Peru
one of the oldest in the world, and to the Inca Empire, the largest state in Pre-Columbian America. The Spanish Empire conquered the region in the 16th century and established a Viceroyalty, which included most of its South American colonies. Peru has achieved independence in 1821, and has been establishing itself as a major tourism destination for people looking for adventure, culture and history.Peruvian Highlights - 8 days/7 Nights
This popular itinerary includes Lima, Cuzco and Machu Picchu as well as an extension to Lake Titicaca; legend has it that the first Inca, known as Manco Capac, rose from the waters of Lake Titicaca, under the orders of the Sun God, to start the Inca Empire in and around Cuzco. At this mysterious lake, we will visit the floating islands of the Uros Indian tribes (who live in the same way their ancestors lived in Inca times), the Island of Taquile, and the amazing ruins of Sillustani, a pre-Incan burial ground.
Day 1: USA - Lima
Overnight flight to Lima.
Day 2: Lima
Morning arrival in Lima; transfer to your hotel.
Afternoon city tour of Lima—always one of the most important cities in South America. Journey through the historic center of the city. Admire the beauty of San Martín and Major squares, the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and visit San Francisco Convent, a religious building from the late 16th century, and its catacombs. Also drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores.
Day 3: Lima - Cuzco 
Morning transfer to the airport to take the flight to Cuzco. Upon arrival in Cuzco, transfer to your hotel. Afternoon city tour of Cuzco, visit the Korikancha Temple or Temple of the Sun. Visits to the Cathedral and its Art Museum, the artisans’ quarter of San Blas and San Blas church are also available. After your visits, you’ll continue to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko and finally the Sacsahuaman Fortress. Return to your hotel.
Day 4: Cuzco - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
Morning transfer to the train station. Train takes you through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, you will board a bus to the mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu. You will then have a guided tour of the ruins.
Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial and agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cuzco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the Coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family and priests. You will have time to enjoy a light lunch or snack, and return to your hotel at your leisure. In the evening, you will have a wonderful dinner at the hotel or in the village of Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes - Cuzco
Day at leisure. You may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu, or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, we will board the train to return to Cuzco. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Day 6: Cuzco - Lake Titicaca
Morning at leisure in Cuzco. Afternoon transfer to the airport to take the flight to Lake Titicaca. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Day 7: Lake Titicaca
Transfer to the port to take a boat ride over Lake Titicaca, to visit the famous floating islands of Uros. Afternoon tour to the island of Taquile, known for its pre-Inca and Inca ruins and Inca terraces. Lunch included.
Day 8: Lake Titicaca - Lima - USA
Morning visit to the necropolis of Sillustani, 12,000 feet above sea level, the lagoon of Umayo and the fabulous “chullpas” or tombs in the shape of cylinders. Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Lima and connect with the flight back home.
