Perú & Ecuador: Andes and Galápagos 12 Days / 11 Nights

DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN LIMA

How exciting to arrive in Lima! Our team will meet you at Jorge Chávez Airport and take you to your hotel.

Accommodation in Lima.

DAY 02: - COLONIAL AND MODERN LIMA CITY TOUR

Breakfast at the hotel.

Between 9:10 and 9:45 AM, or between 2:10 and 2:45 PM, you will be picked up from your hotel. First, we will take a panoramic tour of the enigmatic Huaca Pucllana, where the ancient ruins transport us to the bygone era of the Ichma and Lima cultures. Then, we will cross the olive groves of San Isidro, Lince, and Cercado, enjoying views of the Palace of Justice, the historic Lima Art Museum, and the vibrant Plaza San Martín.

In the Plaza de Armas, with its panoramic views, we delve into history, exploring the Cathedral , the Government Palace , and the City Hall. Then we head to the Convent of Santo Domingo , home to relics of the Peruvian saints Saint Martin de Porres and Saint Rose of Lima. There, we can learn about their history and the legacy they left in the city of Lima. (If the passenger wishes, the visit to the Convent of San Francisco and its famous catacombs can be substituted for an additional cost) .

Finally, we ended the day with a spectacular view of Love Park, Larcomar, and the Pacific Ocean. As the Lima sunset painted the sky, we felt the sea breeze and the beauty of the city before returning to the hotel.

Accommodation in Lima.

DAY 03: LIMA - CUSCO: CITY TOUR + ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the magical city of Cusco . Upon arrival, our team will give you a warm welcome and take you to your chosen hotel.

Between 12:30 and 1:00 PM, the city tour begins with a historical visit to the Plaza Mayor, where colonial and Inca architecture blend seamlessly. Next, we'll marvel at the majestic Cusco Cathedral, a treasure of Renaissance and colonial style. Following this, we'll visit the Qoricancha Temple , a jewel of Inca architecture, now the Convent of Santo Domingo. Finally, we'll explore four nearby archaeological sites: Sacsayhuaman , with its imposing walls; Qenqo , a mysterious stone labyrinth; Puca Pucara , a red fortress; and Tambomachay , renowned for its ceremonial fountains.

We returned to the city, filled with awe and admiration.

Accommodation in Cusco.

DAY 04: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS

Breakfast at the hotel.

Between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, we'll be picked up from our hotel to begin our exciting adventure. First, we'll head to the impressive archaeological complex of Pisac , where history comes alive before our eyes. Then, we'll explore the famous Mercado Típico Artesanal (Traditional Artisan Market ), a vibrant and colorful place known for its beautiful handicrafts that are a hit on social media.

We'll follow the banks of the Vilcanota River , enjoying spectacular scenery, until we reach Urubamba . Here, we'll savor a delicious lunch in a charming setting, surrounded by the majesty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Afterward, we'll visit Ollantaytambo, one of the last living Inca towns. Its streets, which preserve the original layout from the Inca era , will transport us back in time as we explore its magnificent archaeological complex.

Finally, we visited Chinchero , a small Inca and colonial town that keeps the tradition of Inca weaving alive. Here, culture and history intertwine in every corner.

We returned to Cusco, full of new experiences and unforgettable memories.

Accommodation in Cusco.

Inca Trail*

DAY 05: CUSCO - OLLANTAYTAMBO - KM 104 - CHACHABAMBA - WIÑAYWAYNA - INTIPUNKU - AGUAS CALIENTES

Breakfast at the hotel.

Your adventure on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will begin early in the morning in Cusco. We will take a train to Km 104. Upon arrival at Km 104, the 2-day trek along the Inca Trail will begin.

Chachabamba

The first site we will visit is Chachabamba, an archaeological gem about a 30-minute walk from Km 104. The route is slightly inclined, so stay calm and watch for any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Chachabamba sits at an altitude of 2,250 meters (7,380 feet) and boasts a rich historical heritage. Here, we will explore stone structures that reveal a ceremonial center dedicated to water worship, featuring canals and fountains carved from stone that showcase the advanced engineering of the Inca.

Wiñay Wayna

From Chachabamba, we'll continue to Wiñaywayna, a 6 km (3.7 mile) hike that will take about 4 hours. Although the climb is steep, the views and the archaeological site are well worth the effort.

