Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Machu Picchu

WATERBURY, Vt., Feb. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Discover the glorious heights of Inca culture while celebrating the 100th anniversary of Hiram Bingham's amazing re-discovery on Country Walkers' Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley guided tour. Rather than stroll through a sea of tourists, Country Walkers' guests enjoy spirited exploration en route to the one Inca stronghold the Spanish Conquistadors never found, with insider access provided by local guides well versed in the culture of the Andes. Special events on 2011 departures include a private presentation by Alfredo Mormontoy, the renowned resident archeologist of Machu Picchu, and the memorable opportunity to join in a sacred Inca ritual offering with a local Shaman.

Experience this once-in-a-lifetime adventure among the snowcapped Andes with Country Walkers' Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley, including:

• Explore Cusco, one of the world's highest cities, where bustling cobblestone streets lead past Spanish colonial and ancient Inca architecture, historic sites, and Quechua-speaking locals. Visit the Casa Concha museum, with the newly-returned artifacts on display in honor of the Machu Picchu anniversary.

• Delve into the sacred Urubamba Valley with visits to Inca burial sites, terraced hillsides and age-old ruins. Explore Moray, a scene of agricultural experimentation and the giant stones of Ollantaytambo, one of the few places the Inca actually turned back the conquistadors.

• Board the train at Ollantaytambo station for a stunning ride through the mountains and cloudforests before joining the ancient Inca Trail. Hiking onward, the trail leads to the stairs to Intipunku, or the 'Gate of the Sun', for a memorable entrance into Machu Picchu like the ancient Incans themselves.

• Stay in extraordinary accommodations, including the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel beautifully located along a rushing river and La Posada Del Inca, an impeccably restored hacienda located at the base of the Andes.

Country Walkers' Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley costs $3,898 per person, with a single supplement of $750 per person. There are seven departures scheduled for 2011: May 13, June 3, July 22, September 2, November 4, November 18 and December 23.

SOURCE Country Walkers