Cusco, Capital of the Inca Empire, wears the title of "Archaeological Capital of the Americas" with pride, since there is no other place on the entire continent where the monumental remains of a great culture are so easily accessible and in such good conditions. But Cusco is, in addition, a city museum, in which a fascinating combination of natural beauty and unique architecture gives the City a mystical beauty. Cusco can be divided into three main types of attractions: Cusco City, with its ruins, temples, churches, mansions and archaeological sites; Machu Picchu, "The Lost City of the Incas" considered one of the world's archaeological jewels; and, The Sacred Valley of the Incas with a pleasant climate, fertile lands and spectacular views surrounding picturesque communities. In the Sacred Valley you can see ancient agricultural terraces and important archaeological sites, such as Yucay, where the impressive terraces, which are completely intact, act as a background to the quaint village, or Chinchero, with its enormous Inca Walls in the Main Square.

Other examples are Pisac, the largest Fortress City Complex of the Incas; Ollantaytambo, site of a great battle between Manco Inca and Spanish soldiers in 1536; Maras, salt flats that have supplied mineral salt to the area since pre-Inca times and Moray, four circular terraces that are laid out on the hilltop like huge giant's finger prints, used in Inca times to adapt plants to new climates, thus providing tangible evidence of the advanced levels of Incan agricultural achievements.

The temperate climate and unique geography of the Sacred Valley make it ideal for outdoor sports such as Rafting, Mountain Biking, Hang-Gliding and Trekking. This programme provides a perfect overview of the Cusco Area, as you can visit the three main attractions of this magical destination in 4 days.

All our programmes can be tailor made according to your requirements, whether regarding the length of your tour, any special interests or specific activities, flight reservations, optional destinations or tours.

Breakfast. Full-day excursion to the "Sacred Valley of the Incas", by the Vilcanota River. We will have the opportunity to share closely the peasants' customs and bargain with vendors at the typical indian market of Pisac, held on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Lunch in a local countryside restaurant.

After lunch, passing through the Towns of Calca and Urubamba, we visit the Inca Fortress and Citadel of Ollantaytambo, built to guard the entrance to this part of the Valley, and protect it from possible invasion from the tribes in the Lower jungle. The Fortress consists of a series of stepped carved stone terraces accessed by long staircases. Later on you can walk through the quaint streets of the nearby Town, and get a good idea of what this Strategic Military, Religious, and Agricultural Centre was like during the era of the Inca Empire. On our way back to Cusco we stop of at the picturesque Andean Village of Chinchero where the ruins of the Royal Hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui lie. You can admire the well preserved Inca Wall in the Main Square, and visit the beautiful Colonial temple built on Inca foundations, with interesting frescoes in the portico. Overnight in Cusco.

Note: The visit to the Village of Chinchero depends on the time available.

The day starts with an early morning rise to transfer to Cusco Train Station for a three hour train journey to the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, also known as "The Lost City of the Incas", one of the best known examples of surviving Inca architecture. Arrive at Aguas Calientes Station followed by a 30-minute bus drive, climbing 6km of winding road, to the marvellous Citadel. Upon arrival, you will participate in a guided tour of the Citadel, visiting the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial (the most important preserved Intihuatana), the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and various burial grounds. After the tour you'll have time to stroll around the Archaeological Site at your leisure. Lunch at a local restaurant and a late afternoon return to Cusco. Overnight in your selected hotel in Cusco.

After breakfast, transfer and assistance on your departure.

* min. 2 participants, max 10 participants. Pool Service.
Available discounts: SAE: US$ 10.00 (valid South American Explorers Club membership card required).

• Professional guide (English - Spanish).
• 3 Nights accommodation at a selected hotel in Cusco.
• In and out transfers.
• All applicable taxes.
• Entrance fees for the excursions mentioned above.
• Lunch at the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes, other meals as indicated in the itinerary.
• Train tickets Cusco - Aguas Calientes - Cusco.
• Bus tickets Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes.

• International and Domestic flights (Lima / Cusco / Lima: US$ 294 aprox.)
• Airport taxes ($30.25 for international flights and $6.05 for domestic flights).
• Baggage excess.
• Alcoholic drinks, soda or bottled mineral water.
• Personal expenses.
• Tips.
• International or National personal telephone calls.
• Additional nights for bad weather o flight cancellation.
• Snacks.
• Laundry.