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Inca Trail & Galapagos

Explore the most famous sites of South America with the 14-day Inca Trail and Galapagos adventure tour, perfect for those seeking adventure, history, culture, and nature without having to give up comfort. Trek along the world-famous Inca Trail, explore Machu Picchu, visit the incredible Sacred Valley, and cruise among the gorgeous Galapagos Islands for an experience unlike any other.

Arrival and Adventure in Peru

After arriving in the capital city of Lima, you’ll be transferred to the historical and cultural landscape of the Sacred Valley, the past center of the Inca Empire. In the days ahead, you’ll visit the fortress city of Ollantaytambo, the Maras salt mines, the terraced site of Moray, and the ancient ruins of Chinchero.

You’ll have plenty of exciting opportunities to stop along the way and roam through colorful markets, taste local and regional cuisine, and get to know the people and culture of the region as well while staying at your choice of the best 4-star or 5-star hotels available.

The Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

Trekking on the Inca Trail, the most famous trail in all of South America, is a highlight of the tour and one you’re not likely to forget. You may even feel like the Incas who traversed this trail during religious and ceremonial pilgrimages so long ago.

Take in the stunning mystery and beauty of mountains, cloud forests, and ruins during the day. Each night you’ll arrive at camp, already set up and ready for you to relax and enjoy an evening meal.

At the end of your 4-day journey, you’ll arrive at the breathtaking site of Machu Picchu for a guided tour. Once home to the Incas, this ancient archaeological site will amaze and surprise around every corner.

Before leaving Peru, you’ll spend time getting to know the historical city of Cusco, once known as the capital of the Inca Empire. Explore its archaeological remains along with its Spanish colonial architecture before saying farewell.

Galapagos Islands Expedition Cruise

The second half of your Galapagos and Inca Trail adventure begins with a flight to the Ecuadorian city of Quito. This enchanting colonial city is filled with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and much more to explore before catching another short flight to the famous Galapagos Islands. Home to extreme biodiversity and beauty, these remote islands will fill you with awe at the sight of beautiful waters and fascinating wildlife everywhere you look.

Comfortable accommodations await you aboard the M/T Camila, a luxury 125-foot yacht. Each island-inspired stateroom comes with its own ensuite living room, panoramic window, private balcony, and private bathroom for you to enjoy. And with only eight cabins onboard, you’re assured an experience free of crowds and offering specialized attention from staff.

Various excursions provide you with opportunities to see even more of the islands, starting with Lobos Island and its residing sea lions. Stop for a hike on the volcanic island of San Cristobal, spotting blue-footed and red-footed boobies, before relaxing on the gorgeous white sandy beach. Slow down as you stroll along Española Island and enjoy views of Waved Albatross, Galapagos hawks, and other unique wildlife.

In between excursions, spend time relaxing on the sundeck, soaking in the onboard jacuzzi, or gathering in the indoor lounge. You’ll also be served exquisite chef-prepared international and local cuisine in the comfortable dining room.

As your Inca Trail and Galapagos tour comes to an end, a flight will take you back to the mainland, full of memories to take along with you.

Itinerary & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

Welcome to Lima!

Upon arrival, a representative will welcome you and take you to your convenient hotel located at the airport for a good night’s rest before your early onward flight tomorrow to Cusco.

Lima, Cusco & Sacred Valley

Upon arrival to Cusco you will be transferred to the Sacred Valley where lunch will be served at local restaurant.

In the afternoon you will go on to Ollantaytambo, one of the most representative building complexes of the Inca Empire and site of one of the Spanish Conquistadors’ rare strategic defeats. Famous for its terraced fields, Ollantaytambo was a very effective fortress and also a religious center.

Overnight at selected hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Meals (B, L)

Maras, Moray & Chinchero

You will enjoy a panoramic visit of the Maras salt mines, where the finest salt in the world is extracted. Then, you will head to Moray, a fascinating archaeological site in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You will visit its huge concentric terraces, which the Incas used as a botanical laboratory.

Afterwards, you will head to Chinchero to enjoy a traditional lunch. Continue to a panoramic view of Chinchero’s Church, which was built by the Spanish in 1607 and remains standing until today. Continue with the visit to the Chinchero ruins, where you will find an important Inca center in which terraces and aqueducts were built.

Your Inca Trail Begins

You will be picked up from your hotel in and transferred to Ollantaytambo, where you will have time to do some last-minute shopping before starting your trek. You will then head to Piscacucho community, at Km. 82, where you will find the starting point of your trek.

