Machu Picchu and Incan Highlights (Itinerary 2)

11 days with Hurtigruten Rating:

Itinerary

Day 1 Lima: Colonial and Ancient History

Lima's history predates the Spanish colonial presence in Peru. Present-day Lima was founded by the Spanish conquistadors in 1542 and the ruling Vice Royalty of Peru proceeded to build significant churches, monasteries, and mansions. Today, Lima´s historic cener is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the city on your own before spending the night in a hotel.

Day 2 Lima - Cusco: UNESCO Site and Ancient History

In the morning, we will transfer you to your flight from Lima to Cusco. Enjoy lunch before visiting one of the most amazing Incan constructions in the area, the impressive Sacsayhuamán fortress. Sacsayhuamán means 'satisfied falcon,' referring to the mythical creature that guarded the capital of the empire. The name is also fitting as it is possible to overlook all of Cusco from the hill where the fortress was built. Construction of the site took more than seven decades and required the labor of 20,000 men to set the foundations, hew the stone, transport materials, and carve and set the stonework. Like many Incan structures, the fortress was built entirely without mortar, yet the enormous stones fit together so perfectly that a single blade of grass cannot pass between them.The craftsmanship is a stunning example of the Inca’s sophisticated construction and architectural skills. In the afternoon, we continue to Tambo del Inka Resort in the Sacred Valley for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3 Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu: Highlights of the Incan Empire

After breakfast, you’re in for some unforgettable highlights. First, we visit to Ollantaytambo, an Incan town that shares its name with the formidable stone fortress that clings to a massive cliff above the community. This fortification was the valley’s main defence against the rival Antis people and was the site of the Incas’ greatest victory against the Spanish during the wars of conquest. Constructed of rose-colored granite, this huge structure was once a thriving complex of baths, temples, and military barracks. Next, we head to the nearby train station to board the deluxe Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu. A savory brunch is served as we enjoy spectacular views on the way to Machu Picchu.

At last, we arrive at spectacular Machu Picchu. This hidden city overlooks the raging Urubamba River and was shielded from discovery for centuries by thick tangles of vines and trees. Now one of the great destinations in world travel, the city of Machu Picchu still hides the secret of its rise and fall, as the Incas left behind no written records. Explore the city's ruins, feel its pulse, and visualise the lives of the priests, craftsmen, and servants who inhabited this incredible place. Excavations at the site have revealed skeletons, artifacts and woollen clothing. Inspect the famous precision of Incan stonework on display here. After spending an unforgettable day exploring the ruins, you can enjoy tea at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge before we head back by train to Tambo del Inka Resort for another relaxing evening and an overnight stay.

Day 4 Cusco - Lima: Centre of the Incan Empire

After breakfast, we head to Cusco, once the center of the Inca, Empire. Visit the splendid baroque Cusco Cathedral, built in the mid-1500s on the foundations of an Incan palace. Many of the stones used in its construction were looted from the nearby Sacsayhuamán fortress. We continue to Koricancha to admire the lovely Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, built on top of the Temple of the Sun, the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The curved, mortar-less masonry wall at the west end of the church is one of the greatest existing examples of Incan stonework.

After a half day of exploring, we take you to the airport for your flight to Lima and transfer you to Callao, where your ship is ready to continue your expedition at sea.

Day 5 Paracas, Peru: The Ballestas by Boat

From Paracas, we explore the nearby uninhabited Ballestas Islands. The shores here have a range of wildlife, including sea lions, turtles, dolphins, pelicans, Peruvian boobies and Humboldt penguins. Paracas is also the near to Pisco Valley, the site of mysterious Nazca Lines and geoglyphs, which you can see on an optional excursion.

Day 6 Fresh Salt Air

As we sail further south, enjoy our lecture program, the fresh sea air, and all the amenities the expedtion ship has to offer.

