 Introduction: Travelling on some of the planet's highest roads and railways, we traverse the other-worldly Andean landscapes from La Paz to Cusco. Our trip includes a 2-day journey to the Island of the Sun in Lake Titicaca, sacred to the Incas of ancient America.
La Paz & the Cordillera Real: Set against a towering backdrop of snow-covered peaks, La Paz (3636m) is even higher than Lhasa in Tibet. We have two full days to explore the lively Indian street markets bustling with locals cloaked in vermillion ponchos. There's also time for optional sidetrips to the ancient city of Tiahuanaco or to Chacaltaya for mountain views. A spectacular road takes us to the picturesque town of Copacabana nestled on the shores of Lake Titicaca below the Cordillera Real and the surrounding glaciers.
Islands of the Sun & Moon: From the small lakeside town of Copacabana (3856m), known for its miracle-working 'Dark Virgin', we begin our 2-day hike along the Inca Pilgrim Way. Using support vehicles for our luggage, we walk along old Inca paths to Yampupata and sail over to the sacred Isla del Sol to explore Pilkokaina (the former Inca's residence). Continuing on foot to Challa we'll see the Temple of the Sun, and also have the option to sail across to the smaller Isla de la Luna.
 Cusco & Machu Picchu: There's a chance to see the funerary towers at Sillustani, before riding the train across the Altiplano to Cusco (3400m). We'll tour this fascinating city, then head for the amazing vine-covered ruins of Machu Picchu - the 'Lost City of the Incas'. We take a bus high up onto the ridge and explore the citadel on foot. There's time to wander among the extraordinary complex of temples, staircases and houses.
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