Machu Picchu, once the citadel of the Inca culture in Peru, sits atop a mountain in a jungle of green landscape. A mystery for over 400 years, it was left undiscovered during the Spanish Conquest, although they searched in vain during that time for the gold that was believed to have been there. The "lost city" of the Incas lost credibility over time, as it sat disguised in the jungle, hidden by eons of overgrowth. Then, in 1911, Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham found it after years of searching. The "find" of the ancient city made worldwide news, as the citadel was slowly disrobed from her green vegetative mantle of vines and plant life.

Today, the Inca trail is an extraordinary journey which leads one into the mysterious city built by craftsman who rival the best stoneworkers of their time. The hidden secrets of this lost city are yours to explore with us, as we venture to the ruins on a spectacular five-day trek. We’ll have ample opportunity to explore and photograph the breath-taking architecture, and enjoy the beautiful scenery we see along the way and learn about the Incan culture that once fostered the growth of this extraordinary creation—the "Eighth Wonder of the World."

During much of our small expedition, we will be accompanied by Carlos Alejandra, a Cuscuenan resident and guide, who is an expert cultural guide for the local history and legends that surround the sights that we will explore. During the trek portion of our program, we will use local porters to transport our gear and supplies, which will allow us to enjoy the walk each day, as we move along unencumbered, free to take photos and investigate things along the way.

Beginning during the summer of 2001, there was a limit to the number of trekkers who will walk the Inca trail to Machu Picchu. Mountain Experience has annual use permit on the trail, which insures our trips will be able to take advantage of the spectacular sights and ruins seen along the trail

Machu Picchu itself is nearly beyond words--a place so immense and so precisely built by the Incan's, that it's hard to imagine reproducing it nowadays. There are quiet courts and walkways, and many things constructed by the Inca people, for both practical and astrological applications. Many of these things have been explained by the archeologists, and others have yet to be figured out--and discovered.

Our Machu Picchu adventure explores the area thoroughly, with three full days devoted to guided and self guided tours. This is an excellent way to get a good archeological overview of the ruins, and then leaves time to go about on your own to further investigate and contemplate the meaning of the area in a relaxed and enjoyable way.

For those hearty trekkers, the easy but steep ascent of Huayna Picchu is a satisfying challenge, which offers a great "reverse view" of the Machu Picchu ruins.

We invite you to join us, and a take a journey back in time—and view the incredible sights and views that Machu Picchu and Cuzco can offer. It’s an experience that will leave fond memories for years to come!