Superior Luxury Machu Picchu & Galapagos Cruise – Santa Cruz

Luxury 5* Marriott Hotel Quito

The gateway to the Galapagos Islands and Andean mountains. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel in Quito, Ecuador features an amazing atrium lobby where you can enjoy a martini or espresso while enjoying the view and planning your adventure.

Amenities include spacious guest rooms and suites with magnificent views, high-speed Internet access, in-room safe and luxurious bedding. On-site restaurants offer innovative Ecuadorian and international cuisine. Tan in the sun in our tropical gardens or take a dip in our resort-style pool. Stay fit in our fitness center and rejuvenate with a body treatment or massage.

Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime vacation or business trip, you’ll find luxurious accommodations at the JW Marriott

Hotel Quito, Ecuador. One of the most luxurious Quito hotels.

Superior Room

•  Maximum Occupancy: 4
• 1 King or 2 Double
• Featherbed, and Duvet
• Air-conditioned
• This room is non-smoking
• Living/sitting area
• Windows, soundproof
• Evening turndown service
• Room service, 24-Hour
• Bottled water, complimentary
• Coffee maker / tea service
• Instant hot water
• Mini-bar
• Mini-refrigerator
• International cable/satellite
• Wi-Fi high-speed Internet access

Colonial Quito City Tour and Middle of the World Monument

• Visit the Independence Square flanked by the Presidential, the Archbishop’s palaces and, the Metropolitan Cathedral.
• Walk along the so called street of the seven crosses and pass by the Jesuit temple of La Compañía de Jesús, perhaps the most important monument of the baroque art, continue to the plaza of San Francisco. From there we head approximately 11 miles (18 ) north of downtown Quito, we visit “Mitad del Mundo” (Middle of the World) and the Equator Monument situated at 0º0’0” latitude.
• We also visit the Intiñan Solar Museum, where you’ll find scientific and experimental aspects of being right at the Equator.

Yacht Description

Santa Cruz – 90 Passengers

The Santa Cruz is the finest ship in her class to sail the archipelago today. She’s versatile, flexible and fun, with an excellent crew committed to making her guests’ experience extraordinary.

Underwater discovery

We have an extra naturalist guide – an Underwater Naturalist – who leads guests by the hand during swimming and snorkelling activities, helping them with masks, snorkels and techniques. We’re confident far more of our guests will enjoy the ship’s snorkelling activities, revealing another world of wonder in the Galápagos that they might otherwise have missed.

Expedition equipment

To record our guests’ fun in the water, our high-quality staff camera has an underwater housing – and photos of the expeditions are always shown on the last night before disembarking, and all photos are uploaded to websites for future viewing and sharing.

Family Fun

We believe the Santa Cruz to be the best option for family journeys, so we’ve reinforced our commitment to giving families precious moments to share, explore, learn and have fun together. As part of every journey, we include: our “Pirates Aboard” program on board with attractive kits full of materials.  kids’ meals and times board games and puzzles in the library panga rides just for young explorers an “introduction to snorkeling for kids” time with our extra naturalist bridge visits with the Captain.

Santa Cruz Island visits: great alternative activities During her twice-fortnightly visit to Santa Cruz Island, the ship offers alternative activities including trekking in the highlands through the impressive Scalesia forest, biking downhill to a secluded beach, or walking to Tortuga Bay for some kayaking or some down-time. We are one of the

very few companies to provide these alternatives.

Something for everyone The Santa Cruz offers more flexibility in making groups – depending on physical abilities and/or personal interests (e.g. shorter walks for older passengers; children’s panga rides). There are options for the active, fun for families, underwater explorations, expedition equipment… something for everyone. Combine these with the crew’s deep sense of service and we feel each and every one of the Santa Cruz’s guests will return home enriched, revived and inspired.

