Written by:Claire Dean
Published: 18-08-2022
Completely invisible from below and often shrouded in a thick mist concealing it from the eyes view, there’s an elegant air of mystery to Machu Picchu, one of South America’s most important archaeological sites. Tucked away in the Peruvian Andes, as they head down to the rainforest, it’s one of the best-preserved Inca cities in South America. While almost all others were destroyed during the Spanish conquest, Machu Picchu remained undiscovered. It’s an essential visit for anyone traveling to Peru, and despite the remote location, there is an exquisite way to spend your time at Machu Picchu in the lap of luxury. Here is why you should choose our luxury tour of Machu Picchu.
Llama at machu Picchu
Cusco
On arrival in Cusco, we will collect you from the airport and take you to the luxury hotel of your choice. Today we will be acclimatizing and getting acquainted with the Inca capital, Cusco, a stunning city Cusco, a stunning city that is full of incredible architecture (both Inca and colonial) as well as excellent restaurants and hotels. Get to know the real Cusco when you and your guide wander among the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress with magnificent Inca stonework, Qenqo ceremonial site and Tambomachay Inca baths, with a setting to behold. Return to the city and roam the atmospheric streets of the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, known as the city's artistic quarter. Explore the Inca temple of the sun - The Qoricancha, with the Santo Domingo church atop the Inca foundations and the centerpiece of the impressive Plaza de Armas, the cathedral.
Koricancha Temple of The Sun, Cusco
Rainbow Mountain
Located south of Cusco and in the province of Canchis is the amazing Vinicunca Mountain or Rainbow Mountain. Its impressive and brightly-colored natural prowess has made it an essential place to visit when in the area. You can reach this mountain in a group service at a cheap cost. We will head out in our private vehicle through magnificent Andean scenery to the town of Quesiuno, standing at 4326m elevation (14,189 ft), the trailhead for this day hike. It is a walk of approximately 2 hours with Andean flora and fauna all along the way and countryside panoramas that will leave you in awe. Our reward is the magnificent Rainbow Mountain standing at 5036 meters elevation with surrounding red mountains and scenery out of this world. After the classic photo opportunities, we will return to our vehicle with an incredible lunch amidst these beautiful mountains, prepared by our fantastic chef. A time to marvel at the wonders of nature while savoring gourmet cuisine in a mountain setting…. An unparalleled experience. Our return journey to Cusco will be a time of reflection about this unique and awe-inspiring rainbow-colored mountain, which will remain for years to come.
Rainbow Mountain
The Belmond Hiram Bingham To Machu Picchu
Our adventure continues with by far the most luxurious way to arrive at Machu Picchu. The Belmond Hiram Bingham runs between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu; sip on pisco sours at the bar as you whizz through the region’s spectacular landscapes, enjoying brunch accompanied by a live performance from Peruvian musicians. After a guided tour of Machu Picchu with your expert guide, afternoon tea is served in the gardens at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge., the only hotel at the archaeological site. Spend the night here at this superb Sanctuary Lodge hotel before returning to the site the following day to see Machu Picchu in the morning light, and perhaps hike to one of the many viewpoints, including Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, or absorb the magical energies of this inspirational setting and Inca architecture. This evening you will spend the night in luxury in the heart of The Sacred Valley.
Hiram Bingham
The Sacred Valley
With your guide by your side, ascend the sloped terraces to the ruins of a centuries-old fortress above the town of Ollantaytambo, where the Incas secured a significant victory over the Spanish conquistadors. Inspect the intricately built stone constructions and have your guide show you the distant quarries from where the Incas sourced these huge stone blocks. This site also offers magnificent views of the valley and the Urubamba River that meanders through it. Our next port of call is Pisaq, with fantastic ruins above the town and an incredible, traditional market in the quaint village below. The perfect place to buy authentic souvenirs from your impressive journey through the land of the Incas. We will head back to your luxury hotel in Cusco for your final evening of fine dining and exquisite comfort in The Inca capital.
Sacred Valley Hotel
