Andean majesty
As an exciting new destination, IMA is delighted to offer an exclusive tour of the highlights of Peru, the archaeological, cultural and ecological jewel of Latin America. Left with fascinating ancient sites by its countless generations, from 2000BC to the Conquistadores in the 1500s, Peru features breathtaking scenery, with snow-capped mountains, stunning lakes and dense jungle. We have fitted the highlights into the itinerary and for those with more time, an optional extension to the verdant jungle waterways of the majestic Amazon River aboard new luxury river cruiser the MV Aqua is highly recommended.
Inca supremacy
We fly to Lima and start our exploration in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where Quechua natives still dress in bright, hand-woven garb. Guarded by ancient Inca citadels the valley is now home to colourful market towns offering a myriad of traditional Peruvian crafts. From here we take a Vistadome train high onto a mountain plateau above the Urubamba valley to the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, lost to the world until it was rediscovered in 1911.
Conquistadores & Ancient Communities
Next, we visit the vibrant city of Cuzco, where the Conquistadores built their colonial city on top of the existing one, with churches resting on the foundations of Incan temples. Finally, we travel to festive Puno and the rippling waters of Lake Titicaca, where floating reed islands on the lake are home to the Uros, decedents of a nearly extinct culture and one of the oldest native communities in America. Known for their unusual dress, they continue hunting, fishing and raft-making traditions in the way of their ancestors.
As an optional extension after the main tour, discover the abundance of flora and fauna in the depths of the virgin rainforest aboard the Amazon’s only truly luxurious river cruiser the MV Aqua, with just 12 suites, all with vast panoramic windows. From your supremely comfortable base, explore the jungle on excursions on foot and by skiff to find parrots, macaws, toucans, friendly dolphins, and a variety of monkeys as well as to meet its human inhabitants as they fish, trade, and share their ancient knowledge.
Accompanying scholar
Dr Chris Carter is an archaeologist currently from the Australian National University in Canberra who specialises in Central and Southern America. He is presently directing excavations in Chile and has led many tours to the Inca sites of Peru.
Tour Cost
£2980 per person sharing including return airfare from London, twin or double bedded room with bathroom, and all excursions with local guides, UK departure tax, transfers, full board throughout, all visits and entrance fees, expert leaders. Single supplement £600. Not included: UK passenger service charge, security tax, insurance, foreign departure tax, fuel surcharge, visa if required, drinks, & tips to drivers & local guides.
|