Wiñay Wayna sits at 2,680 meters (8,792 feet) above sea level and showcases the architectural and agricultural skills of the Incas. Here, we'll see elaborate terraces and well-preserved structures that highlight the harmonious interaction of the Incas with nature. After exploring, we'll have lunch at the well-equipped Wiñaywayna campsite. Here you can also use the restrooms and refill your water bottle.

Inti Punku (Sun Gate)

Our next stop is Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. The hike from Wiñay Wayna will take about an hour. Inti Punku is 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level and is the last stop before reaching Machu Picchu.

At Inti Punku, we'll enjoy our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu against its stunning mountain backdrop. This site aligns perfectly with the sun during the summer solstice, highlighting the Incas' astronomical planning and knowledge.

Hot Springs

After spending some time at Intipunku, we'll descend to Aguas Calientes, a journey of approximately one hour. We'll spend the night in Aguas Calientes, preparing for our visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

Summary of Day One

Distance traveled : Approximately 11 km (6.8 miles)

Highest altitude : Wiñay Wayna at 2,680 meters above sea level (8,792 feet)

Minimum altitude : Km 104 at 2,100 meters above sea level (6,890 feet)

Difficulty level Moderate to challenging due to the steep climb to Wiñay Wayna.

DAY 06: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO

Breakfast at the hotel.

Our team will assist us in boarding the bus that will take us to the entrance of the sanctuary, along a road with breathtaking curves, offering spectacular views of the Urubamba River as it carves the famous canyon. The Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, will welcome us with its incredible terraces, staircases, ceremonial sites, and urban areas. Energy emanates from the entire place. After a guided tour, we will return to town to enjoy the surrounding countryside.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants. Finally, we'll return to the city of Cusco, filled with unforgettable memories .

Overnight in Cusco.

Summary of Day Two:

Distance traveled by bus : 16 km (10 miles)

Highest altitude : Machu Picchu at 2,430 meters above sea level (7,972 feet)

Lowest altitude : Aguas Calientes at 2,040 meters above sea level (6,690 feet)

Difficulty level : Easy to moderate, as most of the day's journey is done by bus and train.

DAY 07: CUSCO - LIMA - QUITO: WELCOME TO THE CITY OF THE ANDES

Breakfast at the hotel, enjoying the last moments in the City of the Incas .

At the agreed time, our team will transfer you to the Velasco Astete airport in Cusco, to take your flight to Lima.

Arrival in Lima, and connection with the flight to Quito, Ecuador.

Arrival at Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport , where our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel .

Quito, the capital of Ecuador and an Andean jewel declared a World Heritage Site , is located at 2,850 meters above sea level , with a temperate Andean climate and average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C .

Enjoy some time to relax and acclimatize , breathing in the fresh Andean air and preparing to discover a city where history , culture , and modern life coexist harmoniously.

Overnight in Quito.

DAY 08: CITY TOUR QUITO & MIDDLE OF THE WORLD

Breakfast at the hotel.

We begin our tour exploring modern Quito , passing through iconic neighborhoods such as La Carolina , La Mariscal , and the traditional Barrio América . We continue to the imposing Basilica of the National Vow , from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

We then delve into the Historic Center , one of the best-preserved in Latin America , strolling among plazas, churches, and colonial streets that tell centuries of history.

The experience continues with a stop at the Panecillo viewpoint , where the city reveals itself in all its splendor.

In the afternoon, we visit the emblematic Middle of the World City ( entrance included ), walking along the equator , visiting the Ethnographic Museum , and exploring ancestral homes , gaining an understanding of Ecuador's

rich cultural and geographical heritage. Return to the hotel.

Accommodation in Quito.

DAY 09: HEADING TO GALAPAGOS, ENCOUNTER WITH WILDLIFE

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands ( flight not included ).

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel . The Galápagos archipelago is located at sea level , with a tropical climate and average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C , ideal for outdoor activities.

En route, we visit the highlands of the islands , an area of lush vegetation where we will observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat and explore lava tubes , formations created by ancient volcanic eruptions .

We continue to the Charles Darwin Research Station , a research and conservation center , where we will learn about the work being done to protect the archipelago's endemic species.

Overnight in the Galápagos Islands.

DAY 10: TORTUGA BAY & BAY TOUR

Breakfast at the hotel.

In the morning, a 40-minute walk to Tortuga Bay Beach , considered one of the most beautiful in the Galápagos , with white sand and crystal-clear waters , home to marine iguanas , coastal birds , and turtles .