You will take the course and walk about 3 hours along the Urubamba River, enjoying unparalleled landscapes and beautiful wildlife along the route. You will arrive to Willca Racay at the archaeological complex of Llaqtapata, where you will have some time to enjoy and appreciate the ruins have lunch and rest before continuing with your walk. You will resume the journey to ascend to the community of Huayllabamba, where the camp will be established,

Overnight in tent.

Meals (B, L, D)

After a healthy breakfast, you will begin to ascend towards the first and highest pass of the Warmiwañusca route (4215 m.a.s.l.), from where you will have a spectacular view of the Vilcabamba and Vilcanota mountain ranges. This ascent will take you almost all morning, arriving at Lllulluchapata at lunchtime.

After having time to rest and eat, you will continue your walk to Pacaymayo, where the camp will be set up at 3600 masl, basically the most challenging day of the walk.

Your third day of trekking will begin with an ascent to the second step, Runcuracay, which is a little lower than the first one (4000 m.a.s.l.). Then, you will descend for a couple of hours to Phuyupatamarca, where you can rest and have lunch surrounded by the beauty of the place. At the end of your lunch, you will continue your journey to Wiñaywayna, enjoying the view of the snowy mountains and the valley as you go.

Finally, you will arrive at the area where you will camp, This day is the longest of the entire walk, passing through cloud forests and visiting a few archeological sites built by The Incas.

Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

Your last day of the Inca Trail will also start very early and with an energetic breakfast. The journey will start towards Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, from where you will have an impressive view of Machu Picchu. You will walk a little more and you will find yourself inside Machu Picchu, where – after a short break – your guide will explain the history, organization and mysteries of the place.

At the end of the almost 2-hour tour, you will board the bus that will take you to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will have the option of walking around town or having lunch, as you prefer.

Then, you will board the train that will take you back to Ollantaytambo station, from where you will be taken back to your hotel.

Overnight at selected hotel in Cusco.

San Pedro Market & Sacsayhuaman

Today you will explore the city of Cusco, also known as the Imperial City and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You will walk its streets where time seems to have stopped, where every corner tells a story.

You will visit the Koricancha Temple, an ancient Inca palace and center of worship to the Sun God, on which the Dominican order built a church, which remains standing to this day. You will continue ascending to the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, an impressive example of Inca military architecture. Afterwards, you will visit the picturesque San Pedro Market.

The afternoon is yours to spend at your leisure.

Welcome to Ecuador!

Goodbye Peru, hello Ecuador! At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from your Cusco hotel to the airport, for your flight from Cusco to Quito.

Once you arrive in Quito, you’ll be met and transferred to your  selected hotel where you will spend the night.

Colonial Quito

The place to start exploring Ecuador is Colonial Quito: a city of narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed walls and, rising above, the steeples and cupolas of the city’s many spectacularly decorated historic churches. The city has one of the best-preserved colonial centers in all South America, and its integrity was assured in 1978 when the United Nations declared Quito a World Cultural Heritage site.

We will walk through the Main Plaza, where you will see the Government Palace, La Compañía, and some of the most important churches built around the XVI and XVII centuries, including the San Francisco Monastery which was started 5 days after the founding of the city in 1534. Then we will visit the city’s famous La Ronda street, where we will learn about traditional work in Colonial Quito.

For our last stop, we will also be visiting the ‘Panecillo’, the hill that dominates the South of the city, and where we will be able to admire the famous statue of Our Lady of the Panecillo and enjoy spectacular views of Quito.

Overnight at selected hotel in Quito.

Quito & Embarkation

At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from your Quito hotel to the airport for your flight to Galapagos.

AM: After passing through the baggage claim, you will be met by a Horizon staff member and transferred to the yacht. You will be shown to your cabin where you will have some time to settle in before lunch and a welcome briefing.

PM: This site is part of an environmental project. The tour of this center will explore the natural history of the islands including human interaction and conservation efforts. The Museum of Natural History explains the volcanic origin of the archipelago, ocean currents, climate, and the arrival of endemic species. The Human History exhibit chronologically describes significant events such as discovery and colonization of the islands.

San Cristobal Island

AM: Located on the northern coast, this eroded hill and its surroundings present one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galapagos with its white powdery sand and the abundance of animals. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and various types of booby birds. The clear water provides an excellent opportunity for enjoying swimming and snorkeling.

