PERU
Manú National Park
Machu Picchu
Ollantaytambo
Lima Cusco
Pa c i f i c Ocean
0
100
MILES
We hiked up to an Incan “archaeological site and
photographic angle on this iconic site, and then venture through the ancient temples and dwellings to unlock their mysteries. Take an early morning hike up a nearby peak to watch the sun rise over the ruins before traveling back to Ollantaytambo by scenic train. DAYS 11–13 CUSCO AND CHINCHERO Arrive in Cusco, once the capital of the ancient Inca Empire. Discover the city’s rich history and delve into Inca culture, visiting the oncegolden temple of Coricancha and the colonial cathedral, built with stones from the original Inca walls. Stroll the city’s winding streets and photograph the relics of an empire long gone but not forgotten. Then explore the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuamán, site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Spanish conquest. Spend a day in the village of Chinchero, and visit National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa’s textile center. Try your hand at the ancient art of Andean weaving, a tradition that continues today thanks to Nilda’s efforts.
DAYS 14–18 THE AMAZON RAIN FOREST Leave the Sacred Valley behind and travel by private bus deep into the Peruvian Amazon, stopping along the way at magnificent pre-Inca ruins near the colonial outpost of Paucartambo. Board a boat at Atalaya and cruise even deeper into the rain forest, on the lookout for monkeys, giant anteaters, tapirs, ocelots, armadillos, peccaries, caimans, and the numerous bird species that inhabit Manú National Park. Meet and interview members of the Matsigenka Amazonian tribal nation, learning how they have adapted to live in harmony with their unique environment. Travel back to Cusco for a celebration on your final night, and present your On Assignment project to the group.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 27–JULY 14 TUITION: $6,490 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Miami to Lima, Lima to Cusco, Cusco to Lima, and Lima to Miami. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in small, family-run inns and hostels throughout the expedition. NOTE: We will be traveling at high elevations while in Cusco and Machu Picchu. Cusco is at an elevation of 11,200 feet, and Machu Picchu is at 8,000 feet. Participants should be physically fit.
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participated in a special ceremony to make an offering to the mountain. We weren’t outsiders peering in, but instead were a part of the experience. —Jessica L. PERU, 2016
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MEET YOUR EXPERT MATTHEW PISCITELLI Archaeologist and National Geographic grantee Matthew Piscitelli specializes in the role of religion in the development of early civilizations across the globe. He has led excavations in Peru, Bolivia, and Greece. His doctoral research was focused on the use of modern technology to reconstruct ancient rituals at some of the earliest religious sites along the North-central coast of Peru. Currently, Matt manages one of the National Geographic Society’s grants programs, working with researchers focused on anthropology, archaeology, astronomy, geography, geology, and paleontology. Matt will join the group in the Sacred Valley.
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