Highlights of Peru & the Galapagos: gems of the Andes

Lima

Day 1: Welcome to Peru

Welcome to Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru. Upon your arrival at the airport, your driver will greet you and escort you to your hotel for a small group transfer. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and unwind after your journey, allowing you to acclimate and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Lima

Day 2: A walking tour of Lima

Today, after breakfast, your expert guide will meet you at your hotel for a walking city tour. You'll visit Parque del Amor in the Miraflores district, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and then head to Plaza San Martín, where you'll have ample time to capture memorable photos.

Lima - Cusco

Day 3: Journey to Cusco

You’ll start your day early with a pickup from your hotel for a transfer to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arriving in the Andes, you'll be driven to your hotel in the heart of Cusco.

Take some time to unwind before embarking on a guided city tour in the afternoon. Visit the majestic Cathedral and Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun, before exploring the ancient ruins of Qenqo and Puca Pucara. Finally, head to Tambomachay, known as the Bath of the Incas, and the impressive Sacsayhuaman Fortress just outside the city. Return to your hotel to relax and enjoy a restful night.

Cusco - Cusipata - Cusco

Day 4: Hiking the vibrant Rainbow Mountain

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable journey into the Andes to visit the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain. Your adventure begins early, departing Cusco at dawn and heading southeast through Cusipata. Arrive at the hamlet of Llactoc, you'll be greeted by herds of alpacas and llamas grazing on the grassland slopes.

From here, begin a scenic 2.5-hour trek through stunning landscapes with snow-capped mountains in the distance. Upon reaching Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain, you'll be captivated by its vibrant colors. Take some time to soak in the views before retracing our steps back to Llactoc.

Afterward, we’ll return to Cusipata to enjoy a delicious traditional lunch before making our way back to Cusco in the early evening.

Cusco - Urubamba - Cusco

Day 5: The Sacred Valley of the Incas

After breakfast, embark on a journey from Cusco into the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas. This fertile region is rich in history and culture, and you'll explore its charming villages and impressive Inca ruins along the way. Our first stop is the vibrant Pisaq Market, famous for its high-quality handicrafts and lively ambiance.

After enjoying lunch in Urubamba, take a leisurely stroll through the majestic fortress of Ollantaytambo, a remarkable example of Inca architecture. After, head back to your hotel for another evening in Cusco.

Cusco - Machu Picchu - Cusco

Day 6: Witness the magic of Machu Picchu

Today, you'll venture deep into the Andes to the legendary Lost City of the Incas—Machu Picchu. After an early pick-up from your hotel, you'll be transferred to the train station in Ollantaytambo. As you journey through the breathtaking Andes, you'll arrive at Aguas Calientes, where you’ll board a bus for the final ascent to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, embark on an unforgettable tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stunning sanctuary once inhabited by Inca Pachacutec. Explore the ancient ruins and take in the panoramic views of the iconic Huayna Picchu Mountain. After a leisurely lunch, immerse yourself in the captivating history of this extraordinary city before returning to Cusco by train, reflecting on the wonders you’ve experienced.

Cusco - Guayaquil

Day 7: Journey to Ecuador

Today, fly from Cusco to Guayaquil, Ecuador. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for some time to settle in before embarking on a leisurely city tour. The first stop is Seminario Park, followed by a stroll along the picturesque Simón Bolívar Malecon, an impressive promenade along the Guayas River.

Next, explore the historic Las Peñas neighborhood, nestled at the base of Santa Ana Hill. Finally, visit the Guayaquil Historical Park, where you’ll discover the rich nature and culture of Ecuador’s coastal region. Here, you can wander through lush native flora and encounter a variety of wildlife, including tapirs, spider monkeys, crocodiles, sloths, and macaws.

Guayaquil - Puerto Ayora

Day 8: Giant tortoises in the Galapagos

Embark on an exciting flight to the enchanting Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, your guide will be ready to whisk you away to Santa Cruz Island to witness the majestic giant tortoises in their natural habitat. On a local farm, marvel at these prehistoric creatures as they roam freely. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the farm before continuing to Puerto Ayora for your hotel check-in.

In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Station, a hub for global scientists dedicated to environmental conservation. Here, you’ll learn about vital projects like water analysis and animal protection, and you can visit the turtle hatchery, where these magnificent creatures are nurtured before being released into the wild.

Puerto Ayora

Day 9: A day on an uninhabited island

After an early breakfast, embark on an exciting day trip to an uninhabited Galapagos island. Weather and park permissions will determine your destination: Santa Fé, South Plazas, Bartolomé, or North Seymour.

Each island offers unique scenery and a chance to spot rare wildlife. Enjoy guided walking tours to explore the island's diverse ecosystems, and in the afternoon, dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Lunch will be served onboard, and you'll return to Puerto Ayora in the evening with free time to unwind.

Puerto Ayora - Puerto Villamil

Day 10: Kayaking through turquoise water

In the morning, board a public speedboat for a scenic 2-hour ride to Isabela Island. Once you arrive, explore the flamingo lagoon and the giant tortoise breeding station.

After lunch, head to Tintoreras for an exciting kayaking or snorkeling adventure. The Tintoreras kayak tour is a private experience where you can discover Humboldt penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and sharks as they rest in the natural channels formed by lava flows. Paddle through the turquoise waters and keep an eye out for colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and playful penguins.

Puerto Villamil - Puerto Ayora

Day 11: A day searching for wildlife

Start your adventure today with a scenic 45-minute hike from Puerto Ayora to the stunning Tortuga Bay, famous for its soft coral sands.

Once there, kayak across the water to observe marine life and enjoy the coastline's beauty. Look out for marine iguanas, diverse birds, and unique flora, including mangroves and cacti. After kayaking to a nearby cove, relax on the beach before returning to Puerto Ayora.

In the afternoon, embark on a small boat tour of Santa Cruz Bay, snorkeling at La Lobería with sea lions and colorful tropical fish.

Puerto Ayora

Day 12: Goodbye to the Galapagos

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time this morning for last-minute souvenir shopping in Puerto Ayora. Afterward, your driver will take you to the ferry crossing the Itabaca Channel. From there, you’ll board a public shuttle bus for the final leg of your journey to the airport, where you can check in for your onward flight.