GT-212-EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments


Lima, Arequipa & Colca Canyon, Puno & Lake Tititcaca, Cusco, Sacred Valley and
Machu Picchu
Twelve Days
(Minimum two people)

2013 DEPARTURE DATES:
January 25, February 22, March 29, April 26, May 24, June 28, July 12, August 16, September 27, October 25 & November 29

ITINERARY

Day 1: Friday – Arrival in Lima

Arrive in Lima International Airport; upon arrival you will be met by a representative who will assist you with your luggage and drive you to the hotel.
Overnight accommodations in Lima.

Day 2: Saturday – Lima

Breakfast. AM: Enjoy a half day guided sightseeing tour to the most attractive and important
sites in Lima, the “City of Kings”. The tour includes Lima’s Historical Center, passing by Plaza San Martin, Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Cathedral and its Religious Art Museum. Finally visit the residential Districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, passing by the Huaca Pucllana, a Ceremonial and Administrative Centre of the Lima Culture built in the II Century A.C. Also visit El Olivar Park with olive trees brought from Spain in the XVth Century, the Central Park of Miraflores.
PM: Afternoon at leisure.

Overnight accommodations in Lima. (B)

Day 3: Sunday – Lima / Arequipa

Breakfast. Early this morning, transfer to the Lima airport to board your flight to the city of Arequipa. Upon arrival to Arequipa’s airport you will be met by a driver who will assist you with your luggage and drive you to the hotel.

Afternoon sightseeing tour of the City, including the Main Square, one of the most beautiful squares in Peru, and the Cathedral, a prime example of XIXth Century Peruvian Architecture. You will also visit La Compañia Church, an ancient Jesuit temple, maybe the most important one in Arequipa due to its history and tradition. Continue the visit to the Santa Catalina Convent; the most fascinating colonial religious complex in the country, with the architecture, religious art and furnishings of a world that seems to have stood still since 1579.
Overnight accommodations in Arequipa (B)

Day 4: Monday – Arequipa / Colca Canyon

Breakfast. Early in the morning, depart on a wonderful four hour journey to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world (3400 mts.). On the trip, drive across Pampa Cañahuas in the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, inhabited by herds of Vicuñas and Alpacas (South American cameloids). You will also see beautiful pre-Columbian terraces, still being cultivated by the native Collaguas. Box lunch included en route.
On your arrival at Colca Valley, transfer to the selected lodge. If you are in good shape, you will have free time to stroll around the lodge surroundings or you could take a repairing bath in the hot springs nearby the lodge.
Overnight accommodations in the Colca Valley. (B/Box Lunch)

Day 5: Tuesday – Colca Canyon / Puno

Breakfast. Very early in the morning, drive to the observation point “Cruz del Condor”. While this is not the deepest point of the Colca Canyon, from Cruz del Condor you can appreciate the grandeur of the canyon and with a bit of luck you might spot Andean condors, the largest flying bird in the world, soaring across the high plain. On the way back, visit the towns of Maca at the base of the volcano Sabancaya and then Yanque. The church of Yanque with its baroque façade is testimony to the cultural symbiosis in the colonial era. Continue the journey from the Colca Valley heading southeast towards Lake Titicaca, approximately travelling a total of 8 hours (332 kms / 221.33 miles); most of the route is paved. Beautiful landscapes along the way, corresponding to high altitude ecosystems, approximately one hour before reaching Puno. Puno sits on the banks of Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake in the world. This region is the birthplace of Inca Mythology; according to the legend, Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo emerged from the sacred Lake Titicaca to found the Inca Empire and give birth to Inca civilization. Arrival in Puno and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight accommodations in Puno (B/Box Lunch)

Day 6: Wednesday – Puno

Breakfast. Early in the morning, experience an unforgettable excursion via speedboat on the waters of Lake Titicaca to the unique “Floating Islands” of the Uros. These ancient inhabitants of the Lake, known as the Water Tribe, have built their own “Islands” by periodically adding new layers of a type of reed unique to the area called “Totora” (Scirpus totora), vegetable fiber of the Papyrus family. Continue the speedboat trip to Taquile Island, inhabited by Quechua-speaking natives who have developed efficient and unique social systems, as well as fine hand weaving techniques, passed down through the generations.

Upon arrival at the Town of Taquile, enjoy lunch with the local inhabitants, then walk through the various hills and archaeological sites of this 6 km long Island. Return to Puno.
Overnight accommodations in Puno (B/Box Lunch)

Day 7: Thursday – Puno / Cusco

Breakfast. Early departure by tourist bus to the City of Cusco. Travel along the High Plateau of the Collao, stopping at the Town of Ayaviri, an important livestock and textile centre, to visit the impressive Temple of Kalasasaya, remnants of the ancient Pucara Culture. On the way, stop in Raqchi, where you will see a spectacular Inca Sanctuary built by the Inca Pachacutec and dedicated to the great Inca God of Wiracocha; it has a great central wall with a stone base of fine Inca architecture, other walls made of giant adobe bricks and the structure also have two circular lateral columns. Around the Temple are several buildings once used for housing and storage.
About 70 kms further on, pass through the La Raya Ranch where you can see herds of vicuñas and llamas. During the trip, pass by the lovely Wacarpay Lake, offering spectacular views of the mountains reflected in its calm waters. Proceed to the beautiful Town of Andahuaylillas, and visit the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, better known as the Sistine Chapel of the Americas, due to its decorated polychrome ceiling. Lunch at a quiet countryside restaurant, where you can enjoy the delightful culinary art of the region. Afternoon arrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel.
Overnight accommodations in Cusco. (B/L)

Day 8: Friday – Cusco

Breakfast at the hotel. Morning at leisure for personal activities.

Afternoon: Half day private escorted sightseeing tour of the city of Cusco, archaeological capital of South America. Cusco also has the finest examples of Inca history and architecture. A visit of the city’s most important historical monuments, The Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Koricancha Temple, and a visit to the surrounding ruins of the Kenko Amphitheater, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara, and Sacsayhuaman Fortress. After the tour you will be driven back to your hotel.
Overnight accommodations in Cusco (B)

Day 9: Saturday – Cusco

Breakfast. A day at leisure to explore and enjoy the many excellent cafés, bars and innovative restaurants in Cusco.
Overnight accommodations in Cusco (B)

Day 10: Sunday – Cusco / Sacred Valley

Breakfast. En route towards the Urubamba Valley, you will the Pisac Markets where you will have the chance to interact with the local folk and even barter with the merchants. After having lunch at a local countryside restaurant, end the day with a visit to the Incan fortress and citadel of Ollantaytambo. This fortress was constructed in order to guard the entrance to this part of the valley and protect it from possible invasions of tribes from the jungle lowlands, and was later the scene of Incan resistance in 1537, when Manco Inca’s forces faced Hernando Pizarro’s troops. After the tour you will be driven back to your hotel.
Overnight accommodations in the Sacred Valley (B/L)

Day 11: Monday – Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu

Breakfast. Morning transfer to the train station for an amazing train journey to the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, the great mountain-top city abandoned by the Inca Empire, reclaimed by the jungle and lost to humanity until its rediscovery in 1911.

