SUNSET: 
Thrill to the sight of the solstice sunrise over the sacred Temple of the Sun at Machu Picchu — just a part of this 11-day exploration of revered Inca sites, indigenous markets, and immersive southern-sky stargazing.
Thrill to the sight of the solstice sunrise over the sacred Temple of the Sun at Machu Picchu — just one highlight of this 11-day exploration of revered Inca sites, indigenous markets, and immersive southern-sky stargazing.
Frequently referred to as the Land of the Incas, Perú is a cornucopia of history, peoples, legends, and traditions. Its stunning Andean landscapes, remarkable archaeological resources, and colorful indigenous cultures offer an encyclopedic introduction to South America.
On Sky & Telescope’s exclusive 11-day tour, you’ll explore Lima, the City of Kings; Cusco, the cradle of the Inca Empire; Urubamba, the Sacred Valley of the Incas; and mystical Machu Picchu, the “lost city of the Incas.” You’ll be pampered in first-rate accommodations and savor such culinary delights as ceviche and lomo saltado, followed by delectable pisco sours made from a grape unique to this region. Virtually all meals are included!
Travel through time via the astronomical highlights of this tour. Experience Machu Picchu’s sacred Temple of the Sun, from which you’ll witness a solstice sunrise (an experience once reserved only for the Inca ruler and his inner circle). And visit Jicamarca Radio Observatory, not far from Lima, considered the world’s premier facility for studying the equatorial ionosphere.
No Sky & Telescope tour in the Southern Hemisphere would be complete without multiple opportunities to experience the breathtaking southern sky. We plan two outings of telescopic stargazing led by local amateur astronomers.
Read on to get all the details of this remarkable tour!
- Itinerary for our 11-day tour of Perú
- What is and isn't included; what to expect
- Pricing, payments, and terms
| Reserve your spot today! Register by completing this form. |
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR
Machu Picchu
Located in a ridge between two mountain peaks at an altitude of 7,970 feet (2,430 m), Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel. Often called the “Lost City of the Incas,” it’s considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Machu Picchu stands in the middle of a tropical mountain forest in an extraordinarily beautiful setting. This amazing Inca creation boasts giant walls, terraces, and ramps that cling to steep rock escarpments — arguably the most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire at its height.
Temple of the Sun
Machu Picchu’s Temple of the Sun is a semicircular building erected on a huge granite rock, under which lies a natural cave that was converted into a royal tomb. Windows in the structure cast shadows that allowed accurate observation of solstices in June and December — celestial events that on the Inca emperor, his family, and priests were allowed to witness.
Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley
En route from Cusco to Machu Picchu, visitors encounter the village of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley of southern Peru. Situated along the Urubamba River amid snow-capped mountains, Ollantaytambo is famous for a massive Inca fortress with large stone terraces on a hillside. The village’s old town is an Inca-era grid of cobblestoned streets and adobe buildings.
Southern-Sky Stargazing
From the dark skies of Urubamba, with the last-quarter Moon absent from the evening sky, the Sky & Telescope group will be treated to telescopic views of the spectacular celestial highlights of the Southern Hemisphere: the Southern Cross, Alpha Centauri, Carina Nebula, and other must-see objects. We’ll be the guests of Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley, a local resort that maintains a domed planetarium and observatory.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Located mere steps from Lima’s new, state-of-the-art Jorge Chávez International Airport, the Wyndham Grand Lima Airport Hotel will be the premier upscale international hotel in Peru's capital city. Its staff endeavors to deliver round-the-clock service in a world where round-the-clock is the norm. This property’s graciously appointed, nonsmoking guestrooms effortlessly fuse form and function, each equipped with must-have amenities for a restful stay.
Wyndham Hotels
Immerse yourself in history at this 5-star property in the heart of the magical Cusco. Built in a magnificent colonial house, this opulent oasis will transport you to the splendor of the 16th century — complete with art, antiques, and period furniture — while enjoying an unparalleled experience. Luxurious bathrooms, comfortable bedding, supplemental oxygen, and a diverse breakfast selection are among the top amenities you’ll experience.
Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel
Surrounded by magnificent mountains, this recently remodeled colonial house (built in 1810) will transport you through time to a place where history, nature, and warm, attentive service come together. The property offers spectacular views and beautiful gardens where you can relax and feel the magic of the Sacred Valley. It’s located in a picturesque village in the heart of the Sacred Valley, an ideal place from which to visit the main archaeological sites of Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Maras, Moray, and Chinchero.
