Machu Picchu and Galapagos

TRIP SUMMARY

Discover the mystique of the ancient Inca ruins at Machu Picchu, where history comes alive amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Then, immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands, where nature will surprise you with its beauty and wildlife. machu picchu and galapagos

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Immerse yourself in the rich history as you explore Lima on an exciting walking tour.
  • Be amazed by the majesty of the Inca masonry as you explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
  • Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Galapagos Islands, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

DESTINOS

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Welcome

ARRIVAL IN LIMA (79M)

Welcome to Lima!

A Peru Vip Travel representative will be waiting for your arrival at the international airport to give you a warm welcome and escort you directly to the hotel. We will take care of all the check-in formalities to make your arrival as comfortable and carefree as possible.

DAY 2: City Tour Lima

LIMA (79M) – LIMA CITY TOUR AND MAGIC WATER CIRCUIT

After breakfast, you will be ready to explore the City of Kings, a metropolis full of history and cultural heritage.

From our transportation, you will contemplate the Paseo de la Republica, the Plaza San Martin and the imposing Government Palace.

Then, we will enter the Convent of San Francisco, a magnificent architectural work of the seventeenth century, culminating with a tour of the catacombs, which were the main cemetery in colonial times.

At the end of the city tour, you will have part of the afternoon free for lunch. Afterwards, we will connect to visit the famous Circuito Mágico de las Aguas, a majestic park with 13 cybernetic fountains.

Here, water, music and a dazzling set of laser lights merge to offer a marvelous spectacle worth admiring.

Finally, our transportation will take you back to your hotel.

DAY 3: Cusco – Sacred Valley

LIMA – CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY

Our Peru Vip Travel team will be waiting for you at your hotel reception to accompany you to the airport and ensure that your trip continues smoothly.

Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be met by one of our expert guides and transferred by private vehicle to Pisac, one of the most outstanding Inca destinations in the Sacred Valley.

On the way to Pisac, we will make a stop at Awanacancha, where you can admire up close the variety of camelids that inhabit the Andes, such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos. In Pisac, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of the famous local market, where you will find a wide selection of handicrafts and fresh produce. Afterwards, we will continue to the impressive ruins of Pisac, where you can marvel at the panoramic views and discover Inca history and culture in a spectacular setting.

DAY 4: Machu Picchu

SACRED VALLEY – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Today, we will embark on the realization of a lifelong dream.

After breakfast, ready for the exciting adventure, we will depart for the train station (Ollantaytambo) at the scheduled time.

We will board the train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoying the breathtaking scenery, full of vegetation, flora, green mountains and the Urubamba River.

Upon arrival, our guide will be waiting for you, and together we will board the bus that will take us to the Machu Picchu checkpoint for a 30 minute ride, on the way we will have spectacular views of mountains and the Urubamba River, which forms a deep canyon.

You will enjoy a first view of the sanctuary, together with our guide we will immerse ourselves in the history, architecture and mysteries of Machu Picchu during a tour of approximately 2 hours, visiting its highlights such as the Intihuatana, the temple of the Condor among others. We will have free time to explore on our own and immerse ourselves in the unique energy of this wonder.

After the enriching visit, we will take the bus back to the town of Aguas Calientes to enjoy lunch (not included).

To conclude this unique experience, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will meet you and take you back to your hotel in Cusco. This quiet and comfortable closing marks the end of a day full of discoveries in the majestic Machupicchu.

DAY 5: City Tour Cusco

CUSCO (3,400M)

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will enter the ancient Inca capital. We will start by visiting the emblematic Plaza de Armas. Then, we will head to the Santo Domingo Convent, also known as the Temple of the Sun or Qoricancha.

We will continue our adventure at the imposing Sacsayhuaman Fortress and the enigmatic temple of Qenqo, with panoramic views of Cusco.

Our tour will culminate with a visit to Pukapukara, known as the Inca guard post, and Tambomachay.

DAY 6: Guayaquil

CUSCO – LIMA – GUAYAQUIL

A Peru Vip Travel representative will be waiting for you in the lobby of your hotel and will accompany you to the airport for your flight to Lima.

After landing in Guayaquil, another one of our representatives will give you a warm welcome and assist you with hotel check-in.

As for your Galapagos experience, we offer a wide range of luxury cruise options. We will coordinate the itinerary according to your preferences, whether you want special family departures, private charters, variable duration options or hotel accommodations on one of the islands.

Flights to Galapagos are available from Quito or Guayaquil, at your convenience.

DAY 7: Galapagos

GUAYAQUIL – GALAPAGOS

Experience the charm of the Océan Spray Cruise during 8 days and 7 nights, starting with the arrival to Baltra and exploring the fascinating Chinese Hat.

