In Peru, the Orchidaceae family features some 3,000 species, most of which  grow in the high tropical jungle on the eastern slopes of the    Andes; in the cloud forest; region. There, amidst the exuberant; vegetation produced by nearly  5000 mm of rainfall per year,   orchids multiply,forming veritable natural gardens. They are found from the far northwest of Peru with species  such as the Cattleya maxima, with large, violet flowers to the eastern department of Amazonas  where striking orchids of the Masdevalia genus thrive. In the Cordillera Blanca  mountain range in the department of Ancash, interesting varieties of native orchids, including the wakanku (Masdevalia amabilis) can also be seen. However, it is in the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary itself, home to more than 300 orchid varieties including the wakanki (Masdevalia vetchiana), and wiñaywayna (Epidendrum secundum) which are the most beautiful. The best way to appreciate orchids and at the same time take in the spectacular countryside is to hike the 4 day Inca Trail, which links Qorihuayrachina (on the outskirts of Ollantaytambo), with the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. However, for the slightly less adventurous, we have designed a very beautiful tour complete with biologist guides and a short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu to gain an in-depth appreciation of these most beautiful flowering plants.