Peru with Machu Picchu

Tour Guide

VAN EVANS

Van C. Evans served a church mission in Peru (’79–’81) and is founder of Generations Humanitarian. He has led numerous expeditions and tours to Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia since 1998. He received a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Utah with an International certificate and a Master of Science degree in Nonprofit/NGO Leader- ship from the University of Pennsylvania. He was trained as a research sociologist at Indiana University–Purdue University, where he received his doctorate in Sociology/Philanthropic Studies. He is the author of Willka Wasin Wiraqocha — The House of the Lord. He is fluent in Spanish and conversant in Quechua and Portuguese. 

View Profile

May 15 – USA flight to Lima, Peru

Fly from the USA to Lima, Peru. Plan for your flight to arrive in Lima by the late evening (or earlier) of May 15. (No meals included)

May 16 – Flight to Cusco; Sacred Valley; Pisaq Market

Board a flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, where colonial architecture meets Inca ruins. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Sacred Valley, starting with the colorful Pisaq Market, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the mesmerizing Salt Mines. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch)

May 17 – Moray; Salt Mines; Ollantaytambo

Embark on a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca city nestled in the Sacred Valley. Explore Moray and the Salt Mines. (Meals included: Breakfast)

May 18 – Machu Picchu

Ascend to the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the stone citadel reveals the engineering brilliance and spiritual energy of the Inca civilization.

Perched atop a cloud-kissed mountain, Machu Picchu transcends mere tourist destination. It’s a portal to a lost civilization, an architectural marvel whispering secrets on the wind. Prepare to be awestruck by:

Lost City of the Incas: Ascend through the mist and emerge into a world carved from stone. Explore the terraced temples, intricate palaces, and astronomical observatories, remnants of a sophisticated culture that vanished centuries ago.

Engineering Genius: Marvel at the Incas’ ingenuity. Witness their mastery of stonework as you climb the intricate staircases and navigate hidden aqueducts, all built without modern tools or technology.

Breathtaking Panorama: Soak in the breathtaking vistas. Panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley stretch before you, shrouded in mist and dotted with ancient ruins. Feel the vastness of the Andes and the timelessness of the landscape.

Sacred Connection: Though shrouded in mystery, Machu Picchu emanates a palpable spirituality. Breathe in the mountain air, feel the sun on your face, and connect with the ancient Incas who once walked these sacred grounds. (Meals included: Breakfast)

May 19 – Church Urubamba; Zipline; Chincheros; Cusco

Navigate the Urubamba River, surrounded by lush greenery, and experience the adrenaline rush of ziplining, capturing panoramic views of the Andean landscapes.

Discover the traditional Andean village of Chincheros, where ancient weaving techniques and vibrant textiles tell a story of cultural continuity. Engage with locals and witness the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.

Explore Cusco, a living museum of Inca and Spanish colonial history. Wander through the colossal Sacsayhuaman, the enigmatic Tambomachay, and the ancient sacrificial site of Q’enqo, each site revealing the sacred dimensions of Incan civilization. (Meals included: Breakfast)

May 20 – Sacsayhuaman; Tambomachay; Q’enqo; Free afternoon

Sacsayhuaman: Ascend the hill overlooking Cusco and witness the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Marvel at the massive stone blocks, some weighing over 100 tons, meticulously fit together without mortar. Imagine the collective effort and ingenuity required to build this monumental defense system.

Tambomachay: Descend into serenity at Tambomachay, the “Bathing Place of the Inca.” Picture the Inca emperor relaxing in this intricately designed water complex, with cascading fountains and channels flowing through lush gardens. Feel the refreshing mist on your face and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Q’enqo: Step into the enigmatic realm of Q’enqo. This rock-carved site served as a ceremonial center, with intricate channels and chambers carved into the natural stone. Explore the “Amphitheater,” a semicircular depression believed to have hosted rituals and gatherings. Feel the weight of history and contemplate the spiritual significance of this sacred space. (Meals included: Breakfast)

May 21 – Drive to Urcos; Temple of Raqch’i; La Raya; Puno

Travel through the picturesque landscapes of Urcos, the archaeological site of Raqch’i, and the panoramic heights of La Raya as you head to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca. (Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch)

May 22 – Visit the Uros; floating reed islands; Fly to Lima

Embark on a boat adventure to Lake Titicaca’s Uros, where the floating reed islands are home to an indigenous community with unique traditions. Witness their way of life and explore the ancient archaeological site of Raqch’i. (Meals included: Breakfast)

Flights to Lima

May 23 – Lima tour; Fly out that night to USA

Conclude your journey in Lima, where modernity and history converge. Explore the bustling city, discovering its historic sites, contemporary art scenes, and culinary delights savoring the flavors of Peruvian cuisine that blend indigenous and international influences. (Meals included: Breakfast)

Plan your flight to leave Lima late evening on May 23 or just after 12:00 am on May 24. 

May 24 – Arrive home with amazing memories!

Arrive home with amazing memories. (No meals included)