Classic Peru (10 Days)

In the 15th century Peru was the heartland of the Inca Empire with Cusco as its capital. But with the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors, the conquest of the region was completed in just a few short years. Today, Peru is rich in both Inca and Spanish colonial culture and we 'conquer' it in just a few days (minus the destruction and savagery). Lima, the sprawling capital, is built on the coastal desert strip nestled between the mountains and the sea and has many excellent museums and buildings dating from the Spanish colonial period. Just a short flight away, over towering, snow-capped Andean peaks, is Cusco, a living, cultural treasure house built on the foundations and walls of the old Inca capital. The city is centred on the Plaza de Armas and dominated by the great cathedral, with the narrow, cobblestone streets radiating outwards, packed with ancient houses, shops and some excellent restaurants. Overlooking the main town is the massive temple complex of Sacsayhuaman and further out in the Sacred Valley is the colourful market-trading town of Pisac. A highlight for many who visit Peru is a camping trek along ancient Inca pathways, culminating in a visit to the magnificent mountaintop site of Machu Picchu.