GALAPAGOS & MACHU PICCHU TOUR OVERVIEW
Join us on this incredible journey as we follow the footsteps of Charles Darwin in the Galapagos Islands and immerse ourselves in the Inca culture and civilisation in Peru.
Witness the breath taking bio diversity of the Galapagos Islands, home to the highest number of endemic species found nowhere else in the world. Swim with the sea lions; snorkel with white-tipped reef sharks, marine turtles and penguins; observe the Galapagos Giant Tortoise in the wild and observe the volcanic landscape on Bartolome Island.
Peru is a country with some of the most spectacular and varied scenery in South America. We will explore the wonderful sights and culture of the Sacred Valley and learn about the traditional customs and ancestral weaving techniques of an indigenous community. From the Sacred Valley we will board the Vistadome train to the legendary ‘Lost City of the Inca’s’; more well known as Machu Picchu. The tour ends with a memorable visit to Cuzco – The capital city of the ancient Inca civilisation. Cuzco is a showcase of several different cultures, Pre-Inca, Inca, Colonial and Republican thus providing us with a huge variety of ruins, temples, churches and mansions, all making this an unforgettable destination.
TOUR ITINERARY
DAY 1: Australia/New Zealand - Santiago - Guayaquil
On arrival in Guayaquil you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
DAY 2: Guayaquil - Galapagos Islands
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Galapagos (flight not included). Arrive on Baltra Island the gateway to the Galapagos. Transfer to an exclusive giant tortoise reserve for your stay.
[Breakfast, Dinner]
DAY 3: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Explore Puerto Ayora’s Bay Exploration navigating La Loberia Island a snorkelling hotspot for sea turtles, colourful fish and inquisitive sea lions. Hike to Túnel del Amor (lover’s tunnel) for breathtaking views. On return visit Punta Estrada’s dock to observe marine iguanas.
OPTIONAL ALTERNATIVE EXPERIENCE GARRAPATERO BEACH, CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION & ARTISAN VISITS
[Breakfast]
DAY 4: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Embark your yacht for expert led excursions to nearby islands. Visits may include North Seymour, South Plazas, Sante Fe Island, Bartolome and Sullivan Bay. Later disembark and transfer to your hotel in Puerto Ayora.
[Breakfast, Lunch]
DAY 5: GALAPAGOS - GUAYAQUIL - LIMA
Transfer to the airport to board your flight to Lima, Peru (flight not included). Upon arrival in Lima, transfer to your chosen hotel.
[Breakfast]
DAY 6: LIMA
Half-day city tour of modern and colonial of Lima the “City of Kings”. Begin in Miraflores with stops at Parque del Amor (Lovers Park), Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Municipality of Lima and the Cathedral.
[Breakfast]
DAY 7: LIMA - CUZCO - SACRED VALLEY
Transfer to the airport to board your flight to Cuzco (flight not included). Upon arrival in Cuzco you will be met and then transferred to your choice of hotel in the Sacred Valley. Have the rest of the day at leisure to rest and adjust to the altitude.
[Breakfast]
DAY 8: SACRED VALLEY - AGUAS CALIENTES
Head to Chinchero to visit PARWA Centre, Chinchero Church and Incan ruins. Stop at Racchi Viewpoint for spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. After lunch head to Ollantaytambo to explore the town and fortress of the same name. Afternoon train to Machu Picchu. Overnight at your choice of hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu).
[Breakfast, Lunch]
DAY 9: SACRED VALLEY - MACHU PICCHU
Transfer to visit the ancient citadel Machu Picchu. After your guided tour you are free to explore on your own. Descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch and board the train later for the return trip. Arrive at Poroy Station and transfer back to your choice of hotel in Cuzco.
[Breakfast, Lunch]
DAY 10: CUZCO
Day at leisure to explore this beautiful colonial city.
OPTIONAL CITY TOUR, SACSAYHUAMAN, AND NEARBY ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES
[Breakfast]
DAY 11: CUZCO - LIMA - SANTIAGO - AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima.
[Breakfast]
DAY 12: ARRIVE BACK IN AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND
- Flights ex SYD/MEL/BNE/ADL/AKL in economy class
- All internal flights based on LATAM air-pass
- Accommodation in Tourist superior/First class hotels with private facilities
- Meals as indicated (10 breakfast, 3 Lunches, 1 dinner)
- English speaking local guides
- Comprehensive sightseeing and excursions
- Any items not listed in the inclusions and the itinerary
- Emergency Assistance with our local operator
TOUR EXCLUSIONS
- Airport taxes and fuel surcharges (approx $420 pp)
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee
- Tourist Transit Card
- Tips
- Any items not listed in the inclusions or mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional tours and activities for an added cost:
- Garrapatero Beach, Charles Darwin Research Station & Artisan visits
- Sacsayhuaman and nearby archaeological sites
For more information on hotels in Quito, Ecuador, please call 1300 799 758 or email us for details.
