Ultimate Italy Experience

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Ultimate Italy Experience

>> The complete Italian experience, this itinerary will awe pilgrims every single day. With several perfectly planned afternoons for rest, this pilgrimage will make parishioners want to return every year.

Inclusions

Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically

|

“This was simply an extraordinary trip–we never imagined we would be so blessed to see so many beautiful and holy places. Thank you for making this spiritual journey available”

– Ed and Laurie Forfa

Day 1 | USA – Rome, Italy
Board your flight to Rome. Dinner and breakfast served during your transatlantic flight.

Day 2 | Rome
Upon arrival in Rome, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. You are in the Eternal City –one of the greatest cities in the world. Remainder of the day is free to relax. Enjoy a group dinner tonight at your hotel. (D)

Day 3 | Rome
In the morning we will attend the Papal Audience and receive a Blessing by His Holiness the Pope in St. Peter’s Square. (Pending schedule of the Holy Father, subject to change at last moment). In the afternoon, we tour the city including famous monuments of Rome: The Trevi Fountain, Piazza Novona, Basilica of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major. (B, D)

Day 4 | Rome
This morning we will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, including Pope St. John Paul II’s tomb in Vatican City. Millions come every year to these breathtaking pilgrimage sites. This is the world’s largest Basilica, designed by architects such as Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. After lunch, we will tour the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Room, and more. Enjoy dinner this evening on your own in the Eternal City. (B)

Day 5 | Rome – Monte Cassino – San Giovanni Rotondo
After breakfast we visit the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls by the oldest Roman road, the Appian Way. We then leave Rome through the Italian countryside to Monte Cassino. We visit the Abbey and learn the history of the 1944 Battle of Monte Cassino. In the afternoon we travel the absolutely stunning landscape of Italy to its eastern coast along the Adriatic Sea, to San Giovanni Rotondo. Dinner and overnight in San Giovanni Rotondo. (B, D)

Day 6 | San Giovanni Rotondo – Monte Sant’Angelo
Saint Padre Pio lived in San Giovanni Rotondo for 50 years. We will pray at his tomb, and see his uncorrupt body in the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace. Saint Pio is truly a miraculous being, known for his stigmata, mysticism and sufferings. In the afternoon we will travel to Monte Sant’Angelo to visit the Grotto of Michael the Archangel, the very famous place where thousands, including many Popes, come seeking the protection of St. Michael the Archangel. (B, D)

Day 7 | San Giovanni Rotondo – Lanciano – Loreto – Assisi
Today we part with San Giovanni Rotondo to head north. We will pray at the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle in Lanciano where in the 8th century the host visibly changed to flesh and the wine visibly changed to blood when a monk doubted the presence of Our Lord in the Eucharist. After Holy Mass and lunch we continue to the Marian Shrine of Loreto. In the evening arrive in Assisi for another delicious Italian dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 8 | Assisi
Today we have a full day to enjoy the peaceful and tranquil village of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. Visit St. Mary of the Angels Basilica, St. Francis’ Porziuncola, and Capella Del Transito. Pray in the Shrine, inspired by Giotto’s frescoes of the life of St. Francis. Visit the monastery and the Basilica of St. Clare to pray before the San Damiano crucifix from which Jesus told St. Francis to rebuild His church. Time to ourselves to explore Assisi. (B)
Day 9 | Assisi – Siena – Pisa – Florence
After breakfast we will head north to Siena, the home of Saints Catherine and Bernardine. We will visit the Basilica of St. Francis, home to the famous Eucharistic Miracle of 1730 where thieves stole the consecrated Sacred Host. They were soon found in a collection basket with dirt. The Sacred Hosts did not change or degrade in the passing of time. In the Basilica of San Domenico we will see the incorrupt head of St. Catherine. After Holy Mass we continue to Pisa where you will see the famous Leaning Tower. Also you will visit the Cathedral and the Baptistery – where the special echo inside has enthralled tourists for so many years. After free time for lunch and shopping we will continue to Florence. (B, D)

Day 10 | Florence
Today we will visit Florence, home of Michelangelo, Dante, Boccaccio, Leonardo da Vinci, and others. Our tour will include the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza del Duomo, Baptistery, Piazza della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio. This afternoon, time to explore and enjoy dinner on your own. (B)

Day 11 | Florence – Padua
After a filling breakfast, we depart for Padua. Visit the Basilica and the tomb of Saint Anthony. We will celebrate Holy Mass in the Basilica along with time for private prayer. In front of the Basilica you will see Donatello’s famous statues. Enjoy a group dinner and overnight in Padua. (B, D)

