Great introductions to whitewater river rafting are within easy reach of Casa Andina Private Collection, along the Vilcanota and Urubamba Rivers. Begin in Pachar, near Ollantaytambo, and run the river through exciting class II-III rapids. Along the river route are spectacular scenes of little-known Inca remnants, including distinctive stonework, as well as abundant native flora and fauna. Finish your run near Cachicata, a great stone quarry that was the source for many of the massive stones that went into great Inca fortresses and cities in the Sacred Valley. Casa Andina provides expert guides and all necessary equipment.

A lovely hike with easy climbs along the Incas’ Sacred Valley system of canals, cultivation fields, and 5m- (16-ft) high terraces.

A relaxed ride with trained and docile horses along the Urubamba River, from Yanahuara to Ollantaytambo, traversing areas rich in natural and archaeological attractions.

The Sacred Valley, with a minimum of artificial light, is one of the finest spots in Peru to study the vast Andean night sky, and Casa Andina’s rare and superb domed observatory and planetarium is the perfect place to appreciate it. Astronomy-trained guides lead nightly programs (in English, French and Spanish) in Inca cosmology and instruct guests in using the professional electronic telescope to gaze at constellations only visible in the Southern Hemisphere, including the legendary Southern Cross, Centaurus, and the Southern Milky Way. A rare opportunity.