La Casona de Yucay Hotel
Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly called Aguas Calientes) is located 6,630 feet (2,020 meters) above sea level. This hotel occupies a private 12-acre mountainside reserve. So Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is in essence an intimate Andean village, with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways, and 83 whitewashed adobe casitas tucked away in the cloud forest. The property boasts 214 bird species — such as the golden-headed quetzal and the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock — and the world’s largest native orchid collection (372 species).
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Imagine waking up every morning surrounded by the impressive colonial architecture of the former mansion of the Marquis of Picoaga — replete with a beautiful courtyard, stone arches, and murals typical of the architecture of the 18th century. The hotel offers a colonial wing and a contemporary wing, both of which preserve details that convey history and vibrant culture, such as rooms with high-beamed ceilings and wooden doors. And you’ll be just two blocks from the beautiful Plaza de Armas of Cusco and steps from the city’s main tourist attractions.
Costa del Sol Cusco Wyndham
Itinerary for STARS & ARCHAEOLOGY OF PERÚ 2025
| Date | Itinerary at a Glance | Accommodation | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, June 11 | Fly to Lima / Transfer to Hotel | — | — |
| Thursday, June 12 | Jicamarca Radio Observatory | Costa del Sol Wyndham | B, L, D |
| Friday, June 13 | Fly to Cusco / City Tour | Aranwa Cusco Hotel | B, D |
| Saturday, June 14 | Cusco, Koricancha (Sacred Temple) | Aranwa Cusco Hotel | B, L |
| Sunday, June 15 | Cusco, Urubamba (Sacred Valley) | La Casona de Yucay | B, L, D |
| Monday, June 16 | Urubamba / Pisac / Calca | La Casona de Yucay | B, L, D |
| Tuesday, June 17 | Urubamba / Marcacocha / Pumamarca | La Casona de Yucay | B, L, D |
| Wednesday, June 18 | Urubamba / Pakaritampu | La Casona de Yucay | B, L, D |
| Thursday, June 19 | Ollantaytambo / Machu Picchu | Inkaterra Machu Picchu | B, L, D |
| Friday, June 20 | Machu Picchu (solstice sunrise) / Cusco | Costa del Sol Wyndham | B, L |
| Saturday, June 21 | Fly Cusco to Lima / Fly Home | — | B |
| Sunday, June 22 | Arrive Home | — | — |
Day 1 (Wednesday, June 11): Fly to Lima
Depart on a flight to Lima, the capital of Peru. Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, transfer to 5-star hotel. Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport Hotel (meals aloft)
Day 2 (Thursday, June 12): Lima / Jicamarca Radio Observatory
After breakfast, depart for the Jicamarca Radio Observatory (permit pending. Lunch in Jicamarca or a box lunch and then return to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Welcome dinner at the hotel. Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 3 (Friday, June 13): Lima / Cusco
After breakfast, transfer to Lima airport for flight to Cusco. In the afternoon, walking tour of central Cusco; optional: open panoramic bus tour to the outskirts of Cusco and some of its landmarks and ruins. Welcome dinner at our hotel. Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel (B, D)
Day 4 (Saturday, June 14): Cusco
After breakfast, visit the famous religious site of Sacsayhuaman. Lunch at Inka Grill restaurant, then visit Koricancha, the sacred “golden temple” of the Incas, architecture with celestial alignments. In the evening, visit Cusco planetarium and attend a lecture by Ana Maria Milla, followed by stargazing. Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel (B, L)
Day 5 (Sunday, June 15): Cusco / Urubamba (Sacred Valley of the Incas)
Travel to the high plains of Chinchero; visit the main plaza, colonial church, and Sunday market. Then visit the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray. After a picnic lunch, proceed to Maras and take a 1.5-hour walk to the salt pans. Finally, enjoy a 45-minute walk to Pichingoto, where private transportation will take us to our hotel. La Casona de Yucay Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 6 (Monday, June 16): Urubamba / Pisac / Calca / Urubamba
After breakfast, drive up and hike to the Inca ruins of Pisac (altitude: 10,700 feet) and visit the town’s market. Then visit the Inkariy Museum, whose installations represent 5,000 years of pre-Inca civilizations. Lunch will be at Tunupa del Valle Restaurant. In the afternoon, walk around Ñaupa Iglesia, an ancient Incan archaeological site. La Casona de Yucay Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 7 (Tuesday, June 17): Urubamba / Marcacocha / Pumamarca / Urubamba
