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. Then delve into 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 finest existing example of Inca town 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 (14,700 feet) to the hot springs of Lares for a swim. Raft the Urubamba River, and explore important archaeological sites such as Pumamarca and Pisac. In vibrant markets, discover indigenous foods and colorful textiles. Meet artisans in their workshops and play basketball or 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 unlock some of its mysteries. Examine the impossibly precise stonework, and hike the surrounding slopes for a different perspective on this incredible site.

Cusco and Chinchero

7 days. Ascend to the imperial city of Cusco, known by the Inca as the “navel of the Earth.” Visit Coricancha, the golden temple at the heart of the Inca Empire, and step into a colonial cathedral built with stones from the original Inca walls. See ancient baths, roads, and temples carved with mysterious markings. Then explore the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuaman, site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Spanish conquest.

Spend two days volunteering in Chinchero, located an hour from the city center. Experience daily life in an Andean village while working on service projects that benefit the community, such as helping to restore community buildings, improving village trails, or teaching English to students. While in Chinchero, visit National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa's textile center, and learn about 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.