An extraordinary adventure spanning two of South America’s most iconic destinations: Ecuador and Peru
Uncover the Galapagos and Machu Picchu
Ecuador, Galapagos Islands, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
Ideal for couples and small groups
Expertly guided & hosted by skilled local guides
Perfect for outdoor lovers and avid hikers
Encounter a multitude of exquisite wildlife
Breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes
Your journey at a glance
This 14-night journey, from Quito to the enchanting Galapagos Islands, the Sacred Valley, and the majestic Machu Picchu, will leave you enthralled.
This incredible 14-night adventure* begins in the historic majesty of Quito in Ecuador. Next, cruise through the volcanic Galapagos Islands, encountering giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies on Española, San Cristobal, and Santa Cruz. Then, delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Peru, exploring the charming city of Cusco, the breathtaking Sacred Valley, and the awe-inspiring lost city of Machu Picchu. Prepare to be dazzled by natural wonders, ancient mysteries, and unforgettable experiences.
*Please note as with any expedition, itineraries may need to be adjusted due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
2 nights Quito | 7 nights Galápagos Islands | 1 night Lima | 2 nights Sacred Valley | 2 nights Machu Picchu | 1 night Cusco
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A taste of what to expect…
DAY 1 | Arrival
Ecuador: Quito
Upon arrival in Quito, a friendly &Beyond representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel, Casa Gangotena. Nestled amidst a breathtaking ring of Andean peaks, Quito reigns as the world’s second-highest capital city, boasting arguably one of the most spectacular settings on earth.
Founded in the first millennium by the Quitu tribe, Quito blossomed into a significant centre of the Inca Empire. However, Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Benalcázar re-established the city in 1534, leaving behind a legacy that remains today. Quito’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978, stands as one of the largest and best-preserved in Latin America. Explore its captivating museums, awe-inspiring churches, and intriguing art galleries, each offering a glimpse into Quito’s fascinating past.
Day 2
Ecuador: Quito
Casa Gangotena Hotel
After breakfast, you’ll journey from Quito’s modern sector into the heart of the city’s historic district. Take a moment to soak in the grandeur of Independence Square, surrounded by the iconic Presidential Palace, Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, and City Hall. As you wander, admire the intricate stonework of El Sagrario Church and marvel at the remarkable facade of La Compañía Church, a true jewel of Quito’s colonial architecture.
Next, step back in time at the San Francisco Church, built over the very foundations of an ancient Inca Palace in the 16th century. To enthral your senses with panoramic city views, you’ll either ascend Panecillo or Itchimbia Hill. From there, immerse yourself in the world of Ecuadorian chocolate with a delightful tasting at Galeria Ecuador. Learn the fascinating story of cacao cultivation, participating in an interactive game which simulates the journey of a cacao plant from seed to harvest. Under the expert guidance of a chocolatier, create your own decadent chocolate truffles. Experiment with an array of exciting ingredients like fragrant cinnamon, exotic Cusco salt, crunchy chocolate nibs, and a selection of nuts and cacao to craft a unique treat.
Day 3
Galapagos Islands: Baltra Island and North Seymour Island
&Beyond Galapagos Explorer
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport for your flight onward to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival at Seymour Airport on Baltra Island, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the Galapagos Explorer.
Begin your Galapagos adventure traversing North Seymour on foot. The flat, sandy trail along the coast offers wonderful wildlife and bird viewing opportunities. This is the only island with two species of frigatebirds and the best place to watch the male’s bizarre mating display. While walking around, keep an eye on the colourful land iguanas, lava lizards, and marine iguanas that are known to walk between your legs.
Day 4
Galapagos Islands: San Cristóbal Island
&Beyond Galapagos Explorer
Over the next couple of days, aboard the Galapagos Explorer, you’ll uncover the wonders of the enchanting Galapagos archipelago, with a variety of exciting morning and afternoon activities available each day.
