Peru & Galapagos Discovery
Take in the highlights of Peru and the Galapagos Islands on this 15 day tour, which travels from Lima to Guayaquil. Explore enchanting Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Discover Machu Picchu - the incredible Lost City of the Incas and visit the Uros Islands on serene Lake Titicaca. Fly to Ecuador for a tour of Guayaquil before ending your adventure with a four night cruise around the beautiful Galapagos Islands, encountering incredible wildlife.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Lima
Day 1 Lima
Welcome to Peru. Upon arrival at Lima Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to our hotel in Miraflores, a modern middle-class suburb on the coast. The remaining time today is free to spend at leisure exploring the capital.
Day 2 Cusco
Day 2 Cusco
Lima – Cusco. We take a short flight to Cusco, which will be our home for the next two days. Once the centre of the Inca Empire, Cusco is now a vibrant city, home to extraordinary craftmanship, with old Inca walls and bustling squares filled with ornate baroque colonial churches. Stroll around the cobbled streets of this enchanting city as the shoeshine boys and postcard sellers jostle for your attention, shop at the many handicraft stalls and grab a drink at one of the cafes.
The rest of the day is free to independently explore and in the evening experience the city's energy as people flock to the many restaurants, bars and cafés.
Day 3 Cusco city tour & Sacsayhuaman
Day 3 Cusco city tour & Sacsayhuaman
This morning we explore Cusco on a guided walking tour. We visit Q’oricancha, also known as the Sun Temple, this was the most significant temple in the Inca empire, a sacred ground dedicated to the Sun God. Following this, we explore the colossal zigzag walls of Sacsayhuaman fortress set on a hill side above Cusco. In 1536 this was the site of a bitter three-day battle was fought between the Spaniards and the Incas.
The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure. Stroll around the cobbled streets, explore Cusco's colourful, bustling markets and splendid churches. The air at this altitude can be thin and the streets are steep, so take your time.
Day 4 Sacred Valley of the Incas
Day 4 Sacred Valley of the Incas
Cusco - Sacred Valley. Today we leave Cusco and drive over the high plains and down into the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas. The valley was densely populated in imperial times and the well-preserved ruins bear witness to the highly developed society that the Incas created. During our drive we pass many of the villages and temple fortress that are scattered throughout the valley. We explore the Pisac complex, which is built on terraces carved into the steep hillside, rising like a staircase to the heavens. We also visit Pisac village before continuing our journey through this beautiful, patchwork valley to the temple of Ollantaytambo, with the magnificent Andes as a beautiful backdrop. Ollantaytambo fortress, the colonial grid plan and the Inca foundations are still intact and there are wonderful views down over the sloping hillsides and into the fertile valley. We spend tonight in this tranquil valley.
Day 5 Machu Picchu
Day 5 Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu. Our day begins with an incredibly scenic 2-hour train journey from Ollantaytambo to the iconic lost city of Machu Picchu. Situated on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba River and surrounded by tropical forest, the Inca city enjoys a truly spectacular setting and it's one of the most fascinating ancient sites in the world. Following a guided tour of the ruins we spend the night in the spa village of Aguas Calientes, a couple of kilometres upstream.
.If you fancy hiking a section of the Inca Trail without disrupting your tour, we can arrange for you to undertake the one day Mini Inca Trail on the same day while still participating in the guided tour of the ruins and staying with the group in the evening. Please note: You must pre-book the Mini Inca Trail as availability is limited, please ask us for more details.
Day 6 Cusco
Day 6 Cusco
Machu Picchu - Cusco. There is the optoin to revisit the ancient citadel to walk one of the many trails around the site. Hike up the steep path to Huayna Picchu for incredible views over Machu Picchu or trek to the Inca Bridge, carved into the steep cliff face. Alternatively, you can relax at the hotel before we return to Cusco by train this afternoon.
Please note: If you want to revisit Machu Picchu you will need to enquire with the office and pre-book as availability is limited.
Day 7 Journey to Lake Titicaca
Day 7 Journey to Lake Titicaca
Cusco - Puno. After an early breakfast, we travel by private bus to Puno on the shore of Lake Titcaca. The journey is incredibly scenic and takes approximately 8 hours, climbing over 4,300m. The road is flanked by majestic snow-capped peaks, and we witness men and oxen toiling in fields surrounded by corn and potato crops. We reach the highest point of our journey, as we make our way across the plains of Altiplano, passing market towns where llamas and alpacas are herded by bowler-hatted women.
Day 8 Uros Islands and Sillustani
Day 8 Uros Islands and Sillustani
Sitting on the Peruvian-Bolivian border beautiful Lake Titicaca is vast, almost like an inland sea. Today's adventure begins with a motorboat journey across the lake to visit the fascinating Uros Islands. These unique floating islands are constructed entirely from the lake's tortora reeds – the same material used for the islanders' canoes, and you can feel the ground subtly shifting beneath your feet.
This afternoon a guided excursion takes us to the Chullpas at Sillustani, imposing stone tombs believed to be the final resting place of ancient Hatun Colla chiefs. These towers stand along the treeless shores of a remote highland lake, surrounded by captivating landscape.
Day 9 Back to Lima
Day 9 Back to Lima
Puno - Lima. This morning we take a flight back to Lima, a short 1 hour and 40 minutes journey. Upon arrival spend the rest of the day at leisure. There's time for an optional tour of the capital's historic centre, alternatively consider visiting one or two of the world-class museums. In the evening why not celebrate the last night of the tour on the cliff top in Miraflores or Barranco sipping a pisco sour cocktail and watching the sun set over the Pacific.
