Travelmarvel South America Tours, Galapagos Islands, Amazon Cruise, Machu Picchu
Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/648543
30 Day 14. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Like a Local – today board the Vistadome train and soak up the spectacular Andean landscape through the panoramic windows as you head to Machu Picchu, located some 2,400 metres above sea level. On arrival here, you'll set out on a locally guided tour of the Lost City of the Incas. Built around 1450 at the height of the Inca Empire, the city was abandoned just over 100 years later. This incredible site remained undiscovered until the American historian, Hiram Bingham, brought it to international attention in 1911. Today, it's a World Heritage-listed site, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most familiar icon of Inca civilisation. After your time here, return to town and check in to your hotel. Stay: Aguas Calientes, El MaPi Hotel. BD Day 15. Machu Picchu, Cusco. With the morning free, perhaps revisit Machu Picchu. Re-board the Vistadome train for your journey to Ollantaytambo station, before a coach returns you to Cusco. Enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner and traditional folklore show at the Tunupa Restaurant Bar & Grill this evening. Special Stay – Palacio del Inka. Stay (Two Nights): Cusco, Palacio del Inka (a Luxury Collection Hotel). BD Day 16. Cusco. A guided walking tour through Cusco this morning will take you to the square in the city's historic heart, the Plaza de Armas. During your tour you'll visit the sacred site of Koricancha, where you can explore the extraordinary Temple of the Sun and the beautiful Baroque church of Santo Domingo. With the evening at your leisure, perhaps step out to sample the local Peruvian cuisine at one of Cusco's many fine local restaurants. B Day 17. Cusco, Lake Titicaca. This morning travel to Puno, approximately 3,860 metres above sea level on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, you'll stop at the small town of Andahuaylillas, known for its Sistine Chapel. Afterwards, stop to explore the remains of a Inca temple which was once one of the holiest shrines in the Inca empire in the village of Raqchi. You'll also stop for a hearty buffet lunch. On arrival in Puno, the rest of the evening is at your leisure to explore the vibrant city or relax within your hotel. Stay (Two Nights): Puno, Hotel Jose Antonio. BL Day 18. Lake Titicaca. Set on the border of Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the highest altitude lake in the world. Like a Local – this morning you'll set out on a cruise over the lake to the extraordinary home of the Uros people – a group of more than 40 man-made islands created from floating reeds. On this remarkable trip, you'll enjoy an insight into the Uros' unique way of life and experience the spectacular scenery that characterises the region. Return to your hotel for time to relax or perhaps visit the town for a walk to see the local way of life. BD Day 19. Lake Titicaca, Lima. After flying to Lima, enjoy a guided tour of the World Heritage-listed historic centre of Lima. A Taste of Lima – this evening, indulge in a special dinner at Restaurant Huaca Pucllana – located within the ruins of an incredible archaeological compound, beside a colourfully illuminated adobe pyramid. Stay: Lima, Casa Andina Select Miraflores. BD Day 20. Lima, Quito (Ecuador). Departing Peru today, fly to Quito, Ecuador's charming and historic capital. On arrival, transfer to your premium hotel. Stay (Two Nights): Dann Carlton Quito. B Day 21. Quito. Today takes you on a guided tour of Quito, including its historic Old Town. Here, marvel at the architecture of the Plaza and Monastery of San Francisco, the Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande), La Compañía de Jesús and the Museo de Arte Colonial. Tonight, enjoy the BRAZIL – ascend the majestic peak of Sugarloaf mountain at sunset HIKE THE FAMOUS INCA TRAIL Feeling adventurous? Why not replace Day 14 touring with a scenic hike to Machu Picchu. You'll then revisit Machu Picchu the next morning for a tour. See pages 76-77 for details and pricing. – www.travelmarvel.com.au –