Our Galapagos Travel Team consists of a Chief Naturalist and seven Naturalists.  All will delight guests with diverse natural history explanations, superb on-deck talks, and eye-catching lectures regarding natural history issues. Their multimedia presentations and recaps will complement the day’s activities. Together with the Captain, they will plan the day’s program. They are masters of Galapagos travel. Soon enough, our Naturalists will become the highlight of your voyage on Santa Cruz. At night, when pitch-dark starry skies are seen, stargazing is an amazing nocturnal activity. The southern skies are beautifully arranged with exuberant constellations.                                                             

4 Nights Northern Galápagos, Monday to Friday

We’re delighted to have you on board for this journey of discovery to some of the most beautiful islands in the Galápagos. Our itinerary together begins from the bay near Baltra airport, from where we’ll sail to the glorious white beach of Las Bachas with a pair of brackish lagoons only a few steps from the sea. These lagoons are the feeding grounds of various wading birds, from stilts to flamingos. On Tuesday, we explore two fascinating visitor sites on Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove, home to a large number of marine birds, sea lions, and inter-tidal organisms, and Puerto Egas, with its great walk along pools full of life and good snorkeling and swimming possibilities. The next day we visit the red-sand beach of Rábida Island, a lovely trail around some cliffs and a popular spot for swimming, followed by the volcanic viewpoint of Bartolomé in the afternoon, combining a hike, a swim, a beach and coastal exploration – a top Galápagos day! From here we sail northeast to the sunken crater of Genovesa, a wild place home to thousands of marine birds, a world a million miles from our own. We finish in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galápagos Province.

Wherever we sail, whatever we do, all the crew aboard the Santa Cruz will do their utmost to ensure your Galápagos experience is truly, deeply moving and memorable.

4 Nights Eastern Galápagos, Saturday to Wednesday We’re delighted to have you on board for this journey of discovery to some of the most beautiful islands in the Galápagos. Our itinerary together begins on San Cristóbal Island, the capital of the Galápagos Province. From here, we venture east along the northern shores of the island, visiting the fascinating site of Punta Pitt, taking us back to Charles Darwin’s visit of 1835. We then sail west to the central islands of Santa Fe, with its beautiful tranquil bay (great for swimming and snorkeling), before continuing to the wild cliffs of South Plaza with their cactus, land iguanas and stunning marine birds. The following day we visit the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, the most populous in the archipelago, with a range of activities on offer in the afternoon.

Española Island awaits on our last day, a favorite of many visitors, with its remarkable visitor site of Punta Suárez. Here, we’ll wander along the rugged coastline, home to hundreds of marine iguanas, sea lions, marine birds, and even albatross (at certain times of year). In the afternoon, Gardner Bay provides a wonderful setting for a combination of beach-time, swimming snorkeling or exploring aboard the glass-bottom boat. Wherever we sail, whatever we do, all the crew aboard the Santa Cruz will do our utmost to ensure your Galápagos experience is truly, deeply moving and memorable.

Other services

• Bar – Lounge, Boutique
• Gift Shop
• Email, radio, telephone, and Fax communications.
• PA system.
• Snorkeling Equipment
• Shortie wet suits (used between June and December)
• Multimedia natural history lectures
• Stargazing Program
• Glass bottom boat
• Jacuzzi
• Reading Room and Natural History
• Library
• Air conditioned throughout
• Safety boxes
• Hair dryers

Decks & Cabins

On the M/V Santa Cruz Boat Deck, there are two master suites with double beds (plus a sofa bed for a child) and a private balcony, and two junior suites with twin beds (plus a sofa bed for a child). Six Superior-Class cabins have twin or double beds, that together with the remaining Standard Cabins on the Upper and Main decks offer a variety of accommodations, all meeting the same high standard for comfort and style. Family guests have ample choice among single, double and triple accommodations.

The M/V Santa Cruz Sun Deck features a bar and Jacuzzi, along with the observation platform for dolphin and whale watching. The dining room, lounge and bar are elegantly appointed, as is the well-stocked library/reading room. As an alternative to snorkeling, the glass-bottom boat offers another opportunity to observe the marine life.

The entire ship is air-conditioned. A carefully planned Santa Cruz galapagos itinerary includes the Galapagos’ main highlights plus, a flexible program allowing guests to enjoy several alternatives for their daily activities. In essence, an expedition to the best National Park, aboard the only ship exclusively built for exploring the Galapagos.