In the afternoon, we'll take a bay tour , visiting La Lobería , home to sea lions ; the enchanting Canal del Amor (Love Channel ); Playa de los Perros (Dog Beach ), famous for its iguanas ; and Punta Estrada , ideal for snorkeling among tropical fish and vibrant marine life .

Return to the hotel.

Accommodation in the Galapagos Islands.

DAY 11: GALAPAGOS AT YOUR OWN PACE

Breakfast at the hotel.

Free day to enjoy the archipelago in your own way: rest , walks , beach or optional excursions , continuing the exploration of this unique natural sanctuary in the world .

Accommodation in the Galapagos Islands.

DAY 12: FAREWELL TO GALAPAGOS

Breakfast at the hotel .

Transfer to the Itabaca Channel , ferry crossing to Baltra and transfer to the airport . En route, we make a stop at the "Los Gemelos" craters , volcanic formations surrounded by native vegetation , ending the trip with a final encounter with the Galapagos nature .

End of services .

SUGGESTED HOTELS WITH EXPEDITION TRAIN:

LIMA:

3* LIGHT: TAMBO I & II | IBIS BUDGET |ARAWI EXPRESS | BRITANIA C & M | FERRE DE VILLE

3* TURISTA: LIMA D | MARIEL |IKONIK | IBIS LARCO | LOS GIRASOLES

3* TURISTA SUPERIOR: TIERRA VIVA CENTRO MIR |RED RADISSON | ARAWI PRIME | BEST WESTER URBAN LARCO * |CASA ANDINA STD BENAVIDES *

4* PRIMERA: DAZZLER | RADISSON DECAPOLIS | CASA ANDINA SELECT | SOL DE ORO STD | ESTELAR | FAIRFIELD (D) | JOSE ANTONIO EXC

4* PRIMERA SUPERIOR: INNSIDE | JOSE ANTONIO DLX |HILTON GARDEN INN |MERCURE | COURTYARD (D) | CASA ANDINA PREMIUM |HOLIDAY INN

5* LUJO: PULLMAN | NHOW LIMA ROOM |ALOFT | SOUMA | CROWNE PLAZA SUP

5* LUJO SUPERIOR: HILTON MIRAFLORES | AC MIRAFLORES DLX CITY VIEW | EL PARDO DOUBLETREE * |INDIGO LIMA MIRAFLORES *

(D): Tarifa dinámica | (*): Hoteles que aplican suplemento adicional.

CUSCO:

3* LIGHT: PRISMA | INTIWATANA | ANDEN INCA |INKA WASI | TURU WASI

3* TURISTA: WAMAN CUSCO | INKARRI CUS & REG | MAMASARA | SIETE VENTANAS | SAN FRANCISCO PLAZA | SUEÑOS DEL INKAHACIENDA CUS & REG

3* TURISTA SUPERIOR: TERRA ANDINA | TIERRA VIVA C. | SAN AGUSTÍN INT. | TAYPIKALA | CASONA PLAZA | BALCÓN CUSCO | YAWAR INKA | CASA ANDINA STD CAT - SB

4* PRIMERA: SAN AGUSTIN DORADO & PLAZA |LOS PORTALES | ABITTARE

4* PRIMERA SUPERIOR: COSTA DEL SOL | HILTON GARDEN INN | JOSE ANTONIO | SONESTA | HAMPTON BY HILTON | INTI PUNKU | MOTTO BY HILTON STD

5* LUJO: ARANWA BOUTIQUE CLASSIC |PALACIO MANCO CAPAC | CASA ANDINA PREMIUM |NOVOTEL

5* LUJO SUPERIOR: ARANWA BOUTIQUE DLX |CASA CARTAGENA LP SUITE & T | PALACIO MANCO CAPAC

(D): Tarifa dinámica | (*): Hoteles que aplican suplemento adicional.

QUITO

3* LIGHT: FENIX HOTEL

3* TURISTA:THE PLACE

3* TURISTA SUPERIOR: IBIS QUITO

4* PRIMERA: NH COLLECTION

4* PRIMERA SUPERIOR:DANN CARLTON

5* LUJO: SWISSOTEL

(D): Tarifa dinámica | (*): Hoteles que aplican suplemento adicional.

GALÁPAGOS 

[L] LAVA HOUSE

3* TURISTA:LOBO DE MAR

3* TURISTA SUPERIOR: AYRE GALÁPAGOS

4* PRIMERA: ACACIA

4* PRIMERA SUPERIOR: ANGERMEYER

5* LUJO: BLU GALAPAGOS

(D): Tarifa dinámica | (*): Hoteles que aplican suplemento adicional.