Andes & Galapagos (Multi country)
Description
Visit the best of the South American Pacific and the Andes with this 10-day seat in coach tour. The tour begins in Lima, where you will visit its colonial and pre-Hispanic side. The next destination is the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco and its surroundings, where you will connect with the mysticism of the Andes, crowning the visit in Machu Picchu, the New Wonder of the World. From the ‘Centre of the World’ the journey continues towards ‘Half of the World´. Arrive in Ecuador via Guayaquil and then head to Santa Cruz Island, located in the impressive Galapagos National Park. Once here, navigate, visit its beautiful sandy beaches and meet the giant tortoises, bred and protected by the Charles Darwin Research Station. In short, an unforgettable trip in two countries where you will live unique experiences.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Lima: Named as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, the Peruvian capital is a blend of history and modernity. Its historic centre maintains the colonial architectural complexes that coexist closely with the Pacific Ocean and a characteristic bohemian essence.
Cusco: Discover the former Inca capital, observe the ruins of the former civilisation and the Spanish colonial legacy, and admire attractions such as the baroque Cathedral, the Sacsayhuaman, and Puka Pukara archaeological sites.
Sacred Valley: Discover the ancient town of Pisac and the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo among other interesting sights.
Machu Picchu: The "lost city of the Incas" is the reason why thousands of people arrive in Peru. Hidden among the vegetation, get closer to our past through its rooms, temples, bridges and religious sites, built in communion with the surrounding landscape.
Santa Cruz Island: This sleeping volcano is a refuge for the mythical giant Galapagos turtles and a paradise of white sand beaches.
Included
TOUR GUIDE:
- Operated with a Local English and Spanish-speaking guide on shared basis.
- Operated with a local naturalist English and Spanish-speaking guide on day 8
ACCOMMODATION:
- 9 night’s accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Lima
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Jose Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*
Day 3 Cusco
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Day 4 Sacred Valley
Standard Hotel Category = AVA Spots or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay or similar 4*
Day 5 Cusco
Standard Hotel Category = Tierra Viva or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
Day 6 Guayaquil
Standard Hotel Category = Tryp by Wyndham or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Whyndam or similar 4*
Day 7, 8, 9 Isla Santa Cruz (Galapagos Islands)
Standard Hotel Category = Red Booby or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Ikala or similar 4*
MEALS:
- 9 breakfasts
- 3 Lunches on day 4, 5 and 8
TRANSPORT:
- Private arrival and departure transfer from the airport to hotel in Lima
- Private arrival and departure transfer from the airport to hotel in Cusco
- Shared transfers from and to the train stations
- Roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail)
- Bus Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes.
- Private arrival and departure transfer from airport to hotel in Guayaquil
- Private Transfer from Baltra airport to pier
- Ferry to Baltra Island to Santa Cruz Island and vv
- Shared arrival transfer from Santa Cruz Island pier to Hotel in Puerto Ayora
- Private Transfer from Baltra Island Pier to the airport
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
- All the activities mentioned in the programme: Larco Museum, Casa Aliaga (day 2), Santo Domingo Convent, Coricancha temple (day 3), Living museum of Yucay, Ollanta Fortress and Chinchero town (day 4), Machu Picchu (day 5), visit Ecological Reserve: Cerro Mesa or El Chato (day 7); Full day island navigation (day 8); Bay tour in Santa Cruz Island (day 9)
OTHER:
- Meet & greet on day 1, 6, 7
- Galápagos National Park and Migration card to Galápagos Ingala.
Excluded
- Personal expenses, drinks and meals not explicitly mentioned in the programme.
- Tips for driver and guide.
- Additional optional visits.
- International flights to Peru and Ecuador.
- Domestic flights: (Lima – Cusco on day 3) / (Cusco – Guayaquil on day 6) / (Guayaquil – Baltra Island on day 7)
- Domestic and foreign airport taxes
- International departure tax quoted according to the airport
Know before you go
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for visiting the coastal areas of Peru, while for the high Andean area the use of warm clothing is recommended. It is not recommended that visitors wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.