PM: This striking rock formation is located a couple of hours off the western shore of San Cristobal. Jutting out of the water, the rocks stand vertically at hundreds of feet above the ocean divided by a small channel. Although there are no landing areas, circumnavigation and dinghy rides allow visitors to spot a variety of marine life.

Española Island

AM: On the trail to Suarez Point you will have the chance to spot blue-footed boobies, albatrosses, and Nazca boobies. This island is the breeding site of nearly all of the world’s 12,000 pairs of waved albatrosses. You will also visit a beautiful site on the oceanfront where there is a cliff that the large albatrosses use as a launching pad! You will have the chance to see the famous blowhole that spurts sea water into the air. The landscape is great for photography.

PM: This excursion takes you to the spectacular Gardner Bay. After landing, you can walk across a lovely white-sand beach amongst a busy sea lion colony or dive into the water to swim with sea lion pups. You may also see curious mockingbirds on the beach.

Disembarkation

AM: Bachas Beach is located on the north shore of Santa Cruz and is a beach for swimming. One of the few remnants of the U.S. World War II presence in the Galapagos, a floating pier, can be seen here. You may see flamingos, Sally Lightfoot crabs, hermit crabs, black-necked stilts, and whimbrels. Sea turtles also nest on the beach.

After this final visit, you will be transferred to the Baltra airport in time for your flight back to the mainland.

Accommodations

Cruises & lodges.

Galapagos Horizon

Hotel options, wyndham costa del sol lima airport.

Palacio del Inka

Casa Gangotena

All itineraries are completely customizable. Contact our travel specialists to build your perfect vacation

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• Prices do not apply on festive dates or holidays, in Peru July 26-30, June 20-27 and December 20 to January 2, 2024

The Inca Trail Regulations state that reservations will only be guaranteed when 100% of the ticket cost has been paid and the following passenger information is provided:

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Join one of our Inca Trail tours through the Andes mountains and make your grand entrance into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Embark on the rewarding 4-day Inca Trail trek or opt for the condensed 2-day Inca Trail experience. This is the most famous trek in South America and permits for Inca Trail tours are limited, so advanced planning is a must.

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9 days from $ 2069

Cusco, Inca Trail, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

6 days from $ 1719

Cusco, Rainbow Mountain, Machu Picchu & 2-day Inca Trail

From Salkantay to Machu Picchu

The most flexible booking terms!

Zero postponement fees up to 30 days before arrival, transferable travel credit , and only a 30% deposit required to secure your trip.

Trek Across the Magnificent Vilcabamba Range

Journey Through the Lares Valley to Machu Picchu

Trek to Two Great Inca Citadels

Trek the Most Sacred Andean Mountain

Customize your Tour

What to see in inca trail.

Tread upon the same stones once walked upon by the royal Inca Empire. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway that brings you directly to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu for a rewarding journey filled with scenic moments you’ll never forget.

The Llactapata or sometimes called Patallacta ruins are approximately 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) from the start of the Inca Trail. These are the first set of ruins you'll see while hiking the Inca Trail.

Located right on the edge of the precipice, Sayacmarca is an impressive example of the Incas engineering skills.

This semi-circular Inca ruin is a scenic resting place along the Inca Trail. With a vantage point over the valley below, it has a well-thought-out position and is believed to have been used for ceremonial functions.

Phuyupatamarca

At 11,800 feet (3,600 meters) above sea level, Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is called the city in the clouds. Here you can find stone baths that are part of the Incan irrigation systems nourishing the green terraces.

Dead Woman’s Pass

Dead Woman's Pass, at 13,800 feet (4,215 meters) above sea level, is the highest point along the Inca Trail. Once you beat this part of the trek, the hardest part is behind you!

Wiñay Wayna

The Wiñay Wayna ruins are your last set of off-the-beaten-path Inca ruins you'll encounter on your Inca Trail trek. Terraces and Inca irrigation systems that still have water flowing down them make this spot an impressive resting place.

Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, is your first point of contact with the Machu Picchu fortress. From this viewpoint on your Inca Trail trek, you'll see the Huayna Picchu ruins, Machu Picchu citadel, and surrounding mountain landscapes.

Machu Picchu Fortress

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu is what you've been waiting for! Witness its breathtaking sites and fascinating history.

Peru Highlights

Peru is filled with archaeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and delicious flavors. Must-see places in Peru include:

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.

