Beautiful Machu Picchu

All content by Intrepid

8 days (ex Lima)

Destinations visited: Peru, Lima, Cuzco & The Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

from USD$1,775

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Description

Surrender to the awe of mighty Machu Picchu on this enthralling journey through Peru. Experience the clash of cultures that coexist in thriving, bustling cities full of colour and passion, including Lima and Cuzco. Meet locals who lead a traditional lifestyle and explore relics and ruins, ancient stone reminders of the past. Set to the backdrop of stunning Andean vistas and lush green landscapes, the Beautiful Machu Picchu journey provides authentic experiences and opportunities for adventure in a fun, accessible way.

Highlights

Visit Lima's historic centre.
Witness the majesty of Machu Picchu.
Wander Cuzco's atmospheric streets.
Learn about local culture at a Sacred Valley community.
Explore Peru's mixture of colonial and Inca architecture.
Relax in Aguas Calientes's steamy natural hot springs.

Itinerary

Day 1 Lima

See the major sights of Peru's capital on a walking tour of this city shrouded in history. In free time, why not hit the intriguing Monasterio de San Francisco to explore the dark tunnels that lead to an eerie underground cemetery. Or perhaps dine out at a restaurant in the funky Miraflores area of Lima.

Day 2 Cuzco

The city of Cuzco is best explored on foot. Get acquainted with its winding cobblestone streets on a walking tour that includes a special visit to a coca shop and an opportunity to try unique-tasting coca tea. Visit the sprawling central plaza and admire Spanish-colonial buildings and ruins of ancient temples.

Day 3 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo

Journey through the lush greenery of the Sacred Valley and pay a visit to a local community. Make new friends and learn about the traditional lifestyle these proud people lead. Spend the night in the town of Ollantaytambo - home to fascinating ruins and some of the oldest continuously inhabited dwellings in South America.

Days 3-4 Cuzco

With ample free time - and an entry ticket to many of Cuzco's fascinating attractions - it'll be easy to go exploring here. Head out to see the archaeological sites of Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo and Tambomachay, all of which are located just on the outskirts of town.

Day 6 Aguas Calientes

Travel by train through the winding Urubamba Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes. In need of some relaxation? Spend the afternoon bathing in the natural hot springs that give this town its name.

Day 7 Machu Picchu/Cuzco

Rise early to meet the magnificence of Machu Picchu. Explore the ruins with a local guide and wander through the temples, palaces and living quarters - remnants of the once-thriving Inca society. Reflect on the unforgettable Machu Picchu experience on the return trip to Cuzco.

Day 8 Cuzco

Compare photos and experiences with fellow travellers before saying farewell to Peru.

Group Size

Maximum of 16 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hotel (7 nts)

Transport

Plane, Bus, Train

Budget

Allow USD $160 for meals not included.

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$1,775

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