Day 7 Matarani: 'The White City'

Matarani is a gateway to Arequipa, an exceptionally beautiful city with acres of immaculate parks and gardens, and views of the dormant, snow-capped El Misti volcano. The UNESCO-listed historic center is a treasure trove of impressive colonial architecture built with ashlar volcanic stone, inspiring Arequipa’s other name ‘The White City’.

Day 8 Arica, Chile: Where the Rain Never Falls

Arica enjoys a constant desert climate and is one of the driest cities in the world. Walk along beaches, visit San Marcos Cathedral, or hike El Morro cliff for views over the port city. The local San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum contains artifacts from the Chinchorro culture and some of the world's oldest mummies.

Day 9-10 Serenity at Sea

Enjoy two peaceful days at sea as we make our way south to Valparaíso. The Expedition Team recaps our voyage and continues their lecture program.

Day 11 Valparaíso, Chile: UNESCO’s `Jewel of the Pacific´

Our expedition ends in the seaport of Valparaíso. Built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean, the UNESCO-protected city is a maze of monuments, churches, historical funicular lifts, cobblestone alleys, and charming plazas. Arrange to stay longer to explore more or join a Post-Program to Easter Island, famous for its mysterious statues of giant heads.

Map

All This Included

Explore spectacular Machu Picchu and highlights of the Incan Empire before embarking on an unforgettable expedition cruise along the scenic western coast of South America from Lima, Peru, down to Valparaíso in Chile. Explore the contrasts of modern cities and historic ancient civilizations, and enjoy days at sea at your leisure.

Expedition Machu Picchu/Peru Before the Cruise

One night in Lima and two nights at Hotel Tambo del Inka, including breakfast
3-course set lunch and dinner on Days 2 and 3, and a packed lunch on Day 4
Coach-class flights between Lima and Cusco, and Cusco and Lima
All transfers and train rides as described, including an English-speaking guide
Machu Picchu entrance fee as listed in the program

Expedition Cruise

Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurants Aune and Fredheim
À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
Complimentary tea and coffee
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
English-speaking Expedition Team who organize and accompany activities on board and ashore
Range of included excursions

Onboard Activities

Experts on the Expedition Team deliver in-depth lectures on a variety of topics
Use of the ship’s Science Center, which has an extensive library and advanced biological and geological microscopes
Citizen Science program allows guests to assist with current scientific research
Professional onboard photographer gives top tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
Use of the ship’s hot tubs, infinity pool, sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor and indoor gyms, and outdoor running track
Informal gatherings with the crew such as daily recaps and preparation for the day to come

Landing Activities

Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for activities
Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
Expedition photographers help with your camera settings before landings

Highlights

Visit Machu Picchu by the Hiram Bingham train and stay at a resort in the Sacred Valley
Combine a land adventure with a cruise to unique cities along the Pacific coastlines of Peru and Chile
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites famous for archaeology or colonial architecture
Learn more about the fascinating histories and ancient cultures of Peru and Chile

Accommodations

Cruising: Category I cabin onboard MS Fridtjof Nansen or MS Roald Amundsen

Notes

Cabin upgrades are available.
Not Included: International flights, travel protection plan, luggage handling, optional excursions and small-group activities.
All planned activities are subject to weather conditions.
Excursions and activities are subject to change.
Please ensure you meet all visa entry requirements.
No gratuities expected.
The land program in Peru takes place at high altitudes (the city of Cuzco’s altitude is around 11,000 feet) and may require a certain level of physical fitness.
Please ask your Vacations To Go travel counselor for more information.

Terms and Conditions

For Hurtigruten terms and conditions, please click here.

* The prices shown are U.S. dollars per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Prices quoted for land/cruise arrangements are subject to increase without notice. Once we have received your deposit, land/cruise prices are guaranteed. Air prices quoted via phone or email are subject to increase and are guaranteed only from the time that full payment is received. Also, air prices or air promotions mentioned on this site or on the phone do not include baggage fees imposed by airlines.

Speak to a Cruise Specialist