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Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes
The Sacred Valley
Ollantaytambo, Peru
Salt Mines of Mara
Starting at $5,595 per person
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Peru, where the remnants of ancient civilizations meet vibrant contemporary culture. Led by The Great Courses expert Dr. Karen Bellinger, an anthropologist, archaeologist, and historian specializing in global cultural contact and change, this immersive exploration delves into the ingenuity, spirituality, and resilience of the Inca Empire and its modern descendants. From the bustling streets of Lima to the serene Sacred Valley, discover Peru’s rich tapestry of history, foods, and traditions. Stand in awe at Machu Picchu, marvel at the precision of Inca engineering, and witness firsthand the enduring legacy of Andean culture in remote highland communities. Along the way, savor world-renowned Peruvian cuisine, explore breathtaking landscapes, and gain a deeper understanding of how the past continues to shape Peru’s present. With expertly guided visits, engaging lectures, and hands-on cultural experiences, this journey offers a profound perspective on one of the world’s most fascinating civilizations.
with Karen Bellinger
Peru: Machu Picchu and the Inca Empire
DEPARTURE DATES AND PRICING
Learn about Andean agricultural and craft traditions with opportunities to observe traditional weaving and dyeing techniques at Awana Kancha and visits to the Salt Mines of Maras and the Moray terraces, where the Incas harnessed natural resources with remarkable innovation, influencing agricultural practices that continue today.
Savor Peru’s world-renowned cuisine with hands-on cooking experiences, farm-to-table meals, and an exploration of indigenous culinary techniques dating back to Inca times.
Explore Machu Picchu–the awe-inspiring Inca citadel and one of the seven wonders of the world–with expert insights from Dr. Karen Bellinger, uncovering its spiritual significance and the engineering marvels that continue to mystify historians.
Immerse yourself in sacred traditions, like an authentic Pago a la Tierra (Payment to the Earth) ceremony with a local shaman, gaining a deeper appreciation for Andean spirituality and the enduring bond between people and nature.
Delight in Cusco’s Inca and colonial fusion, where Spanish cathedrals stand atop Inca temples, and witness how centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with modern Peruvian culture.
Highlights
Karen Bellinger
Karen Bellinger is an anthropologist, archaeologist, and historian who has investigated sites in Europe, Africa, and North and South America, exploring human mysteries from prehistory through the 21st century. Much of her research has focused on early modern European culture and society, and its colonial expansion throughout the Atlantic World from the 16th through 21st centuries. Professor Bellinger presents and consults for a wide range of history programs on media outlets such as National Geographic and the Science Channel. Committed to public archaeology and everyday learning, she created a Scholastic and Parents’ Choice award-winning time travel adventure game called The Time Trib, develops interactive visitor experiences for museums and heritage sites, and writes multimedia historical fiction. She earned her PhD in anthropology from New York University. Professor Bellinger has worked with many universities and heritage institutions, including the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, the College of William & Mary, Queen Mary University of London, the Museum of London, Plimoth Plantation, Yale educational travel, and primary schools in the U.S. and U.K. For The Great Courses, Professor Bellinger is developing a course on great archaeological mysteries.
Journey Expert
Karen Bellinger
Lima, Peru
Welcome to Lima, the “City of Kings,” where Peru’s rich cultural history blends seamlessly with modern cosmopolitan life. Transfer to the Pullman Lima Miraflores Hotel, ideally located in one of the city’s most vibrant districts. Here, the Pacific Ocean meets colonial history, offering the perfect setting to begin your journey. Gather this evening with fellow travelers and meet your Great Courses expert, Dr. Karen Bellinger, an anthropologist, archaeologist, and historian specializing in the rise and fall of great civilizations. As a scholar of global cultures, Dr. Bellinger will provide insight into the themes of this journey, from the ingenuity of the Incas to the ways in which indigenous traditions continue to shape Peruvian life today. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Peruvian cuisine, like ceviche and lomo saltado.
Included Meal: Dinner, Reception
Accommodations: Pullman Lima Miraflores Hotel
*Internal flights between Lima and Cusco are not included in the tour price, but will be arranged for the group no later than 3 months before departure. The estimated cost is $550.
