y Luna
In Sol y Luna’s gardens, the sun will energize you, as the watchful mountains invite you to explore their bewitching landscapes.
Sample itinerary
DAYS 1 - 3 Lima
On arrival transfer to the Country Club Lima for a three night stay.This impressive former colonial capital is a beautifully protected world heritage site, & highlights include the famous Gold & Archaeology museums.
DAYS 4 - 9 Arequipa/Colca Canyon/Lake Titicaca
Fly south to the white city of Arequipa, explore this relaxing city & visit the Santa Catalina Convent. After two nights, travel on to the Colca Canyon to overnight at the Parador del Colca. Continue towards the Andean altiplano & Lake Titicaca to stay at Suasi Island lodge for three nights. Visit the floating reed islands & local lake communities.
DAYS 10 - 14 Cuzco/Machu Picchu/Cuzco
Transfer north to Cuzco for a three night stay at the Hotel Monasterio. Enjoy a city tour of Cuzco plus the local ruins of Sacsayhuaman.Take an Orient-Express train to the ruins at Machu Picchu, The Lost City of the Incas. Overnight at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge or Machu Picchu Pueblo before returning to Cuzco for one further night.
DAYS 15 - 16 Cuzco/Amazon
Transfer from the hotel for a flight to Puerto Maldonado & continue by boat to the Reserva Amazonica for a two night stay.
DAY 17
Transfer from the lodge & fly to Lima for the onward flight home.
Priced start from £2,900 excluding flights.
Please call us for a bespoke itinerary and quotation.
