This 10-day South American vacation showcases the wonders of Peru and Bolivia, including Machu Picchu and the Uyuni Salt Flats. It features first-class accommodations, independent tours, and is ideal for first-time visitors to South America.
Your Peruvian vacation begins in Cusco, the former Incan capital and one of South America’s historical centres. While you may spend most of your time taking it easy and acclimating to the high altitude, be sure to explore the Plaza Mayor, home to Cusco Cathedral and the Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus. From Cusco, venture into the Sacred Valley of the Incas and get in touch with the traditional peoples that have called it home for millennia. During your full-day tour, you’ll head to Chincero, home to the traditional markets showcasing colourful weaves and crafts, as well as Ollantaytambo, a former Incan town with the ruins of a massive fortress on the hillside.
After exploring the Sacred Valley, hop the train bound for Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel that was constructed in the 14th century and was lost until 1911 when Hiram Bingham introduced it to the western world. You’ll enjoy two visits to Machu Picchu. The first afternoon, hike up the Sun Gate to see the citadel illuminated on the mountaintop, then explore the ruins to see fascinating spots like the Inca’s Home and the Temple of the Condor. The next day, consider climbing Huayna Picchu for rarely-seen views of the ruins. Then spend the rest of your time independently touring the ruins or hire a guide who’ll bring the citadel to life with stories of its past and the heights of the Inca Empire. That afternoon, return by train to Cusco.
Fly into Bolivia and the capital, La Paz, the world’s highest capital, located at the foot of the Andes Mountains. While you could easily occupy yourself with wandering the city at leisure, a full-day tour will showcase the highlights, from Murillo Square to the Witches Market, where you’ll witness uncanny displays of spirituality and commerce. You’ll venture into the Valley of the Moon to gaze upon the fascinating geological formations that give it its name.
Connect to the Uyuni Salt Flats, the world’s largest salt flat and one of the flattest spots on the planet. Your time here is your own to explore the salt flats. Venture to the nearby village of Coquesa to see the ancient mummies sheltered in a cave overlooking the village and the flats. Hike to the crater of Tunupa Volcano and gaze out over the stretches of white earth. Bike across the landscape and take advantage of the on-site telescopes in the evening to gaze upon the heavens. If you’re lucky enough to visit after a rainfall, you’ll witness the flats transform into a sea of stars, perfectly reflecting the sky above them.
At the end of your stay, connect back to La Paz and return home.
