Machu Picchu to the Galapagos

Machu Picchu’s enigmatic ruins and the fascinating Galapagos Islands rank among South America’s greatest treasures, and a small group tour is the ideal way to experience both. This outstanding 16-day adventure begins with Lima’s highlights. Traverse the magnificent Sacred Valley, visiting impressive Incan sites and indigenous villages during a two-night stay. After taking a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, tour and absorb this astounding site on two separate days, overnighting at the foot of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu near the beautiful Vilcanota River. Then encounter the history and beauty of Quito, a UNESCO site. Spend the next four nights on the Galapagos’ beautiful Santa Cruz Island; the relaxed stay here includes cruising on a private yacht to two nearby islands to learn about Darwin’s incredible “living laboratory” from an expert naturalist guide. After this unique experience, return to Quito for a final day of touring. Discover the Amazon’s amazing flora, fauna, and villages with an exceptional 4-day/4-night pre-tour option.

Event Itinerary

Day 1: Depart U.S. for Lima, Peru

• Depart for Peru and transfer directly to the hotel upon arrival

Day 2: Lima

• Briefing with Tour Director and fellow travelers
• Guided tour of colonial Lima and the MALI art museum
• Welcome dinner at the hotel

Day 3: Lima/Cuzco/Sacred Valley

• Visit the Incan ruins of Sacsayhuamán en route to the Sacred Valley
• Explore the colorful town of Pisac
• Arrive at hotel in the Sacred Valley

Day 4: Sacred Valley

• Participate in a traditional “Offering to the Earth” ceremony
• Tour the Incan ruins of Ollantaytambo and visit Chinchero
• Learn Peruvian weaving techniques and enjoy dinner at the hotel

Day 5: Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes

• Take the train to Aguas Calientes
• Guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins
• Explore this iconic site in an intimate group setting

Day 6: Machu Picchu/Cuzco

• Enjoy a second guided visit to Machu Picchu
• Return to Aguas Calientes with leisure time
• Take the train back to Cuzco

Day 7: Cuzco

• Tour the historic city of Cuzco, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Explore its Incan foundations and colonial architecture

Day 8: Cuzco/Lima

• Fly to Lima and enjoy time to rest
• Group dinner in the evening

Day 9: Lima/Quito, Ecuador

• Fly to Quito and tour the Middle of the World Monument
• Attend a Galápagos briefing; dinner on your own

Day 10: Quito/Baltra/Santa Cruz Island

• Fly to the Galápagos and transfer to Santa Cruz
• Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
• Group dinner at the hotel within Galápagos National Park

Day 11: North Seymour Island/Bachas Beach

• Cruise by private yacht to North Seymour for a naturalist-led walk
• Return to Santa Cruz for a nature walk in the afternoon

Day 12: South Plaza Island/Punta Carrion

• Visit South Plaza Island, rich in wildlife and colorful landscapes
• See sea lions, iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and seabirds
• Snorkeling opportunity at Punta Carrion

Day 13: Santa Cruz Island

• Explore the highlands to see giant tortoises in the wild
• Visit Los Gemelos craters and Garrapatero Beach
• Spot marine and terrestrial wildlife

Day 14: Santa Cruz/Baltra/Quito

• Transfer to Baltra for the flight to Quito
• Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner in a local restaurant

Day 15: Quito/Depart for U.S.

• City tour of Quito’s colonial center, including Plaza la Independencia
• Visit the Botanical Gardens and the vibrant Iñaquito Market
• Leisure time before overnight return flight to the U.S.

Day 16: Arrive U.S.

• Arrive in the U.S. and connect with return flights home