Peru and Bolivia: Ancient Cultures

On this full-day privately guided excursion you will visit the beautiful colonial town of Chincheros as well as the spectacular Incan sites of Maras and Moray. Start your morning at the fascinating Maras Salt mines which feature more than 100 small pools fed by a salt-water mountain spring that is interconnected by channels. It still remains in use today by the community and represents an important income for numerous families in the area. Walk up to the vantage viewpoint from where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the salt mines and its surroundings. In the afternoon, you will head along a dirt road towards another typical Andean village called Moray; famed for being an Inca agricultural experimental center. At Chincheros visit a local textile workshops were local alpaca weavers practice their centuries old traditions. Both these ancient sites and your visit to Chincheros, will take your breath away and leave you fascinated by the mysteries of the Incan civilization. (From 09:00 to 17:00; Private Activity; Lunch Included; Please note that trekking and walking on the salt pans of Maras is prohibited in order to preserve the purity of the salt extracted.)

Embark on this fascinating private exploration of the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo. Set at an altitude of 9,160 feet (2,792 m), this quaint town sits tucked amid soaring mountains and spectacular ruins. Saunter around the meticulously laid out town with an efficient irrigation system put in place by the expert architects, masons, and craftsmen of the Inca Empire. Walk across narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets as you make your way to the terraces that once made up the majestic fortress – one of the few where the Spanish invaders suffered a defeat. Climb up to the top of the fortress to enter the complex of the Temple of the Sun, which lies incomplete. Marvel at the massive Wall of the Six Monoliths and the ceremonial center situated before savoring stunning views from your vantage point. Relish the vistas to your heart’s content before beginning your descent. On the way down, stop for a closer look at the many baths and fountains, prominent among them being the Princess Bath.

Head out to the ancient Inca citadel of Sacsayhuaman, located on the outskirts of the city. Walk around this UNESCO World Heritage site with its massive structure made of huge carved rocks joined together with calculated precision, and get a glimpse of the architectural acumen possessed by the Incas and their ability to complete a project of this magnitude in an era far removed from the conveniences of today’s world. Set off for the quirky and artsy neighborhood of San Blas with its narrow cobbled streets and the main plaza. Stop by the workshops of famous local artists such as Olave, Mendivil, and Merida and explore at your own pace. Saunter over to the serene, 16th century San Blas Church that sits atop an Inca sanctuary. Marvel at the exquisitely beautiful wood pulpit carved from a lone cedar tree featuring the Spanish Churrigueresque style of sculpting. Amble on to the Qoricancha or golden temple dedicated to the Sun God who was worshipped by the Incas. Stroll across the main square to Cusco Cathedral which houses a collection of valuable paintings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. (Half Day; Fitness Level: Easy;)

Visit the floating islands of the Uros, located on the glittering waters of Lake Titicaca during this private tour. The Uros first fled from the Incans and then from the Spaniards, seeking refuge in the lake and creating their own islands made out of reeds. Discover how they adapted to living in the lake and then visit either Taquile or Amantaní islands which offer stunning views of the lake and are inhabited by a small, isolated indigenous group who offer a warm welcome into their simple homes. (07:00 to 17:00, Shared Fast-Boat, Private Guide, Lunch Included)

Explore the fascinating city of La Paz with a private guide on this full day tour. Visit the city’s most representative sites such as the Church of San Francisco, Plaza Murillo and government palaces, and the oddly fascinating ´mercado de brujas´ witches market. Walk the antique cobbled street Calle Jaen full of small eclectic museums. Continuing, reach The Andes district where craftspeople display the essence of Bolivian folklore. After lunch travel into the residential neighborhoods and meander the Valle de la Luna moon valley park which is made up of unique natural geological formations. Your private guide will go at your pace and tailor the experience to your wishes.