12-Day Machu Picchu and Galapagos Tour

Lima was founded by the Spanish in 1535, but the city’s history goes back over 2,000 years, and you can still see ancient pyramids amid its modern districts. Today, you’ll explore Peru through Lima’s history. On the way to the city center, spot a pre-Hispanic pyramid in Miraflores. Continue along Arequipa Avenue, showcasing Lima’s architectural evolution. In the historic center, visit Bodega & Quadra to learn about city life during the Viceroyalty, and explore a 16th-century monastery with a climbable tower for panoramic views. Central Lima also reflects Peru’s modern culture, blending locals and international influences. Finally, watch the midday changing of the guard in the main square before your transfer to the airport for your local flight. An English-speaking guide will drive you from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport to your hotel. This private transfer takes about 20 minutes.

• Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
• Transport:Car.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
• Accommodation:Casa San Blas Cusco or similar.

Cusco is famous not only because of its main square and colonial buildings but also for its nearby archaeological sites overlooking the city. The day starts with a walking city tour that will take you through some of the most scenic places in Cusco, such as the Main Square, the Cathedral, and Koricancha Temple. After the walking part, you continue by car to the nearby archaeological sites. The first stop is Sacsayhuaman, an Inca fortress, probably the most impressive of today. You will continue to Kenko, Puca Pucara, and finish in Tambomachay; these used to be an Inca worship, an administrative center, and Inca baths, respectively. It’s not only Machu Picchu and Galapagos in this trip!

• Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
• Transport:Car.
• Meal:Breakfast.
• Accommodation:Casa San Blas Cusco or similar.

Machu Picchu and Galapagos tours have to include the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Start your day early with a visit to the Maras salt pans, where locals harvest salt using ancient methods. Next, explore the Moray archaeological site, known for its concentric terraces and unique microclimates. Your final stop is Ollantaytambo, home to well-preserved Inca ruins. After exploring, enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch at Chuncho restaurant. In the afternoon, board a scenic train to Machu Picchu, where you’ll relax and prepare for your visit to this iconic wonder. You will enjoy a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, a journey of about two hours. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in town for a comfortable check-in.

• Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
• Transport:Car. Train.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Hotel El Mapi or similar.

From Aguas Calientes, you take a 20-minute bus ride up a steep, zigzagging road to finally reach the Machu Picchu Citadel, perched in a breathtaking mountain setting. Upon arrival, you and your private guide will delve into nearly every corner of this iconic Inca site, which dates back to the 15th century, making your visit truly special. You’ll have a four-hour window to explore, during which your guide will eagerly address any questions, enriching your understanding of this ancient wonder. After immersing yourself in the history and mystery of Machu Picchu, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes, carrying memories of a lifetime. Times to visit during the day will depend on availability and the number of visitors that day. You’ll take the train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, a scenic ride of about two hours. An English-speaking guide will drive you from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. This private transfer takes about 1.5 hours.

• Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
• Transport:Bus. Train. Car.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
• Accommodation:Casa San Blas Cusco or similar.

An English-speaking guide will drive you from your hotel to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport for your departing flight. This private transfer takes about 20 minutes. Welcome to Ecuador! Upon your arrival in Quito, our knowledgeable English-speaking guide will warmly greet you at Mariscal Sucre International Airport and accompany you on a private transfer to your hotel. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, allowing you to relax and begin settling into the beauty and charm of the Andes.

• Activity:Arriving. Checking in.
• Transport:Car.
• Meal:Breakfast.
• Accommodation:Hotel Ikala Quito or similar.

Enjoy this captivating cultural day tour, immersing yourself in the highlights of Quito’s historical center, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. In the morning, explore the heart of Quito, including iconic landmarks such as the Panecillo, the Basilica, and the San Francisco church. Wander through the charming streets and plazas of the old town, absorbing its rich history. Following a delightful local lunch, venture on a 45-minute drive to the Intiñan Equator Museum, situated just 200 meters from the Middle of the World Monument. Explore the fascinating exhibits, and afterward, seize the opportunity to visit the picturesque Pululahua Crater.

• Activity:Sightseeing. Hiking.
• Transport:Car.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
• Accommodation:Hotel Ikala Quito or similar.