Amazon Rainforest

Step into the lush Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and witness a spectacular array of wildlife in its natural habitat. Lodges in Puerto Maldonado are ideal for excursions and daily activities. Those looking for a more luxurious Amazon experience would love an Iquitos Amazon River cruise. Colorful macaws, giant tarantulas, and playful river otters are among the sights you’ll behold.

Cusco city has it all, archaeological ruins, colonial buildings, top-rated restaurants, and countless places to explore. Your Cusco City Tour will take you to the top highlights like Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, the Cusco Cathedral, and more.

Arequipa is a picturesque town and also the second-largest city in Peru. Local markets, beautifully built colonial architecture, and El Misti volcano are among the things you’ll see while walking the cobblestone streets of the white city.

Lake Titicaca

Sail on the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca and step on the reed Uros and Taquile floating islands. Some of the best weavers are found in this area so pick up some Peruvian textiles here for unique souvenirs.

Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are mysterious geoglyphs and geometric shapes drawn onto the desert floor hundreds of years ago by the Nazca culture. Little is known about them nevertheless, the Nazca Lines inspire awe in those who take a flight over them.

Lima is a mixture of modern city living and historical significance. Here you’ll find Central restaurant (ranked #6 by 50 Worlds Best), UNESCO World Heritage sites like Historic City Center with the San Francisco Convent, and the best shopping in Peru.

How difficult is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

How long does it take to hike the inca trail, how long is the inca trail, how far in advance should i reserve my space on the inca trail, what documentation do we need, can i hike the inca trail without a guide, can i be added to a waiting list for the inca trail dates i want, what is included in inca trail tours, should i hire a personal porter, is it customary to tip the guides and porters, how many other people will travel on the trail with us, how much weight can i pack, will my guide speak english, how will i get drinking water during the inca trail, how much does it cost to rent equipment, is there a tent for the bathroom and washing up, are there any atms, what sort of food can i expect on the trail, is it possible to walk from machu picchu to aguas calientes instead of taking the bus.

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Inca Trail to Machu Picchu & Galapagos Tour

Combine two of South America’s best holidays: our Inca Trail & Galapagos tour

Visit the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu – by train or hiking the Inca Trail – then enjoy the unique, wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands.

Choose a cruise or a hotel-based Galapagos trip around these enchanting islands.

Our flexible, bespoke itineraries mean you can tailor make your perfect trip to Peru and Ecuador.

Inca Trail & Galapagos tour

We’ve based this itinerary on the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but you can take an alternative route or take a leisurely train trip to the ruins.

Read our blogs about the Inca Trail – a typical day , the meals you can expect, training tips and porter welfare .

Explore Galapagos on one of our favourite boats on a 4, 5, 6 or 8 day cruises , or try our increasingly popular land-based, hotel trips .

However and wherever you have travelled, Inca Trail & Galapagos is one of the best combination holidays in the world.

Trip Highlights

Combine our Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour for a life-changing experience.

Visit the world-famous ruins of Machu Picchu, with the chance to trek the Inca Trail.

Live among the incredible and tame wildlife of Galapagos.

Snorkel with sea lions, see giant tortoises and get up close to iguanas.

Discover Cusco and the Sacred Valley - wonders of Peru.

Wow!! What an amazing trip to Machu Picchu and Galapagos. The highlight was the whole trip! Everything ran like clockwork. Thank you so much for all your help with organising this trip of a lifetime. I am so happy with my decision to choose Andean Trails as our guide for this five week trip and of course I will be recommending (have already actually) Andean Trails to family and friends.

J.Gibbons, Inca Trail and Galapagos Tour

Full Itinerary

Day 1: arrive lima, transfer in to hotel.

Lima is Peru’s capital city, situated on the Pacific coast and home to more than 10 million people.

It is an enormous sprawling city located in the centre of Peru’s desert coastline and almost impossible to avoid when visiting Peru.

However, Lima is a city worth visiting – its food, restaurants and live music scene are excellent, the people are friendly and hospitable and it houses some of the best museums in Peru.

Day 2: Transfer to airport, fly to Cusco, arrival transfer to hotel (B)

Archaeological capital of South America, Cusco and the surrounding region contain a wealth of archaeological and cultural treasures unequalled in the Old World.

Cusco is also a lively and exciting city boasting a wide range of restaurants and an active nightlife to suit everybody. Nowadays Cusco’s main source of income is tourism, but it remains an important market town for the many farming communities that surround it.

Street markets contain a huge range of highland and jungle produce. Cusco is a beautiful city with a unique fusion of Inca stonework and elegant Spanish colonial architecture.