The legendary ‘Lost City’ is without a doubt one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites. Built by the Incas on the summit of “Machu Picchu” (old peak), overlooking the deep canyon of the Urubamba river in a semi-tropical area 120 Kms (75 miles) from the city of Cusco at 3,400 m.a.s.l (11,155 f.a.s.l). It sits on a mountain site of extraordinary beauty, in the middle of a tropical mountain forest; Machu Picchu was probably the most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire at its height, with its giant walls, terraces and ramps, which appear as though they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments. Machu Picchu is also one of the Inca’s best kept secrets, since they did not leave written records and Spanish chronicles make no mention of the citadel, it remains a mystery. Upon arrival to the ruins after a 20 minute bus ride from Aguas Calientes, a guided tour of the Citadel including the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and various burial grounds. Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, back to Cusco by train, and transfer to your selected hotel.
Overnight accommodations in Cusco (B/L)

Day 12: Tuesday – Cusco / Lima / International departure

Breakfast. You will be driven by our representative to the Cusco airport in order to board your late morning flight to Lima and connect with your international flight. (B)

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $1,805.00

PROGRAM INCLUDES:

Eleven nights hotel accommodations. Shared services with local English speaking guides . All entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary. Meals: As indicated in the itinerary. Roundtrip train ticket to Machu Picchu via Vistadome coach or similar. Bus tickets to and from the Machu Picchu ruins. All tips (except hotel staff) . Permanent assistance during the trip

NOT INCLUDED

International and domestic airlines to be quoted separately. Meals or any other item not described in the itinerary. Early check-in, late check-out, services and non-mentioned meals in the itinerary. Personal expenses. Tips for hotel staff.

PARTICIPATING HOTELS (Or similar category)
LIMA: Allpa Hotel – Standard Room
AREQUIPA: San Agustin Posada del Monasterio – Standard Room
COLCA: Eco Inn – Standard Room
PUNO: Eco Inn – Standard Room
CUSCO: Los Portales – Standard Room
SACRED VALLEY: Inkallpa – Standard Room
AGUAS CALIENTES (Machu Picchu) El Mapi – Superior Room
(Rates and availability for hotel upgrades on request)

 

GT-210 – TREASURES OF PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments


Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu
Featuring Casa Andina Hotels
Five Days / Four Nights
Minimum 2 persons

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arrival in Lima

Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.
Lima, the “City of Kings” is famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture, extraordinary museums and cuisine.
Overnight accommodations

DAY 2 Tour of Colonial and Modern Lima

Breakfast. Visit both the colonial and modern sections of this “City of Kings”. Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza de Armas with its cathedral and palace; and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace, modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima drive through the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro.

Dinner and Folkloric Show at Junius
For Dinner come on join us at the Junius Restaurant who takes you to a journey where you explore the wonders of the fascinating Peruvian culture through its folklore, presenting an incredible and colorful show of music and dances from different regions of Peru. The delicious buffet is full of flavors from different regions and the best of the Peruvian cuisine.
Overnight accommodations (B/D)

DAY 3: Lima – Cusco

Breakfast. Early morning transfer from the hotel to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.

Afternoon Cusco City Tour and Nearby Ruins
Tour of Cusco and Nearby Ruins – Visitors are caught up in the excitement of touring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture. The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco’s Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”. This tour of the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere also includes the nearby ruins of Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay as well as the Sacsayhuaman fortress, an imposing example of Inca military architecture.
Overnight accommodations (B)

DAY 4: Cusco – Machu Picchu

Breakfast. Morning train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the ruins upon arrival. Lunch is at the Orient Express’ Sanctuary Lodge located just a few steps from the Inca citadel.
Overnight accommodations (B/L)

DAY 5: Depart Cusco

Breakfast. Transfer to the airport for your departure to Lima and your connecting international flight or your next destination. . Arrive home full of great memories of the rich tradition of Colonial Lima and the mystical Land of the Incas. (B)

RATE PER BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY:

OPTION “A” – From: $1,220.00
With Hotel Casa Andina Select in Miraflores (Lima) and Casa Andina Classic Cusco Plaza
OPTION “B” – From: $1,390.00
With Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection Miraflores (Lima) and Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco

INCLUDES:

  • Air Lima/Cusco/Lima via LAN Peru including taxes.
  • All airport transfers listed in the itinerary.
  • Baggage handling at airports and at hotels.
  • All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary.
  • All bus tickets, train tickets and entrance fees to operate the tours and excursions. Excursion to Machu Picchu is aboard the Vistadome. English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions.
  • All meals indicated in the itinerary. (B for breakfast, L for lunch. D for dinner).
  •  Hotel accommodation and hotel service charge.

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included.
  • Airport departure taxes are not included: Approximate cost is US $31.00 for
  • international flight, and US $7.40 for each local flight within Peru.

Please check with us on the best international air fare to combine it with this tour.

GT-211 – HIGHLIGHTS OF PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours

Eight Days/Seven Nights
A journey thru culture, traditions, history and archaeology
Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca
Minimum two persons

USA Departures Dates from Miami:
2013: May 11, May 25, June 15, June 22, July 13, July 27, August 17, September 14, September 28,October 12, October 26, November 16, November 30, December 14

ITINERARY

DAY: 1 – Arrival in Lima

Arrival in Lima, the “City of Kings” famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture, extraordinary museums and cuisine. Lima is internationally recognized as the “Gastronomic Capital of the Americas”, and its cuisine is considered among the most diverse and exquisite in the world on par with French cuisine. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection

DAY 2: Lima City Tour (B)

Breakfast. Tour of Modern and Colonial Lima – This half-day tour visits both the colonial and modern sections of Lima. Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, San Francisco Church and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima, drive along the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection (B)

DAY 3: Lima / Cusco/ Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex

Breakfast. Early morning transfer from the hotel to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet.
Full Day Excursion to the Pisac Indian Market and the Ollantaytambo Fortress – Morning departure for a drive through the fertile countryside of the Urubamba Valley to the colonial village of Pisac where an Indian Market takes place Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other days you will tour the religious nucleus and
archaeological site of Pisac. During your visit to the bustling marketplace you will have the opportunity to bargain with the natives for many different types of Peruvian handicrafts and jewelry.
Continue to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, the Incas built it as a fort that included a temple, agricultural terraces, and an urban area. There are two distinct sectors: The religious and worship zone, and the residential area. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative center with probable military functions if one considers the walls and towers.

