Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Machu Picchu - 5 days for $1099

Besides the resplendent Machu Picchu, take in a tour of the great cultural and natural attractions of Peru.

Schedule

Day 00:

Arrival and orientation.

Day 01:

Lofty Arequipa, at an elevation of 2,380 meters, is Peru's second biggest city. It has the spectacular El Misti Volcano looming on the horizon. It was built in 1540 by the Spanish and has many stately colonial buildings. Enjoy Pampas Canahuas, viewing endearing vicunas, llamas and alpacas. Make it to Chivay to stay the night.

Day 02:

Head out early for Colca Canyon, making time to spot in timeless towns en route, such as Maca, Yanque, Pinchollo and Achoma. The Cruz del Condor Antahuilque and the Choquetico lookouts provide terrific views. Look out for condors.

Day 03:

Take a 25-minute flight to Cusco. Have a tour of the ancient settlement of Cusco. Note: In order to reduce the tour cost by some $50 to $75, some travelers opt for a 10-hour overnight bus ride from Arequipa to Cusco instead of an airplane flight. Visit Incan and Spanish structures. A Tourist Ticket will allow you to see many museums and other attractions in and around Cusco.

Day 4-5:

Machu Picchu! Rise early for the 6am train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes at the foot of Machu Picchu. Enjoy shopping for souvenirs and eating well plus of course touring the grand Incan edifice. Then it's a scenic train ride back to Cusco around 3:30pm. Arrival time in Cusco is 7:30pm.

Program details

This program costs $1,099

The program fee includes:

The program fee does not include:

It is recommended that you bring: Water and snacks, camcorder and/or camera, sun block, hat, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, swimsuit and towel.