October 7 - 15 2006
Date	Day	Location
October 7	Saturday	LIma, Peru - Upon arrival, transfer to the Swisshotel
October 8	Sunday	Lima
October 9	Monday	Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley
October 10	Tuesday	Sacred Valley
October 11	Wednesday	Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
October 12	Thursday	Machu Picchu, Cusco
October 13	Friday	Cusco
October 14	Saturday	Cusco, Lima
October 15	Sunday	Lima, Flights Home
Itinerary subject to change

Overview
Many people have Peru set as a "gotta see" destination. And most who have traveled here find that words fail them when asked about their journey. The grandeur of the Andes, the mystery and beauty of the Peruvians, the incredible history and ruins of the Incas, the exotic culture and friendliness of the people are alluring and are definitely reasons to come to Peru. There is a peaceful pace in Peru, and even though our days here are filled with much to see and do, we still enjoy this trip at the requisite savoring pace. We divide our time here between Lima "City of the Kings" and the rural and mountainous area of Urubamba, Machu Picchu and Cuzco. To see all of this we'll fly from Lima on the Pacific coast of central Peru to the southwest mountain area of Cuzco which is close to the very start of the Amazon's journey to the far side of the continent. The adventure includes a rafting tour of the Urubamba River for those who choose it. The river is a perfect way to experience this very rugged land. To get to the famous ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, we'll take a train from the Urubamba area to climb up into the high peaks where the Inca built this architectural wonder that was lost for centuries under the thick vegetation and vines. The large stones of many of the structures are built without mortar and are fit together with great care. Visiting Peru and Machu Picchu while enjoying the camaraderie of other gay and lesbian travelers makes the whole journey just that much more memorable.

Activities

Day 1 - DEPART THE U.S.
Day 1 - Depart USA Arrive Lima, Peru
Board your flight to the "Land of the Incas." Upon arrival in Lima you will receive assistance at the airport and transfer to Swissotel.

Day 2 - Lima
On your tour of the "City of the Kings," visit the Plaza de Mayor, where the Government Palace, City Hall, the Cathedral and Arch-bishop's Palace are located. Drive through the districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. After lunch, visit one of the world's best pre-Columbian and Colonial private art collections. The afternoon is at your leisure. In the evening we enjoy the Casa Aliaga, the best preserved colonial mansion in America. Enjoy cocktails before the private gourmet dinner is served. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Lima / Urubamba
Take a morning flight from Lima to the historic city of Cuzco (extra cost is approximately $250 per person). From here, continue on to the "Sacred Valley of the Incas," visiting the Andean town of Chinchero with its well-preserved Inca-Wall at the main square. View the frescoes at the colonial church, or the Native Indian weavers showcasing their ancient techniques. Last stop today is Andean Town of Chinchero, a remarkable Incan village where time has stood still for over five centuries. Overnight is at Sol & Luna Hotel where the owners host a meal with family recipes made with home grown produce. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Urubamba /Sacred Valley
Morning excursion for the white water rafting adventure down the Urubamba River. For those not interested in the river rafting, a visit to a local school is offered. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch along the river. In the afternoon we take an excursion to the town of Pisac. Visit the Inca astronomic observatory and walk by the cultivation terraces renowned for their irrigation system. Overnight and dinner at the Sol & Luna Hotel. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - Early morning visit to the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo
Admire the magnificence of this important Inca site and stroll through the quaint streets of the village. Continue to Ollanta train station where we board a train for the 1-1/2 hour train ride to Machu Picchu. Lunch at Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. We have a 25 minute ascent to "The Lost City of the Incas". Experience an awe inspiring guided tour of the marvelous citadel. Overnight and dinner at Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. Your evening is free for you to explore the charming town of Aguas Caliente, with its unique shops where you can brush up on your bartering skills. (B,L,D)

Day 6 - Machu Picchu / Cuzco
With a free morning, relax in your villa, have a swim, hike up Huayna Picchu or simply find a secluded spot among the ruins and take in the spectacular setting. After a lunch at Sanctuary Lodge we take the afternoon rail coach service to Ollanta train station and transfer to Novotel Hotel in Cuzco. Your evening is free. (B,L)

Day 7 - Cuzco
A leisurely morning begins with a pleasant walking tour of the quaint district of San Blas and roam the ancient quarters of the 16th and 17th centuries. After lunch at La Cava de San Rafael we have an excursion to the archaeological Inca remains of Tambomachay Baths, Kinko Amphitheater, Puca Pucara and the impressive Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. The tour includes an Inca healing ceremony attended by a native Curandero. Your evening is free. (B,L)

Day 8 - Cuzco / Lima
After breakfast we have a mid-morning transfer to the airport for our flight to Lima. Upon arrival, we transfer to Swissotel and continue with a tour of the colonial landmarks and monuments. Lunch at La Rosa Nautica, a Victorian style restaurant by the ocean offering fish and seafood specialties. After lunch, visit the quaint and traditional district of Barranco and The Pedro de Soma Museum of colonial art with its valuable painting from the Cuzco school, silver, sculptures, and furniture. Farewell dinner at Huaca Pucllana Restaurant. (B,L,D)

Day 9 - Depart Lima / USA. Today, after breakfast, those guests departing transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner - Indicates meals included in the program.