After breakfast, visit Marcacocha, known for its pre-Incan and Incan ruins. Next, visit the archaeological site of Pumamarca. In the evening, visit the planetarium at Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley for telescopic stargazing. La Casona de Yucay Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 8 (Wednesday, June 18): Urubamba / Pakaritampu / Ollantaytambo
Witness sunrise over Pakaritampu Pyramid, one of the sacred places of Ollantaytambo. The achieved three-dimensional effect makes the pyramid rise 34 meters. Then visit the fortress and village of Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town. La Casona de Yucay Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 9 (Thursday, June 19): Ollantaytambo / Machu Picchu
After breakfast, transfer to Ollantaytambo Station for a train ride along the Urubamba River to the town of Machu Picchu. Our journey to Machu Picchu begins with a 30-minute bus ride to the Lost City of the Incas. During our visit, we delve deeper into its history, purpose, and subsequent discovery after being hidden for hundreds of years. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (B, L, D)
Day 10 (Friday, June 20): Solstice at Machu Picchu / Ollantaytambo / Cusco
Set out early for a second visit to Machu Picchu. Enter the “Sanctuary,” where the solstice sunrise aligns with one of the temple’s windows, casting its rays directly onto the ceremonial stone within. Then visit the Intihuatana stone. In the afternoon, journey by train back to Ollantaytambo and continue by road to Cusco. Costa del Sol Wyndham Cusco Hotel (B, L)
Day 11 (Saturday, June 21): Fly Cusco to Lima / Fly Home
After breakfast, free time to explore Cusco before an afternoon flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, connect to overnight flights back to the U.S.. (B)
Day 12 (Sunday, June 22): Arrive Home
Arrive at your home airport, still aglow from your latest Sky & Telescope adventure. (meals aloft)
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- In-tour group flights between Lima and Cucso
- Hotel accommodations in deluxe hotels
- Sky & Telescope Tour Astronomer
- English-speaking Tour Director exclusive to Sky & Telescope group
- Professional English-speaking guides at all locations
- Audio guides for tours
- Group transfers between airports and hotels
- Land transport by private motor coach
- Meals as listed: 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners
- Wine with all tour-included lunches and dinners
- Bottled water during outings
- Baggage handling (1 suitcase per participant)
- Tips to local guides, drivers, service charges and taxes
- Entrance fees, service charges, and taxes
- Customized luggage tags and name tags
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- International airfare to and from Perú
- Room service, meals, and snacks not specified in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages, aside from those included with listed meals
- Private transfers
- Personal items such as laundry, wifi, and telephone calls
- Travel and/or medical insurance
(We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance) - Medical expenses, quarantine costs, and COVID-19 testing, if applicable
- Gratuity for the Tour Director (at participant’s discretion)
- Fuel surcharges
What to Expect on the Tour
This exclusive Sky & Telescope expedition to Perú is designed for travelers who are interested in learning about the rich history and archaeology of the Inca, observing the skies of the southern hemisphere, and experiencing the superb natural landscapes of Perú.
To enjoy this experience, participants must be in good physical and mental health and be able to keep up with the pace of the group. Participants requiring extraordinary assistance must be accompanied by someone who can and will provide all required assistance. Travel segments by train and/or private motorcoach will be up to 2 hours long. Roadways can be narrow with steep ascents/descents. Daily activities will often involve some walking over uneven terrain for distances of up to ¼ mile; a few locations are not suitable for traversing by wheelchair. In certain situations, deviating from the marked pathways could put you at risk of injury.
July is winter in Perú, which is sub-tropical in latitude. Even so, temperatures are generally pleasant, with typical daytime temperatures in Lima near 70°F and evening temperatures near 60°F. However, at the much higher elevation of Cusco, nighttime temperatures can be near freezing. So clothing suitable for moderate weather is recommended, but bring outerwear suitable for cool-to-cold temperatures for stargazing.
Portions of this trip are quite high altitudes, particularly the city of Cusco (elevation: 11,150 feet). Although the tour activities will not be strenuous in nature, care must be taken to acclimate to high elevations to avoid hypoxia. Participants should consult with their physicians regarding these high-altitude conditions.
