SOUTH AMERICA TOUR PERU AND BOLIVIA with Graham Hancock (13 days)

Welcome to Lima, where your extraordinary journey through the ancient mysteries of South America begins. Upon your arrival, our dedicated staff will greet you and ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel in the vibrant Miraflores district, one of Lima’s most scenic and upscale areas.

Once settled at the luxurious Marriott Lima, take some time to relax and recharge. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and start immersing yourself in the excitement of the adventure ahead.

Meals: Dinner

This morning, we embark on a captivating city tour of Lima, a metropolis that weaves together over 2,000 years of history. Known as the "City of Kings," Lima was founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro and quickly became the political, religious, and administrative center of colonial South America. However, Lima’s origins reach far deeper, with ancient cultures leaving their mark long before the Spanish arrived.

In the afternoon, we’ll journey to Pachacamac, the largest archaeological site in Lima and a place of great spiritual significance on the Peruvian coast. This sprawling complex, covering more than 1,150 acres, was built over the course of 1,500 years and was still in use when the Spanish arrived in 1533. Here, you'll explore the ancient pyramids with ramps – towering structures that once served as ceremonial and administrative centers.

After our exploration, we’ll return to the Marriott Lima, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries before enjoying a delightful dinner.

In the evening, we gather for a Multimedia Lecture by Graham Hancock, where he will dive into the mysteries of South America and discuss how its ancient past intertwines with his theories on lost civilizations and the secrets of human history. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we journey to Caral, a site of unparalleled historical and cultural significance. At more than 5,000 years old, the Caral pyramids are the oldest known monumental structures in the Americas, predating even the Egyptian pyramids. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Caral represents the heart of the Norte Chico civilization, one of the world’s oldest urban centers.

As we explore this ancient city, you’ll marvel at its pyramidal structures, sunken plazas, and advanced urban layout, all of which point to a sophisticated society thriving long before most of the world’s great civilizations emerged. Our expert guide will explain how Caral’s residents achieved remarkable advancements in agriculture, trade, and engineering, laying the foundations for later Andean cultures.

Graham Hancock will delve into the profound implications of Caral’s age and significance. He’ll highligh the intriguing similarities between Caral’s pyramids and other ancient sites worldwide, raising questions that challenge the conventional narrative of human history.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we depart Lima and take a short flight to Cusco, the heart of the ancient Inca Empire. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can take a moment to acclimatize to the city’s elevation and immerse yourself in its unique energy.

In the afternoon, we will begin our exploration of Cusco’s ancient wonders with a visit to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun. Once the most important religious site in the entire Inca Empire, Qoricancha was considered the spiritual and political center of Cusco, where Inca rulers and the people of Tahuantinsuyo gathered to honor the Sun God, Inti. The temple’s construction is a marvel of Inca architecture, featuring finely cut stones that fit together with such precision, not even a blade of grass can slip between them. Despite being partially destroyed and covered by the Santo Domingo Church during the Spanish conquest, Qoricancha continues to amaze visitors with its powerful presence and breathtaking design.

Later, we will visit the Inka Museum, housed in a building that once belonged to the Inca emperor Huascar. The museum’s collection spans from pre-Inca times to the twentieth century, showcasing a vast array of artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, and gold treasures. As we walk through the exhibits, you’ll gain deeper insights into the rise and fall of this magnificent empire, and the legacy it left behind.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we embark on a journey into the archaeological wonders surrounding Cusco, venturing just outside the city to the majestic fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Perched high on a hilltop, this massive complex, constructed of precisely cut stones, is one of the most impressive feats of Inca engineering. From the air, Sacsayhuaman resembles the head of a puma, a sacred animal in Inca cosmology. Archaeological evidence suggests that the site may have been occupied as early as 900 CE—though the true purpose and secrets of this awe-inspiring site remain a mystery.