Day 10 Guayaquil
Day 10 Guayaquil
Lima - Guayaquil (Ecuador). Today we bid farewell to our Peruvian tour guide and transfer to Lima airport for a flight to Guayaquil. Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city, located on the banks of the Rio Guayas. A city tour takes us through the bustling open-air market at La Bahia, past the colonial naval shipyard and on to the Malecon (the waterfront promenade). We continue our tours, strolling past tropical gardens, busy markets and cafes to our final stop, Santa Ana hill and Las Penas. This charming district has vibrant wooden houses and ramshackle old streets.
Day 11 Galápagos Islands
Day 11 Galápagos Islands
Guayaquil - Galapagos Islands. Transfer to the airport this morning for you flight to the Galapagos Islands. Here we embark on a five day cruise around the archipelago aboard a small motor yacht which will be our home for the next 4 nights. Once settled into our cabin, we begin our tour of the the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands. Find a comfortable place on deck, relax and enjoy the views, often trailed by flocks of birds and playful dolphins.
Days 12-14 Cruising through the archipelago
Days 12-14 Cruising through the archipelago
We continue our captivating cruise around the Galápagos Islands, with two landings a day to encounter diverse wildlife. There will also be the opportunity to snorkel both from the islands and the boat itself, and two kayaks are available for use. During our cruise we will visit the islands of San Cristobal, Floreana, Espanola and Santa Cruz.
San Cristobal is an old island with volcanic peaks to the north and lush vegetation in the south. Here you can learn about the natural and human history of this island at the The Interpretation Centre, experience snorkelling off Cerro Brujo's beaches and encounter sea lions at Isla Lobos.
Floreana has a rich and fascinating history and highlights of the island include a visit to Post Office Bay and snorkelling around the Devil's Crown, a part submerged crater. There's also a golden beach where green turtles nest and a salt lagoon which is home to a plethora of wading birds.
Espanola is one of the most beautiful Galapagos Islands and also one of the oldest, dating back an estimated 3.3 million years. Espanola has a high percentage of endemism because it is isolated from other islands. Endemic species include the Waved albatross, Darwin's finches and the mockingbird of Espanola, which is the largest species in the islands and has developed carnivorous behaviour. A highlight of this island is a visit to Urbina Bay with its long white beach which is home to a sea-lion colony. There's also a spectacular blowhole where the spray shoots 30m high.
Santa Cruz island has the largest human population of all the islands, mostly living in Puerto Ayora. On this island we see a colony of land iguanas at Dragon Hill in the northwest and giant tortoises in the verdant highlands. We also hope to spot rays and sharks from the comfort of a panga or kayak at Black Turtle Cove.
Day 15 Guayaquil
Day 15 Guayaquil
Galapagos Islands - Guayaquil. We disembark from our cruise and take a short flight back to Guayaquil where our tour ends upon arrival.
Post tour accommodation in Guayaquil can be arranged upon request. Please contact us for details.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
With a contemporary exterior that shelters a collection of Peruvian artowork and colonial antiques, the classy Casa Andina Miraflores is the perfect blend of the old and new. The smart guestrooms are decorated in a neutral palette of colour in a contemporary design with the conveniences you would expect of a 4 star hotel, many with great city views. The restaurant boasts exquisite regional gourmet dishes whilst the heated swimming pool features a waterfall. The hotel is strategically located in the heart of Miraflores with Kennedy Park just two blocks away. It's a 45 minute drive to the airport.
Hotel Pakaritampu is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, in the village of Ollantaytambo, just 50 yards from the train station which is on the mainline to Machu Pichu. This delightful property exudes Peruvian charm in an idyllic setting amidst attractive gardens, perfect for relaxing in after a busy day. The onsite restaurant offers a variety of both local Peruvian delicacies and international meals. Charmingly decorated rooms offer standard king size or twin beds, safety-deposit box, a TV with cable channels and Free WiFi access. The main square is only a ten-minute walk away. Here you'll find a selection of shops and restaurants, as well as remnants of Ollantaytambo’s magnificent Inca fortress. The hotel follows sustainable and eco-friendly practices and supports local communities.
Located on the shores of Lake Titicaca and only 5km from the centre of Puno, Posada Del Inca offers a uniquely breath-taking experience. The traditionally decorated en-suite rooms offers WiFi, soundproofed rooms and comfort for all guest allowing the shades of the surrounding Andean landscape reflected in the decor. There is a restaurant on-site serving Peruvian and International cuisine. Enjoy a drink by the crackling open fire at the onsite bar. Hotel Posada Del Inca provides a delightful stay for each guests.
Located in the vibrant heart of Guayaquil, Hotel Wyndham is a contemporary haven blending comfort and style. The elegantly designed rooms provide modern amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay. Indulge in exquisite local and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and unwind with a cocktail at the bar. The hotel's fitness centre and rooftop pool offer leisure options. Its prime location offers easy access to notable attractions like Malecón 2000 and Parque Seminario.
This 4 star cruise vessel is designed to provide a comfortable, relaxed and intimate experience, accommodating only 16 passengers and nine crew members. The vessel features various amenities, including comfortable air-conditoned cabins with private facilities and large picture windows, a dining area offering delicious local and international cuisine, a spacious sundeck for relaxation, and social spaces for connecting with fellow travellers. Aboard the Seaman Journey Cruise you will be guided by experienced naturalist guides who possess in-depth knowledge of the Galapagos Islands' flora, fauna, and ecosystems. These experts lead daily excursions, providing insightful information about the islands' unique wildlife, geological features, and conservation efforts. Whether snorkelling with playful sea lions, observing ancient giant tortoises, or hiking along volcanic trails, you will have the opportunity to engage with the islands' remarkable wildlife up close.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
Lima Airport Transfer (per car
Only book airport transfers in conjunction with pre or post tour accommodation. Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.
Tour Upgrades
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