Peru & Galapagos

Peru & Galapagos

USD $ 3997 PP
10 Aug 2024 – 22 Aug 2024

Peru boasts the most dramatic Andean peaks and finest regional cuisine, but the the jewel in its crown is undoubtedly Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca ruins discovered high in the clouds and in the deep forest.

Cuzco, the former Inca capital is filled with fascinating history, museums and ruins. If that wasn’t enough, Peru’s long, fertile territory was the starting point for many pre-Columbian civilizations.

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Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival – Cuzco – Sacred Valley

You will have a private transfer from the airport to your selected hotel in the Sacred Valley with english speaking guide. On route to the hotel, the group will visit Pisac Market.

Pisac Market (Half day)

The Pisac Market is one of the most famous markets in the Cusco region, drawing many visitors to its famous Sunday market when indigenous Quechua communities from the surrounding highlands come to Pisac to sell their produce and stock up on supplies for the week.

A large section of the market is dedicated to tourist-oriented souvenir stalls where you can find weaving, jewellery, ponchos, hats, Andean instruments, ceramics, alpaca products and a whole range of other gifts and souvenirs to take home with you. The handcraft market is open every day from 9am to 4.30pm and is a good place to pick up some gifts all in the one place.

We continue the journey to your hotel for Overnight Hotel Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado (Superior Room).

Day 2 – Sacred Valley Full Day ( L )

After breakfast, you are picked up from your hotel for a day full of culture and beautiful nature. First, you visit Moray, a small community famous for its embedded amphitheater that is formed by circular terraces which seem to disappear into the ground. Scientist think that Moray has played an important role in the agricultural research conducted by the Incas.

You head to the salt mines located near Maras dating from colonial times; a very photogenic place. Then, you continue to Ollantaytambo, an ancient fort standing proudly in the famous Sacred Valley. The many paths and irrigation canals create a unique system telling you more about the development of Peru’s ancient cultures.

This wonderful day is concluded with a visit to Chinchero, believed to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. On Chinchero’s main plaza, you find a colonial church built in the 17 th  century. On Sundays, the mass takes place, but that day you can wander around the market of the town.

Lunch at Tunupa Sacred Valley Restaurant. Overnight Sacred Valley Hotel Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado (Superior Room).

Day 3 – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco.( L )

Transport from your hotel in Urubamba to the Ollantaytambo station with guide. The Vistadome train offers a unique connection with the scenery along the way to Machu Picchu, making passengers feel as if they were somehow part of the nature that surrounds them. The panoramic windows located beside and above your seat will bring you close to nature unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

*Luggage allowed: A day backpack with 5 kilos per person. Rest of luggage , must be left at your hotel. You will meet your guide in Aguas Calientes, who will then take you to Machu Picchu and give you a guided tour through the archeological site. Walk to the bus station to take your bus up to Machu Picchu. Shared transfer from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes.

TOUR MACHU PICCHU (3 hours)

Machu Picchu was only re-discovered in 1911 by the explorer Hiram Bingham, this citadel is considered to be one of the most extraordinary examples of landscapes architecture in the world. Located in an enclave on the saddle of a mountain overlooking the deep canyon of the Urubamba River, in an area of lush tropical forest, it served as a place of worship, a site for star-gazing and a private hacienda of the family of the Inca Pachacutec.

It consists of two main areas one agricultural, formed mainly by mountains and food stores, and the other urban, which is noted for its sacred zone with its temples, squares and royal tombs. The stairways and canals carved out of stone are recurrent throughout this remarkable archaeological site.

Machu Picchu was declared a Peruvian Historical Sanctuary in 1981 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. In 2007, it was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Lunch at Tinkuy restaurant.

VISTADOME TRAIN ( MACHU PICCHU – POROY )

Return trips on the Vistadome also offer an onboard fashion show, featuring the exclusive baby alpaca wool collection with the latest trends in alpaca apparel, all available for sale. As an added bonus, you can enjoy live dances inspired by the ancient culture of the Andes. Passengers also receive a snack made from local ingredients, so you can get the full Andean experience through our cuisine. The trip also includes non-alcoholic beverages for your onboard refreshment.

You will have a private transfer from Poroy Station to your selected Hotel in Cusco with guide. Overnight Cusco Hotel Casa Andina Premium Cusco. (Superior Room)

Day 4 – Cuzco City Tour and Surroundings – Half day ( B )

Time to explore magical Cusco! This beautiful city has an interesting history, both from Inca and colonial times. You start this half-day tour at Cusco’s main square, which was called Huacaypata (Warriors Square) by the Incas.

 While the guide tells you more about the history of this special place, you can admire the city’s cathedral that was built between 1560 and 1664 with the red granite stones from the Inca Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. The cathedral is without doubt one of the most impressive buildings in Cusco, and not only from the outside: the historical buildings hosts one of the most significant collections of gold and silver work of the colonial period.

Next, you continue to Koricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo. The convent was built on top of the most important Inca temple dedicated to the worship of the sun, with walls covered with gold leaf. Wandering through the streets of what once was the capital of the Inca Empire, you feel like you are traveling through time.