One of its most intriguing highlights is the Chincanas, a series of tunnels carved into the rock. These mysterious passageways have fueled legends for centuries, with many believing they were used for secret ceremonies or as escape routes. We’ll stop to admire a fascinating feature within the Chincanas – Culina Suchuna and Tetekaka impressive and mysterious rock formations. Could those intriguing tunnels and rocks still hold untold secrets of the Incas? You’ll have the chance to ponder this and more as you explore.

Next, we will visit Qenqo, one of the most sacred huacas in the region, where sacrifices and ancient rituals were once performed. This fascinating archaeological site, located just northeast of Cusco, is filled with symbolic carvings and was believed to play a role in mummification and religious rites.

Our journey continues to the Temple of the Moon, a lesser-known but no less captivating site. Located high above the city, this temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Here, you’ll find intricate rock carvings and caves that were once part of an important Inca fertility temple. Though much of the temple has faded with time, its mysterious energy still lingers, inviting you to connect with the spiritual essence of this ancient place.

Finally, we will visit Tambomachay, a remarkable site often referred to as the "Baths of the Incas." This complex of aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls is believed to have served various functions, from a military outpost to a sacred site for water worship. The presence of sacred fountains here, as well as at other important Inca temples like Pisac and Machu Picchu, suggests that water held deep spiritual significance in the Incan world. Whether a royal retreat or a place for ritual purification, Tambomachay offers yet another glimpse into the complexity and beauty of Inca engineering and spirituality.

After a full day of exploring these incredible sites, we’ll return to the comfort of our hotel in Cusco to relax and reflect on the ancient mysteries uncovered today.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we embark on a journey through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region that was once the heart of the Inca Empire.

We begin with a visit to the charming village of Chinchero, perched at an altitude of 12,316 feet. Here, you’ll discover a harmonious blend of ancient and colonial history as we explore the intriguing ruins that have stood the test of time, alongside a beautiful colonial church adorned with impressive artwork. In Chinchero, you’ll also take part in a traditional weaving demonstration, learning how the local artisans preserve their vibrant culture through their intricate textile work, using techniques passed down through generations.

Next, we’ll visit the fascinating archaeological site of Moray. These remarkable circular terraces, which resemble a natural amphitheater, are believed to have been used by the Incas to experiment with crop cultivation, taking advantage of the unique temperature variations at different levels. As we explore, you’ll marvel at the ingenuity and agricultural knowledge of this ancient civilization.

Our journey continues with a stop at the Maras Salt Mines, one of the most photogenic locations in the Sacred Valley. Here, over 3,000 salt pools sparkle in the sunlight, fed by mineral-rich water that seeps from beneath the earth. These salt mines have been in continuous use since Inca times, and the sight of these intricate pools nestled into the hillside is a breathtaking experience.

After lunch, we proceed to the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll explore one of the most impressive architectural feats of the Inca Empire. Built over 3,500 years ago, this temple complex was ingeniously constructed with underground water channels and intricately carved fountains, such as the famous Ñusta Fountain, crafted from a single stone and designed to resemble a portal. Ollantaytambo served both as a strategic military stronghold and a ceremonial center, offering a glimpse into the Incas' sophisticated engineering and spiritual practices.

As the day winds down, we’ll board an evening train bound for Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Spending the night just a stone’s throw from this world-renowned archaeological site allows us to be among the first to enter its gates the following morning, ensuring a magical and serene experience of this ancient wonder.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today marks one of the most anticipated highlights of our journey—the unforgettable exploration of Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of Inca civilization. Rising early, we’ll depart from the hotel around 5 a.m. to ensure that we are among the very first to arrive at the ancient citadel. This early access provides a rare opportunity to experience the mystical site in the tranquil morning hours, before the crowds, as the mist slowly rises over the surrounding peaks.

After a short 20-minute ascent to the entrance, you’ll step into the breathtaking "Lost City of the Incas," a place of wonder that has captured the imagination of travelers and historians for centuries. Built around 1450 and abandoned mysteriously a century later, the purpose of Machu Picchu remains an enigma to modern scholars. Was it a royal estate, a religious site, or perhaps an astronomical observatory? As we explore the intricacies of this UNESCO World Heritage site, we’ll have the chance to get answers to these questions.

