Find yourself in the lost city of the Incas
Machu Picchu, Peru
Standing high in the Andes and seeing the fabled ruins of Machu Picchu emerge from the mysterious mist will render you speechless. The marvellous Inca citadel is the big blockbuster attraction of Peru but this high altitude region has plenty of other reasons to entice you here, including magnificent Cusco, once the imperial capital of the Incas. Their descendants, the Quechua, form an important part of the picture too and everyone you meet has a story to tell.
Marvel at Machu Picchu
Named as one of the new seven wonders of the world, the lost city of Machu Picchu (which means ‘old mountain’ in Quechua) is arguably South America’s greatest attraction. As such, it draws over a million visitors each year and can get busy. But our expert guides know the secret spots, alternative routes and, crucially, when to go.
Unlock the secrets of the Sacred Valley
In between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is home to traditional Andean villages, the pink-hued salt mines of Maras, atmospheric markets and the terraced hills of Moray. Cosa can arrange for you to savour the Sacred Valley’s spectacular landscapes from Belmond’s luxurious Hiram Bingham train while being served Pisco Sours and ceviches.
Explore the heart of Cusco
Legend has it that Cusco was founded in the 12th century by the first Inca, Manco Capac, following a challenge by the sun god Inti to locate ‘the navel of the world’. Your private guide can tell you all that and more as you stroll the charming cobbled streets – often lined with alpaca-herding locals – where Andean culture and Spanish colonial splendour collide.
Follow in the footsteps of the Incas
The four-day Inca Trail is the most famous hike in South America. And for good reason: this memorable trek combines dramatic mountain scenery, tropical jungles and ancient ruins. With Cosa, you’ll have somewhere stylish to rest after each hard day of hiking: expect luxurious lodges complete with rainfall showers and gourmet cuisine.
Essential Machu Picchu
Two of the best-known areas in Peru, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley were both part of the Incan Empire until the Spanish conquest in 1532. Yet while the Spaniards made it to the Sacred Valley, they never reached Machu Picchu. The ancient city was lost to the world at large until the American archaeologist Hiram Bingham discovered the extraordinary ruins in 1911. It wasn’t just the altitude that took Bingham’s breath away – visit these remarkable regions with Cosa and we’ll show you why.
Where it is
South America
When to go
June to September
Why go there
Inca ruins
Trekking
Ancient culture
What to see
Machu Picchu
Inca Trail
Sacred Valley