After exploring Cusco, you head to the nearby ruins, such as the Sacsayhuaman Fortress with its immense temple walls made out of huge stones constructed in a zigzag pattern; the red fort Puca Pucara; the Qenko Amphitheater, and Tambomachay, the Inca baths. Full of new knowledge about the history of the Incas, you return to your hotel in Cusco.

Free afternoon to explore Cusco on your own and do some shopping.

Overnight Cuzco

Hotel Casa Andina Premium Cusco. (Superior Room)

Day 5 – Cuzco – Lima ( B )

Post breakfast, transfer from your hotel to the airport in Cusco with guide.

Transfer from the airport to your selected hotel in Lima. 

LIMA CITY TOUR (Half day)

This half-day city tour starts at Lima’s main square, where you can admire the Governmental Palace. You visit the Cathedral, where the conqueror Francisco Pizarro is buried, and its religious museum. Then, your guide takes you to the San Francisco Church and its monastery, which cloisters and entrance hall are embellished with authentic tiles from Seville dating back to 1620. Also remarkable are the church’ museum, the Zubaran room, and the library. The complex was built over underground catacombs which were used as cemeteries during colonial times.

Cathedral of Lima

Construction for the cathedral began in 1535, the same year the city of Lima was founded. Throughout the years it withstood various earthquakes and underwent a lot of renovations. It is also where the conqueror Francisco Pizarro is buried, and the visit you will have the chance to visit its religious museum.

Today it stands towering over Lima's main square and is one the main attraction of the colonial city center.

The San Francisco Church

The construction of the convent began in the mid-sixteenth century; today, it remains one of the most exceptional legacies of the Vice-royal period. The monastery has a library that features twenty-five thousand ancient texts, an Islamic inspired dome, carved in wood and, the most chilling aspect, a series of catacombs that have on display the bones of more than twenty-five thousand people.

After being forgotten for a long time, the catacombs were rediscovered in 1943 and some believe they are connected to the city’s cathedral and other churches through a network of underground tunnels. At the time of their construction, the crypts were the burial grounds for members of guilds and brotherhoods. Now visitors can observe them through the floors of the church of San Francisco, held together by nets. The bones are laid out in geometric shapes, especially in mandala patterns, suggesting that whoever placed them favored a metaphysical purpose before a useful one.

At the end of your tour you will be transferred to your hotel for Overnight Hotel Casa Andina Premium Miraflores (Traditional Room).

Day 6: Thursday – Lima Departure for Guayaquil , Ecuador (B,D )

Transfer from your hotel to the airport in Lima. The airport is located in the district of Callao, about 16km from Miraflores and it will take approximately 45 minutes to one hour to arrive.

Ecuador

Ecuador may be relatively small, but in addition to its many giant volcanoes, Amazon destinations, beach towns and cloud forest resorts, the Country’s mainland is also the exclusive gateway to a true natural wonder of the world: the enchanted Galapagos Islands. Train routes pass through the dramatic highlights of the Andes, including the impeccably preserved colonial centers of Quito and Cuenca, then descending thousands of feet towards the coastal metropolis of Guayaquil. Several points of access to the rainforest, and its mighty rivers, lead to the treasured Yasuni jungle reserve and its mega-biodiversity. 

You will have a transfer from the airport to your selected hotel in Guayaquil.

GUAYAQUIL CITY TOUR (Half day)

Guayaquil is the main port and the largest city of Ecuador. It is situated on the banks of the Guayas River and beaches are located less than two hours driving distance.  You will feel the difference of Guayaquil and the ambience it boasts as a coastal city. What is more, in Guayaquil there is a unique mix of modern and historical buildings that create an attractive atmosphere. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel for an interesting tour of this port-city.

The visit will include the boulevard located on the waterfront, also known as the “malecon”, which has just recently been renovated.  Additionally, you will visit the neighborhood of Las Peñas, dating back to the 16th century and declared as a Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO.  This district of the city is

located on a hill, overlooking the boardwalk and the city. Furthermore, you will also see the Seminarian Park or Iguana Park, named so after the many iguanas that inhabit the area. They are not frightened of visitors and come and go as they please. Don’t be shy to ask your guide to take some photos for you!

You will spend the night at Grand Hotel Guayaquil (Standard Room).

Day 7 – Guayaquil – Baltra – Santa Cruz Island ( B,L )

Transfer from your hotel to the airport in Guayaquil for your flight to Baltra Visit Highlands of Santa Cruz Island Our private transportation and English speaking guide will pick you up from Baltra´s airport to go ahead to the higher elevations of Santa Cruz.Along the way you will experience different vegetation zones. The first stop is at The Twins “Los Gemelos”, these are two large craters in the middle of the island, either side of the one road crossing the island. They are the remains of volcanic magma chambers which collapsed and the vertical sides are now covered with vegetation.

Afterwards visit a local ranch which provides the opportunity to marvel at the celebrated Giant Galapagos Tortoise roaming in its natural habitat. At this place you can also explore a cavernous underground Lava Tunnel where you can view one of the geological wonders of our volcanic islands. Charles Darwin Research Station visit Here, you visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Founded in 1959, the center has an interpretation center where you can learn more about the ecosystems and species of the archipelago, as well as the conservation efforts of the government and NGOs. Also, you can admire the tortoises, land iguanas, and other species that are part of the programs of the research station.

