DIFFICULTY

Low

MIN. AGE

10 Years

£ 6490

Iguanas and Incas

The Galápagos Islands offer an exceptional opportunity to witness a diverse range of endemic flora, fauna, and marine life up close. Iconic species such as blue-footed boobies, sea lions, brown pelicans, herons, and white-tipped reef sharks thrive here, alongside unique creatures like the flightless cormorant and the adorable Galápagos penguin, the only penguin species found north of the equator. Staying in a tented camp or local island hotels, and embarking on daily small boat excursions, allows you to experience the islands’ stunning natural beauty while avoiding the constraints of conventional cruises. With its volcanic origins, the Galápagos archipelago consists of 13 main islands and over 100 smaller islets, making it a living laboratory for evolution, famously studied by Charles Darwin.
In Peru, you'll encounter unique opportunities to engage in community-led adventures that offer a deeper understanding of the local culture and history. A highlight of the trip is the visit to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The journey to this ancient Inca citadel includes a scenic ride on the Vistadome train, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Sacred Valley as you travel from Cuzco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire.

Price £6490/ $7790

Based on 2 people travelling - single supplement £6,490/$7790

Excludes International Flights (and return flights from Lima to Cuzco)

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Day by Day

Private transfer from the international airport to your hotel.

Pululahua volcanic crater. Later we will visit the “Ciudad Mitad del Mundo” a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, as well as the Ethnographic or Intiñan Museum, located right on the Equator. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time!

Back in Quito, after lunch we will visit the city’s impressive colonial centre, the reason Quito was the first city to be named a world heritage site. First on the agenda is a walk through the main plaza, the ‘Plaza de la Independencia’, where you will see the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and some of the most important churches built around the XVI and XVII centuries, including the San Francisco Monastery, a building begun only 5 days after the founding of the city.

Now for our chocolate experience! Ecuador’s unique equatorial climate provides the perfect environment for growing the world’s finest cocoa - Cacao Arriba. Cocoa has been revered in Latin America for over 5,000 years. Spanish explorers loved it so much they called it the ‘Food of the Gods’.

Our chocolate experience starts with a guided explaining the history of cocoa in Ecuador, followed by a chocolate tasting.

Night at La Casona de la Ronda (Standard room)
Included: breakfast , English speaking guide, transportation, excursion, lunch, entrance fees, accommodation

Transfer in Quito
English speaking assistance Local flight to Galapagos
Arrival in the Galapagos
Today we arrive in Baltra Island, the gateway to the Galapagos. This tiny island was a militarybase during the Second World War and hosts the Islands’ principal airport. The airport was built using the most advanced environmental techniques to reduce emissions and energy use, some of which you’ll notice as you walk through the facility. This was the first ecological airport in the world.

We dive into our adventure as soon as we arrive! We enter the airport through a special VIP lounge where you will have a chance to change clothes, put on some sunscreen and get a cool drink before we transfer to the Itabaca Channel to explore its spectacular turquoise waters. We will have a chance to kayak, snorkel and stand up paddleboard (SUP), as well as encountering some of the most famous Galapagos wildlife such as blue-footed boobies, sea lions, brown pelicans, a variety of herons and white-tipped reef sharks.
There’s no better introduction to the Galapagos than to get on the water as soon as possible! We will glide through beautiful red mangrove forests and along lava rock cliffs on water so clear we can see the marine life in the shallows. Our ocean (sit on top) kayaks come in doubles or singles, and life jackets are provided. A support boat will escort us throughout our water activities to ensure safety and to provide water, snacks and towels between activities.

From the Itabaca Channel we head up to the Santa Cruz highlands to a private reserve that borders the National Park, where we can see the famous Giant Tortoises roaming in the wild.

After lunch we drive to our exclusive giant tortoise reserve where our tented camp is located. Perched high on a hillside overlooking the ocean, Magic Galapagos Tented Camp will be our home during this night. The sounds of nature will serenade us in the evenings, and the Milky Way will be our night light. We’ll be able to feast our eyes on the mountains and forests surrounding the Camp, and enjoy the peace of having the entire hillside to ourselves, with the exception of seasonal resident giant tortoises.

