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DAY 6: MACHU PICCHU.
As a group, we’ll enjoy the sunrise overlooking the famous Machu Picchu Inca ruins and tour the ruins. Machu Picchu is shrouded in mystery and lively debate. This “Lost City of the Incas”, perched high in a saddle between two peaks, was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. The sheer sides of the mountain offer dizzying views of the valley below while the deserted and ruined city guards its ancient secrets. The impressive ruins, hidden for 400 years by semi-tropical jungle lies between two peaks with sheer mountainsides falling vertically to the valley below. Built in the style of Late Imperial Inca, with no evidence of pre or post-Inca habitation, the site was constructed, occupied and abandoned within a century.
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Machu Picchu is an inspiration! We’ll take a guided tour of the “Lost City of the Inca” with plenty of time to wander through the mysterious terraces and temples. Our English-speaking guide will point out the significance of the various stone structures and discuss some of the theories put forth to solve the mysteries of Machu Picchu. On this unforgettable journey, we’ll walk to Intipunku, the “Gate of the Sun”, looking down on Machu Picchu as the splendid stone ruins hover in the mist before us. Blocks of stone with walls are so finely carved that you can barely slip a piece of paper between them. We will do our exploring by foot (moderate hiking), taking short hikes with large steps, and at times uneven walking surfaces. Sturdy hiking boots and sunscreen are recommended. Free afternoon for an optional walk, with difficulty ranging from a leisurely walk to the Temple of the Moon to the more challenging ascent of Huayna Picchu. The surrounding rain forest also offers fine bird watching. Meals: (B)
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Day 7: Train and ground transport to Pisac. The quaint town of Pisac offers a colorful market, picturesque plaza, and impressive Inca fortress ruins situated 1800 feet above the town. The incredible view here overlooks the Rio Kitamayo Gorge, the Rio Chongo Valley, and is famous for its agricultural terracing. Meals: (B).
Day 8: Free day in Pisac to visit the Inca fortress above the city ($15 pp) and to enjoy the Pisac market.
Day 9: Flight to Lima & the USA.
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