Pricing, Payments, and Terms
| Pricing (per person) | Double occupancy | Single occupancy |
|---|---|---|
| 11-day eclipse tour in Perú | $7,400 | $8,900 |
PAYMENTS & TERMS
- Note: Pricing is based on standard capacities on vehicles and at restaurants, hotels, and other venues and does not include any costs that may be incurred by any capacity limitations that may be imposed for any reason. All tour prices are based on costs in effect at the time of posting. As such, prices listed here are subject to change. Royal Adventures and/or AAS Sky Publishing LLC will inform participants of any changes prior to departure.
- To make a reservation: A reservation request can be submitted by completing this form. Reservations are recorded and acknowledged in order of receipt. Royal Adventures (CST #2009579-40) handles all invoicing.
- Deposits: An initial payment of US$1,000 per person is required to secure your reservation. Please make your check payable to "Royal Adventures" and mail to: Royal Adventures, 9 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 205, San Ramon, CA 94583. Initial deposits may be charged to a credit card. All subsequent payments must be made by check. Final payment (by check only) is due by March 3, 2025.
- Cancellations and Refunds: Notification of cancellation must be received in writing or via email by Royal Adventures. Cancellation within 14 days of booking: full refund; cancellation made more than 14 days after booking: no refund. No refunds of any deposits or payments are made on or after March 3, 2025, regardless of booking date. There are no refunds for unused meals, accommodations or other trip features.
- Itinerary: The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of Sky & Telescope and Royal Adventures. All tour prices are based on costs and U.S. dollar exchange rates in effect at the time of posting. As such, the prices listed here are subject to change. In particular, any increases in the fares for in-tour transportation, security, and/or fuel surcharges will be paid by the participants. Sky & Telescope and/or Royal Adventures will inform participants of any changes prior to departure.
- Travel insurance: We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance including “Cancel for Any Reason” because the cancellation penalty listed here will apply. Trip-cancellation insurance can be purchased through our recommended provider, Travel Insured International; click here to get a quote or call 800-243-3174 and mention Royal Adventures #53140. NOTE: Most insurance plans need to be purchased within 14 days of paying the initial deposit in order to waive preexisting medical conditions as well as to purchase “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance. Neither AAS Sky Publishing LLC nor Royal Adventures accepts liability for any airline-cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour.
- Disclaimer: Every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented here. Royal Adventures, AAS Sky Publishing, LLC, and Sky & Telescope are not responsible for errors in or damages resulting from use of the information contained herein. Information contained here is subject to change.
- Responsibility Statement: Royal Adventures (CST #2009579-40), its owners, and employees act only as agents for the various independent suppliers and contractors providing transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurant, and other services connected with this tour. Such travel and services are subject to the terms and conditions under which such accommodations, services, and transportation are offered or provided; AAS Sky Publishing LLC and Royal Adventures and their respective employees, agents, representatives, and assigns accept no liability therefor. AAS Sky Publishing LLC and Royal Adventures assume no liability for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any aircraft or vehicle or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of the services involved. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages, or expenses of any kind due to sickness, epidemics, pandemics, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, quarantine, force majeure, animal or insect bites, or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. AAS Sky Publishing LLC and Royal Adventures reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour participants. AAS Sky Publishing LLC and/or Royal Adventures shall not be deemed to be in breach of these terms and conditions or otherwise be liable to you, and shall not provide any refund, by reason of delay in performance, or by nonperformance, of any of our obligations hereunder to the extent that any such delay or non-performance is due to any force majeure event. A force majeure event, in relation to this tour, shall mean any circumstances beyond our control, including, but without limitation, to acts of God, explosion, flood, forceful wind, fire or accident, war or threat of war declared or undeclared, acts of terrorism, sabotage, insurrection, riots, strikes, civil disturbance, sickness, epidemics, pandemics, quarantines, government intervention or other unforeseeable events. If this tour is affected by a force majeure event, AAS Sky Publishing and Royal Adventures shall be entitled to, and may in their sole and absolute discretion, vary, cancel or postpone any itinerary or arrangement in relation to this trip. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour or to substitute another qualified leader or special guest. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. The price of the program is given in good faith based on current tariffs and rates and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, security surcharge or fuel increases will be passed on to participants. As part of the consideration and right to participate in this tour, each participant will be asked to sign a liability release, an assumption of risk, and a hold-harmless agreement.
- Questions: Please contact Royal Adventures at [email protected] or call 800-453-4754 or 925-820-6260 (Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time).
| Reserve your spot today! Register by completing this form. |
