MACHU PICCHU ON THE HIRAM BINGHAM
Code: CLA-02
This tour is available to guests disembarking in Lima on January 24, 2010.
Explore the ancient beauty and mystery surrounding Machu Picchu, a must-see ancient city crafted high in the Peruvian Andes. This monument of human achievement was believed to have been constructed during a single lifetime, yet remained undiscovered for centuries until 1911. Its terraced ruins include palaces, baths, temples and nearly 150 houses. Your journey through Peru's past begins with a flight from Lima to Cusco, followed by a visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Upon arrival, you will browse the markets and a varied collection of artifacts, visit an Incan fortress and attend an Andean dinner show. The next day, you will take a luxury day-trip aboard the Hiram Bingham Railway, and discover the spectacular Andean scenery and the Lost Citadel of the Incas. On the final day of your visit, you will take an orientation tour of historic Cusco before flying on to Lima for your overnight at the JW Marriott in Lima. The next day you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
January 24, 2010 - Callao/Cusco
Upon disembarking the ship in Callao, you will be met at the pier and transferred to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, you will be met and depart for the drive to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. After a visit to a typical market in Pisac, you will proceed for lunch at Casa Hacienda Orihuela, where the Orihuelas, a family of great collectors, will be your hosts. The house has a varied collection of popular and Colonial art, ceramics, paintings, weapons, photography, ceremonial vessels, and the ceramic bulls of Pucara. The environs include a forest of eucalyptus trees and other native species, along with the famous giant white corn that is cultivated for export.
Drive through the valley enroute to the Aranwa Hotel for check-in and some time to be spent at your leisure. In the evening, you will attend a dinner and show, God of the Andes. This performance tells the Andean story of how the earth is cleaned in order to receive the many gods of the Andes, including the sun, the moon, the fire, mother earth, or pachamama, and the thunder. Overnight at the Aranwa Hotel - Sacred Valley.
January 25, 2010 - Machu Picchu/Cusco
After breakfast at the hotel, you will visit Ollantaytambo, the Inca fortress and walk through the quaint streets of the nearby town. Next, transfer to Ollanta's station to board the Hiram Bingham, the deluxe Orient-Express train named after the man who discovered Machu Picchu in 1911. During the 3.5-hour journey, brunch will be served as you take in the spectacular Andean scenery. Upon arrival at the Lost Citadel of the Incas, you will proceed for a guided tour of the citadel, and stroll through the archeological site before stopping for afternoon tea at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge Hotel. At sunset, you will re-board the train for the return ride to Cusco. Back on board the Hiram Bingham, you will cap off your memorable day in Machu Picchu with a cocktail accompanied by live entertainment and a four-course gourmet dinner served in the dining car. Upon arrival back in Cusco, you will be transferred from Poroy's Station to the hotel. Overnight at the Monasterio Hotel - Cusco.
January 26, 2010 - Cusco/Lima
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be taken on a panoramic, early-morning tour of Cusco. The city features an eclectic blend of Colonial Spanish charm with the older, more ancient remains of pre-Colombian glory. Cusco boasts the finest examples of Incan history and architecture, and the foundations of pre-Colonial construction can be found on many of its city streets. During your guided sightseeing tour of the city, you will see historic monuments that include the Main Square, the Cathedral and the Korikancha Temple of the Sun.
Following your tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred via air-conditioned coach for an orientation tour of the City of the Kings. Along the way, you will explore Peru's capital city, its 2,000-year history and Colonial heritage, as well as the artistic traditions and contemporary lives of its residents. You will also tour Lima's Historical Center and visit Casa Luna. Here, the owners will welcome you into their home and show you their unique collection of Nativity scenes. Lunch will be served at the Huaca Pucllana restaurant, which is located within the compound of a 1,500-year-old adobe pyramid built by Lima's original inhabitants. While the rustic, Colonial-styled restaurant offers indoor seating, the best spot is without a doubt dining on the covered terrace. The menu features a blend of Peruvian and classic Criollo cooking. After lunch, your transfer will take you to your hotel for the evening where you can enjoy dinner on your own at the hotel's restaurant or at one of the local restaurants nearby. Overnight at the JW Marriott.
January 27, 2010 - End Program
After breakfast and check out, you will be transferred to the airport to await your departing flight home.
Please note: Cusco is situated at an altitude in excess of 11,000 feet, and Machu Picchu is situated at an altitude exceeding 10,000 feet. Guests prone to altitude sickness may want to check with their physician before booking this program. This tour involves walking on bumpy and uneven surfaces, and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilize a wheelchair. Pack one small carry-on bag for this program. Larger pieces of luggage will be stored at the JW Marriott in Lima during your visit to Cusco. Casual, layered clothing, sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended. Due to heightened security, large luggage will not be accepted on the train and all guests must show their passport before embarking the train.
Program Includes:
- Scheduled one-way, Coach Class flights: Lima/Cusco/Lima
- One night at the Aranwa Hotel - Sacred Valley
- One night at the Monasterio Hotel - Cusco
- One night at the JW Marriott - Lima
- Reserved seat on the Orient-Express Hiram Bingham deluxe train
- Three breakfasts, three lunches and two dinners (some meals are buffet-style, and lunches and dinners include a choice of soft drinks, local wine and beer)
- Air-conditioned coaches
- All transfers and sightseeing as per program
- Mineral water on all coaches and hotel rooms