Machu Picchu & Galapagos cruise
An epic land and sea voyage of history and nature
Start your trip in Lima, sampling modern Peruvian cuisine before travelling to Cusco to begin your Incan adventure. Explore the lofty citadels of Pisac and Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, before spending a magical day at Machu Picchu exploring its ruin and peaks. Head back to Cusco, making sure to visit Plaza de Armas and Santo Domingo convent, before leaving Peru and flying to Ecuador’s capital of Quito and its colonial architecture. From here, you’ll travel to the Galapagos Islands, starting on Isla Santa Cruz at the Charles Darwin Research Centre. Next, visit nearby Isla Fernandina to see the unique marine iguana and sea lions, Isla Isabela for giant tortoises and hawks, and Isla Santiago for lava fields and swimming with sea lions. End your trip back on the mainland in Quito.
Key information
Destinations | Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Isabela, Isla Fernandina, Isla Santiago |
---|---|
Activity | Cruise & Sailing, Luxury, Nature & Wildlife, Culture |
Physical Level | Easy |
Season | January - December |
Suggested itinerary
Arrive in Lima
Day 1 in Lima
Many tourists arrive in Lima only to fly straight out to Cusco, Arequipa or other popular tourist destinations in Peru. But the country’s sprawling capital deserves a chance to impress, and travellers who stick around for a few days are rewarded with a fascinating mix of history, culture, food and drink in this metropolitan melting-pot of all things Peruvian.
Lima is increasingly recognised as the culinary hotspot of South America, and foodies flock here to dine at world-renowned restaurants owned by Peruvian celebrity chefs such as Gastón Acurio and Virgilio Martínez. The city is also packed with lively cafes, bars and nightclubs, spread across bohemian districts, chic upscale areas, and places where regular Peruvians grab a cold beer.
The city is also home to most of Peru’s best museums and art galleries, while the historic centre – all of which is a UNESCO World Heritage site – is packed with mansions, churches and palaces from Peru’s colonial period and the Republican Era. You’ll also find archaeological sites right in the heart of the city, such as Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores, as well as the vast complex of Pachacamac just south of Lima’s urban boundary.
Don't miss
Explore Lima's arts scene
Frequently seen as little more than a transit hub for Machu Picchu, Lima is in fact one of Latin America's great cities. World-leading gastronomy jostles with a flourishing arts scene, easily filling several days of deep cultural immersion.
Eat like a king in Lima
Lima’s chefs cook up a storm with the fruits of the sea, mountains and jungle. But it’s not all fine dining and exclusive restaurants: Peru’s is an egalitarian cuisine and you’ll find excellent food at street stalls, local markets and neighbourhood cantinas.
Explore the Sacred Valley
Day 2–3 in Sacred Valley
The Urubamba River descends from Cusco, eventually connecting with tributaries of the mighty Amazon. Over immense periods of time, this river has carved out a deep valley whose beauty defies the imagination. Little wonder then that the Inca chose this stunning and fertile location as their spiritual and agricultural heartland. Scattered with ruins, towns and villages where Quechua is still commonly heard, the Sacred Valley is much more than a mere stop-off before Machu Picchu. It’s a destination in its own right, and one that is easily explored from Cusco or by staying in the valley itself.
Standout attractions in the Sacred Valley include the Inca citadels of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and the towns that sit beneath them. Here you’ll find traditional markets selling beautiful textiles and handicrafts made by the locals. Two other popular sites, located in close proximity to each other, are Maras and Moray. Moray features a series of terraced circular depressions, used by the Inca for crop experimentation at different altitudes and microclimates. Maras, meanwhile, is home to thousands of salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since Inca times. In more recent years, the Sacred Valley has become a destination for trekking, rafting, rock climbing and paragliding.
Don't miss
Trekking in Huaraz
There are some fine and justifiably world-famous treks in the Cusco and Sacred Valley region, including the Inca Trail, Lares, Salkantay and Ausangate. But for something completely different consider hiking a portion of the Qhapaq Ñan, the 'original' Inca Trail, or head to the Cordilleras Blanca and Huayhuash around the city of Huaraz.
Marvel at the Inca heartland of Machu Picchu
Day 4 in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the top attraction in Peru and, in 2007, was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. More than 1.5 million tourists visit Machu Picchu each year, and for good reason. It’s an archaeological gem and one of the finest examples of Inca architecture, stonework and planning. Adding to that is the citadel’s breath-taking location atop a lush mountain ridge, between the two peaks of Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu, with the steep sides of the mountain plunging down into the misty river valleys below.
The most famous route to Machu Picchu is the classic Inca Trail, a four-day trek through the mountains, cloud forest and alpine tundra. Alternative treks have become increasingly popular over the last decade or so, and trails like Lares and Salkantay offer different experiences, both geographically and culturally, to the classic trail. Or you can take the train to Aguas Calientes, the lively town below Machu Picchu, and from there a short bus ride up a zigzagging road to the Inca citadel.