With its stunning terraces, ceremonial temples, and sweeping mountain vistas, Machu Picchu is a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual devotion of the Inca. Highlights of our exploration include the imposing Temple of the Sun, a structure believed to have astronomical significance, the Sacred Plaza, a place of ceremonies and reverence, and the House of the Priest. We will also visit the intricately carved Intihuatana Stone, thought to have been used as a sundial by the Incas to mark important celestial events.

The stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys only enhance the awe-inspiring experience of being in one of the most revered places on earth. This day at Machu Picchu will undoubtedly be a long-lasting memory, etched in your mind as one of the most profound experiences of your journey.

After a full day of exploration, we’ll return to Cusco by train in the late afternoon, arriving back at the hotel by early evening, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible discoveries made.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we set off early to explore the Southern Valley of Cusco, a region rich in archaeological treasures and stunning natural landscapes southeast of the city. The Southern Valley encompasses several historic villages and significant sites within the provinces of Quispicanchis and Canchis, each offering a unique glimpse into Peru’s ancient past.

Our first stop is Tipon, located just 25 kilometers from Cusco. This impressive archaeological complex showcases the Inca’s advanced agricultural techniques and their mastery of hydraulic engineering. You’ll see intricate irrigation channels that transported water from miles away, demonstrating the ingenuity and precision of Inca engineering.

Next, we visit Pikillaqta, an ancient city built by the Wari civilization, which laid the technological foundation for the Incas, much like the Greeks did for the Romans. As you explore the vast ruins, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Wari’s remarkable achievements and their influence on the Incas.

Our tour continues to the intriguing site of Rumikolka, another hidden gem in the Southern Valley of Cusco. This lesser-known archaeological location offers insights into the Inca’s ability to integrate natural rock formations into their architectural designs. The name "Rumikolka" translates to "Stone Circle" in Quechua, and here, you’ll find remnants of circular stone structures that were likely used for ceremonial or agricultural purposes.

In the late afternoon, we finally arrive at Pisac, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. The expansive ruins are spread across the mountain, blending seamlessly into the landscape. Pisac’s well-preserved structures include a residential settlement, ceremonial baths, and the largest Inca cemetery in South America. The surrounding agricultural terraces enhance the beauty of the site, reflecting the Inca’s skill in harmonizing their architecture with nature.

After a full day of exploring these historical sites, we’ll return to Cusco for the evening. Later, we’ll gather at our hotel for an engaging Multimedia Lecture by Graham Hancock. In this thought-provoking session, he will delve deeper into South America’s ancient mysteries and explore how they connect to other enigmatic sites around the world, weaving a fascinating narrative of a lost global civilization.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We set out early this morning from Cusco for a scenic drive through the majestic Andes mountain range and the expansive Andean plains, en route to Puno, located on the Peruvian shores of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes where llamas and alpacas graze peacefully on the high plateaus.

Our first stop is the picturesque village of Andahuaylillas, just 45 kilometers from Cusco. Here, we visit the Church of Saint Peter the Apostle, an unassuming structure on the outside that conceals an interior of astonishing beauty. Often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes”, this church dazzles visitors with its intricate gold leaf, baroque wood carvings, and vivid frescoes.

We then continue to Raqchi, home to the Temple of Wiracocha, the largest Inca temple ever discovered. Known for its imposing stone columns and walls, this 15th-century site reflects the advanced architectural skills of the Inca civilization. Raqchi is also a thriving village where local farmers, ranchers, and artisans maintain traditional ways of life.

After exploring these cultural and historical treasures, we continue our journey to Puno, where we settle into our hotel for the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We begin today with a visit to Chucuito Village, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Titicaca, where we will explore the intriguing Fertility Temple. This ancient site is steeped in mystery and significance, believed to have been a place where the local people once performed rituals to ensure fertility and abundance.

Next, the tour takes you to the mystical Aramu Muru, also known as the "City of the Spirits" in the Aymara language. This enigmatic site is believed to be an inter-dimensional portal, steeped in ancient legend and spiritual energy. Here, you'll have the chance to explore the unique rock formations surrounding the portal, capturing incredible photos while connecting with the deep sense of mystery that permeates this sacred place.