Santa Cruz Cabins

• Boat Deck Master Suite Cabin
• Boat Deck Junior Suite Cabin
• Boat Deck Superior Twin Cabin
• Boat Deck Standard Plus Twin Cabin

 Cruise Itinerary – 5 days / 4 nights

Northern Galápagos – Monday to Friday

Our itinerary together begins from the bay near. Baltra airport, from where we’ll sail to the glorious white beach of Las Bachas with a pair of brackish lagoons only a few steps from the sea. These lagoons are the feeding grounds of various wading birds, from stilts to flamingos. On Tuesday, we explore two fascinating visitor sites on Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove, home to a large number of marine birds, sea lions, and inter-tidal organisms, and Puerto Egas, with its great walk along pools full of life and good snorkeling and swimming possibilities. The next day we visit the red-sand beach of Rábida Island, a lovely trail around some cliffs and a popular spot for swimming, followed by the volcanic viewpoint of Bartolomé in the afternoon, combining a hike, a swim, a beach and coastal exploration – a top Galápagos day! From here we sail northeast to the sunken crater of Genovesa, a wild place home to thousands of marine birds, a world a million miles from our own. We finish in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galápagos Province.

Wherever we sail, whatever we do, all the crew aboard the Santa Cruz will do our utmost to ensure your Galápagos experience is truly, deeply moving and memorable.

Monday – Day 1 of the Galapagos Cruise – Baltra Airport (Santa Cruz Island)

We land at Baltra Island by plane in the morning and transfer to the dock to board the Santa Cruz, where we receive a welcome introductory briefing and lunch.

Las Bachas (Santa Cruz Island)

This beautiful visitor site is located on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, a glorious white beach with several brackish

lagoons only a few steps away from the sea. These lagoons are the feeding grounds of various wading birds, from stilts to flamingos. This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with snorkeling gear and techniques. Welcome cocktail, expedition plan for Tuesday and dinner.

Tuesday – Day 2 in the Galapagos – Buccaneer Cove (Santiago Island)

After breakfast, we explore the coastline along the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove, learning about the area’s distant and recent history. The cove is home to a large number of marine birds, sea lions, and inter-tidal organisms. Enjoy fantastic natural formations such as the “Elephant Rock”, “The Bishop” and an impressive natural cave. This is a great site for snorkeling or panga ride.

Puerto Egas (Santiago Island)

Once we disembark at the beach, we can enjoy a swim or snorkel amid a rocky shoreline, usually in the company of

marine turtles. From here, we head off to our walk, a great opportunity to see land and marine birds amid landscape of tuff-stone layers and lava flows. At low tide, marine iguanas graze upon the algae beds and we can also observe a colony of fur-sea lions. Non-snorkelers can enjoy a longer walk.

Wednesday – Day 3 of the Cruise – Rábida Island

After breakfast, we land on Rábida Island’s red-colored beach, caused by the unusually high content of iron in the volcanic material. Our walk brings us close to a large colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin’s finches. Very close to the beach, a salt pond hosts migrating greater flamingos at certain times of year. This is a great place to snorkel from the beach, both for beginners as well as for experienced snorkelers, due to the unique combination of underwater species and submarine landscapes. Non-snorkelers will enjoy a ride on the glass bottom boat or a panga ride. During navigation to our next island, dolphins are often spotted!

Bartolomé Island

We land at Bartolomé for a hike to the summit of this diminutive island that boasts fantastic views of the archipelago.

This is a moderately steep climb aided by a wooden staircase, resting platforms and handrails – the view from the top is worth the effort! Following our walk, we take to the pangas and the glass bottom boat for a ride around the colossal Pinnacle Rock, and then land at the beach to enjoy some swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing (possibly with).

Thursday – Day 4 in the Galapagos – Prince Philip Steps (Genovesa Island)

The morning starts with a panga ride along the cliffs of this dramatic island, followed by landing with a steep climb (90 feet) up some stairs to reach a flat plateau. Along our walk, we can observe large colonies of Nazca boobies, red footed boobies, great frigate birds and storm petrels. Those not wishing to disembark can enjoy a longer panga ride along the cliffs (depending on weather conditions). After the walk, we can snorkel along the dramatic cliffs where there are chances of spotting lots of fish, including hammerhead sharks.

Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island)

In the afternoon, we land at this beautiful beach to enjoy some swimming and/or snorkeling. Following our dip, we take an easy stroll to observe hundreds of birds, mainly frigate birds, red footed and Nazca boobies, gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. There’s an optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views, or else we can return to the beach or enjoy a panga ride.