From your arrival by flight from Guayaquil to Baltra Island, our team will be at your disposal to make your experience an unforgettable adventure. You will be warmly welcomed and taken on board, where you will find a comfortable cabin and enjoy a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Sombrero Chino. This islet offers you a privileged view of the extraordinary fauna of Galapagos, along with perfectly preserved volcanic remains. Sea lions lounge on white sand beaches, while Galapagos penguins swim in crystal clear coastal waters.

DAY 8: Galapagos Islands

ISABELA and FERNANDINA ISLANDS

Explore the majesty of Isabela and Fernandina Islands with the Ocean Spray Cruise. We will begin our journey on Isabela Island, the largest and one of the youngest of the archipelago, known for its vibrant volcanic activity. In the morning, we will head to Punta Vicente Roca, where we will witness two impressive inlets, home to spectacular marine life. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot seahorses, sea turtles and the fascinating sunfish in these crystal clear waters.

Our next stop will take us to the mystical Fernandina Island, where the absence of foreign species makes it one of the purest island ecosystems in the world. Disembarking at Punta Espinosa, you will be immersed in an almost untouched landscape, dominated by the imposing volcano “La Cumbra”. Strolling past colonies of marine iguanas and sea lions, you will arrive at the amazing nesting site of the flightless cormorant, a one-of-a-kind spectacle. Prepare to marvel at the biodiversity and natural beauty of Galapagos every step of the way!

DAY 9: Galapagos Islands

ISABELA ISLAND

Explore the fascinating history and breathtaking natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands with the Ocean Spray Cruise. In the morning, we will head to Tagus Cove Cliff on Isabela Island, where we will witness pirate graffiti dating back to 1836, a striking reminder of the past.

As we hike along 2 kilometers through lava formations, we will witness breathtaking scenery of the surrounding hillsides and volcanoes, culminating at Darwin Lake, a saltwater crater believed to have originated from a large wave triggered by a volcanic eruption.

In the afternoon, we will disembark at Urbina Bay, a bay formed by a sea rise in 1954 that has given rise to fascinating geological formations, including a terrestrial coral reef. Here, you will witness the grace of stingrays and sea turtles swimming near the water’s surface, while cormorants, pelicans and marine iguanas adorn the shoreline.

Take in the breathtaking view of the Alcedo Volcano and you may encounter marine iguanas and other wildlife in their habitat.

Prepare to be dazzled by the spectacular Galapagos every step of the way!

DAY 10: Galapagos Islands

ISABELA ISLAND

In the morning, we will head to Elizabeth Bay on Isabela Island, a remote paradise with no direct landing points. Aboard a traditional “panga” or boat, we will cruise among the stunning red mangroves and lush wildlife of this vibrant bay. Elizabeth Bay is famous for its abundant marine life, where you are likely to spot sea turtles and rays playing on the water’s surface. In addition, you may spot brown pelicans diving for fish, Galapagos penguins, blue-footed boobies and maybe even spot humpback whales on the horizon!

In the afternoon, we will head to Moreno Point, located southwest of Elizabeth Bay.

As we disembark at an ancient lava field, we will witness striking craters and natural crystal pools formed by lava.

Immerse yourself in a world apart as marine life drifts around you.

In the brackish water ponds, you’ll spot pink flamingos, choker ducks and coots in their natural habitat.

Pay attention and you may spot white tip reef sharks and sea turtles in these crystal clear waters.

Get ready for unforgettable experiences in the wonderful nature of Galapagos!

DAY 11: Galapagos Islands

ISABELA ISLAND

We will begin our day exploring the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. Here, at the “Fausto Llerena” breeding center, an integral part of the Station, you will have the unique opportunity to come face to face with turtles of all ages and sizes, from adorable hatchlings as small as three inches to majestic four-foot-long specimens. You’ll watch as they interact with each other and with visitors, some even reaching out for petting.

The hatchlings, protected until they are independent, are proof of the successful conservation efforts underway in the region.

In the afternoon, we will venture to the highlands of Santa Cruz, where you will witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the island as you hike along trails that wind through hills, ferns, and volcanoes.

This environment is home to the legendary giant tortoises, the emblematic symbol of Galapagos, as well as other endemic species. We will reach the impressive subway lava tubes, more than a kilometer long, where our local guides will provide you with detailed information and flashlights to explore this surreal landscape.

Get ready for unforgettable experiences as you immerse yourself in the natural and historical richness of the Galapagos Islands!

DAY 12: Galapagos Islands

PLAZA SUR & SANTA FE ISLAND

In the morning, we will head to the enchanting South Plaza Island. This small paradise, formed by volcanic activity, rises majestically from the ocean, adorned with impressive cliffs and covered with lush opuntia cacti.