You will spend the night at Ikala Galapagos Hotel (Standard Room).

Day 8 – Bartolome & Sullivan Bay Excursion ( B,L )

Bartolome Island: Here is the home of the Iconic Pinnacle Rock. Climbing to the lookout point of this island rewards you with a panoramic view of varied lava formations, volcanic peaks, and surreal landscapes with Sullivan Bay of Santiago Island in the distance. Bartolome Island also provides the opportunity to swim and snorkel, with possibilities to view the unique Galapagos penguins.

You will spend the night at Ikala Galapagos Hotel (Standard Room).

Day 9 – Santa Cruz – Isabela Island ( B,L )

Transport from your selected hotel in Santa Cruz Island to the port.

You will take Public Speedboat from Santa Cruz Island to Isabela´s Island.

Transport from the Port to your selected hotel in Isabela.

Visit the Wetlands and Flamingo lagoons Wetlands, located just outside of Puerto Villamil, consist of lagoons where a number of flamingos live among swamps and mangroves. A variety of unique bird species, such as common stilts, gallinules and white-cheeked pintails also inhabit the area.

You will spend the night at Albemarle Hotel (Standard Room).

Day 10 – Isabela Island to Sierra Negra ( B,L )

Excursion to Sierra Negra Volcano

Today a adventures trip awaits! The hike to Sierra Negra Volcano takes approximately 45 minutes by bus to begin the 12 km hike (appx. 3 hours).

The hike is long in terms of distance, but not very difficult as the inclines and declines are quite gradual. There is an option to ride horses for an additional cost, and if interested please let us know beforehand. Sierra Negra Volcano has the second largest crater in the world, measuring approximately 6 miles in diameter and 300 feet deep.

We will see as well Volcano Chico, which should provide a spectacular view of the incredible moonlike terrain. Finally back to the hotel (5-6 hours).

You will spend the night at Albemarle Hotel (Standard Room).

Day 11 – Isabela Island – Baltra – Quito ( B )

Private transportation from your select hotel to the port.

You will take Public Speedboat from Isabela´s Island to Santa Cruz Island.

Transport from Santa Cruz to Baltra Airport for your flight to Quito Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Quito

You will spend the night at NH Collection Quito Royal Hotel (Standard Room).

Day 12 – Quito – Middle of the World – Teleferico ( Cable Car )-(B D)

Quito Historical City Tour and Pichincha Visit With The Teleferico With this historical city tour you explore the beautiful colonial center of Quito.

Your first stop is at Basilica Church, considered to be one of the most important pieces of neo-gothic architecture in Ecuador. The tour continues to Plaza Grande (also called Independence Square), to admire its historical buildings, among which the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop's Palace. You walk through the lively colonial streets of the old town to visit other historical highlights, such as the famous Compañia Church, with its interior covered with gold. Finally, you visit the famous Panecillo Hill, from where you will have a wonderful view of the city and see the contrast between colonial and modern Quito from above.

Subsequently, you go up the Pichincha Volcano with the Teleferico. This cable car brings you up to an altitude of 4050 meters, from where you have a spectacular view of the Ecuadorian capital and the valleys in the east. From this unique spot, you can perfectly see how Quito stretches from north to south and, on a clear day, you can even spot several volcanoes surrounding the city.

Middle of the World Visit A must-see stop during your visit in Ecuador is the Middle of the World. Here an Equator Monument was built to honor the 18th century French Geodesic Mission, led by French scientists Condamine, Bouguer, Godin, and the Ecuadorian geographer, Pedro Vicente Maldonado, who studied the curvature of the planet and determined the supposed location of the equator. This unique place allows you to be a part of a historic landmark in what was once thought as the exact equator line.  Have fun with the family taking playful photos with the monument in the background, such as the popular takes with one foot in each hemisphere or pretending to hold the monument ball in your hands!   Additionally, the complex offers an Ethnographic museum, a planetarium, artisanal stores, great for picking up souvenirs, coffee shops, and restaurants that serve local food.

Entrance fee La Compañia Church

One of the highlights of the city tour is the visit to La Compañia Church, considered to be a Baroque masterpiece. The facade is made of volcanic stone and the interior is all covered with gold.

Entrance fee Intiñan Museum

Intiñan is a small interactive museum located right next to Mitad del Mundo Monument. It features outdoor exhibits of astronomical geography and explanations of the importance of Ecuador’s geographical location. One of the highlights is the ‘solar chronometer,’ a unique instrument made in 1865 that shows precise astronomical and conventional time, as well as the month, day and season – all by using the rays of the sun. Additionally, you can learn about Ecuadorian pre-Columbian cultures and enjoy from fun experiments that reveals some of the singularities that takes place at the equator.

You will spend the night at NH Collection Quito Royal Hotel (Standard Room).

Day 13 – Departure

Post breakfast , check out and head to the airport for your flight home OR Extend your trip to the Amazon

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