Day 12 | Padua – Venice
In the morning, enjoy a half day guided sightseeing tour of beautiful Venice. We will take a boat to St. Mark’s Square, and see the Venetian–Byzantine Basilica of San Marco, Palace of the Doges, and The Bridge of Sighs. In the afternoon take free time for shopping and coffee. We will have a group dinner tonight in an Italian restaurant with great food and fine wines. (B, D)

Day 13 | Departure – USA
After breakfast where we share our delightful memories together transfer to the airport for our flight home. Ciao Italia! (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

Taste of Italy and Austria

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Find your next destination

Taste of Italy and Austria

>> Want more than the usual sites in Italy? Take the northern route to Venice and Padua, into Austria for a complete experience that will leave you breathless.

Inclusions

Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically

|

“It was an awesome trip, thank you!”

– Laura Fitzell

Day 1 | USA – Rome, Italy
Board your flight to Rome. Dinner and breakfast served during your transatlantic flight.

Day 2 | Rome
Upon arrival in Rome, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. You are in the Eternal City –one of the greatest cities in the world. Remainder of the day is free to relax. Enjoy a group dinner tonight at your hotel. (D)

Day 3 | Rome
In the morning we will attend the Papal Audience and receive a Blessing by His Holiness the Pope in St. Peter’s Square. (Pending schedule of the Holy Father, subject to change at last moment). In the afternoon, we tour the city including famous monuments of Rome such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Novona, Basilica of St. John the Lateran and St. Mary Major. (B, D)

Day 4 | Rome
This morning we will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, including Pope St. John Paul II’s tomb in Vatican City. Millions come every year to these breathtaking pilgrimage sites. This is the world’s largest Basilica, designed by architects such as Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. After lunch, we will tour the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Room, and more. Enjoy dinner this evening on your own in the Eternal City. (B)

Day 5 | Rome – Assisi
After a filling breakfast this morning we pack for our trip to Assisi. On our way out of the city, we visit the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls by the oldest Roman road, the Appian Way. Later in the afternoon we arrive in Assisi. (B, D)

Day 6 | Assisi Today we have a full day to enjoy the peaceful and tranquil village of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. Visit St. Mary of the Angels Basilica, St. Francis’ Porziuncola, and Capella del Transito. Pray in the Shrine, inspired by Giotto’s frescoes of the life of St. Francis. Visit the monastery and the Basilica of St. Clare to pray before the San Damiano Crucifix from which Jesus told St. Francis to rebuild His church. Time to ourselves to explore Assisi. (B)

Day 7 | Assisi – Padua
After breakfast and Holy Mass we bid Assisi farewell and depart for our journey north to Padua. An early arrival in Padua gives us the opportunity to rest, or make a special stop along our travels north. (B, D)

Day 8 | Padua – Venice
In the morning, enjoy a half day guided sightseeing tour of beautiful Venice. We will take a boat to St. Mark’s Square, and see the Venetian–Byzantine Basilica of San Marco, Palace of the Doges, and The Bridge of Sighs. The afternoon and evening are free for you to enjoy shopping and a Venetian restaurant with great food and fine wines. (B)

Day 9 | Padua – Salzburg
Visit the Basilica and the tomb of Saint Anthony. We will celebrate Holy Mass in the Basilica along with time for private prayer. In front of the Basilica you will see Donatello’s famous statues. In the late morning, our coach crosses the Austrian border, and continues to the beautiful alpine city of Salzburg. Dinner and overnight in Salzburg. (B, D)

Day 10 | Salzburg – Vienna
After a short tour of Salzburg, the birthplace of the famous composer Wolfgang Mozart, we will continue to the capital of Austria – Vienna. Dinner and overnight in Vienna. (B, D)

Day 11 | Vienna
We will take you on a guided bus tour of the city, including: The Hofburg Palace, once the seat of the Austro–Hungarian Empire, magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and other vivid reminders of Vienna’s imperial history. In the evening enjoy your farewell dinner with wine. (B, D)

Day 12 | Vienna Departure for USA
After breakfast where we share our delightful memories together, transfer to the airport in Vienna for our flight home. (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

Spain, Fatima, and the Beaches of Algarve

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Find your next destination

Spain, Fatima, and the Beaches of Algarve

>> Exactly 64 years after the first apparition of the Virgin Mary to the three shepherd children in Fatima Portugal, on May 13 1981, Ali Agca attempted to murder Pope John Paul II. When the Pope visited the man in 1983, Ali Agca asked ‘Why didn’t you die?’ To that, the Pope responded “One hand fired the shot. Another (the hand of the Virgin Mary) guided it.” Later canonized, Pope Saint John Paul II attributed the sparing of his life to the Blessed Virgin. He always had great affection for our Heavenly Mother.

