If you travel to Peru, combine your trip with painting courses and discover the magic of Machu Picchu, in the company of our photographer who will document professionally the most beautiful and magical impressions of your stay. In our philosophical tours in Cusco and Sacred Valley of the Incas, we´ll explore the most fascinating archaeological sites, as we´ll get introduced to the Andean philosophy and cosmovision.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Reception at the airport and transfer to the hotel, to rest and get acclimatized (Altitude of 8,500 feet above sea level). In the afternoon, we will visit the ancient city of Cusco and the Qoricancha or Golden Enclosure (The Incas´ Temple of the Sun). (L)

Day 2: Cusco - Sacred Valley, Painting workshop, Calca

In the morning, we will move on to the Apulaya - Center for Andean Culture, in the Sacred Valley, where we will begin the Painting course. In the afternoon: We will paint landscapes and their surrounding flora, using watercolour techniques. As a complement, you will be able to choose between: Andean yoga session, sauna or a special appetizer (at least 2 participants for each alternative). At night, we will invite you to an evening on the pre-Incan Mochica culture and art, accompanied by documentary sequences. (B, L, D)

Day 3: Painting in the Yanacocha Natural Reserve

Early in the morning, we will start from Huayocari, beginning our two hours walk to get to the Yanacocha Natural Reserve. There, we will submerge into the beauty of this unspoiled Andean paradise. Through meditation and concentration, we will assimilate the contemplative atmosphere of the landscape. Then, we will draw sketches which will help refresh our inspiration during the workshop on the following day. Today, our agenda is combined with Andean meditation hamutay. Dinner in Urubamba. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Painting workshop in Calca

We will now paint what was internalized and assimilated in Yanacocha, with watercolours, on the basis of our sketches. Beginning at 5:00 p.m., we will inaugurate all our works and films with an Andean appetizer. After enjoying a delicious barbecue, we will follow on with an ethno-jam session, "ponches" and sweets. Open end. (B, L, D)

Day 5: Philosophical tour to Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu

After breakfast, we will visit the archaeological site of Pisaq, fascinating for its architecture and location. There, we will see houses, palaces, mausoleums and Incan benched terraces that once were in use. Then, we will visit the colourful traditional market in the village of Pisaq and afterwards, we will go to Urubamba for lunch. In the afternoon, we will go to Ollantaytambo which was an important military and religious center in Incan times. During the tours, we´ll get introduced to the Andean philosophy which will allow us to get in touch with the Incan cosmovision that is reflected in the archaeological complexes´ architectural concept.
Later on in the afternoon, we will travel to Machu Picchu. (B, L)

Day 6: Machu Picchu & Photography

Listed as one of the wonders of the modern world, Machu Picchu is located in a magical and hallucinating natural setting. There, we will have the opportunity to contemplate the break of dawn over the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and appreciate the view on the jungle´s edge and Urubamba River. We´ll explore the archaeological complex with our photographer who will document the most beautiful and magical impressions of your stay in Machu Picchu. It will be an unforgettable souvenir and the pictures will be edited by the Cultural House, with artistic style and criteria. Therefore, we´ll send the CD to your domicile by mail or trough the Internet.
Afterwards, we will return to Cusco. (B, L)

Day 7: Cusco - Saqsaywaman, Qenqo

The impressive ceremonial complex of Saqsaywaman which is an enigmatic megalithic site. It is estimated that between 20,000 and 40,000 men were allegedly involved in its construction for a period of approximately 70 years. For this Herculean work, the Incas used granite stones that weigh up to 60 tons. Then, we will go to Qenqo, where the Incas celebrated their worship to the Sun and will appreciate the numerous shrines and stone-carved ceremonial altars. Free afternoon. (B)     

Day 8: Cusco - depart

Transfer from your hotel to the airport or bus terminal, with boarding support and assistance. (B)

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