Watching the colorful sunset from Magic’s western perch is the perfect segue into evening. Dinners are sumptuous three course affairs, prepared by expert chefs in an open-air kitchen in the main lodge. A favorite post-dinner activity is a short walk to the reserve’s natural lava tubes, for a night cap in the one-of-a-kind ‘Lava Lounge!’ It’s the perfect spot to relax around the fire and share stories from the day’s adventures.

Technical Details:
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Kayak: 1.5-2 hours depending on fauna activity and skills of kayakers
Means of Transportation: boat, kayak, stand up paddleboard and private transportation to Galapagos Magic.

Night at Galapagos Magic (Standard Tent)
Included: breakfast, transportation, English speaking guide, domestic flight, Airport VIP services, arrival transfer with English speaking guide, excursion, lunch, accommodation and dinner

Embark our motor yacht and enjoy of a daily excursion with a welcoming crew members and knowledgeable naturalist guide as you experience the remote islands in comfort and style.

Our daily excursions will take you to experience the Galapagos Islands in a safe and comfortable manner. We can visit North Seymour, South Plazas, Santa Fe or Bartolome Island.

Along the way, we might see leaping rays or other sea life, while enjoying the vastness of the Pacific. The yacht tour lets you see the Islands and their wildlife in their most pristine state. Island visited may vary according to National Park regulations

Night at the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn (Standard room)
Included: breakfast, transportation, local English speaking guide, excursion, lunch, accommodation

Isabela Island

Today we take an early morning public speedboat to Isabela Island where we will check into our hotel.

Our adventure begins with a tour of the Tintoreras, a group of small islands close to the town of Puerto Villamil. The islands are named after the white tipped ‘Tintoreras’ reef sharks that swim in these calm waters. On the Tintoreras we will see almost all the archipelago’s iconic wildlife: white-tipped reef sharks, sea lions, turtles, rays, penguins, and of course pelicans and blue footed boobies. This is a Galapagos in miniature! After walking on the island, we will have a chance to snorkel in the bay. Don’t be surprised if some of the penguins or sea lions jump in to play alongside you in the water!

In the afternoon we will hike the Wetlands Trail, where we can see marine iguana colonies and a number of different types of mangrove trees (all four species can be seen here) as well as enjoying the network of trails, beaches and historic sites. At the end of the trail is the ‘Wall of Tears’, built in the late 1940’s by Second World War prisoners held at the former US base on the island. Our guide will explain the importance of the Wall, giving us a glimpse into the lives of the island’s previous inhabitants. On this network of trails you will enjoy some beautiful views of the village below and have the chance to see birds, and maybe even some wild giant tortoises.

Night at the Iguana Crossing (Volcano Front)
Included: breakfast, English speaking guide, transportation, excursion, equipment rental, lunch, accommodation, dinner

Volcanic eruptions created all the Galapagos Islands, and you will have a chance to see this geologic process first-hand as we explore Isabela, one of the archipelago’s youngest and most volcanically active islands.

We have the whole day to explore the Isabela highlands, and we start by hiking up to the crater of the massive Sierra Negra volcano, and then onward to the rim of the Volcan Chico. This fascinating walk usually begins with some morning fog and drizzle, which sometimes persists in the shadow of the volcano, adding to its mysterious character. Despite the drizzle, we may see Galapagos Hawks, finches, flycatchers and Short Eared Owls en route.

When we reach the rim of the Sierra Negra crater, the second largest in the world after the Ngorongoro in Tanzania, we will see the reward for our efforts. The crater is so large, and the views so expansive, photos can’t do it justice, but bring your binoculars and camera anyway!

Later, as we head towards Volcan Chico, we may get the feeling we are walking on Mars due to the alien landscape. And while the land appears to be utterly desolate, a closer look will reveal small lizards scurrying about among the rocks. From the crater’s rim, we will enjoy more amazing views along with lava tubes and fumaroles.

After Volcan Chico and its extreme landscape, we will be able to relax in the shade of a lovely “jaboncillo” tree, and enjoy our box lunch while taking in the spectacular and expansive views over the central and northern parts of the Island. In the distance, we will be able to see Fernandina, Pinzon and Santa Cruz Islands. We then head back down to complete our day of hiking (16 kilometers / 9,94 miles in total) and relax on the beaches of Puerto Villamil.

