Authentic Andean Journey

Authentic Andean

The Sacred Valley, Cusco & Machu Picchu

9 days / 8 nights

Savor the ambiance of the Sacred Valley. Find yourself surrounded by breathtaking scenery and exploration of the Inca legacy through its Quechua descendants. Visit ancient sites, colorful markets, and partake in an ancient living culture rooted in agriculture. Immerse yourself in the spirit of this Inca land. Discover the elegant simplicity of Andean people and celebrate their customs, cuisine, art, music, and dance. Learn about their philosophy; understand their history and way of life. Walk the ancient pathways and enrich your perspective. This unforgettable cultural immersion experience is sure to enhance your spirit.

The Andes… where sacred corn grows and iridescent hummingbirds emanate their joy. The Andes… snow peaks soaring in the distance over charming communities, Inca sites, and quaint village markets. The Andes… a profound heritage wrapped in layers of colorfully elegant wisdom and contemporary sophistication. The Andes… the inspiration of authentic Peruvian hospitality.

Useful Information

Destinations: The Sacred Valley, Cusco & Machu Picchu

Description: High altitude, mountainous terrain with scenic drives, walks and day hikes. Details depend on special interest focus for some programs.

Altitudes: Cusco 11,200 ft, Pisac 10,000 ft, Machu Picchu 7,500 ft, Amaru 10,500 ft, Lake Titicaca, 12,000 ft.

Length: 9 days / 8 nights, customizable

Difficulty: Moderate

Category: Boutique (3 star level) or Luxury (4 - 5 star)

Available: Small Group or Private Group

Pace: Moderate, with time for relaxation

Interests: Cultural & Culinary, Andean Heritage including textiles and music, Spirituality & Worldview, Sacred Geometry, Astronomy & Agronomy

Dates: We specialize in weaving hand-tailored journeys, so if you are interested in a Private Group with a customized program, please contact us to check availability and coordinate dates. Our Small Group trips have set dates with set programs.

Extensions: Add on extensions if you want to explore more areas of Peru. View all extensions here.

Travel Information: Click here for more information and FAQs.

Trip Highlights

Trip Highlights:

Engage in this rare opportunity for authentic social interaction and cultural participation.
Experience the Sacred Valley of the Incas stepping back in time, visiting the finest archeological sites, picturesque villages and colorful markets.
Savor exquisite Peruvian cuisine and experience the exciting culinary explosion.
Witness small town life in the Sacred Valley while staying at the charming Pisac Inn, or a selection of luxury hotels.
Enjoy daily excursions with in-depth educational stories and the expertise of local native guides with their indigenous voice.
Visit a traditional community and participate in their communal workday, a first hand cultural perspective that deepens appreciation of Quechua history and social life.
Marvel at Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Explore Cusco, capital of the vast Inca state and navel of the ancestral world.
Join in our commitment to the preservation, protection and celebration of endangered Andean traditions and cultural heritage. Traveling with us directly supports sustainable tourism and cultural projects.

Prices

Small group prices starting from $2,500 dollars per person for a minimum of 8 passengers; pricing according to special interest focus of the set program, and the set price is listed
Private group prices are determined upon request, and are based on number of travelers, time of year, and final customized itinerary
Once the trip is booked by submitting on online Booking Form, and the down payment is made, you will receive a digital Travel Pack with detailed information, including a recommended reading list and a packing list
The cost of tour is in U.S. dollars per person
Small group sizes are minimum 8 & maximum 12 passengers; private groups can be any size, and will be priced accordingly
Prices per person are based on double occupancy - a single room has an additional cost, upon availability
Customize your trip with hotel upgrades, add on special events, activities, and extensions
Taxes may apply
Programs and prices are subject to change and availability, and may not be applicable on some dates and holiday seasons

Included

Airport transfers and all ground transportation upon arrival to Cusco in a private tourist level vehicle
Private, specialized, professional, English speaking native guides on excursions and during special events
Entrance fees to all historical sites on daily excursions
Cultural events with local Andean specialists
Fresh, organic meals celebrating Peruvian cuisine as on program
Charming accommodations, standard double occupancy
Visit our Social Projects: The Kusi Kawsay Andean School & Kusi Ñan Organic Farm, exceptional educational projects that honor Andean tradition with elements of Waldorf pedagogy
Visit Apu Runawana Weaving Society in the traditional community of Amaru
Tourist class train from Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
Tourist class bus Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
Overnight in Aguas Calientes 1 night, standard double occupancy

Not Included

Airfare
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Special events and activities not included in program
Spa treatments
Tips or donations
Meals eaten out as indicated on program
Snacks or beverages not included at mealtime

VIEW/DOWNLOAD SAMPLE ITINERARY

Special Interest Immersion Series

These trips are based on our Authentic Andean Journey with a special interest focus. The same itinerary, with slight variations, includes extra events and activities for a deeper cultural immersion travel experience.

Below are sample ideas, which can be handcrafted to your personal travel interests and travel style.

Student Program

Special interest focus:
Designed for students to experience the excitement of becoming part of the new culture at hand. Participate in the varied components that make this an educational experience of a lifetime: hands on participation in educational, cultural and agrarian service projects, cultural exchange with local students, language classes, special events and guided reflections combined with visits to archeological sites, including Machu Picchu. This unique opportunity to authentically engage in an indigenous point of view opens doors to new perspectives.

Music & Dance

Special Interest Focus:
Celebrate the essence of Andean culture through the wealth of its legendary music. Become intrigued by the sounds, notes, vibrations, flutes in all shapes and sizes, swirling skirts, and panpipes that transport you to another dimension. Explore the authentic music that intrinsically imparts Andean worldview through a native perspective—an ethno-musical journey to the heart of Peru.

Weaving Ancestral Paths

Special interest focus:
Peruvian weaving is one of the oldest and greatest contributions to world civilization, and it continues to evolve and flourish. Celebrate the essence of Andean culture through the wealth of its legendary textile art. Be intrigued by the back strap looms, techniques and natural plant dyes; astounding hues of purples and reds from prized cochinilla, and rare tones of blue. Explore the intrinsic patterns, symbols and designs through a native perspective —a journey to the heart of Andean worldview.

“Traditional textile patterns honor Pachamama, Mother Universe, and express thankfulness for growth, regeneration and the idea of being related to the natural world.” Lucia C’Cana

Peruvian Cuisine

Special interest focus:
Peru is one of the world’s most exciting culinary travel destinations, with an exquisite food scene. Celebrate the essence of Andean culture through the wealth of its legendary flavors and aromas. Become intrigued by the cultural and agricultural origins of food; purple potatoes, exotic amaranth, Incan quinoa. Explore the intrinsically agrarian Andean worldview through a native perspective—a culinary journey to the heart of food.

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