Day 3: Acclimatise, free time, hotel (B)

The attractions of the Cusco area are numerous.

Today you could take a half-day city and sites tour or just take in the surroundings.

Day 4: Acclimatise, free time, hotel (B)

Free day Cusco. Explore the Sacred Valley, take a half day rafting the Urubamba or a city tour.

Mountain biking, markets and many other activities are also available.

Day 5: Transfer from Cusco, trek to Huayllabamba (12km trek) (L,D)

We pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco. After picking up all other trekkers you travel by bus, via the highland villages of Chinchero, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, for the three hour journey to the start of the Inca Trail

From the road there are great views of the Cordillera Urubamba mountain range and the snow capped peak of Veronica 5,860m/19,225ft.

Most of our groups have up to 16 trekkers with one main English-speaking guide and an assistant guide. Trekkers come from all over the world, and are of all ages.

At Chilca, where we start the trek, you walk down to the entrance, where your tickets are checked. Sign in, cross the bridge and make a left turn following the trail gently along the river bank until uphill we reach a eucalyptus grove and Llactapata – the first major ruins on the route. Vast retaining walls have converted the steeply sloping hillside into agricultural terraces: an amazing sight.

Just below Llactapata the Río Cusichaca, a tributary of the Urubamba, takes a spectacular plunge into the ground and runs through a subterranean channel for some way. The trail climbs steeply out of the ruins over a low pass, and the hike up the valley begins.

After about an hour you’ll reach a bridge, putting you on the other side of the valley, and will continue on to the village of Huayllabamba (3,000m/9,843ft). You will reach it in a further half hour. By this time it is likely to be very hot and you will welcome the cold drinks at the village which makes its living out of Inca Trail hikers.

First night camp with basic facilities.

Distance:     11.1km/6.9 miles

Highest point:   2,912m/9,554ft

Starting altitude:    2,753m/9,032ft

Finishing altitude:      2,885m/9,466ft

Height gained:    398m/1,306ft

Height lost:     302m/991ft

Day 6: Huayllabamba to Pacamayo (12km) (B,L,D)

We break camp and set off with our big target in mind – Dead Woman’s Pass!

Our path enters woods – first scrub, then very beautiful cloud forest where the trees are hung with moss. These fairy-tale woods will help keep your mind off the fact that you are still going steeply uphill with no sign of respite.

Eventually, however, the trees become more stunted and you emerge into a meadow, Llulluchapampa. From The Forks to the meadow is about two hours. This is the last campsite before the pass, aptly named (if you are a female hiker) Abra de Huarmihuañusqa, ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ (4,198m/13,773ft), which you can see ahead of you.

It will take you about another 90 minutes hours to climb to the top of the pass. This is the highest point on the trail, so take heart – if you survive this, you’ll survive the other passes. Take time to look around you. You should be able to pick out the circular ruins of Runkuracay ahead, just below the next pass.

The descent is steep but not difficult. Just follow the trail on the left side of the valley to the valley floor and the next designated campsite at Pacamayo (3,600m/11,811ft).

Nearby are some huts with basic toilets and sinks built by the INC.

Camp for the evening.

Distance:                      12.3km/7.7 miles

Highest point:              4,222m/13,852ft

Starting altitude:         2,885m/9,466ft

Finishing altitude:        3,603m/11,821ft

Height gained:             1,361m/4,465ft

Height lost:                  613m/2,011ft

Day 7: Pacamayo to Wiñay Wayna (15km) (B,L,D)

From Runkuracay the path is clear over the second pass (Abra de Runkuracay, 4,000m/13,123ft) and, excitingly, much of the time you are on Inca steps. The descent down the steps is steep, so take care.

Just before the trail turns right, you’ll see the sign for Sayacmarca. These ruins lie about an hour from the top of the pass and the name, which means ‘the Inaccessible or Secret City’, is apt. You approach Sayacmarca up a superbly designed stone staircase. This is a diversion (the main trail continues its gradual descent to the right) but don’t let fatigue persuade you to miss it.

Like so many Inca ruins, no one really knows the purpose of Sayacmarca, but these are the visible facts: it was built on a precipice commanding a spacious view; there are no agricultural terraces so the complex could not have supported many inhabitants; ritual baths and an aqueduct run round the outside of the main wall; there are curious stone rings set in the wall by trapezoid openings. For us the mystery adds to the beauty, and it is beauty all the way from here – if you are fortunate with the weather.