MORNING: Pitt Point: An uneven, uphill hike leads you to a cluster of eroded volcanoes sparsely populated by unique vegetation. On your walk, look out for the San Cristóbal mockingbird and lava lizard, both endemic to this area. Pitt Point is also the only breeding site for all three booby species – the blue-footed, red-footed and Nazca booby. Those who prefer not to hike can enjoy incredible birdwatching aboard a panga boat. Weather permitting, there is also the opportunity to swim and snorkel with various tropical fish and sea lion.
AFTERNOON: Kicker Rock: This iconic rock rises 152 m (500 ft) from the ocean, formed from the remnants of a vertical tuff cone eroded by the sea. Sailing around the natural monument showcases the islet’s dramatic cliffs and low bushes which make for ideal nesting sites for frigatebirds, Nazca boobies and tropicbirds. A picture-perfect moment you’ll remember for years to come.
Lobos Island: A small flat islet located 10 km (6.2 mi) northeast of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, a panga boat ride along the coastline offers ample opportunity to observe nesting blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, pelicans, and large colonies of sea lion. Weather permitting, it’s also possible to swim and snorkel with the curious sea lions. An experience not easily forgotten; sea lions are often spotted during the summer months (from December to May) when they take to the water to escape the heat.
Day 5
Galapagos Islands: Española Island
&Beyond Galapagos Explorer
MORNING: Gardner Bay: Bask in the sunshine on pristine sandy white beaches observing large bird colonies, sea lion and Española lava lizards or discover the vibrant underwater world swimming with sea turtles, pufferfish, and Galapagos grunts. This is one of the rare beaches in the Galapagos where guests do not need to be accompanied by a guide at all times. Gardner Bay also offers exceptional kayaking, where, weather permitting, you can spot sea birds soaring amidst the cliffs and sea turtles swimming on the ocean’s surface.
AFTERNOON: Suarez Point: This rocky land offers one of the most beautiful walks in the Galapagos, with plenty of close-up opportunities to encounter the island’s diverse wildlife. Cross paths with marine iguanas, sea lions and swallow-tailed gulls and carefully walk through the albatrosses’ nesting colonies. Española is the sole breeding site for the entire world population of waved albatross, numbering around 12,000 pairs. This species has attained a critical endangered status, prompting ongoing vigilance through regular population monitoring.
Weather permitting, keep an eye out for the large blowhole which is known to spray 15 – 23 m (50 – 75 ft) of ocean water into the air depending on the surf intensity.
Day 6
Galapagos Islands: Floreana Island
&Beyond Galapagos Explorer
MORNING: Cormorant Point: Located between two volcanic giants lies one of the largest lagoons in the Galapagos, a haven for the American flamingo. With only 350 known pairs left in the world, this is the one of the best places to see these vibrant creatures, also known as the pinkest flamingo on earth. In addition, the island hosts a high percentage of endemic plant species. Its two distinct beaches, the Green Beach (due to the olivine crystals in the sand) and Flour Sand Beach (which is made up of fine sandy white coral), make for an interesting sight as well. Flour Sand Beach is also a known breeding site for green sea turtles (from December to May). Other inhabitants to look for are Floreana lava lizards, finches and flycatchers.
Champion Island: Here lives one of the most endangered species in the Galapagos, the Floreana mockingbird which can only be seen on a panga boat ride. This is also one of the most beautiful snorkelling sites in the islands, with crystal-clear water visibility boasting large schools of Salemas, king angelfish, yellowtailed surgeonfish, Galapagos grunts, whitetip sharks, eagle rays and stingrays.
AFTERNOON: Post Office Bay: In the 18th century, whalers passing through the islands placed a wooden barrel on Floreana Island to use as an unofficial mailbox by mariners. Known as Post Office Bay today, the tradition continues as travellers leave addressed postcards in the barrel and sort through left mail to deliver at home. Once you have delivered your post card, enjoy a stroll along the pristine shoreline before taking a dip in the ocean. This is also a fantastic area to kayak owing to the sheltered bay and large number of wildlife that can be seen along the coastline.
Day 7
Galapagos Islands: Santa Cruz island
&Beyond Galapagos Explorer
MORNING: The Highlands: After a 30-minute bus ride, you’ll arrive at El Chato, a private ecological reserve, to see giant tortoises. Next, stroll through the Highland’s lush forests, where numerous bird species, including various finch varieties, can be spotted. If there’s enough time, you’ll explore ‘Los Gemelos’ (Twin Craters), two collapsed calderas surrounded by a distinctive Scalesia forest – a highlight of the highlands.
