Washington and Lee University
It’s not too early to plan a marvelous adventure for yourself and your children or grandchildren in the summer of 2012. Indeed, at any age, part of the pleasure of travel is anticipation. The wonders of the Peruvian highlands as found in Cuzco, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca, from the amazing history of the ancient Incas to the colorful culture of those living today high in the Andes, offer much to dream about.
After flights to Lima and Cuzco, our journey begins with a two-day visit to the Urubamba Valley, known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, from our base at the delightful Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay, we’ll visit Ollantaytambo, the only living Inca city, where ancient agricultural terraces are still in use today. In the village of Chinchero we’ll visit the weekly market to observe Indian crafts and lifestyles. July, 2012, will begin with a spectacular train ride to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, one of the true wonders of the ancient world. An overnight stay will allow us to explore this beautiful, mysterious place at leisure before returning to Cuzco by train late the next day.
The oldest continuously inhabited city in South America, Cuzco was the capital of the ancient Inca Empire. Here, we’ll be able to trace much of that history in the Incas’ massive stone fortress at Sacsayhuaman and several superb examples of colonial Spanish architecture. Traveling to Puno and Lake Titicaca high in the Andes we’ll visit several picturesque villages along the way, each with its own story and stunning views of the Andes. Once the most sacred body of water to the Incas, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. Here we’ll see the floating islands of the Uro Indians as well as the remarkable villages of those who live at 12,500 feet elevation.
Many other wonders await you, including special places in Lima. Designed specifically for those traveling with children and young adults, this program includes activities and sightseeing opportunities that travelers of any age will find stimulating. So register today. Early registrants have the pleasure of a thorough as well as happy anticipation.
Download the complete itinerary and registration form (.pdf)