Don't miss
Huayna Picchu day hike
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: Two to four hours
- Max elevation: 2,693
- Start/end point: The trailhead is at the far end of the Machu Picchu citadel
The classic Machu Picchu day hike, Huayna Picchu is best known as the perfectly triangular peak that towers behind Machu Picchu in all the classic photos.
Many of the breathtaking photos you’ve seen that are taken from a vantage point far above the ruins were shot from this peak.
Huayna means young in Quechua, as opposed to “machu” which means old. Huayna Picchu is the smaller of the two peaks that bookend the main archeological site and Machu Picchu Mountain is the larger one.
Before committing to this hike, it’s important to know that it is definitely not for people who have a fear of heights. While this can be an issue anywhere in the Andes, climbing Huayna Picchu involves plenty of narrow paths with exposure to sheer drop-offs. There are handrails in the worst spots, but not everywhere you may want them.
Although there are some ruins toward the top, the main reason people do this hike is for the great perspective it gives you, looking down on Machu Picchu. If you are more adventurous, you can also go over the top and around the other side. This will allow you to visit the Temple of the Moon and the Great Cavern.
As with so many hikes in Peru, the hard part isn’t the distance as such, it’s the vertical gain over a very short distance that makes the route so challenging. Be prepared for over 300m (1,000 ft) of ascent, with steep rock stairways all the way up. It takes most people between one and two hours. If you choose to do the hike around to the back as well, you should give yourself a good four hours to complete the circuit and have time to explore the cave.
Sightseeing in Cusco
Day 5–6 in Cusco
Once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire, Cusco is today the beating heart of Peru's tourism industry. Millions of tourists arrive each year en route to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, and most stay at least a few days in Cusco. With layers of archaeology built on top of each other (often literally), the city is a stunning mix of Inca architecture and later colonial constructions. Packed with excellent restaurants serving both traditional and international cuisine, as well as hostels and hotels for every budget, Cusco has something for everyone.
Some of the most important Inca sites lie within or just outside the city. The most revered temple in the Inca Empire, the Qurikancha (or Coricancha), sits in the historic centre, a short walk from the lively Plaza de Armas with its seemingly endless parades and traditional activities. And overlooking the city is Saksaywaman, a huge complex with some of the most impressive Inca stonework you’ll see, its massive carved blocks interlinking with incredible precision. Then there are the colourful markets of Cusco, where locals sell fresh produce and intricate crafts brought in from across the region, just as they did back in the days of the Inca Empire.
Explore colonial Quito
Day 7–8 in Quito
The first thing you notice about Quito is that it takes your breath away.
Not in a clichéd 'look at the amazing scenery' way; it's more of a literal 'I've just stepped off the plane at three thousand metres above sea level and I feel like I've got a 30-cigarettes-a-day habit.
Squeezed between Volcán Pichincha and a cloud-shrouded mountain range which looms broodingly over the city, Quito is moulded into an elongated strip that is thin enough to cross by foot but so long it vanishes into the horizon. Almost 1.5 million people live in this strand of urban spaghetti but despite its endless suburbs, the city's gems are conveniently concentrated in the few blocks that make up the Unesco World Heritage site of Quito old town.
As the sun sets behind Pichincha, you can see the spires of the old town and beyond it a small hill, El Panecillo ('bread loaf,' so named for its odd shape) on which stands the towering Virgin of Quito looking down over the city. In the foreground runs a long strip of park linking the old town with the anarchic bustle of the new town and in the other direction, a few kilometres north of the city, is the equator and the 'Centre of the World' science museum, a favourite of hemisphere-hopping tourists.
A stroll through the old town is a lesson into the long history of war, conquest and cultural assimilation that occurred in this city ever since the Spanish arrived in South America in the mid 16th century. The original Inca city had been destroyed by civil war immediately before the conquistadors' arrival and the Spanish wasted no time in capitalising on a divided opposition. After the annihilation of the Inca empire, the city was rebuilt according to Spanish designs but by the hands of enslaved indigenous labourers, a process which produced a unique cultural fusion, the 'Quito school of art' which is still visible in the architecture and galleries of the old town.
Meanwhile, with the winds of the Inquisition in their sails, the Spanish set about converting the native population to Christianity; churches were established on the remains of sacred sites, imposing statues were built, and the gore-filled tales of the Bible were depicted in grotesque exaggeration on carvings and paintings. In the Basilica del Voto Nacional, an emaciated Jesus, face locked in agony and with blood dripping down his arms and feet, stands crucified above crowds of genuflecting indígenas. In the Monastery of Santa Catalina, paintings warn sinners of their ultimate punishment in graphic and brutal detail.
Yet despite their best efforts, the Spanish strategy of terrifying the natives into conversion only partially worked. Cultural cross-pollination touched the religious world too, blending ancient tradition with this new faith, with often spectacular results.
Outside the cocoon of the old town, the rest of Quito carries on with its daily life. Only the occasional passing of an indígena, burdened by loads that are often larger than they are, reminds you that this busy, noisy bustle is merely the latest phase in Quito's long history.
