Commonwealth Youth Choir - Peru Companion Tour

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Monday July 5: Lima

Depart from the USA. Arrive in Lima, Peru's capital city where you will meet your Encore Tour Manager. Transfer to your hotel for check in, followed by an independent dinner.

Day 2, Tuesday July 6: Lima

This morning after breakfast, join a local guide for an exploration of Colonial Lima. Our tour starts in the Main Square, site of the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and the City Hall, all examples of Lima's still-present colonial architectural opulence. You'll visit the Cathedral and discover various architectural styles and learn about the religious history of Peru. The tour continues with a visit to San Francisco Convent built in the 17th century, and its “Catacombs” ancient underground cemetery of Lima. Afterwards, we will head to Larco Museum, an eighteenth-century Viceregal mansion that houses more than 3,000 years of Peru's pre-Columbian history. Finally the tour takes in Miraflores, a perfect spot to enjoy wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean. Later come together to enjoy the first performance by CYC in Peru (B)

Day 3, Wednesday July 7: Sacred Valley

After breakfast (which may be a box breakfast depending on flight times), depart for an early morning flight to Cuzco, the historic capital of the Inca empire. On arrival, transfer to the hotel in the Sacred Valley for some time to freshen up and acclimatize to the altitude. Later explore the quaint town of Pisac, famous for its artisan markets where you can find extraordinarily fine jewelry and ceramic and textile craftwork. Dinner tonight is independent in the city (B)

Day 4, Thursday July 8: Sacred Valley

This morning after breakfast watch CYC as they interact and perform to a local indigenous non-profit. Later cross the Urubamba River and head towards Salt Pans of Maras. This still-operating salt mine, in use since Incan times, gives a spectacular contrast between the stark white of the steeply descending salt pans juxtaposed against the green of the surrounding mountain slopes. The day continues with a visit to the archaeological site of Moray. Used as an agricultural testing ground, the site's system of circular terraces descends 490 feet (150m), serving as a perfect testament to the level of advancement achieved by the Incas, who excelled at building masterful constructions in harmony with nature. The remainder of the day is free (B)

Day 5, Friday July 9: Sacred Valley

Today is your full day excursion to Machu Picchu! Machu Picchu was never discovered by the Spaniards. For centuries it was buried in the jungle until Hiram Bingham found it in 1911.The Holy City of Machu Picchu was built in stone among the flanks of two hills belonging to the eastern mountain range of the Andes, descending into the Amazonian upper sylvan. There is no doubt that Machu Picchu represents an extraordinary example of architecture and engineering. You'll take the comfortable Vistadome train, followed by bus transfer to the top of the ruins. A guided tour of the ruins gives you some idea of what the city must have looked like. Return to the hotel in time for an independent dinner. (B)

Day 6, Saturday July 10: Cuzco

Today after breakfast enjoy a private full-day experience that combines breathtaking Andean landscapes with authentic local traditions. Visit the Huchuy Qosqo community and savor a delicious homemade lunch prepared with fresh regional ingredients by the Tierra de los Yachaqs community. This experience offers a warm opportunity to connect with local culture, support community-based tourism, and discover the rich flavors and hospitality of the Andes. (B,L)

Day 7, Sunday July 11: Cuzco

Today you'll follow the Andean Baroque Route, promoted by the Society of Jesus, runs through four temples: the Compañia de Jesus located in the main square of Cusco, and the temples of Andahuaylillas, Huaro, and Canincunca in the South Valley of Cusco. This valley was a commercial axis, before the Incas, where gold, silver, Coca, and animal fibers circulated. The temples, led by the Jesuit priests, exhibit in their interior one of the most impressive and striking examples of Andean baroque in Peru. Due to limited restaurant optiosn today, a delicious box lunch is provided. Later attend the next concert by CYC (B,L)

Day 8, Monday July 12: Cuzco

This morning enjoy a half-day morning tour exploring Cusco's rich history and cultural heritage. Visit the impressive Cathedral and the iconic Qoricancha Temple, followed by a guided exploration of the remarkable nearby archaeological sites, where you will discover the legacy of the Inca civilization. Later come together for CYC's final concert, followed by a farewell dinner together with the choir (B,D)

Day 9, Tuesday July 13: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Lima. Connect at the Lima airport for your return home. (B)

Day 10, Wednesday July 14: United States

Arrive in the USA.