There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts. The town of Ollantaytambo is called a “Living Inca Town” since the inhabitants maintain very old practices and customs. Lunch is at a beautiful country estate on the shores of the Urubamba River. Overnight at Sacred Valley.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley (B/L)

DAY 4: Moray, Maras and Quechua Village (B,L)

Breakfast. Moray, Maras Salt Pools and Authentic Quechua Village – Pass through unspoiled and picturesque Andean communities on your way to the Incan agricultural experimental center of Moray, famous for its sunken amphitheater, made up of four circular terraces, which appear to fade away into the earth like an artificial crater. The site was apparently an Inca agricultural research station filled with fertile earth and watered by complex irrigation systems, designed for experimenting with crops at various altitudes (some of which run down to depths of 100 meters).
Continue to the impressive Maras salt pools formed by water emerging from a lake inside a mountain in the Urubamba Valley. An amazing view of evaporating ponds for the extraction of salt. Learn about ancestral techniques, which are still used, in agricultural, irrigation and salt-recollection tasks, as well as in Andean festivals and rites.
After lunch, visit an authentic Quechua Village to feel the way of life of the Inca’s ancestors. The Inca himself was a noble Quechua. They live off the land and are always wearing their colorful ponchos, see Quechua children scamper about while woman are weaving their family’s clothes. A meaningful experience! Lunch is included. Overnight at Sacred Valley.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley (B/L)

DAY 5: Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu (B,L,D)

Breakfast. Morning transfer to Ollanta´s train station for your train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the ruins upon arrival. Lunch is at the Orient Express’ Sanctuary Lodge located just a few steps from the Inca citadel. Overnight at Machu Picchu
Overnight accommodations Hotel Inkaterra (B/L/D)

DAY 6: Machu Picchu Free Day. Return train ride (B)

Free morning to enjoy one of the most incredible sights on earth, the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Take as much time as you need to study these magnificent ruins, hike the steep stone-paved trail of Huayna Picchu, the pyramid-shape mountain above Machu Picchu for a breathtaking view of the site, or stroll to the Inca Bridge a secret entrance used by the Inca’s army or walk toward the Inca Trail to find the historic Intipunku or Sun Gate. Bus and entrance fee to Machu Picchu included. Huayna Picchu entrance fee is available upon request at extra charge. Afternoon return train ride.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B)

DAY 7: Cusco City Tour and Nearby Ruins (B)

Breakfast. Tour of Cusco and Nearby Ruins – Visitors are caught up in the excitement of touring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture.
The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco’s Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”. This tour of the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere also includes the nearby ruins of Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay as well as the Sacsayhuaman fortress, an imposing example of Inca military architecture.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B)

DAY 8: Depart Cusco

Breakfast. Morning transfer from hotel to airport for your flight to Lima or your next destination.
Guests returning to USA will be provided with day time or overnight hotel accommodations depending on the international flight departure time. (B)

HOTELS:

Lima: Costa del Sol Ramada (First Class) and Casa Andina Private Collection (Deluxe):
Sacred Valley: Casa Andina Private Collection (First Class)
Machu Picchu: Inkaterra Machu Picchu (Deluxe), Sumaq Hotel (Deluxe)
Cusco: Casa Andina Private Collection
(GT-210 is also available with other hotel categories)

RATE PE PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $2,181.00
Including air Lima/Cusco/Lima

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima. Fuel surcharges and taxes subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. All train tickets, bus tickets and boat services needed to operate tours and excursions. Excursion to Machu Picchu is aboard the Vistadome train. Service of an English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions. All meals indicated in the itinerary.
(B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

NOT INCLUDED:

International air to be quoted separately on request. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. International and local Airport departure taxes. pproximate cost is US $31.00 for international flights, and US $7.40 for each domestic flight.

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TO GT-211

DAY 8: (Day 1) – Cusco to Puno / Orient Express’ First Class Scenery Train Service – Monday, Wednesday and Saturday (B,L)

This first class and spectacular rail journey aboard the Orient Express’ “Andean Explorer” travels south to the beautiful city of Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. On the journey the train makes a gentle climb to higher, and cooler, altitudes. The first half of the journey is dominated by the magnificent Andean mountains, which tower over the deep valleys of the meandering Huatanay River.
It then reaches the gentler, rolling Andean Plains, where vicuña and alpaca can be seen. The glass-walled observation car of the Andean Explorer provides the perfect opportunity to view the beautiful scenery. The journey is broken by a scenic stop at La Raya, which is also the highest point on the route.
Train journey includes a three-course lunch. A Breakfast Menu, along with various snacks and a continuous Restaurant and Bar service is available at an additional cost.
Late afternoon arrival in Puno

DAY 9: (Day 2) – Uros and Taquile Islands on Lake Titikaka (B,L)

Boat excursion to Uros and Taquile Islands on Lake Titikaka. This full day excursion will take you to the highest navigable lake in the world to the floating islands of the Uros Indians, man-made islands by tying totora reeds. The Uros considered themselves Lords of the Lake; they hunt wild birds and maintain traditional fishing methods. The men have developed an extraordinary skill in weaving reeds; producing houses, boats and handicrafts, and the women are expert knitters.
Continuing to Taquile where a native community of about 400 families still lives with the traditions and high principals of the Incas. Taquile is a very important site on Lake Titikaka for its archeological remains, the sacred and ceremonial sites, the festive activities and their rituals. Taquile is characterized by its friendly inhabitants, who maintain their customs and traditional clothing. They distinguish themselves by their detailed, fine, and colorful textiles with symmetrical decorations and symbols that reflect their way of life and Andean beliefs. Lunch is included.

DAY 10: (Day 3) – Puno / Lima / Home / Sillustani Burial Towers en route (B)

Excursion to Sillustani Burial Towers on route to airport. This complex stands on the shore of Lake Umayo and is famous for its chullpas, large circular fortified burial towers for the chiefs and important people of the early villages of the Collao plateau. Some are 12 meters high (39 feet), and remarkable for their shape, thinner at the base and wider at the top. These ancient and impressive tombs from the pre-Inca period were built from a mixture of stone and adobe.
Arrival to the airport in Juliaca to take your flight to Lima and connecting flight home.
Arrive home full of great memories of the rich tradition of Colonial Lima and the mystical Land of the Incas. (B)

HOTEL:

Puno: Libertador Lago Titicaca – Puno (Deluxe)

RATE PE PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $1,078.00
Including air Cusco/Juliaca (Puno)/Lima

INCLUDES:

Air Cusco/Juliaca/Lima. Fuel surcharges and taxes subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Baggage handling at airport and at hotel. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. All train tickets, bus tickets and boat services needed to operate tours and excursions. Service of an English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions. All meals indicated in the itinerary. (B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

NOT INCLUDED:

International air to be quoted separately on request. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. International and local Airport departure taxes. Approximate fees: US $31.00 for international flights, and US $7.40 for each domestic flight.

 

GT-210A – CLASSIC PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours

GT-210-–-CLASSIC-PERU

Six Days / Five Nights
A journey thru culture, traditions, history and archaeology
Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Minimum two persons

USA Departures Dates from Miami:
2013: May 11, May 25, June 15, June 22, July 13, July 27, August 17, September 14, September 28,October 12, October 26, November 16, November 30, December 14

ITINERARY

DAY: 1 – Arrival in Lima

Arrival in Lima, the “City of Kings” famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture, extraordinary museums and cuisine. Lima is internationally recognized as the “Gastronomic Capital of the Americas”, and its cuisine is considered among the most diverse and exquisite in the world on par with French cuisine. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.
Overnight accommodations Hotel Costa del Sol Ramada Airport

DAY 2: Lima / Cusco/ Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex

Breakfast. Early morning transfer from the hotel to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet.
Full Day Excursion to the Pisac Indian Market and the Ollantaytambo Fortress – Morning departure for a drive through the fertile countryside of the Urubamba Valley to the colonial village of Pisac where an Indian Market takes place Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other days you will tour the religious nucleus and
archaeological site of Pisac. During your visit to the bustling marketplace you will have the opportunity to bargain with the natives for many different types of Peruvian handicrafts and jewelry.
Continue to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, the Incas built it as a fort that included a temple, agricultural terraces, and an urban area. There are two distinct sectors: The religious and worship zone, and the residential area. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative center with probable military functions if one considers the walls and towers.