Friday – Final day of the Galapagos Cruise

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno & Tortoise Breeding Centre (San Cristóbal Island)

After breakfast, there’s optional departure to see the breeding program of giant tortoises at Cerro Colorado. Here, we learn about this endangered species and its promising recovery.

5* J.W. Marriott Hotel Lima

The JW Marriott Hotel Lima is located in the Miraflores district, near the LarcoMar Shopping & Entertainment Center.

The Marriott Recently recognized by Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List 2011 as one of the Best Places to Stay in The World, as chosen by readers. Located atop Costa Verde’s rocky cliffs, overlooking the ocean and accessible by coastal path.  It’s a draw for beachgoers, surfers, and paragliders. This is a luxury 5* Hotel but for its safe, central, and excellent location is worth the little extra.

The Deluxe Rooms are there entry level rooms and come with sea views.

Guest rooms and suites offer spectacular panoramic views of the beautiful Pacific Ocean. For your convenience, high-speed Internet is offered in all guest rooms and suites for a daily fee. Spacious guest rooms at our hotel in Lima offer luxurious Marriott bedding and marble bathrooms. Our luxury hotel in Lima, Peru, is proud to be the city’s first 100- percent smoke-free hotel. Additional guest room amenities include cozy robes and slippers, mini- bars and LCD televisions. Business travelers will enjoy large desks with conveniently placed lighting and ergonomic chairs. This hotel has a smoke-free policy

The Lima Gourmet Company Gastronomic Tour

Tourism in Lima Peru, once omitted from travelers’ lists while visiting the country, has been steadily attracting the attention of globe- trotters and adventure-seekers.

While there is an abundance of tours in Lima that follow the typical tourist circuits led by traditional guided monologues, we believe that a hands-on experience, savoring the food, chatting with real limeños and visiting the top restaurants, districts and historical points the locals prefer is a much more dynamic and exciting way to see the city.

We’ve designed this Lima Peru tour to be an ideal introduction to the city and Peruvian culture so that you can get a good feel of the city in just five hours.

Now you have no excuse not to fall in love with the city before heading to Machu Picchu, the Amazon or even if you’re just here for work.

his Lima Peru tour starts at a local roastery, where they hand-pick the coffee beans daily, for an organic Peruvian coffee. You will also tour the colonial streets of the bohemian district, Barranco, home to artists, musicians and the city’s top art galleries.

From here you’ll visit a traditional market in the San Isidro district to try exotic fruits and local products and learn the ancient myths and legends associated with them.

The third stop is one of the city’s top seafood restaurants (cebichería), Embarcadero 41 Fusión, on Avenida La Mar in the

Miraflores district – a stop other tours in Lima won’t take you.  You’ll discover the secrets to the perfect Ceviche and Pisco Sour as you prepare the dish and cocktail yourself with the head chef and bartender.

The last stop is for lunch at  la Huaca Pucllana, a restaurant within a pre-Incan archeological complex – undoubtedly a highlight of tourism in Lima Peru. This prestigious restaurant is so impressive that the King of Spain, Mick Jagger, Bill and Hillary Clinton, just to name a few, have made sure not to miss it during their trips to Lima. You’ll enjoy a variety of gourmet Peruvian dishes as well as four different desserts and another pisco-based cocktail.

Luxury 5* Monasterio Hotel

Right beside the lively Cuzco Central Square is Hotel Monasterio, a former monastery and national monument dating from 1592.  This delightful hotel combines its centuries-old charm and ambience with luxury hotel service, inspired restaurants and boutique rooms and suites.

The ideal hotel from which to discover the delights of Cuzco, its doors open to a vibrant scene of old and modern architecture, markets, galleries and restaurants serving ‘new Andean’ cuisine.

The building was seriously damaged by the earthquake in 1650, and upon restoration the beautiful Chapel was added.  It is decorated in the indigenous Baroque style with gold-plated pictures frames and truly magnificent paintings by the best artists of the Cusquenian Art School, depicting scenes from the life of San Antonio Abad.

The Monastery was originally built in 1595 on the site of the palace of Inca Amaru Qhala.  In 1598, it was founded as the Seminary of San Antonio Abad by the sixth Bishop of Cuzco, Monsignor Antonio de la Raya, to train Catholic priests.

Art and architecture

The building which houses Belmond Hotel Monasterio is steeped in history and hosts its very own art collection. You

don’t need to travel far to soak up the local culture.