AFTERNOON: Charles Darwin Research Station: See conservation in action at the research station, an active breeding site for giant tortoises. It’s thanks to these noble efforts that this species has escaped extinction. Strolling through the park not only showcases the various tortoises, including the saddleback tortoise, but also the land iguanas that are bred and nurtured at the centre. After this, use your free time to explore the town, experiencing the local culture firsthand. This is also the perfect opportunity to relax on board the Galapagos Explorer, enjoying the hot tub and al fresco sundeck.
Day 8
Peru: Lima
Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport
MORNING: Today is your last day exploring the Galapagos Islands. Your final sail takes you around Daphne Major, an extinct volcanic tuff cone. Nazca boobies, red-billed tropicbirds, and blue-footed boobies can be found nesting here. Daphne Major is also the primary site of Peter and Rosemary Grant’s iconic 40-year study of evolution in Darwin’s finches that demonstrates evolution occurring over short periods of time. Nearly all of the finches on the island are banded for observation. Thereafter, it is time to wave a fond farewell to the Galapagos Explorer as you head to Seymour Airport on Baltra Island for your flight onward to Lima, Peru.
AFTERNOON: Upon arrival in Lima, you’ll be warmly welcomed by an &Beyond representative who will transfer you to your hotel for the night.
Day 9
Peru: Sacred Valley
This morning, after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, your guide will be waiting to welcome you and transfer you on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Immerse yourself in the rich textile traditions of Peru with a visit to the Sulca Textile Center. This private initiative, supporting 14 rural communities, showcases beautiful weavings crafted according to ancient techniques. Learn about the significance of textiles in Andean culture and marvel at the vibrant displays. Gain insights into the fascinating world of indigenous camelids like the llama, vicuña, and the endangered guanaco.
After checking to your hotel, Sol Y Luna, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind and adjust to the higher altitude at your own pace.
Day 10 - 12
Peru: Sacred Valley
Sol Y Luna
This morning begins with a visit to Chinchero, a charming Andean village perched high in the plains of Anta. Witness traditional life unfold as you wander amidst adobe houses and colourful attire, all set against a dramatic backdrop of the Sacred Valley dominated by the snow-capped peak of Salkantay. Immerse yourself in the vibrant market overflowing with handcrafted treasures before continuing to Moray, a fascinating archaeological site. Explore the site’s most striking feature – a system of circular agricultural terraces, some reaching depths of 100 m (330 ft). Imagine the Incas experimenting with various crops by creating distinct microclimates within each level.
In the afternoon, delve into the history of salt production at Maras, famed for its unique salt pools. Witness thousands of these pocito pools, each yielding a significant amount of salt monthly, and walk along narrow paths observing the salt harvest process – a tradition remarkably unchanged for millennia.
Day 13
Peru: Machu Picchu
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
This morning, meet your guide in your hotel lobby for a transfer to Ollantaytambo Train Station. Before boarding the scenic Vistadome train to Machu Picchu, explore the charming town itself. Immerse yourself in the Inca legacy as you wander along cobblestone streets lined with traditional square homes and browse local markets. Time permitting, you can even embark on a hike to an Inca temple for outstanding panoramic views.
Upon arrival at the Machu Picchu train station, hotel representatives will assist with your luggage. Your guide will then accompany you on a short walk to the buses that ascend to the citadel. After a 30-minute journey, you’ll stand at the entrance of the magnificent Machu Picchu, perched at 2,438 m (8,000 ft). Spend the next three hours exploring this enigmatic citadel alongside your expert guide. They’ll share archaeological and historical insights into key areas like Intihuatana (the Sun Dial), the Sacred Plaza, and the Temple of the Sun. Immerse yourself in the energy of this awe-inspiring location, surrounded by cloud forest, Wayna Picchu, and Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), the gateway to the Inca Trail.