Inclusions

Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically

|

“I can't wait to come back!”

–Melanie F. Smiers

Day 1 | USA – Madrid, Spain
Depart the USA for Madrid, Spain. Dinner and breakfast will be served during your transatlantic flight.

Day 2 | Madrid
Upon arrival in Madrid, you will be met by your Escort. During our drive to the hotel we will make a panoramic city tour of Madrid. We will see many of the most famous sites of the capital of Spain, including Plaza de España, Puerta del Sol and the Royal Palace. We will check into the hotel and have the balance of the day to rest after our long journey. Those with the energy may go out and explore Madrid at their leisure. This evening we enjoy a filling dinner together. (D)

Day 3 | Madrid – Toledo – Madrid
Our journey today takes us to the ancient city of Toledo, city–museum, and the oldest capital of Spain. The historic city center is one of the largest in the country. You will see many beautiful sites including a 13th Century Cathedral, medieval castle, and more. In the afternoon, you have a chance to shop for local art. In the evening we return to Madrid for overnight. (B, D)

Day 4 | Madrid – Ávila – Salamanca – Fatima
This morning we board our motor coach and depart for Fatima. On our way we will see the medieval city of Ávila, where St. Teresa of Ávila was born and lived. Next, we make a stop in Salamanca, where we will admire the famous university and Plaza Mayor. We enjoy dinner together, and we arrive late in Fatima tonight. (B, D)

Day 5 | Fatima – Aljustrel – Fatima
Today we are in and around Fatima. We will visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, the Basilica with the tombs of Francisco, and Jacinta– Perpetual Adoration Chapel. Then we will participate in the Holy Mass. In Aljustrel we will see the two homes of the little shepherds and then return to Fatima. In the evening, join pilgrims from all over the world in the nightly procession and prayers. (B, D)

Day 6 | Fatima
We have the entire day free in Fatima for personal prayer, reflection, and Holy Mass. Again, join in the nightly procession and prayers with thousands of other pilgrims. (B, D)

Day 7 | Fatima – Lisbon – Algarve
After Holy Mass, we leave Fatima for our trip to Lisbon where we will visit the Basilica of St. Anthony, St. Jeronimos Monastery, and the famous Belem Tower. In the afternoon we will continue to Algarve. (B, D)

Day 8 | Algarve
Today is a day of leisure on the beaches in the south of Portugal. (B)

Day 9 | Algarve
We have another splendid day of leisure in Algarve, enjoying the warm sand and sunny beaches before our departure tomorrow. Tonight we have a special dinner together as a group. (B, D)

Day 10 | Algarve – Lisbon – USA
After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for return to the United States. (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

South American Sampler

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Find your next destination

South American Sampler

>> Just south of the United States is a land of thriving culture and deep devotion. This trip offers the opportunity to see Central as well as South America through a Catholic lens. You will explore Mexico City and Our Lady of Guadalupe as well as the Pyramids. In Peru, your eyes will be opened to the life of an early missionary as Indian and European culture collided. The trip will end with a relaxing few days in Belize on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Inclusions

Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically

|

“Better than I would have ever imagined!”

–Sandra Comiptu

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to our hotel in Mexico City. Enjoy a welcome group dinner this evening. (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacán – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning, through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico- Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will have mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go to the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacán to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and overnight in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. In Tlaxcala visit the place where St. Michael the Archangel appeared to Diego Lazaro in 1631. After lunch head to Puebla where we visit the Franciscan church of Puebla where the incorrupt body of Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio is preserved. After arriving from Spain, he became very wealthy in agricultural business and road building. He taught the local Indians to cultivate the land and how to build agricultural tools. Late in life, Sebastian gave all of his wealth to the convent of Poor Clares, and joined the Order of St. Francis. Though already in his 70’s, he did not exempt himself from hard work and begging to support the Friars. We return to Mexico City for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mexico City – Lima, Peru
We pack our bags early and transfer to the airport and fly to Lima, Peru. Our 5 hour flight will arrive in Lima in the afternoon. The group will transfer to the hotel and then you will have free time to relax or explore at your leisure. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal with the group this evening. (B, D)