Next, we embark on a captivating boat tour of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Our journey takes us to the fascinating Uros Floating Islands, home to the indigenous Uros people who have lived on these man-made islands for centuries. Constructed from totora reeds that grow in the lake, the islands are a marvel of ancient ingenuity, and the Uros people continue to live much as their ancestors did, following time-honored customs and traditions. As you step onto these floating islands and meet the local families, you’ll experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.

After an unforgettable day exploring the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Lake Titicaca, we return to our hotel in Puno for a relaxing evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we journey from Peru into Bolivia, crossing the border and stepping back thousands of years in time to witness the remnants of one of the most ancient and mysterious civilizations in human history. After completing migration formalities, get ready to explore the legendary Tiwanaku Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to captivate experts and visitors alike.

Our first stop at Tiwanaku is the imposing Akapana Pyramid, followed by the iconic Sun Gate and the enigmatic Ponce Monolith, a stone figure engraved with intricate iconography that suggests a highly advanced understanding of art, engineering, and language—much of which remains undeciphered to this day. In the underground temple, you’ll encounter sculpted stone faces, some reflecting features from across the globe, fueling theories of ancient global connections or influence.

Next, we continue to the awe-inspiring site of Puma Punku, an architectural marvel that defies explanation. Here, you’ll stand in amazement at the sight of massive stone blocks, some weighing over 100 tons and standing 23 feet tall, intricately carved and perfectly aligned with one another. The precision and scale of Puma Punku have led many, including Graham Hancock, to question how such an ancient civilization could have mastered the techniques needed to create these monumental structures.

Photo by Santha Faiia

After this mind-expanding journey through ancient history, we return to the present and continue our drive to La Paz, Bolivia’s bustling high-altitude capital, where we’ll spend the night.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our final full day in Bolivia begins with a tour of La Paz, a city that perfectly blends the ancient with the modern, nestled high in the Andes. We start at the breathtaking Mirador Killi Killi, an outdoor viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and its dramatic surroundings. This is the perfect spot to capture unforgettable photos of La Paz with its stunning backdrop of mountains.

Next, we head to Plaza Murillo, the city's main square, where you’ll find La Paz’s oldest and most important landmarks, including the Cathedral of La Paz and the Government Palace. This historic plaza is rich with cultural and political significance, offering a glimpse into Bolivia’s complex and fascinating history.

Our journey then takes us to the surreal landscape of Moon Valley, a natural wonder created by the relentless forces of wind and rain. The unique rock formations and spires resemble a lunar landscape, making you feel as though you’ve been transported to another planet, all without leaving Earth. This otherworldly place is a true marvel of nature and an unforgettable stop on our journey.

After lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll have the chance to taste the flavors of Bolivia’s vibrant cuisine mixed with international influences, the adventure continues with one of the highlights of the day—a ride on La Paz’s famous cable cars. This innovative public transportation system soars above the city, offering breathtaking views as you glide through the sky. It’s an exhilarating way to experience La Paz from a whole new perspective.

We conclude the day with a visit to the Mercado de las Brujas, or Witches' Market, a place of mysticism and tradition. Here, you’ll find an array of strange and fascinating items used in Andean spiritual practices, from herbs and talismans to items used in ancient rituals. You can even take home a unique souvenir from this magical place, perhaps to bring a little bit of Andean spiritual energy into your own life.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a special Farewell Dinner, celebrating the incredible journey we’ve shared through Peru and Bolivia. Reflect on the wonders you’ve witnessed, the mysteries you’ve uncovered, and the lifelong memories created with new friends.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As your incredible journey through Peru and Bolivia comes to an end, we provide a seamless transfer to the airport for your departure from La Paz. Reflect on the breathtaking landscapes, ancient mysteries, and unforgettable experiences that will stay with you long after you return home.

Safe travels as you take these cherished memories back with you, marking the end of an extraordinary adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast