PERU
MACHU PICCHU & THE SACRED VALLEY
Featuring Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes
SEPTEMBER 12 - 20, 2024
TRIP INTRODUCTION
Embark on an extraordinary photographic odyssey through Peru's Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu with Open Sky's Patrick Campbell and pro photographer Michael Downey.
What sets this Peru trip apart from others? We've designed our itinerary to include not just one, but two days to explore Machu Picchu. Capture the magic of this mind-blowing archeological site at both sunrise and sunset.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of ancient Incan sites such as Moray and Maras, explore the captivating Ollantaytambo, and enjoy stays in beautiful mountain-surrounded hotels.
Our top-notch tour guide, Alvin, will illuminate the journey, making it an informative and entertaining blend of history, culture, and unparalleled visuals through his unique storytelling approach.
Join us for a curated experience that unveils the essence of this historical and spiritual mecca in a captivating and concise adventure.
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ITINERARY
DAY-BY-DAY OVERVIEW
DAY 1: Arrive Lima, Peru
DAY 2: Fly up to Cusco | Drive to the Sacred Valley
DAY 3: SACRED VALLEY | Maras & Moray
DAY 4: SACRED VALLEY | Ollantaytambo & Pisac
DAY 5: Train from Ollantaytambo to MACHU PICCHU
DAY 6: MACHU PICCHU | Transport back to Cusco
DAY 7: CUSCO
DAY 8: Fly from Cusco back to Lima | Fly back to US
September 20th, 2024: Arrive home
HOTEL LIST
Costa del Sol Wyndham Hotel Lima Airport
Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado
El Mapi Hotel - Machu Picchu Pueblo
Aranwa Boutique Hotel - Cusco
SELECT HIGHLIGHTS
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Visit the archeological site of Moray, with its striking concentric circles and fascinating Incan history , and explore the photogenic hillside salt pools in Mara.
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Meet and photograph a local farming community living high in the Andes, learning how to make a traditional meal featuring indigenous crops and spices.
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Stroll the ancient streets of Ollantaytambo, a town and an archaeological site in the Sacred Valley. Ollantaytambo features well-preserved Inca ruins, including a temple complex and terraces.
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Experience iconic Machu Picchu, its visually astounding and mysterious dwellings, terraces, and mountain tops at sunrise and sunset.
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Stay in Cusco, the capital of the Incan Empire, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture built on Inca foundations.
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Enjoy opportunities to workshop your photography technique with photo pro Michael Downey as we venture through the Sacred Valley.
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Explore all of these sites alongside Alvin, our incredible local guide who offers curiosity insight, encyclopedic knowledge, and colorful storytelling throughout the experience. We simply could not recommend him enough.
TRIP LEADERS FOR PERU
Patrick Campbell
Expedition Associate
TRIP LEADER - Patrick is a travel and expedition photographer based in Austin, Texas. With a Bachelor's degree in Geography and a Master's in Sustainability, Patrick collaborates with climate scientists, curating photo stories for National Geographic and National Science Foundation grants. In addition to environmental projects, he documents outdoor adventures, including a 2,886-mile bike ride across the US and a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro. Joining the Open Sky team in 2023, he's excited to share his passion for exploration and art with our travelers. With experience across 17 countries in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, Europe, and North America (camera in hand always), he is a thoughtful and dynamic traveler, and will confidently provide a smooth and safe experience for the Peru trip.
Patrick was on our Peru trip in 2023, and very much looks forward to returning with you.
You can find his photography online at patrickcampbell.photography.
Michael Downey
TRIP PHOTO INSTRUCTOR - Michael is a photography instructor based in the New York City area. His passions include photography, travel, and teaching...all three of which he shares enthusiastically! As the Head Instructor at Unique Photo, he teaches several curriculums, and regularly leads photo excursions throughout the northeast U.S. as well as to international destinations in Europe, Africa, and beyond. He has a patient and encouraging teaching style that fosters self-expression through photography. To quote Michael directly: “All students experience a sense of ruthless compassion!” & "Sometimes I photograph to learn, other times I photograph to teach, I always photograph to appreciate.”
Pro Photography Instructor
BOOKING YOUR TRIP
Have More Questions?
We're happy to assist! Please contact us at info@openskyexpeditions.com, or call us at 1.844.OPENSKY or +1.212.441.0024.
FYI, Once You Book
Once you are confirmed for the trip, we'll provide helpful pre-departure information including a pre-trip timeline & insurance recommendations. Flight booking guidelines and a private portal for participants will follow at the appropriate time.
Trip Requirements
To participate on this trip, you will need to:
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Passport: Carry a passport valid for at least 6 months after the trip ends
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Travel Insurance: Have travel insurance that at least covers emergency medical evacuation. This can be obtained after booking the trip. CLICK HERE to view details on the options offered via our partner Travel Insured International.