Night at the Iguana Crossing (Volcano Front)
Included: breakfast, English speaking guide, transportation, excursion, lunch, accommodation, dinner

Time to say good bye to the Enchanted Island!!

Today we take an early morning public speed boat back to Santa Cruz and then transfer by land to Baltra in order to take out flight back to mainland.

Local flight back to Guayaquil/Quito
Included: breakfast, English speaking assistance, transportation, local flight

WE WILL LOOK AT CONNECTING FLIGHTS TO PERU (NOT INCLUDED)-you may require another night on the mainlamd!

Flight to Cusco (Not included).

Upon arrival you will be transferred to the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas (Private | English guide included).

On your way to the Sacred Valley, you will visit Chinchero, a picturesque village in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Enter the home of a textile artisan, where you will see some of his original work and learn about his techniques, as well as his creative process. Then visit its important Inca ruins dating back to the end of the 15th century, as well as you can observe in a panoramic way its beautiful and traditional church. Afterwards, on the road to Ollantaytambo, you will stop at a viewpoint, for one of the best views of the Sacred Valley.

Then, enjoy traditional homemade Peruvian food in an authentic estate, surrounded by art and with a breathtaking view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.For a hundred years the Lambarri Orihuela family has lived at Hacienda Huayoccari, worked its lands and looked after this farming estate devoted during centuries to the renowned giant white corn. The house, built on a mountain side - as was the custom of the Incas - has an unparallelled view over the Sacred Valley, thanks to the expansive geography bestowed by the Huayllabamba-Urquillos vale. After being welcomed by a member of the family and a visit to the family collection, with artworks created in the Peruvian South from pre-Columbian to colonial times, enjoy traditional Peruvian homemade food, surrounded by art. An authentic experience in a magical place, on top of the world.

Then it is on to Ollantaytambo, one of the most representative building complexes of the Inca Empire and site of one of the Spanish Conquistadors' rare strategic defeats. Famous for its terraced fields, Ollantaytambo was a very effective fortress and also a religious center.

Overnight at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba: Superior Deluxe room
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Our cultural immersion starts with a visit to the traditional Andean community of Misminay, located in a stunning mountain setting in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and on the way enjoying magnificent panoramic views of the valley. As we arrive at this colorful traditional community, the local people will offer us a warm welcome and a colorful first insight into Andean culture. We will then take part in a traditional daily activity and learn about the Andean lifestyle directly from our local hosts.
Our activities here include a small hike to the community’s lookout point, to enjoy a superb view of the Moray ancient agroarchaeological site. Along the way, your local hosts will talk about their community and the local area, and teach you about medicinal plants found along the trail.
Arriving here is a very special moment, and our local host will prepare an offering to Mother Erath and the surrounding Apus (Spirit’s of the Mountain’s) to welcome you into the Sacred Valley and start your inmersion in Andean Traditions.
After a delicious lunch prepared with fresh local products, you’ll get the chance to take part in another activity alongside the people of Misminay, continuing to learn about their Andean way of life and its traditions. Participation in these activities and your time in the community, represent an opportunity for a profound cultural exchange that will broaden your horizons and restore your equilibrium. And after a long but extremely satisfying day, you‘ll say goodbye to your hosts and transfer back to your hotel.

Optional with additional price:

Lunch at Iskay Maras Home
Located in the picturesque town of Maras. Owners Jeremy and Tatiana, a cusqueño couple, receive passengers at their home, behind closed doors. This is not the typical restaurant where you can just walk in, this is an exclusive and unique experience. Tatiana is a well trained chef (she used to work in Astrid & Gaston) and Jeremy is an ornithologist and tourism guide. A few years ago, they decided to settle down in the area of Maras, where Tatiana’s family was originally from. They have an agricultural land not far away and an orchard in their own house. The food they serve is almost entirely prepared using the ingredients that their own land provides them with… all organic. There is no set menu, you get to taste their daily creativity. The house itself is gorgeous, but the true value of the experience is having them as hosts, sharing their stories as locals. Cooking demonstrations can be arranged. The house can host mid/large groups, or smaller ones, both in communal and private dining rooms.