Day 5 | Lima
Today we explore all that Lima has to offer. Peru is a devout Catholic country with a stunning 90% of its residents practicing Catholicism. It is home to some of the world’s most famous Saints: Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Martin de Porres. This morning we head to the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo. This is the oldest religious site in Lima. Here is where Saint Martin de Porres practiced his faith and where the beautiful Saint Rose of Lima is buried. We will spend time in Holy Mass and prayer while reflecting on the lives of St. Rose and St. Martin. After this we head to the Plaza Mayor and visit the locals. Here you will see the historic architecture and crafted gardens. We will spend the afternoon exploring the city as a group. This evening enjoy a group dinner. (B, D).

Day 6 | Lima
This morning we head to the Sanctuary of Las Nazarenas which was constructed to honor the patron of the city, Lord of Miracles. After time for prayer, we head over to the Pucllana Temple which is home to incredible ruins. Not a far trek from the city, these ruins show the history of Lima. After visiting this site we head to the Larco Musuem which is home to many pre-Colombian artifacts. We will leisurely explore the museum and then head to Larcomar, a boardwalk situated on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We will have time to relax and enjoy lunch here while taking in the sights and sounds of the street. Without skipping a beat we are back on our tour to visit the Church of San Francisco which is home to the catacombs of Lima. Tonight we enjoy dinner in the city. (B,D)

Day 7 | Lima – Belize City
This morning we pack our bags and for the airport for our 7 hours flight to Belize City. Upon arrival we will be taken to our beach front hotel and the rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy all that God’s nature has provided. Enjoy a traditional meal with the group. (B,D)

Day 8 | Belize City
This morning we explore Belize City starting with St. John’s Cathedral. This beautiful Cathedral is situated on the Caribbean Coast representing the entrance of Catholicism to the New World. After celebrating Holy Mass we take a drive to Xunantunich which holds Ancient Mayan ruins. Upon arrival back in Belize City, the rest of the day is yours to explore the city or relax at the beach. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening. (B,D)

Day 9 | Belize City
This day is left for your enjoyment. You are free to spend the last day of this pilgrimage exploring the city, or relaxing. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with the group to share your favorite memories. (B, D)

Day 10 | Belize City – USA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for our flight back to the USA. (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

Peru and Bolivia: Exploring Marian Shrines

by mpierz | Mar 1, 2017

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Find your next destination

Peru and Bolivia: Exploring Marian Shrines

>> Dive into the heart of South America with this pilgrimage to Peru and Bolivia. The trip will lead you along some of the most awe inspiring sites in the Western Hemisphere. Explore the terrain early Christian missionaries trekked across to spread the word of Christ and learn the story of the peoples and cultures they encountered. This trip will leave you in awe of the Church and her people.

Inclusions

Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically

|

"We've been to Italy, and Poland, and Israel, and we wanted something different. Wow. I had no idea I was missing so much!"

–Michael R.

Day 1 | USA – Lima, Peru
Depart the USA on your flight to Lima, Peru. Meals will be served aboard your international flight. Upon arrival you will be met by your guide who will take the group back to their accommodations. Relax after your flight and then enjoy a welcome dinner with your group and guide this evening. (D)

Day 2 | Lima
This morning enjoy a Peruvian breakfast before our tour of this City of the Kings. Lima was founded by Francisco Pizarro and is home to some of the most beautiful sites of South America. We will visit the colonial Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas), the magnificent Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s palace, the Franciscan monastery and catacombs, the Dominican monastery, and the tombs of St. Rose of Lima and St. Martin de Porr es. This evening we enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 3 | Lima – Pachacamac – Paracas
We depart from the City of Kings to Pachacamac. This popular archaeological site is home to some of the most important pre-Columbian artifacts. We stop here to see how life was before the Spaniards arrived and then we head to our next destination, Paracas. This city is situated between sandy deserts, riverbeds of shallow rocky rivers and the Pacific Ocean. We rest tonight in Paracas, enjoying local cuisine. (B, D)