The Monastery was originally built in 1595 on the site of the palace of Inca Amaru Qhala.  In 1598, it was founded as the Seminary of San Antonio Abad by the sixth Bishop of Cuzco, Monsignor Antonio de la Raya, to train Catholic priests.

Art and architecture

The building which houses Belmond Hotel Monasterio is steeped in history and hosts its very own art collection. You

don’t need to travel far to soak up the local culture.

Guest services

Whether you’re into white water rafting or a four-day trek through the Sacred Valley, there’s plenty of fresh air fun just outside the hotel walls. Our team can arrange guided cultural tours, classes in traditional crafts or an afternoon cooking regional specialties with our Chef.

Therapy suite

Choose relaxing aromatherapy or a reviving Thai massage from the massage menu.  Or call your personal Bath Butler to prepare an exquisite and indulgent end to a day of adventure and exploration.

Business and events

The historical building offers a unique backdrop for your conference, team building or incentive event.  The glorious

Baroque chapel and cloistered courtyard make an exquisitely romantic setting for a wedding.

Enjoy modern comfort surrounded by timeless charm. Each Room is wonderfully unique, reflecting the monastery’s charm and elegance.  Rich wood furnishings, antique artwork and architectural quirks add to the historic atmosphere.

Superior Rooms

Feature warm and inviting Spanish colonial décor, king-size or twin beds and luxurious marble bathrooms. Each Room is wonderfully unique, reflecting the monastery’s charm and elegance.

Views across a cloistered courtyard or the Hotel’s beautifully restored exteriors are sure to inspire.

These luxurious rooms feature rich wood furnishings and antique artwork, and some Rooms can be enriched with oxygen to combat the effects of Cusco’s high altitude.

All rooms also offer:

• Individually controlled heating system and air conditioning
• Personal safety box
• Televisions
•  Telephone
• Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet connection
• Rooms can be enriched with oxygen to combat the

effects of Cusco’s high altitude.

Dining in the Monasterio

 Sample the Mediterranean cuisine and distinctive charm of Illary Restaurant. At El Tupay, French-inspired dishes and Bohemian Nights with local singers are not to be missed.

Hotel Monasterio is located right next to Palacio Nazarenas and you may add any dining expense to your account.

The Lobby Bar

Join us at the Lobby Bar after an exciting day of sightseeing. The tranquil atmosphere offers the perfect place to relax

and sample a traditional pisco sour with canapés.

In the late afternoons, sink in front of the roaring fire and enjoy the smooth sounds of Cusco’s finest Jazz musicians.

Private Afternoon Cusco City Tour

The Private Half Day Cusco City Tour Visits all of the Principal Inca & Colonial Attractions in Cusco

Tambomachay – This was an Inca sanctuary dedicated to the cult of water, a place reserved for Inca Royalty.

Puca Pucara – This is an Inca archaeological site located again on the peak of a hill and is thought to be a

military position and an administrative center.

Qenko – A sanctuary dedicated to the adoration of animals, and consists of ruins formed by a rocky site with stairs in a zigzag, and a main building similar to a circular amphitheater where 19 window sills are located as a way of seats.

Sacsayhuamán – Its construction took over seven decades and required the work of 20,000 men approximately, both for the foundations and hewn stone works, the transportation of materials, carving and stones setting.

Cusco Cathedral – One of the finest Colonial Cathedrals in the Americas.

Coricancha – Originally named Inti Qancha (‘ Temple of the Sun’) was the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated primarily to Inti, the Sun God.

Luxury Hiram Bingham Train

To Machu Picchu

The Hiram Bingham is an exclusive Luxury Orient Express service operated by Peru Rail, all service inclusive where you will enjoy a full day of unforgettable experiences.

 The service includes:

• Champagne Reception
• Brunch and dinner on board.
• Exclusive Bus return to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
• Entrance to Machu Picchu.
• Guided tour in the citadel.
• Afternoon tea at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge
• Gourmet Dinner & Small Show included on the return journey

Observation Car: At the back of the Hiram Bingham is the Observation car, offering a space in which to truly appreciate the stunning Peruvian landscape.  Observations cars are a great addition to any train and this one is furnished with dark wood, polished brass and large cushioned seats, thus making it the perfect place to sit, relax and watch the unfolding Peruvian landscape.