Day 14
Peru: Cusco
Begin the day with an optional pre-dawn bus ride to Machu Picchu, allowing you to witness the sunrise bathe the citadel in a mystical light – a truly spiritual experience for many. Afterwards, hike the iconic Huayna Picchu for unforgettable panoramas of the citadel and surrounding landscapes. Alternatively, conquer the challenging yet rewarding Machu Picchu Mountain, with its sweeping 360-degree views at the summit.
Following your hike, rejoin your guide for further exploration of Machu Picchu’s wonders. Later, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes and board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train for your return journey. Savour a delectable dinner onboard as you wind through the breathtaking scenery. Upon arrival in Poroy, you will be transferred to your hotel for the evening, Monasterio, a Belmond Hotel.
Day 15: Departure
Cusco
Today is the last day of your journey. This morning, immerse yourself in the heart of Cusco at the Main Square, where you’ll visit the grand Cathedral, a treasure trove of colonial art, archaeological artifacts, and a powerful symbol of the Catholic faith. Next, delve into the intriguing blend of cultures at Koricancha Temple. Witness the fusion of Inca and Spanish influences firsthand, where the remains of the Sun Temple serve as the foundation for the Santo Domingo Church and Convent. This remarkable site embodies the coexistence of Peru’s rich past with European architecture.
The afternoon takes you on a scenic 15-minute drive to Sacsayhuaman, an imposing display of Inca ingenuity. Marvel at the massive stone structures and ponder the ongoing debate surrounding their purpose. Theories range from a mighty fortress to a sacred ceremonial centre, leaving room for your imagination to wander.
It’s time to bid a fond farewell as you are transferred to Cusco Airport where you will be assisted to ensure a smooth connection to your flight onward.
What's included
- All nights of accommodation mentioned in the program
- Transportation in Lima, Cuzco, Sacred Valley and Quito.
- Bilingual Guides in Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Quito.
- Naturalist Bilingual Guide for all excursions in Galapagos in sharing basis
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands.
- Migratory Cards to enter in Galapagos and all sites mentioned in the itinerary.
- Second visit to Machu Picchu Ruins
- Hiram Bingham Round Trip Train Tickets.
- Taxes included, where applicable
What's not included
- International Airfare / Airport taxes
- Domestic Air Tickets and local airport tax (quoted separately)
- Airfare Lima/Cusco/Lima: US$ 450.00 per person
- Airfare Quito/Lima: US$ 550.00 per person
- *Airfare subject to change until tickets are issued *
- Early check in or late check-out charges
- Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, etc.
- Any video/still camera fee during the trip
- Gratuities
- Drinks
- Excess of baggage
- Visas (visit our partner, Sherpa, for reliable and convenient access to all visa-related requirements, supporting information, and costs)
- Travel insurance (visit our partner, Global Rescue, for more information).
Conditions
- Validity: From January 5th 2024 to December 20th 2024. Doesn't include festive season.
- From USD 18,239.00 per person in double base*
- Children and small group rates upon request*
- Rates include only those items specified in your itinerary.
- Prices are subject to change as per change in Government / Hotel / Airline policy without prior notice
- Please note, the names of hotels mentioned in our proposal only indicate that our rates have been based on usage of these hotels. It is not to be construed that accommodation is confirmed at these hotels until and unless we convey the confirmations to you on receipt of your acceptance. However in the event of any of the above mentioned hotels not becoming available at the time of initiating the reservations, we shall book alternate accommodation at a similar or next best available hotel and shall pass on the difference of rates (supplement/reduction whatever applicable) to you.
- The rates quoted are subject to change without prior warning, should there be any increases in Park Fees, Fuel, Sales Tax or VAT, third party services, or any other circumstances beyond our control in the regions featured in this quote/booking
- All guests must take out comprehensive travel insurance covering them for personal effects, personal accident, medical and emergency travel expenses, cancellation and curtailment
- &Beyond reserves the right to modify program itineraries, including arranged sightseeing, and substitute accommodations, including vessels and trains, at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond &Beyond's control. Every effort will be made to operate itineraries as planned, but alterations may occur after the final itinerary has been issued.
- Rates are subject to change
- &Beyond Trading Terms apply
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