Don't miss
Climb Pichincha Volcano
Take the cable car up to the 4,000m high lookout for magnificent views over Quito and the snow-capped mountains that surround it. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can book an organised bike up to 4,500m for even more impressive views.
Follow in Darwin’s footsteps on Isla Santa Cruz
Day 9 in Isla Santa Cruz
Almost all visitors to the Galapagos Islands will touch down in Isla Santa Cruz at some point. From beach walks at Tortuga Bay to giant tortoises at El Chato Reserve, there is plenty to see — but make sure to visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre to learn more about the wildlife you’ll encounter on your trip.
Don't miss
Walk in the hills with giant tortoises
The endangered giant tortoise is making a comeback on the Galapagos thanks to a concerted conservation effort. Head to the highlands of Santa Cruz to see these gentle giants shuffling around the hills.
See the unique marine iguana on Isla Fernandina
Day 10 in Isla Fernandina
The third largest — and youngest — of the Galapagos Islands, Fernandina has a unique environment which makes it a haven for thousands of slowly-moving marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants and sea lions. This is also the island where you’re most likely to see a volcanic eruption, with the last happening in 2009.
Don't miss
Explore Punta Espinosa colourful sea life
Punta Espinosa on Isla Fernandina is home to some of the most interesting sea creatures in the archipelago. Enjoy watching lazy marine iguanas mingling with sea lions and colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs.
Go volcano climbing on Isla Isabela
Day 11 in Isla Isabela
Isabela is the largest of the Galapagos Islands and is made up of five (sometimes) active volcanoes. Check out Volcan Wolf — the highest point in the entire Galapagos and Volcan Alcedo, home to hundreds of giant tortoises and juvenile hawks.
Don't miss
Snorkelling at Los Túneles
A maze of submerged lava tubes formed by Isabela Island’s numerous volcanoes, Los Túneles is refuge to sea turtles, reef sharks, mantas, seahorses, and numerous other species. Snorkelling here is akin to swimming in a giant aquarium.
Swim with sea lions
Sea lions are abundant across the islands and are generally fearless around humans. Go for a swim on any of San Cristobal’s beaches and you’re bound to encounter a colony sunning on the beach or playing in the water.
Visit a pirate hideaway at Tagus Cove
Tucked away Tagus Cove was historically used by pirates and whalers as a hiding point. Today, visitors can still see their graffiti carved into Isla Isabela’s cliffs on their hike to the nearby salt-water Darwin Lake.
Explore the underwater caves of Punta Vicente Roca
Take a panga ride to Punta Vicente Roca to snorkel two shallow underwater caves where you can see bullhead sharks, seahorses, batfishes and schools of barracuda.
Visit the black lava fields on Isla Santiago
Day 12 in Isla Santiago
Once a hideout for smugglers and pirates, Isla Santiago is now best-known for Sullivan Bay, where century-old lava has solidified into bubbles and caves, and Puerto Egas, a wet landing where you can see seals, sea lions and sea birds.
Don't miss
Snorkel at Puerto Egas
Snorkelling at Puerto Egas allows you to get in the water with sea lions, sea turtles, tropical fish and even sharks – this is one of the archipelago’s premier places to get in the water.
Return to Quito
Day 13 in Quito
Head to Baltra airport for your return flight to Quito and make your international connection.
Where to stay
Classic
Casa San Blas
Right off the main pedestrian fare in the San Blas district and less than three blocks to the main square, Casa San Blas Boutique offers exceptional location and comfort. Inside, the well-appointed rooms make for a great night's rest, and the family-style suites are perfect for families.
Classic
Coral 1 & 2
The perfect cruise vessels for charter groups where comfort is guaranteed. Equipped with two terraces, a dining area, lounge, library, jacuzzi and restaurant serving Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
Capacity: 36 passengers.
Superior
Sea Star Journey
Boutique yacht offering a wide range of itineraries for those wanting visit the Galapagos Islands in comfort. Featuring 8 air-conditioned suites and spacious social areas with all the luxuries and facilities of a superior first class motor yacht.
Capacity: 16 passengers.
Superior
Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay
Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley and surrounded by beautiful gardens, the Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay is a remodelled eighteenth-century monastery that retains its original colonial charm.
Deluxe
M/V Evolution
This ship features stylish staterooms and suites, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a library cabin, an observation deck, a sundeck with a small hot-tub, a canopied roof-deck bar, and a medically staffed infirmary.
Capacity: 32 passengers.
Deluxe
Machu Picchu Pueblo
Hidden in 12 acres of seclusion, the Pueblo Hotel provides a paradise of individual bungalows with stone paths leading you through the gardens and natural fountains. The Pueblo is laid out in the traditional Andean Village style and consists of 85 luxury cottages, a naturalist centre, a natural Andean sauna, and an exquisite restaurant that overlooks the Vilcanota river below.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from $4,760pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.