Overnight at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba: Superior Deluxe room
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

We will start of this adventure heading to the Ollantaytambo ruins. Here you’ll explore a truly impressive archaeological complex, one of the largest in Peru, which is strategically located on top of a mountain and once guarded the road to Machu Picchu.
We continue with a visit to Pumamarka, about one hour from Ollantaytambo, where we’ll visit the Pumamarka Ruins, which are believed to have been part of the Wari/Inca empires, and are in one of the less visited areas of the Sacred Valley. From there we’ll visit the Choquechaka Conservation Area to learn about Andean Forests and their ecosystems. After exploring these sites and learning about their significance, we’ll enjoy a traditional Pachamanca lunch at the El Albergue Farm’s restaurant. There is the option to finish the tour with a visit to El Albergue’s distillery and coffee roaster before returning to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Overnight at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba: Superior Deluxe room
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

You will be transferred to Ollanta Station. (Private | English transferman included).
On board of Vistadome train, you will embark in a trip to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you will take the local bus to Machu Picchu Sanctuary.

Private | Full Day Machu Picchu - English local guide and Vistadome train tickets included.

You will visit one of the most important tourist destinations in the world: Machu Picchu. Your excursion starts aboard a train towards the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. The natural beauty of the surroundings makes the train ride the best way to start your visit. Once you arrive, you will begin the ascent to the ruins. This visit will, without a doubt, be one of your most memorable experiences. After you reach the top, you will take a tour of Machu Picchu, learning the history and mysteries of one of the Seven Wonders of the World. And, with amazing sceneries all around, you will surely have more than one spectacular photo-op. Then, it’s back to Aguas Calientes.

Buffet | Lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.

Optional with additional price:
Upgrade to Private guide in Machu Picchu (Assistance on the train, bus station, etc)

Overnight at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo: Superior room
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day at Leisure

Optional with additional price:

Second visit to Machu Picchu (Includes: Entrance fee and bus tickets – guide assistance is optional)

You can make another visit to Machu Picchu, explore and enjoy it at your own pace, and finish taking the photos of the places and moments you may have missed. At the end of another fascinating visit, you’ll board the return bus to Aguas Calientes.

Visit to Huayna Picchu (Includes: Entrance fee and bus tickets – guide assistance is optional)

Huayna Picchu or Wayna Picchu which means “Young Peak” is the large Mountain that is commonly seen in pictures as the background of the ruins in every classic picture of Machu Picchu.

In the afternoon, you will take the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo station. Upon your arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. (Private | English transferman included).

Overnight at Inkaterra La Casona: Patio Suite room
Meals: Breakfast

Private | Half day Morning City tour – San Pedro Market – Sacsayhuaman & Sapantiana - English guide included.
This fascinating Tour of Cusco, also known as the Imperial City of the Incas, will give you insights into the city’s history, the daily life of its people and its importance for the Andean region.
We begin at the city’s iconic local market - for local people the city’s real, beating heart - where we‘ll have the chance to explore the colors, flavors and traditions of a modern and at the same time traditional Cusco. We’ll then continue to the Koricancha, also known as the golden temple, the most important temple in the Inca Empire and center of worship of Inti, the Sun God. Although the Spanish Dominican order built a church on top of the original temple, the Koricancha foundations and stonework are still visible. Leaving this Inca temple, we continue to the fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Built with massive blocks of stone, this imposing example of Inca military architecture is located on the outskirts of the city.
From here we’ll continue on foot along picturesque cobble-stoned streets, passing through the famous artisan neighborhood of San Blas on our way down to the Plaza de Armas (main square), where we’ll visit the Cathedral, the city’s most important church.
Then you will go ahead to San blas neighborhood sits a colonial aqueduct that has remained for many years. It is known as Aqueducto colonial Sapantiana or Sapantiana Colonial aqueduct. Not long ago, this last surviving colonial arch became more and more noticeable.
Overnight at Inkaterra La Casona: Patio Suite room
Meals: Breakfast

You will be assisted at the hotel and transferred to the airport. (Private | English transferman included).

Flight to Lima (Not included).

International Departure (Not included).
Meals: Breakfast

Thank you for travelling with us!

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