Mysteries of the Inca Empire
- Explore Inca fortresses and the incomparable Machu Picchu.
- Go white-water rafting through the Sacred Valley of the Inca.
- Learn the ancient practice of Peruvian weaving.
- Hike to remote Andean villages.
- Volunteer at a local orphanage.
Choose one of these projects and delve further into your area of interest:
Itinerary 20 Days
Welcome to the land of the Inca—a complex civilization that has fascinated explorers for centuries. In the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, discover the archaeological mysteries and colorful indigenous culture of the Peruvian highlands. Against the backdrop of the soaring Andes, venture into a network of incredibly sophisticated temples and fortresses, including magnificent Machu Picchu. Explore the ancient past and vibrant contemporary culture of Peru through an On Assignment project of your choice—Photography or Archaeology & Ancient Culture.
Cusco and ChincheroDays 1-7. Our expedition kicks off in the imperial city of Cusco, known to the Inca as the “navel of the Earth.” Here, we begin with an orientation and discover the city's rich history. Delve into Incan culture as we visit Coricancha, the once-golden temple at the heart of the Inca Empire, and step into a colonial cathedral built with stones from the original Inca walls. Stroll through the city’s winding streets and discover relics of an empire long gone but not forgotten. Then explore the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuaman, site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Spanish conquest.
Spend a day volunteering in the village of Chinchero, located an hour from Cusco. Take on a service project such as repairing a greenhouse, teaching English to students, or organizing engaging after-school activities for local children. Visit National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa’s textile center, and try your hand at the ancient art of Andean weaving, a tradition that continues today thanks to Nilda’s efforts.
Machu PicchuDays 8-10. Travel by train to Machu Picchu, a citadel built atop cliffs that drop thousands of feet into the cloud forests below. Recently voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and excavated by a team from National Geographic. Explore the iconic maze of temples and dwellings to uncover the secrets of its past inhabitants. Take an early-morning hike up the surrounding slopes to see the sun rise over the spectacular ruins.
The Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo
Days 11-18. Travel to the Sacred Valley of the Inca and settle in at Ollantaytambo, a lively village that has been occupied continuously for more than 500 years. With its cobblestoned lanes and sophisticated system of working aqueducts, Ollantaytambo is the best existing example of Inca city planning.
Follow old Inca trails to forgotten ruins and isolated stone villages where families live as they have for centuries. The mountains here are some of the Southern Hemisphere's highest peaks—considered sacred protectors by the Inca. Glaciers spill into valleys where llamas and alpacas graze. We'll hike through a beautiful mountain pass for breathtaking views of the valley. Go white-water rafting on the Urubamba River, and explore the town of Pisac and important archaeological sites such as the Ollantaytambo fortress. In vibrant street markets, discover indigenous foods and colorful textiles. In the evenings, play soccer with new village friends. During your last days in Ollantaytanbo, finalize your On Assignment projects and present them to the group.
Days 19-20. End your expedition with a stay in the vibrant city of Lima. Visit the world-famous archaeological museum. Meet National Geographic grantee Guillermo Cock, a Peruvian archaeologist whose groundbreaking discovery of thousands of Inca mummies was featured on the cover of National Geographic magazine in May 2002. Have a final dinner of ceviche and other local specialties with your group before returning home.
We will be traveling at high elevations while in Cusco and Machu Picchu. Cusco is at an altitude of 11,200 feet and Machu Picchu, 8,000 feet. Participants should be physically fit.