Today begins the second part of your Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour. You will be provided a transfer from your hotel in Quito to the Quito International Airport for your departing flight. The pick-up time will be confirmed and coordinated ahead of time. Welcome to the Galapagos! Upon arrival at Baltra Airport (GPS), your guide will meet you at baggage claim. A quick 10-minute bus ride takes you to the Itabaca Channel, where you’ll board a ferry to Santa Cruz Island. Enjoy the clear blue waters and marine life during the short crossing. Once in Santa Cruz, private transport will take you through lush highlands to a ranch, home to the famous Giant Tortoises. On a guided hike through dense forests, encounter these ancient creatures and unique birds like the Woodpecker Finch and Warbler Finch. Explore volcanic lava tunnels and enjoy a local lunch. Afterward, head to Puerto Ayora, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel and assisted with your luggage, ensuring a seamless start to your Galapagos adventure.

• Activity:Exploring. Wildlife Watching.
• Transport:Car. Bus. Ferry.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
• Accommodation:Hotel Fiesta or similar.

As your Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour continues, you will go to one of the archipelago’s uninhabited islands. The island you visit will depend on the day of the week and the availability. A few examples of the islands you may visit are Santa Fe, South Plaza, Bartolome, or North Seymour Island. Each of these navigable day tours allows you to visit and hike on land to get to know the different characteristics of the island and its wildlife, as well as a snorkeling tour. In the afternoon, you will return to Puerto Ayora and be dropped off at the public pier. You can walk to your hotel or take a taxi and enjoy the small-town lifestyle of Puerto Ayora for the rest of the evening.

• Activity:Hiking. Wildlife Watching. Snorkeling.
• Transport:Car.
• Meal:Breakfast. Boxed Lunch.
• Accommodation:Hotel Fiesta or similar.

An English-speaking guide will drive you from your hotel to Puerto Ayora Pier for your departure transfer, a short 5-minute ride. At 7 a.m., you’ll board the public speedboat to Puerto Baquerizo, San Cristobal, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Please be advised that speedboat transfers may encounter rough sea conditions, which could cause seasickness for some passengers. Upon arrival at San Cristobal Pier, your guide will transfer you to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, a brief 5-minute drive.

La Loberia is about a 2 km hike from town. The beach, with its white sandy shores, is stunning, but water shoes or sandals are recommended due to the rocky entrance. Known for its sea lions, La Loberia is a great spot for snorkeling and swimming, with a shaded area to relax. The sunsets here are breathtaking. Beyond the beach, a moderate hike across lava rocks leads to Las Negritas, where you might spot blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds.

Next, head to Lobos Island, about 30 minutes from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where you’ll see pelicans, shorebirds, and blue-footed boobies performing their mating dance. The 850-meter trail takes about an hour, offering views of volcanic rock, sandy shores, and sunbathing marine iguanas. After the hike, snorkel with playful sea lions, sea turtles, and stingrays. Finish with a relaxing boat lunch and an hour at Ochoa Beach before returning to the port.

Note: This tour requires a minimum of 8 passengers to be confirmed. If the minimum is not met, an alternative kayaking activity will be provided.

• Activity:Hiking. Snorkeling. Kayaking.
• Transport:Car.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
• Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

Departing early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel between 6:50 and 7:50 a.m. and escorted to the pier to embark on a journey to Kicker Rock, a stunning landmark about an hour off the coast of San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos. Known as León Dormido for its resemblance to a sleeping lion, or Kicker Rock for its boot-like shape, this dual volcanic formation stands 140 meters high and serves as a beacon for marine life and birds. After navigating from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, you’ll snorkel in the channel between the rocks, teeming with sharks, manta rays, and colorful fish. The afternoon includes a beach visit and a short hike, plus lunch on board. You will return to Puerto Baquerizo by three or four in the afternoon.

• Activity:Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Boxed Lunch.
• Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

An English-speaking guide will drive you from your hotel to San Cristobal Airport for your departing flight. This private transfer takes about 15 minutes. Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey! We hope you’ve created lasting memories and experienced the beauty of this incredible destination. Until next time, we look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures. Safe travels!

• Transport:Car.
• Meal:Breakfast.