There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts. The town of Ollantaytambo is called a “Living Inca Town” since the inhabitants maintain very old practices and customs. Lunch is at a beautiful country estate on the shores of the Urubamba River. Overnight at Sacred Valley.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley (B/L)

DAY 3: Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu (B,L,D)

Breakfast. Morning transfer to Ollanta´s train station for your train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the ruins upon arrival. Lunch is at the Orient Express’ Sanctuary Lodge located just a few steps from the Inca citadel. Overnight at Machu Picchu
Overnight accommodations Hotel Inkaterra or Hotel Sumaq (B/L/D)

DAY 4: Machu Picchu Free Day. Return train ride (B)

Free morning to enjoy one of the most incredible sights on earth, the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Take as much time as you need to study these magnificent ruins, hike the steep stone-paved trail of Huayna Picchu, the pyramid-shape mountain above Machu Picchu for a breathtaking view of the site, or stroll to the Inca Bridge a secret entrance used by the Inca’s army or walk toward the Inca Trail to find the historic Intipunku or Sun Gate. Bus and entrance fee to Machu Picchu included. Huayna Picchu entrance fee is available upon request at extra charge. Afternoon return train ride.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B)

DAY 5: Cusco City Tour and Nearby Ruins (B)

Breakfast. Tour of Cusco and Nearby Ruins – Visitors are caught up in the excitement of touring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture.
The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco’s Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”. This tour of the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere also includes the nearby ruins of Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay as well as the Sacsayhuaman fortress, an imposing example of Inca military architecture.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B)

DAY 6: Depart Cusco

Breakfast. Morning transfer from hotel to airport for your flight to Lima or your next destination.
Guests returning to USA will be provided with day time or overnight hotel accommodations depending on the international flight departure time. (B)

HOTELS:

Lima: Costa del Sol Ramada (First Class) and Casa Andina Private Collection (Deluxe):
Sacred Valley: Casa Andina Private Collection (First Class)
Machu Picchu: Inkaterra Machu Picchu (Deluxe), Sumaq Hotel (Deluxe)
Cusco: Casa Andina Private Collection
(GT-210 is also available with other hotel categories)

RATE PE PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $2,154
Including air Lima/Cusco/Lima

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. All train tickets, bus tickets and boat services needed to operate tours and excursions. Excursion to Machu Picchu is aboard the Vistadome train. Service of an English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions. All meals indicated in the itinerary.
(B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, . D=Dinner

NOT INCLUDED:

International air to be quoted separately on request. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. International and local Airport departure taxes. pproximate cost is US $31.00 for international flights, and US $7.40 for each domestic flight.

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TO GT-210

DAY 6: (Day 1) – Cusco to Puno / Orient Express’ First Class Scenery Train Service – Monday, Wednesday and Saturday (B,L)

This first class and spectacular rail journey aboard the Orient Express’ “Andean Explorer” travels south to the beautiful city of Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. On the journey the train makes a gentle climb to higher, and cooler, altitudes. The first half of the journey is dominated by the magnificent Andean mountains, which tower over the deep valleys of the meandering Huatanay River.
It then reaches the gentler, rolling Andean Plains, where vicuña and alpaca can be seen. The glass-walled observation car of the Andean Explorer provides the perfect opportunity to view the beautiful scenery. The journey is broken by a scenic stop at La Raya, which is also the highest point on the route.
Train journey includes a three-course lunch. A Breakfast Menu, along with various snacks and a continuous Restaurant and Bar service is available at an additional cost.
Late afternoon arrival in Puno

DAY 7: (Day 2) – Uros and Taquile Islands on Lake Titikaka (B,L)

Boat excursion to Uros and Taquile Islands on Lake Titikaka. This full day excursion will take you to the highest navigable lake in the world to the floating islands of the Uros Indians, man-made islands by tying totora reeds. The Uros considered themselves Lords of the Lake; they hunt wild birds and maintain traditional fishing methods. The men have developed an extraordinary skill in weaving reeds; producing houses, boats and handicrafts, and the women are expert knitters.
Continuing to Taquile where a native community of about 400 families still lives with the traditions and high principals of the Incas. Taquile is a very important site on Lake Titikaka for its archeological remains, the sacred and ceremonial sites, the festive activities and their rituals. Taquile is characterized by its friendly inhabitants, who maintain their customs and traditional clothing. They distinguish themselves by their detailed, fine, and colorful textiles with symmetrical decorations and symbols that reflect their way of life and Andean beliefs. Lunch is included.

DAY 8: (Day 3) – Puno / Lima / Home / Sillustani Burial Towers en route

Breakfast. Excursion to Sillustani Burial Towers on route to airport. This complex stands on the shore of Lake Umayo and is famous for its chullpas, large circular fortified burial towers for the chiefs and important people of the early villages of the Collao plateau. Some are 12 meters high (39 feet), and remarkable for their shape, thinner at the base and wider at the top. These ancient and impressive tombs from the pre-Inca period were built from a mixture of stone and adobe.
Arrival to the airport in Juliaca to take your flight to Lima and connecting flight home. (B)

HOTEL:

Puno: Libertador Lago Titicaca – Puno

RATE PE PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $1,078.00
Including air Juliaca/Lima

INCLUDES:

One way Juliaca/Lima. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Baggage handling at airport and at hotel. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. All train tickets, bus tickets and boat services needed to operate tours and excursions. Service of an English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions. All meals indicated in the itinerary.
(B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, . D=Dinner

NOT INCLUDED:

International air to be quoted separately on request. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. International and local Airport departure taxes. Approximate fees: US $31.00 for international flights, and US $7.40 for each domestic flight.

GT-205 – PERU – AFFORDABLE LUXURY

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments

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LIMA, CUSCO, SACRED VALLEY & MACHU PICCHU
Featuring Orient Express Five Star Hotels
Seven Days/Six Nights
Valid for travel thru December 20, 2013 (Please check with us for 2014 departures)

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arrival in Lima

Upon arrival into Lima Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Our representative will assist you with check-in procedures and provide you with a detailed itinerary, vouchers covering all the services included in your tour and additional information on the organization of your Peru trip. You will also receive a contact information sheet with all the hotel details as well as our offices contact information for each city and a 24-hour emergency number.
Overnight at Miraflores Park Hotel (Ocean View room)

DAY 2: Lima/Cusco

Morning half day Colonial & Modern Lima (private)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Enjoy a half day guided sightseeing tour to the most attractive and important sites in Lima, the “City of Kings”. The tour includes Lima’s Historical Center, passing by Plaza San Martin, Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Cathedral and its Religious Art Museum (closed on Sunday and Saturday pm; Santo Domingo Convent is provided instead on these days) as well as San Francisco Monastery and its famous underground crypts known as the Catacombs.

Finally visit the residential Districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, passing by the Huaca Pucllana, a Ceremonial and Administrative Centre of the Lima Culture built in the II Century A.C. that the Incas considered as “Ñaupallaqta” or Sacred Town. Also visit El Olivar Park with olive trees brought from Spain in the XVth Century, the Central Park of Miraflores and El Parque del Amor, or Peruvian Love Park.

The Love Park, located on the cliffs of Miraflores overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is a beautiful natural lookout, where you can see the waves of the Pacific rolling in towards the coast below and the Morro Solar in Chorrillos at a distance, with the coast extending further along the bay until the port of Callao. This is also the perfect spot for a romantic view of the setting sun in the late afternoon, right in front of you.

