This adventure includes two of South America's most famous destinations. Starting off in Ecuador's remote Galapagos Islands we cruise through this pristine marine reserve on board the 16-berth San Jose. The remote isolation of these islands has resulted in nearly a quarter of all species being endemic and much of the bird and animal life has no instinctive fear of man. The magnificent wildlife and spectacular volcanic scenery of the islands is a great way to start your holiday. Next stop in our adventure is Peru. Having spent time discovering the colonial capital of Lima we fly to the Andean city of Cusco, the onetime seat of power of the ancient Inca Empire. We commence our exploration of this remarkable city in the main Plaza and finish at the Inca ceremonial site of Sacsayhuaman. Further out in the picturesque Sacred Valley is the colourful market town of Pisac and the imposing fortress ruins of Ollantaytambo. Our final highlight is a trip by train to the 'Lost City of Machu Picchu', perched high atop a mountain overlooking the Urubamba River.
Itinerary
| Day 1 |
(Mon) Arrive in Quito and transfer to hotel. |
| Day 2 |
Morning flight to Baltra, transfer to the M.Y. San Jose. Visit Las Bachas. |
| Day 3 |
Visit Rabida and Santiago Islands. |
| Day 4 |
Visit Sullivan Bay and Bartolome Island. |
| Day 5 |
Santa Cruz Island, including Darwin Research Centre and the Highlands. Overnight in Puerto Ayora hotel. |
| Day 6 |
Transfer by road across Santa Cruz Island to Baltra Airport. Fly to Quito. |
| Day 7 |
Free day Quito for optional activities. |
| Day 8 |
Fly from Quito to Lima. Transfer to hotel. |
| Day 9 |
City tour of Lima's colonial centre. |
| Day 10 |
Fly to Cusco. Afternoon walking tour. |
| Day 11 |
Full day tour of the Sacred Valley, visiting the ruins of Qenko, Puka Pukara and Tambo Machay, Ollantaytambo and the Pisac market. |
| Day 12 |
Half day visit to Pumamarca Ruins and Peru's Challenge Community Project. |
| Days 13-14 |
Train to Aguas Calientes. Visit Machu Picchu and take an optional swim in the hot springs. Return to Cusco. |
| Day 14 |
Free morning Cusco. Afternoon visit to Pumamarca Ruins and Peru's Challenge. |
| Day 15 |
Return flight to Lima where trip ends upon arrival (Mon). |