Carriages: The carriages are luxurious with elegant decoration in the style of the 1920′s Pullman trains.  Each of the four carriages has been furnished in polished wood and brass, with large chairs and plenty of space.

Luxury 5* Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Breakfast | A la Carte Dinner | Orchid, Hummingbird, and Nature Tours Included

How does one best prepare for a visit to the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas? Nothing less than a natural paradise will do — a paradise where one connects completely with the sacred energy of the mountain. In Inkaterra’s vacation paradise and luxury boutique Hotel, a pueblo of luxurious whitewashed bungalow nestles into terraced hills. Spa services use sublime natural essences, and a first-class restaurant boasts stunning views of the rushing Vilcanota River.

The train station is only steps away but Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel exists in a world apart. An intimate 85-cottage luxury Hotel in sprawling Andean style village within the secluded 12 acres of exquisite beauty, where guests follow stone pathways to their rooms, located in comfortable one or two-story whitewashed casitas.

Pueblo Hotel includes several services in their prices being:

•  Your choice of 6 tours
• Detailed below
• A la carte Dinner
• Welcome gift
• Tea Time
• Happy Hour
• Breakfast

Optional Tours – All Included

Birds (2 Hours)

Walk early in the morning to take advantage of the optimum time for cloud-forest bird watching. Begin at a river observatory, with the possibility of sighting the sought-after torrent duck and the white-capped dipper.

Then proceed to a productive tanager feeding area, where silver-beaked, blue-necked, fawn-breasted and saffron-crowned tanagers can be found. Along the hotel’s pathways, be on the lookout for the cock-of-the-rock, the golden-headed quetzal and many of the 18 different hummingbirds identified on the grounds, including the booted racket-tail and the green- and-white hummingbirds, which are native to the area.

Orchids (2 Hours)

Walk through the orchid garden to observe some of the hotel’s 372 different native orchids in bloom. Discover this extraordinary plant family, which has captured the human imagination for centuries. From the largest orchid flower in the world – the Phragmipedium caudatum, to tiny flowering specimens properly appreciated only through a magnifying glass, there are orchids to amaze both the newly inquisitive and the expert, including species new to science which have been discovered on the hotel grounds.

Nature Walk (2 Hours)

Walk along the hotel’s trails, and discover the fascinating yet fragile ecosystem of the Machu Picchu cloud forest, and learn about its many indigenous plants and animals.

The Nature Walk offers guests a glimpse of cloud forest flora: ferns, bromeliads and orchids and fauna -an interesting variety of birds; as well as an introduction to the Vilcanota river system, the Observatory, the tea garden and house.

Tea Plantation (2 Hours)

Visit our organic tea (Camellia Sinensis) plantation and tea house to discover the wonders of the traditional tea making process.  Take part as the freshly picked leaves are pressed over wooden blocks and finally seal your own tea bag. A glass of fresh iced-tea is included.

Twilight Walk (2 Hours)

This early evening walk is designed to connect on a spiritual level with the environment and the historical energy of the Machu Picchu area. With special attention placed on nature’s core elements, the walk pauses at the Rocotal Observatory to appreciate an enchanting waterfall and sacred pre-Inca pictographs.

Spectacled Bear Project (2 Hours)

Spectacled Bear Project, The Inka Terra Association (ITA) and the Peruvian National Institute of Natural Resources (INRENA) manage the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Spectacled Bear Project, an effort designed to recover bears that have been negatively affected by human impact, and reintroduce them into their natural habitat.

Once common throughout the Andes, the spectacled bear is now critically endangered. Visits to the project are organized with advanced coordination to gain insight into the world of these large mammals (the only bear species in South America), and learn about the challenges they face to survive in today’s world.

Donations to the project are welcome and will be duly acknowledged and certified.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu (2 – 3 Hours)

The ‘Holy Grail’ for lovers of Inca monuments, the enigmatic lost city of Machu Picchu is the most famous archaeological site in all of South America and possibly the world. The spectacular collection of temples, terraced hills and plazas

was the mountain-top citadel of the Inca under Pachacutec and Tupac Yupanqui, until the coming of the Europeans with Pizarro.

It may have the most familiar name, but Machu Picchu has refused to reveal many of its mysteries, including the secrets of its construction, function, and demise. The overgrown ruins were discovered by US historian Hiram Bingham in 1911, and the quality of the stonework hints that it was an extremely important ceremonial site.

