Travelmarvel South America Tours, Galapagos Islands, Amazon Cruise, Machu Picchu
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46 Day 14. Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Like a Local – today board the Vistadome train and soak up the Andean landscapes as you head to World Heritage-listed Machu Picchu, some 2,400 metres above sea level. On arrival, you'll set out on a locally guided tour of the Lost City of the Incas, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most familiar icon of the Inca Empire. Stay: Aguas Calientes, El MaPi Hotel. BD 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. Day 15. Machu Picchu, Cusco. After breakfast, the morning is yours to re-explore Machu Picchu before re-boarding the Vistadome train for your remarkable journey through the beautiful Peruvian Andes back to Ollantaytambo station, before a coach returns you to Cusco. This evening you'll enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner and a traditional folklore show at the Tunupa Restaurant Bar & Grill, located in the heart of the city. 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 and the beautiful Baroque church of Santo Domingo. Both fascinating sites provide insight into the unique fusion of ancient Andean and Western European culture. With the rest of the day at leisure, step out to sample the local cuisine at one of Cusco's many fine restaurants. B Day 17. Cusco, Lake Titicaca. Take a coach to the city of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, you'll stop at the small town of Andahuaylillas, known for its picturesque Sistine Chapel. You'll also stop for a hearty buffet lunch. On arrival in Puno, this evening is at your leisure. 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 back to Lima, enjoy a guided tour of the World Heritage-listed historic centre of Lima. A Taste of Lima – this evening, indulge in a Farewell Dinner at Restaurant Huaca Pucllana – set within the ruins of an incredible archaeological compound. As you dine, re-live the experiences of your tour with your fellow travellers. Stay: Lima, Casa Andina Select Miraflores. BD Day 20. Lima, Quito (Ecuador). Depart Peru and fly to Quito, Ecuador's capital. Stay: Dann Carlton Quito. B Day 21. Quito, Coca, Amazon Cruise. This morning you'll fly to Coca, located in the mighty Ecuadorian Amazon. From here, journey downstream by motorised canoe to board the M/V Anakonda. Enjoy dinner this evening then perhaps embark on a nocturnal walk to witness the life emerging in the forest after dark. Stay (Three Nights): M/V Anakonda. BD Day 22. Amazon Cruise. Take a motorised canoe trip up the Pañayacu River. Flooded by white waters, the rivers and lakes house the infamous Piranha and Water Monkey Fish. After a refreshing swim (for the courageous) or kayak, enjoy a delicious Amazon-style BBQ meal at a nearby camping site. In the afternoon, set out on an exploration trail walk before returning for dinner. BLD Day 23. Amazon Cruise. After breakfast, set out to visit a parrot lick – a unique area rich in mud, minerals and fauna. Like a Local – visit the Sani Warmi Kichwa Interpretation Centre to gain insight into Amazonian lifestyles along the Napo River. Listen in as Kichwa women speak of their customs, cuisine and everyday life. Later, stop at the Yakukawsay Kichwa Interpretation Centre where expert guides will explain the wonders of the floral and fauna communities. BLD PERU – meet local people and learn about the culture of the Uros on the islands of Lake Titicaca – www.travelmarvel.com.au –