Cusco, Peru
Begin the day with an illuminating lecture from Dr. Bellinger on Lima’s colonial history, its role in the Spanish conquest, its fusion of tradition and modernity, and the enduring culture of its indigenous Quechua inhabitants. Then, explore Lima’s rich history on a guided city tour, beginning with the grand Metropolitan Cathedral, the final resting place of Francisco Pizarro. Continue to the haunting catacombs of the San Francisco Convent, where thousands of human remains rest beneath one of Lima’s most beautiful Baroque churches. After exploring the historic city center, indulge in the flavors of Peruvian gastronomy at a beloved local restaurant, where a renowned chef will guide you through the country’s diverse culinary influences. In the afternoon, board a flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. From there, journey into the Sacred Valley, where breathtaking Andean landscapes set the stage for the days ahead.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay (May)
La Casona de Yucay (Oct)
Piruray Lagoon
This morning, visit Piuray Lagoon, an essential water source in the Sacred Valley, to participate in a hands-on culinary experience led by an expert Peruvian chef. Learn the art of huatia cooking—an ancient technique using underground ovens heated by stones—and prepare traditional dishes like causa acevichada, a unique fusion of Andean potatoes and ceviche. Sample perfectly grilled alpaca medallions, paired with a handcrafted pisco sour. After lunch, immerse yourself in traditional Andean spirituality by taking part in a Pago a la Tierra (Payment to the Earth) ceremony led by a local shaman. This sacred ritual, dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth), has been practiced for centuries to maintain balance between humans and nature. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Sacred Valley, reflecting on the centuries-old traditions that continue to thrive in this remarkable region.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay (May)
La Casona de Yucay (Oct)
Andean Weaving
Step back in time as you explore Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca sites in Peru. This ancient fortress, perched high above the valley, was a critical stronghold during the Spanish conquest. Marvel at its massive terraces, once used for agricultural experimentation, and admire the advanced water channels that still function today. Continue to the remote Andean village of Willoq, where Quechua traditions remain remarkably intact. Here, local women demonstrate the intricate techniques of Andean weaving, a skill passed down through generations. Sit down with the community to enjoy a pachamanca meal, a traditional feast of meats, potatoes, and vegetables slow-cooked underground using hot stones. In the evening, return to your hotel for a lecture from Dr. Bellinger, who will trace the rise of the Inca Empire, highlighting their sophisticated and sometimes surprising innovations in agriculture, engineering, and governance that drove their astonishing success and lasting impact. Afterward, enjoy exploring the serene atmosphere of the Sacred Valley on your own.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay (May)
La Casona de Yucay (Oct)
Terraces of Moray
Begin your morning in the colorful town of Chinchero (“town of the rainbow”), where locals gather at the Sunday market to barter goods in a practice that has remained unchanged for centuries. Wander through the bustling stalls, where indigenous merchants trade textiles, fresh produce, and handmade crafts against the backdrop of an ancient Inca palace and a colonial-era church. Chinchero’s indigenous communities are still governed by clans (“Ayllu”), providing a glimpse of how ancient traditions inform contemporary practices. Continue to the Salt Mines of Maras, where thousands of terraced salt pools cascade down the mountainside, offering a glimpse into traditional salt extraction methods passed through generations and still used by local families. Next, visit the enigmatic Moray agricultural terraces, an archaeological site believed to have been an experimental farming center, where the Incas engineered microclimates to cultivate crops at different elevations. After a farm-to-table lunch set against the stunning Andean peaks, embark on a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Spend the evening at leisure, preparing for your much-anticipated visit to the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: El MaPi by Inkaterra
Cusco at sunset