At the appropriate time, transfer to the Lima airport to board your flight to the city of Cusco. Upon your arrival to Cusco’s airport you will be met by our representative who will assist you with your luggage and drive you to the hotel for your check-in. Rest of the day at leisure to relax in your hotel in order to avoid altitude sickness.
Overnight at Monasterio Hotel (Deluxe room)
Morning private tour of colonial and modern Lima. Afternoon transfer to Lima airport for flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco transfer to hotel. Rest of day at leisure to relax and get acclimatized to its altitude.
Overnight at Hotel Monasterio (Deluxe Room) (B)

DAY 3: Cusco

AM: Today you will go on a guided sightseeing tour of the Imperial City of Cusco, archaeological capital of South America. Visit the city’s most important historical monuments such the Cathedral – constructed of great slabs of red granite in the renaissance style and thus contrasting with the baroque style silverwork which decorates the interior, and the Santo Domingo church built upon the foundations of the Inca Koricancha Temple.
Then you will head to the city’s nearby ruins: the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a magnificent example of Inca military power; Qenqo, a ritualistic site with subterranean gallerias that form an underground maze; Puca Pucara, the red fortess; and finally, Tambomachay, also known as the Incan Baths.
PM: At leisure for personal activities.
Overnight at Monasterio Hotel (Deluxe room) (B)

Optional activities:
Discover the superb tastes and scents of Cusco, enjoy the best of Peruvian cuisine and learn all about delicious local ingredients by joining bespoke cooking classes at Orient Express properties in Cusco:

A) Be a chef for a day at Monasterio Hotel
In the company of our Chef you will gain a fascinating insight into Cusco’s most famous market and learn about its incredible diversity of fruit and vegetables. Select the produce that most appeals to your senses. In the evening our barman will prepare a delightful cocktail based on the fruits you have chosen.
Interactive cooking classes
Learn enticing new recipes using more of the ingredients you hand-picked at the market. Includes starter and dessert.
End the day with a excellent dinner at Tupay Restaurant – Monasterio Hotel.
Price per person: $130

B) Art discover at Monasterio Hotel.
Discover the hotel´s acclaimed art collection guided by an expert who will take you through history by introducing different paintings from the Cusco School.
Continue with a cooking demonstration starting with a presentation of the rich gastronomic traditions of Peruvian cusine and then lear to create different dishes using local ingredients.
End the day with a excellent dinner at Tupay Restaurant – Monasterio Hotel.
Price per person: $100

DAY 4: Cusco / Sacred Valley

Move on to the wonderful route to the Urubamba Valley. We will stop for a visit to a local craftsmanship textile wonder: the Awanacancha Andean textile center. Be able to witness dyeing techniques kept for centuries, and experience weaving instruments used for hundreds of years in these famous textiles. Following this you will visit the Pisac archeological complex, formed by a collection of remains of Incan dwellings, temples, and terracing, all of which combine perfectly with the majestic landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit the Pisac markets where you will have the chance to interact with the local people and even haggle with the merchants.
Lunch will be served at Killa Wasi Restaurant.
After lunch, visit the Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo. It was constructed in order to guard and protect entrance from unwelcomed visitors, protect from possible invasions of tribes probably coming from the jungle lowlands. After the tour drive back to your hotel for an overnight in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Overnight at Rio Sagrado Hotel (Deluxe room) (B/L)

DAY 5: Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu / Sacred Valley

Morning transfer to the train station for an amazing train journey to the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, the great mountain-top city abandoned by the Inca Empire, reclaimed by the jungle and lost to humanity until its rediscovery in 1911. Along the way you will enjoy the changing landscape as you travel from Andean highlands to the beginnings of the jungle (“eyebrow of the jungle”), before finally arriving at the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, board the bus that will take you on a 20 minute ride up to the citadel of Machu Picchu.

A guided tour of the Citadel includes the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and various burial grounds. Buffet lunch at La Cafeteria Restaurant is included. In the afternoon, return to the Sacred Valley by bus and train combination, and upon arrival at the train station you will be transfered to the hotel.
Overnight at Rio Sagrado Hotel (Deluxe room) (B/L)

DAY 6: Sacred Valley / Cusco

AM: Excursion Chinheros town. An attractive church built during the Colony is the highlight of this village and on the inside hang lovely paintings from the Cusco School. Yet, it is on Sundays that the action really starts to happen when area merchants and farmers assemble at the flea market to buy and sell, using the age old method of bartering for goods. Likewise, you can visit impressive archeological remains in the area. Continue to Cusco city and transfer to your hotel.
PM: Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities and the city..
Overnight at Monasterio Hotel (Deluxe room) (B)

DAY 7: Cusco / Lima / …

At the appropriate time transfer to Cusco Airport. Arrival in Lima to board your flight back home. Assistance with all departure formalities for your international homebound flight (B)

B: breakfast / BL: Box lunch / L: Lunch / D: Dinner

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $2,838.00
(*) Depending on the international flights schedule the overnight in Lima and the half day city tour can be programmed at the end of the stay. The hotel Miraflores Park will not be available between December 1 and April 20, 2014. Hotel Country Club in Lima will be used.

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima. Fuel surcharges and taxes subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary on private basis. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Daily breakfast. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary on private basis. English speaking guides. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. Private escorted tours in Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Meals indicated in the itinerary. Tips for guides.

NOT INCLUDED:

Round trip international air between USA and Lima. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. Passport and visa and reciprocity fees expenses. Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu. Early check-in, late check-out, services and non-mentioned meals in the itinerary. Tips for hotel staff.

GT-203 – CLASSIC PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments

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Lima, Cusco, Pisac Indian Market and Ollantaytambo Town, Machu Picchu
Seven Days – Six Nights
Friday Departures between March 1 and November 15, 2014
Minimum two participants

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Arrival in Lima, the “City of Kings” famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture, extraordinary museums and cuisine. Lima is internationally recognized as the “Gastronomic Capital of the Americas”, and its cuisine is considered among the most diverse and exquisite in the world on par with French cuisine. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel

Day 2: Lima

Tour of Modern and Colonial Lima
Breakfast. This half-day tour visits both the colonial and modern sections of Lima. Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, San Francisco Church and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima, drive along the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B)

Day 3: Lima / Cusco

Breakfast. Early morning transfer from the hotel to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.

City Tour of Cusco
Visitors are caught up in the excitement of touring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture. The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco’s Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”. Tour includes a visit to the emblematic Cusco neighborhood of San Blas, filled with narrow typical streets, charming small homes, galleries and craft workshops, where you see local artisans at work. Cusco is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B)

Day 4: Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex

Breakfast. Full Day Excursion to the Pisac Indian Market and the Ollantaytambo Fortress – Morning departure for a drive through the fertile countryside of the Urubamba Valley to the colonial village of Pisac where an Indian Market takes place Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other days you will tour the religious nucleus and archaeological site of Pisac. During your visit to the bustling marketplace you will have the opportunity to bargain with the natives for many different types of Peruvian handicrafts and jewelry.

Continue to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, the Incas built it as a fort that included a temple, agricultural terraces, and an urban area. There are two distinct sectors: The religious and worship zone, and the residential area. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative center with probable military functions if one considers the walls and towers. There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts. The town of Ollantaytambo is called a “Living Inca Town” since the inhabitants maintain very old practices and customs. Lunch is at a beautiful country estate on the shores of the Urubamba River.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B/L)

Day 5: Cusco / Machu Picchu.