The remains are thought to date from around 1450, built at the height of the Inca Empire, and as they escaped being plundered by the Spanish they include semi-intact icons and shrines that were defaced or removed at other sites.

Entering the site, a set of steps leads to the ruined Temple of the Sun and a series of altars and niches. Highlights

include the remains of ceremonial baths, the Sacred Plaza with its tremendous view across the Urubamba River valley, a rare shrine to the sun, and a labyrinth of passageways and cells

Private Machu Picchu Tours

Today you will enjoy further Private Guided Tours of Machu Picchu.

You may start at Dawn or as you wish. All tours are included and you are only limited by your time and energy.

The Sun Gate (2 Hours)

Inti Punku the Sun Gate marks the entrance to Machu Picchu. It is a one-hour uphill hike to the southeast of the Sanctuary, climbing more than 300 meters. The hike is on the original Inca trail and is paved with Inca stones.

Apu Machu Picchu (4 to 5 Hours Roundtrip)

The hike to the summit of Apu Machu Picchu is 2 ½ hours and can be quite steep in places.

This trail, accessed from Machu Picchu, joins parts of the Inca trail leading to the Sun Gate before climbing to the mountain’s highest point. From there, enjoy the view of soaring eagles as well as Machu Picchu and other significant ruins in the area, such as Putukusi, Huayna Picchu, Salkantay mountain and the Vilcanota River view.

This is a breathtaking hike, lot of orchids along the way, birds in the bushy areas, and with every stop the view is gets better and better.  The climb is 600 meters uphill, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.

*** Access to Apu Machu Picchu is controlled by special tickets which need to be purchased in advance by us. Access is  07:00 – 11:00.  Please ask to have these tickets included in your tour if desired***

Inka Bridge (Bridge 1 Hour Round Trip)

This hike is to the south west of Machu Picchu, a nice original trail that overlooks the Aobamba valley and the Hydro-electric plant.

This Inca Bridge is a part of a mountain trail that heads west from Machu Picchu. The trail is a stone path, part of which is cut into a cliff face.  A twenty-foot gap was left in this section of the carved cliff face, over a 1,900 feet drop that could be bridged with two tree trunks. When the tree trunks were removed then the trail became impassable to outsiders.

The path is narrow and paved with original Inca stones.

The steep trail continues on and climbs the side of the mountain, leading adventurous travelers to a remote corner of this archaeological site. In addition to a magnificent bird’s-eye view of Machu Picchu, the summit also offers a perfect vantage point to the canyon of the Vilcanota River, the mountain of Putukusi and the distant snow-capped Andean peaks.

Huayna Picchu (3 – 4 Hours)

Huayna Picchu is the mountain you see

behind Machu Picchu.  Towering above the north end of Machu Picchu this steep mountain is often seen in the backdrop to the classic photos of the ruins.

The mountain is steep, but stone steps are laid along most of the way and where the mountain is steeper you will find steel cables used as handrails. For fit people it is not a difficult climb.

Very Limited Access! Only 400 people are allowed to hike Huayna Picchu each day. You have to sign in at the entrance gate. The first 200 tickets are available for the 8:00am hike. The second 200 are available at 10:00am.

***You should buy these special tickets in advance with us to be sure you will have space for this hike***

The Vistadome Service

From Machu Picchu

This DELUXE train ride into the spectacular land of the Inca is highlighted by amazing views of valleys, Inca farming terraces, snowcapped mountains, and sub-tropical jungle. After arriving in Aguas Calientes, a shuttle bus will transport you to this magic, sacred, and mysterious town known as Machu- Picchu.

The Vistadome service has large panoramic windows and additional windows in the roof allowing you to enjoy the mountain scenery.

A snack and hot drink are included with the Vistadome service. There is also a table in front of you and posh leather seats which are very comfortable with plenty of leg room.

The Vistadome also has air conditioning and heating, leather seats that adjust the body to provide comfort and relaxation during the entire trip, and a traditional show as well as a fashion show to keep you entertained – as if the amazing scenery isn’t enough.

This service allows the visitor to be immersed and feel the Andean culture through its landscapes, music, dance and food carefully prepared with local ingredients.

On-board experience with the best comfort and quality service.