Day 4 | Paracas – Ballestas Islands – Huacachina – Nazca
Our pilgrimage takes us to the seas this morning. We board a local ship for a few relaxing hours sailing around the Ballestas Islands. These islands are home to many forms of wildlife, the most popular being the sea lions. We will see them basking in the sun, water birds diving for their morning meals, and much more. After our morning at sea, we load our comfortable coach and head south stopping in the city of Ica which is a stunning oasis of palm trees and tropical vegetation surrounding a lake against the back drop of golden sand dunes. We spend some time taking in the beauty and then continue south to Nazca. Nazca is famous for their gravel desert plateaus with geometrical motifs as well as fascinating wildlife. This phenomenon is best viewed from a light aircraft deck and you are welcome to make an optional flight to see this site (depending on weather). We overnight in this quaint oasis. (B, D)

Day 5 | Nazca – Puerto Inca – Arequipa
This morning we depart Nazca early for a scenic drive down the Pacific coast that provides views of the sea and sandy deserts. We stop in Puerto Inca, a secluded port of the Incas. This peaceful stop is a place for us to stretch our legs and learn about Incan culture all while feeling the ocean breeze. This evening arrive in Arequipa where we eat dinner as a group and retire to our rooms. (B, D)

Day 6 | Arequipa
After a full night’s rest and a filling breakfast we start exploring this charming city from the 16th century that is situated between high volcanoes. Here we will visit the monastery of Santa Catalina which is the only one of its kind in all of South America. We will celebrate Holy Mass in the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa and explore the main plaza with colorful streets. Enjoy local cuisine with the group at a local restaurant tonight. (B, D)

Day 7 | Arequipa – Lake Titicaca – Puno
The Andes await us! We board our coach and climb higher and higher up the mountain pass of Abra Toroya all while viewing spectacular sites from the altitude of the Andes. Our climb takes us past wild herds of llamas and alpacas as well as other alpine animals. We finish our climb at 12,000ft in the quaint village of Puno where we visit the famous Lake Titicaca. (B, D)

Day 8 | Puno – Lake Titicaca – Copacabana, Bolivia
Today we leave Peru behind and take to the water to cross over to Bolivia, as half of Lake Titicaca belongs to Peru and the other half to Bolivia. This lake offers not only amazing scenes for photography but is also home to many cultures living on different islands on the lake. The indigenous people here still hold age old customs, language and dress. We end our day’s journey in Copacabana, Bolivia, which is home to the Virgin of Copacabana, the largest Marian Shrine of South America. (B, D)

Day 9 | Copacabana – Sun Island – Juli – Puno
We start our morning celebrating Holy Mass at the Shrine of the Virgin of Copacabana before sailing to the Island of the Sun on Lake Titicaca. The Island of the Sun (Isla del Sol) is known today for its vast ruins and for a traditional way of life. Later we find ourselves back on land and travel back to Peru, passing through the town of Juli. Here there is a magnificent church with intricate paintings. This is also where the Jesuits in the 16th century attempted to build a mission for the Indians. Our guide will fascinate us with the stories of a different world and the history of this region. This evening we return to Puno for our overnight. (B, D)

Day 10 | Puno – Sillustani – Raqchi – Andahuaylillas – Cuzco
This morning we board our coach for our scenic drive to Cuzco, the ancient Inca capital. The first stop is in Sillustani on Lake Umayo, where there are tombs in the shape of towers. In the beautiful mountainous valley, which runs the ancient Incan road, we will move north, stopping at important locations such as Raqchi and Andahuaylillas. We arrive in Cuzco this evening where we dine as a group and relax after a long day of travel. (B, D)

Day 11 | Cuzco
Dedicating the whole day to this charming city, we start our walking tour of this former capital city. Many say that Cuzco is not only the most beautiful city in Peru but in all of South America and our tour will highlight the reasons for this statement. We visit the complex Cathedral which consists of three temples, a Marian Shrine, and priceless works of Sacred Art. Cuzco is also home to a dozen churches including a Dominican Monastery built into the ruins of the Incan Temple of the Sun. Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient ruins amidst the modern city center. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight. (B)

Day 12 | Cuzco – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cuzco
We fill up on a traditional Peruvian breakfast and start our adventure. The railway will take us to Ollantaytambo where we will board another special tourist train that will drive us along the Urubamba River to the small tropical village of Aguas Calientes. In Aguas Calientes we will find the switchbacks to climb to the ruins of Machu Picchu. This is the most spectacular set of ruins in the world. Our guide will give you time to marvel at the beauty and tell you of the ancient peoples who lived here before. This evening we return to Cuzco where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. (B, D)

Day 13 | Cuzco – USA
We share breakfast together and start making our journey back to the USA. (B)

Learn about planning a trip

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com