Breakfast. Morning train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the ruins upon arrival. Lunch is at the Orient Express’ Sanctuary Lodge located just a few steps from the Inca citadel. After the tour transfer back to the train station for your return to Cusco for overnight
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B/L)

Day 6: Cusco – Free Day

Breakfast. Wandering through this lovely city, exploring the astonishing narrow streets of this tile roof colonial town will be your unforgettable experience. You will find something astounding at every turn. Great buys are the traditional Peruvian handicrafts, alpaca-wool sweaters and rugs, ponchos, pottery, gold and silver jewelry, leather goods, etc. Because there are such a variety of products, we strongly suggest that when you like any particular item, you should buy it – you may not find the same item in other store. Many visitors to Cusco return home wishing they had a free day to discover this imperial city on their own, a free day in Cusco is a MUST!
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B)

Day 7: Cusco / Lima

Transfer to the airport for your departure to Lima and your connecting international flight. Arrive home full of great memories of the rich tradition of Colonial Lima and the mystical Land of the Incas. (B)

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Semi-Private Services: From: $1,815.00 — Private Services: From: $2,101.00
First Class Superior Hotels:
Lima – Sonesta El Olivar – Cusco: Casa Andina Private Collection

Semi-Private Services: From: $2,260.00 — Private Services: From: $2,550.00
Deluxe Hotels:
Lima – Double Tree El Pardo Miraflores – Cusco: Libertador Palacio del Inka
(Tours available with other hotel options)

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima. Fuel surcharges and taxes subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary on private basis. Accommodations at selected hotels. Hotel service charges and taxes. Daily breakfast. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary on Semi-Private basis (maximum 8 guests) or Private basis. English speaking guides for Semi-Private and Private Services. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. Private escorted tours in Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu as indicated in itinerary. All meals indicated in the itinerary.

NOT INCLUDED:

Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. Passport and visa and reciprocity fees expenses.

GT-201C – CLASSIC PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments

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Discover all the magic and history hidden beneath the Inca walls

Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco
Seven Days / Six Nights
Minimum two persons

2013 DEPARTURE DATES FROM USA: August 9, August 23, September 13, September 27, October 11, October 25, November 8 & December 6

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arrival Lima

Upon arrival into Lima International Airport, you will be met by our representative and private driver and will be transferred the selected hotel. Our representative will assist you with check-in procedures.
Overnight accommodations Hotel El Pardo Double Tree (Standard room)

DAY 2: Lima

Breakfast. Morning private half day Colonial & Modern Lima & Larco Herrera Museum. Enjoy a half day guided sightseeing tour to the most attractive and important sites in Lima, the “City of Kings”. The tour includes Lima’s Historical Center, passing by Plaza San Martin, Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Cathedral and its Religious Art Museum (closed on Sunday and Saturday pm; Santo Domingo Convent is provided instead on these days) as well as San Francisco Monastery and its famous underground crypts known as the Catacombs.
Finally visit the residential Districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, passing by the Huaca Pucllana, a Ceremonial and Administrative Centre of the Lima Culture built in the II Century A.C. that the Incas considered as “Ñaupallaqta” or Sacred Town. Also visit El Olivar Park with olive trees brought from Spain in the XVth Century, the Central Park of Miraflores and El Parque del Amor, or Peruvian Love Park.
Your visit continues with a stop at Larco Herrera Museum, for an excellent overview of Peru’s ancient past as it holds the best private collection of pre-Columbian art in the country.
The museum chronologically exhibits hundreds of ceramic, textile, metal and precious stone pieces and also inside you will find the vault which safeguards precious pieces of gold and silver with semiprecious stones.
Overnight accommodations Hotel El Pardo Double Tree (Standard room)

DAY 3: Lima / Cusco / Sacred Valley

Breakfast. Transfer hotel / airport (private). At the proper time, transfer to the Lima airport to board your flight to the city of Cusco. Upon your arrival to Cusco airport you will be met by our representative who will assist you with your luggage and drive you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley. Enjoy a private half day excursion to Awanacancha & Pisac Market .
En route towards the Urubamba Valley, visit Awanacancha, an Andean textile center whose principal objective is to maintain the wealth of Incan textile art alive. Here you we will learn about the dyeing techniques and instruments used for hundreds of years in the weaving of these famous textiles. Continue on to the Pisac Markets where you will have the chance to interact with the local folk and even barter with the merchants.

Lunch will be served at a local ranch including a Peruvian Paso Horse demonstration; with their elegance and noble spirit, the Peruvian Paso Horse symbolizes a centuries-old tradition of cultural fusion and folklore that defines and enriches Peru. In this presentation, Paso horses from the ranch stables demonstrate their flowing gait and graceful motion to the rhythm of ‘la marinera,’ the national dance of Peru, accompanied by an award-winning dancer and live musicians. After lunch you will be escorted to your hotel.
Overnight accommodations: Hotel Aranwa Sacred Valley (Deluxe room) (B/L)

DAY 4 – Sacred Valley

Breakfast. Private full day Maras Saltpans, Moray Terraces & Ollantaytambo Fortress
Today continue in through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the salt fields of Maras and its seemingly never-ending terraces, where salt that is extracted from springs is stored. These waters have been used for centuries, even before the time of the Incas. It is impressive to see the variety of colors created by the reflection of the suns rays in this field of salt deposits, and to learn about the Incas striking ability to generate resources. Following this we will continue on to Moray, where we will discover the four large geological depressions in the earth that were utilized by the Incas in the construction of circular terraces, which functioned as botanical laboratories in the development and improvement of crops. Lunch will be served at a local countryside restaurant.
After lunch at a local restaurant, end the day with a visit to the Incan fortress and citadel of Ollantaytambo. This fortress was constructed in order to guard the entrance to this part of the valley and protect it from possible invasions of tribes from the jungle lowlands, and was later the scene of Incan resistance in 1537, when Manco Inca’s forces faced Hernando Pizarro’s troops. After the tour you will continue with additional hotel inspections, time permitting, then you will be driven back to your hotel.
Overnight accommodations: Hotel Aranwa Sacred Valley (Deluxe room) (B/L)

DAY 5: Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu

Breakfast. Full day excursion to Machu Picchu via roundtrip Vistadome train (private)
Morning transfer to the train station for an amazing train journey to the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, the great mountain-top city abandoned by the Inca Empire, reclaimed by the jungle and lost to humanity until its rediscovery in 1911. The legendary ‘Lost City’ is without a doubt one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites. Built by the Incas on the summit of “Machu Picchu” (old peak), overlooking the deep canyon of the Urubamba river in a semi-tropical area 120 Kms. (75 miles) from the city of Cusco at 11,155 f.a.s.l.

It sits on a mountain site of extraordinary beauty, in the middle of a tropical mountain forest; Machu Picchu was probably the most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire at its height, with its giant walls, terraces and ramps, which appear as though they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments. Machu Picchu is also one of the Inca’s best kept secrets, since they did not leave written records and Spanish chronicles make no mention of the citadel, it remains a mystery. Along the way you will enjoy the changing landscape as you travel from Andean highlands to the beginnings of the jungle (“eyebrow of the jungle”), before finally arriving at the town of Aguas Calientes.