Your day starts with an early morning ascent by train to Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel. Explore the breathtaking ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, uncovering the mysteries of the Lost City of the Incas with an expert guide. Walk among its meticulously carved stone temples, terraced fields, and ceremonial spaces, learning about the site’s spiritual and political significance within the vast Inca Empire. After marveling at the sophistication of Inca engineering, enjoy a leisurely lunch with views of the Urubamba River winding through the valley below. In the afternoon, board the Vistadome train to begin your return journey to Cusco. Back in the Imperial City, gather for a thought-provoking lecture from Dr. Bellinger, who will explore Machu Picchu as a lens onto the complex, sprawling, and interconnected physical, ritual, and political landscapes of the Inca Empire at its peak in the early 16th century. Spend the evening wandering Cusco’s lively cobblestone streets, soaking in its blend of Inca and colonial influences.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Casa Andina Premium Cusco
Tambomachay
Today’s journey begins at Awana Kancha, a living museum where you’ll meet Peru’s native camelids—llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas—and watch artisans demonstrate the ancient art of Andean weaving as they skillfully spin and dye wool using natural pigments derived from plants, minerals, and even insects. Return to Cusco for a walking tour of its historic center, where colonial architecture rests on the foundations of ancient Inca temples. Step inside the Cathedral of Cusco (consecrated in 1668), home to a fascinating collection of religious art that fuses Catholic iconography with indigenous traditions, including an Andean interpretation of The Last Supper. At the Temple of the Sun, or Coricancha, marvel at the precisely cut stone walls that once glittered with gold before they were stripped by the Spanish conquistadors. Venture beyond the city to Cusco’s surrounding archaeological wonders. Continue to the imposing Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán, where colossal boulders fit together with extraordinary precision. Nearby, explore the mysterious labyrinth of Qenqo, the military outpost of Puca Pucará, and the ceremonial baths of Tambomachay. Return to Cusco for a celebratory farewell dinner. Indulge in modern takes on Andean cuisine, with dishes like hot ceviche, stewed guinea pig taquito (for the adventurous!), and ancestral huatia—a dish slow cooked beneath the earth, just as the Incas prepared it.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Casa Andina Premium Cusco
La Casona de Yucay (3 Nights, October Departure)
Nestled in the picturesque village of Yucay, within Peru’s Sacred Valley, La Casona de Yucay is a historic colonial mansion built in 1810. This boutique hotel offers a serene retreat, surrounded by majestic mountains with breathtaking views and lush gardens. Rooms feature hardwood floors, modern amenities, premium bedding, and large windows that frame the vibrant gardens and towering mountains. The on-site restaurant uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The property also boasts a charming courtyard and a library, offering peaceful spaces for relaxation. It is an ideal base for exploring Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Chinchero.
Pullman Lima Miraflores (1 Night)
Located in the vibrant district of Miraflores in Lima, the Pullman Lima Miraflores offers modern sophistication and comfort. The hotel’s rooftop green terrace (“Ambra”) offers an oasis in the city, with an outdoor pool, bar, and panoramic ocean and city views. Rooms are spacious and comfortable. This upscale hotel features contemporary decor with a touch of Peruvian charm, blending urban style with local artistry.
Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay (3 Nights) (May Departure Only)
Nestled in the picturesque Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay embodies the essence of Andean hospitality. Set within a historic colonial-era monastery, this charming hotel combines traditional architecture with modern comforts. Guests can savor authentic Peruvian cuisine at the restaurant, relax in the serene courtyard gardens, or explore the nearby Inca ruins. With its rustic yet elegant decor and warm atmosphere, Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay offers a peaceful retreat amidst breathtaking mountain scenery, making it an ideal base for exploring the cultural richness of the Sacred Valley.
El MaPi by Inkaterra (1 Night)
Located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, El MaPi by Inkaterra provides a contemporary, comfortable, and eco-friendly retreat for visitors to Machu Picchu. Designed with sustainability in mind, the light-filled property features minimalist decor inspired by the surrounding cloud forest. Rooms are stylish and well-appointed. Guests can enjoy organic cuisine at the restaurant, unwind in the hot springs or spa, and experience the vibrant local culture.
Casa Andina Premium Cusco (2 Nights)
Situated in the historic center of Cusco, Casa Andina Premium Cusco blends colonial charm with modern amenities. Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion, the hotel showcases elegant decor and original artwork. Spacious rooms feature handcrafted wooden furniture, luxurious bedding, and modern amenities. Guests can indulge in gourmet Peruvian cuisine at the restaurant, relax in the cozy lounge with a fireplace, or rejuvenate at the spa.
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