Peru Expedition

Lima

2 days. Our expedition kicks off in the heart of Lima, where we meet as a group and form our On Assignment teams. Orient yourself to the ancient world of the Inca at an 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.

The Sacred Valley

6 days. 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 important archaeological sites such as the Ollantaytambo fortress and the town of Pisac. In vibrant street markets, discover indigenous foods and colorful textiles. In the evenings, play soccer with new village friends.

Machu Picchu

3 days. 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. Follow National Geographic expert Peter Frost into the 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 towering peaks and spectacular ruins.

Cusco and Chinchero

7 days. Ascend to the imperial city of Cusco, known to the Inca as the “navel of the Earth.” 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 happen upon 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 three days volunteering in Chinchero, located an hour from the city center. Take on service projects such as repairing a greenhouse, teaching English to students, or organizing engaging after-school activities for local children. While in Chinchero, visit National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa's textile center, and try your hand at the traditional art of weaving.

Ollantaytambo

2 days. During the last days of the program, return to Ollantaytambo to prepare for and present our final On Assignment projects. Then return to Lima for our flight home.