From here we will board the bus that will take you on a 20 minute ride up to the citadel of Machu Picchu, or Lost City of the Incas, which sits upon the summit bearing the same name, and is one of the most representative and recognized examples of Incan architecture. A guided tour of the Citadel includes the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and various burial grounds. Buffet lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge is included. In the afternoon return to Aguas Calientes town. Overnight accommodations Hotel Sumaq Machu Picchu (Superior Deluxe room) (B/L/D)

DAY 6: Machu Picchu / Cusco

Breakfast. Morning at leisure. Excellent opportunity to wake up early and enjoy a beautiful sunrise as well as stroll around the Town of Aguas Calientes and visit its Hot Springs Thermal waters. Then, you will have time to perform some of the following activities (not included in the overall price): visit the Citadel of Machu Picchu for a second time, or for more active and adventurous people, we suggest to climb up the Huayna Picchu from where you can appreciate the immensity of Machu Picchu, even more amazing being so high and distant (no guide services included this day). In the afternoon, return to Cusco by train and upon arrival at the train station you will be met by our representative and private driver for your transfer to the hotel. Dinner will be served at your hotel.
Overnight accommodations El Mercado Boutique Hotel in Cusco (Superior room) (B)

DAY 7: Cusco / Lima / Departure

Breakfast. Morning walking City tour Cusco, San Blas & MAP Museum (private)
Today you will go on a walking city tour of the Imperial City of Cusco, including a visit to the district of San Blas, with its winding streets, the whitewashed houses, the blue balconies hung with geranium-filled flowerpots, the uneven line of the tiled rooftops and the endless stairways. In the neighborhood live the folk artists of Cusco, who for centuries have used their hands to tell the tale of their longings and frustrations working in stone and woodcarving, sculpture, doll-making, silverware, weaving and textile arts, gold-leaf, mask-making, and an array of ceramics in utilitarian, architectural, sculptural, monumental, grotesque and many other styles for example Edilberto Merida, renowned sculptor. He looked to religion for his primary inspiration, but he moved away from traditional religious images, by making grotesque images with exaggerated features. It is a form of sculpture that has come to be known as “mud of protest.”
Then visit the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, the only museum in Peru dedicated to rebound the arts of ancient Peruvian cultures; the collection of 450 master pieces date from 1250 B.C to.1532 A.D. Continue on to the Santo Domingo Church built upon the foundations of the Inca temple Koricancha, which was dedicated to Sun worship. You will also visit the Main Plaza, which has been the scene of great historical events in Cusco; and the Cathedral, constructed of great slabs of red granite in the renaissance style, and thus contrasting with the baroque style silverwork which decorates the interior. After the tour you will be driven back to your hotel.
Afternoon transfer Hotel / Airport (private). At the appropriate time, transfer to Cusco Airport to board your flight back to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima assistance with all departure formalities for your international homebound flight.

RATE PE PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $2,430.00
Includes round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima

Add international air via LAN Miami/Lima/Miami for only $514.00 including fuel surcharges and taxes.

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima. Fuel surcharges and taxes subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. All train tickets, bus tickets and boat services needed to operate tours and excursions. Excursion to Machu Picchu is aboard the Vistadome train. Service of an English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions. All meals indicated in the itinerary. (B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

NOT INCLUDED:

International air to be quoted separately on request. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. International and local Airport departure taxes – approximate cost is US $31.00 for international flights, and US $7.40 for each domestic flight.

 

GT-201B – CLASSIC PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments

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A journey thru culture, traditions, history and archaeology
Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Six Days / Five Nights
Minimum two persons

USA Departures Dates from Miami:
2013: September 14, September 28,October 12, October 26, November 16, November 30, December 14

ITINERARY

DAY: 1 – Arrival in Lima

Arrival in Lima, the “City of Kings” famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture, extraordinary museums and cuisine. Lima is internationally recognized as the “Gastronomic Capital of the Americas”, and its cuisine is considered among the most diverse and exquisite in the world on par with French cuisine. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.
Overnight accommodations Hotel Costa del Sol Ramada Airport

DAY 2: Lima / Cusco/ Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex

Breakfast. Early morning transfer from the hotel to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet.
Full Day Excursion to the Pisac Indian Market and the Ollantaytambo Fortress – Morning departure for a drive through the fertile countryside of the Urubamba Valley to the colonial village of Pisac where an Indian Market takes place Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other days you will tour the religious nucleus and
archaeological site of Pisac. During your visit to the bustling marketplace you will have the opportunity to bargain with the natives for many different types of Peruvian handicrafts and jewelry.
Continue to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, the Incas built it as a fort that included a temple, agricultural terraces, and an urban area. There are two distinct sectors: The religious and worship zone, and the residential area. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative center with probable military functions if one considers the walls and towers.

There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts. The town of Ollantaytambo is called a “Living Inca Town” since the inhabitants maintain very old practices and customs. Lunch is at a beautiful country estate on the shores of the Urubamba River. Overnight at Sacred Valley.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley (B/L)

DAY 3: Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu (B,L,D)

Breakfast. Morning transfer to Ollanta´s train station for your train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the ruins upon arrival. Lunch is at the Orient Express’ Sanctuary Lodge located just a few steps from the Inca citadel. Overnight at Machu Picchu
Overnight accommodations Hotel Inkaterra or Hotel Sumaq (B/L/D)

DAY 4: Machu Picchu Free Day. Return train ride (B)

Free morning to enjoy one of the most incredible sights on earth, the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Take as much time as you need to study these magnificent ruins, hike the steep stone-paved trail of Huayna Picchu, the pyramid-shape mountain above Machu Picchu for a breathtaking view of the site, or stroll to the Inca Bridge a secret entrance used by the Inca’s army or walk toward the Inca Trail to find the historic Intipunku or Sun Gate. Bus and entrance fee to Machu Picchu included. Huayna Picchu entrance fee is available upon request at extra charge. Afternoon return train ride.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B)

DAY 5: Cusco City Tour and Nearby Ruins (B)

Breakfast. Tour of Cusco and Nearby Ruins – Visitors are caught up in the excitement of touring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture.
The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco’s Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”. This tour of the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere also includes the nearby ruins of Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay as well as the Sacsayhuaman fortress, an imposing example of Inca military architecture.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B)

DAY 6: Depart Cusco

Breakfast. Morning transfer from hotel to airport for your flight to Lima or your next destination.
Guests returning to USA will be provided with day time or overnight hotel accommodations depending on the international flight departure time. (B)

HOTELS:

Lima: Costa del Sol Ramada (First Class) and Casa Andina Private Collection (Deluxe):
Sacred Valley: Casa Andina Private Collection (First Class)
Machu Picchu: Sumaq Hotel (Deluxe)
Cusco: Casa Andina Private Collection

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $2,150.00
Based on shared fully escorted land services and tours. Includes round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima.

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $2,420.00
Based on private fully escorted land services and tours by English speaking guides. Includes round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima.

A GREAT VALUE!!: Add international air via LAN Miami/Lima/Miami for only $514.00 including fuel surcharges and taxes.

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima, fuel surcharges and taxes subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. All train tickets, bus tickets and boat services needed to operate tours and excursions. Excursion to Machu Picchu is aboard the Vistadome train. Service of an English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions. All meals indicated in the itinerary.