Prepare to marvel at one of the largest colonies of sea lions you will find on these islands, while coming face to face with yellow and red land iguanas, adding a touch of color to this natural landscape.

Don’t miss the opportunity to observe the Sesuvium plant, which during the rainy season dresses in lush green and in the dry season transforms into a dazzling bright red.

In the afternoon, our adventure will take us to Santa Fe Island, whose volcanic formation offers a breathtaking view.

We will discover a small picturesque bay, anchoring the northeast coast of the island. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore two visitor trails: one that will take you to a lookout point on a cliff, offering breathtaking panoramic views, and another that will guide you from a small beach to a forest of tall prickly pear cactus, immersing you in a unique and fascinating landscape.

DAY 13: Galapagos Islands

SPANISH ISLAND

In the morning, we will head to Punta Suarez, a true paradise for wildlife lovers. This island, the southernmost of the archipelago, is home to the world’s largest population of Galapagos albatrosses, as well as an amazing diversity of birds such as mockingbirds, blue-footed and masked boobies, Darwin’s finches and hawks.

You will also marvel at the red and green marine iguanas that dot the landscape, along with the enchanting presence of sea lions.

At Punta Suarez, you will have the unique opportunity to witness the imposing albatrosses use the cliffs as a launching pad, as well as witness the impressive geyser that shoots jets of water into the air, a truly magnificent sight that will take your breath away. This site offers endless opportunities to capture amazing photographs and unforgettable moments.

In the afternoon, we will explore beautiful Gardner Bay and Osborn Islet on the eastern side of the island.

Here, we will witness one of the most important nesting sites in the world for Galapagos albatrosses, with almost 12,000 individuals. You will enjoy a wide white sand beach, where you can relax and share the space with a large number of sea lions.

The rocky shores of this place make it a perfect destination for snorkeling and diving, immersing yourself in the crystal clear waters and discovering the fascinating underwater life that inhabits this region. Get ready to live an unforgettable experience in the wonderful Española Island!

DIA 14: Galápagos

SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND. FLIGHT TO ECUADOR MAINLAND. INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE

In the morning, we will visit the Interpretation Center, also known as Galapaguera, on the island of San Cristobal. This center, donated by the Spanish government and inaugurated by the Prince of Spain in 1998, focuses on the harmonious interaction between humans and nature. Discover the process of the “natural history cabinet”, which demonstrates how it is possible to achieve a peaceful coexistence between humans and the natural environment.

The Galapaguera Cerro Colorado, located in the southeastern part of the island, is a new destination worth visiting. Here, you can observe finches, warblers and nightingales among the trees and bushes that surround the area.

On the trails, you will have the opportunity to see giant tortoises in their wild but protected habitat, ensuring their survival against introduced predators such as pigs and goats. Watch as these majestic creatures adopt defensive postures to protect themselves in their shells against any threat.

Transfer to the airport: Please note that on the day of your departure, the morning tour will be early and brief to ensure that you arrive at the San Cristobal airport in plenty of time. After the visit, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to the mainland.

Upon arrival in mainland Ecuador, a Peru Vip Travel representative will be waiting to assist you with check-in procedures for your international flight.

Get ready to take unforgettable memories of your Galapagos adventure with you!

INCLUDES

  • Airport assistance.
  • International Flight
  • Activities and excursions mentioned in the program.
  • Private and collective ground transportation according to program.
  • Luxury Train
  • Ocean Spray Cruise (8 Days/7 Nights)
  • Bilingual local guides (Spanish/English).
  • Entrance fees to the different places mentioned in the program.

NOT INCLUDED

  • Excursions not indicated.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Meals not indicated in the program.
  • Tips for guides, drivers, bellboys, waiters, waitresses, etc.
  • Any item that is not specifically detailed in our program.

RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Bring original passport “With expiration date not less than 7 months”.
  • Student card (valid for one year) under 25 years old.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Vaccination certificate (if entering the Peruvian Amazon).
  • Hat / Scarf.
  • Medications and/or articles for personal use.
  • Camera or camcorder.
  • Have on hand checks and coins in soles or small denominations of dollars.

OTHERS

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain $ 100 USD per person
  • Upgrade to Panoramic train to Machupicchu $100 USD per person
  • Upgrade to luxury train to Machupicchu $900 USD per person

To climb Huayna Picchu mountain or Machupicchu mountain, there is a limit of spaces per day, it is recommended to check availability with us and book in advance. We always do our best to follow the fixed itinerary, however, it may change from time to time depending on temporary weather and park restrictions, availability, weather, road closures, guest capacity/hurricanes and natural events such as fires and floods.

PRICE

StandardPremiumLuxury
23,940$USD$USD$USD

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