NOT INCLUDED:

International air to be quoted separately on request. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. International and local Airport departure taxes. pproximate cost is US $31.00 for international flights, and US $7.40 for each domestic flight.

 

GT-201A CLASSIC PERU

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments

peru2

A journey thru culture, traditions, history and archaeology
Six Days / Five Nights
Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Minimum two persons

USA Departures Dates from Miami:
2013: September 14, September 28, October 12, October 26, November 16, November 30

ITINERARY

DAY: 1 – Depart USA to Lima

Today we take an overnight flight from Miami to Lima via LAN.

DAY 2: Lima / Cusco / Sacred Valley tour

Arrival in Lima, the “City of Kings” famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture, extraordinary museums and cuisine. After clearing through Immigration and Customs, immediate transfer to the domestic terminal for your early morning short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet. Upon arrival start your Peruvian experience with a Full Day Excursion to the Pisac Indian Market and the Ollantaytambo Fortress – Morning departure for a drive through the fertile countryside of the Urubamba Valley to the colonial village of Pisac where an Indian Market takes place Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other days you will tour the religious nucleus and archaeological site of Pisac. During your visit to the bustling marketplace you will have the opportunity to bargain with the natives for many different types of Peruvian handicrafts and jewelry.
Continue to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, the Incas built it as a fort that included a temple, agricultural terraces, and an urban area. There are two distinct sectors: The religious and worship zone, and the residential area. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative center with probable military functions if one considers the walls and towers.
There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts. The town of Ollantaytambo is called a “Living Inca Town” since the inhabitants maintain very old practices and customs. Lunch is at a beautiful country estate on the shores of the Urubamba River. Overnight at Sacred Valley.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley (B/L)

DAY 3: Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu

Breakfast. Morning transfer to Ollanta´s train station for your train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the ruins upon arrival. Lunch is at the Orient Express’ Sanctuary Lodge located just a few steps from the Inca citadel. Afternoon return to train station for your train ride back to Cusco.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B/L/D)

DAY 4: Cusco City Tour

Breakfast. Tour of Cusco. Visitors are caught up in the excitement of touring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture.
The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco’s Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”.
Overnight accommodations Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco (B)

DAY 5: Depart Cusco / Lima tour

Breakfast. Morning transfer from hotel to airport for your flight to Lima. Transfer to hotel in Lima. In the afternoon enjoy. a combined tour of modern and colonial Lima. This half-day tour visits both the colonial and modern sections of Lima. Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, San Francisco Church and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima, drive along the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro.
Evening transfer to the airport for your flight to USA (B)

DAY 6: Depart Lima

Depart from Lima on your flight via LAN destination Miami.

HOTELS:

Sacred Valley: Casa Andina Private Collection
Cusco: Casa Andina Private Collection
Lima: Casa Andina Select Miraflores

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $1,750.00
Based on shared fully escorted land services and tours. Includes round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima.

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: From: $2,010.00
Based on private fully escorted land services and tours by English speaking guides. Includes round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima.

A GREAT VALUE!!: Add international air via LAN Miami/Lima/Miami for only $514.00 including fuel surcharges and taxes.

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima, fuel surcharges and taxes and subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary. Hotel accommodations and hotel service charges and taxes. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. All train tickets needed to operate tours and excursions. Excursion to Machu Picchu is aboard the Vistadome train. Service of an English speaking licensed tour guide for all tours and excursions. All meals indicated in the itinerary. (B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

NOT INCLUDED:

International air to be quoted on request. Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. International and local Airport departure taxes approximate cost is US $31.00 for international flights, and US $7.40 for each domestic flight.

GT-201 – PERU EXPRESS I

Posted on: November 6th, 2014 by GT Tours No Comments

top201

Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu
Five Days / Four Nights
Friday Departures between March 1 and November 15, 2014
Minimum two participants

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Lima –Arrival

Arrival in Lima, the “City of Kings” famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture, extraordinary museums and cuisine. Lima is internationally recognized as the “Gastronomic Capital of the Americas”, and its cuisine is considered among the most diverse and exquisite in the world on par with French cuisine. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel

Day 2 – Lima – City Tour

Breakfast. Tour of Modern and Colonial Lima – This half-day tour visits both the colonial and modern sections of Lima. Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, San Francisco Church and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima, drive along the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B)

Day 3 – Lima – Cusco

Breakfast. Early morning transfer from the hotel to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet. Upon arrival a host will meet and assist you in transferring to the hotel and in registering.

City Tour of Cusco
Visitors are caught up in the excitement of touring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture. The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco’s Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”. Tour includes a visit to the emblematic Cusco neighborhood of San Blas, filled with narrow typical streets, charming small homes, galleries and craft workshops, where you see local artisans at work. Cusco is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B)

Day 4 – Machu Picchu (B,L)

Morning train ride through the sacred valley of Urubamba to the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the ruins upon arrival. Lunch is at the Orient Express’ Sanctuary Lodge located just a few steps from the Inca citadel. Return to Cusco.
Overnight accommodations at selected hotel (B/L)

Day 5 – Cusco – Lima – Home (B)

Transfer to the airport for your departure to Lima and your connecting international flight. Arrive home full of great memories of the rich tradition of Colonial Lima and the mystical Land of the Incas.

RATE PER PERSON BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Semi-Private Services: From: $1,575.00 — Private Services: From: $1,756.00
First Class Superior Hotels:
Lima – Sonesta El Olivar – Cusco: Casa Andina Private Collection

Semi-Private Services: From: $1,810.00 — Private Services: From: $1,995.00
Deluxe Hotels:
Lima – Double Tree El Pardo Miraflores – Cusco: Libertador Palacio del Inka
(Tours available with other hotel options)

INCLUDES:

Round trip air Lima/Cusco/Lima. Fuel surcharges and taxes subject to change. All airport transfers listed in the itinerary on private basis. Accommodations at selected hotels. Hotel service charges and taxes. Daily breakfast. Baggage handling at airports and at hotels. All tours and excursions indicated in the itinerary on Semi-Private basis (maximum 8 guests) or Private basis. English speaking guides for Semi-Private and Private Services. All entrance fees and transfers needed to operate tours and excursions. Private escorted tours in Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu as indicated in itinerary. All meals indicated in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L=Lunch, D=dinner).

NOT INCLUDED:

Expenses such us beverages on meals, tips, laundry, phone calls and other personal expenses are not included. Passport and visa and reciprocity fees expenses.

Send us a Message

ENQUIRE NOW

We will be happy to answer your questions or comments.

G T TOURS OFFICES:

Plantation, Florida  
13494 NW 7th Street
Plantation, Florida 33325

Miami, Florida 
9930 SW 142 Street
Miami, Florida 33176

Toll Free USA & Canada:
(800) 666 8687
Local Number: 
(305) 436 0933 
Fax:     
(305 436 0843

Send us a Message

ENQUIRE NOW

We will be happy to answer your questions or comments.

G T TOURS OFFICES:

Plantation, Florida  
13494 NW 7th Street
Plantation, Florida 33325

Miami, Florida 
9930 SW 142 Street
Miami, Florida 33176

Toll Free USA & Canada:
(800) 666 8687
Local Number: 
(305) 436 0933 
Fax:     
(305 436 0843