The trail continues down to the valley floor. From here it becomes a glorious Inca Road, being on a raised causeway over marshy ground that then rises up through cloudforest. Stone paving on raised stone foundations, steps and a gentle gradient make for easy walking, and even if it is raining (and it does at times) you will marvel at the Inca workmanship.

Before the climb to the third pass there is a campsite with basic toilets. During the ascent you climb through two Inca tunnels, and if it is a clear day you will have the added bonus of a view of Salkantay over to your left. The pass (3,700m/12,139ft) is used as a campsite, but it gets crowded and water is some way below. Just below the pass, about 2 hours from Sayacmarca, are the impressive ruins of Phuyupatamarca. Access is down a steep flight of stairs. Clear water runs through the channels cut into the rock that feed five baths, leading one from the other down the hill (you may camp here).

An Inca staircase leads from the west side of the ruins (the far end from the baths) and disappears into the jungle, leading you down a thousand steps. Literally. You’ll think that your knees will never feel the same again.

The trek arrives at the campsite near the ruins of Huiñay Huayna (Wiñay Wayna).  This is the last camping spot before Machu Picchu and it is often very full. Basic camping facilities, toilets, running water.

Huiñay Huayna lies just below the campsite, round to the right as you are descending, and is the most extensive of the ruins so far.

It has some beautiful stonework, a fantastic location, and an air of mystery often lacking in the crowded Machu Picchu ruins.

Distance:                      12.9km/8 miles

Highest point:              3,893m/12,772ft

Starting altitude:         3,603m/11,821ft

Finishing altitude:        2,732m/8,962ft

Height gained:              1,185m/3,888ft

Height lost:                  1,345m/4,413ft

Day 8: Huiñay Huayna to Machu Picchu (5km), train to Cusco or hotel in Aguas Calientes (B)

When we arrive there is plenty of time to take photos of Machu Picchu. We walk down through the site to the main entrance where you can safely leave your backpacks. You can also use the toilet and have a drink in the restaurant just outside the entrance. We head back into the site for a complete tour of the major sectors of Machu Picchu. The tour takes about two hours so by about mid-morning you’ll be free to continue to explore the ruins alone.

The train back to Cusco leaves from Aguas Calientes, the nearest village to the ruins of Machu Picchu, at approximately 16:30 and you get back into Cusco for about 21:00.

We suggest that after visiting Machu Picchu you take the bus down to Aguas Calientes at 15:30 at the latest (depending on your train departure time). Buses depart every 15 minutes. Check with the guide for actual times. This leaves you plenty of time at the site or to do one of the other walks nearby.

There are many restaurants in Aguas Calientes to satisfy all tastes and budgets. Of course you could also visit the hot springs that Agues Calientes is named for, which will help ease those aching muscles. Entrance to the springs costs US$5, and you should allow a couple of hours to fully enjoy them.

Distance:                      7.9km/4.9 miles

Highest point:              2,739m/8,988ft

Starting altitude:         2,732m/8,962ft

Finishing altitude:        2,452m/8,046ft

Height gained:               311m/1,020ft

Height lost:                  377m/1,237ft

Regulations (August 2011) mean that the number of visitors to Machu Picchu is limited to 2,500 people per day. This means that you must pre-book your entrance to the site. The entry ticket cannot be purchased in Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu pueblo but must be bought in advance (by us) in Cusco.

On the 5 day Inca Trail if you wish to visit the site on your last day (day 5) you will need to reserve and pay for your entrance ticket at the time of booking. The cost is USD 80 per person.

If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, places now also have to be pre/booked and come at an additional cost.

Machu Picchu mountain has to be climbed before 11am, and there are two departure times for Huayna Picchu:

Group 1 (G1): 0700 – 0800

Group 2 (G2): 1000 – 1100

The price is USD 80 including the entrance fee to Machu Picchu.

Day 9: Fly Cusco-Lima-Quito/Guayaquil, transfer to hotel (B)

Take an early flight Cusco-Lima-Quito (or Guayaquil) and transfer in to your hotel.

You spend a night here – or longer if you wish to explore for longer – before an early morning flight to the Galapagos.

Choose between a cruise of 4-8 days, or a land-based group option (8 days) or a bespoke, tailor made option.

Day 10: Fly to Galapagos, cruise or land-based trip (7 x B,L,D)

The trip begins with an early morning transfer to the airport and a flight to the Galapagos. Here you will be meet by our local staff and transferred to your hotel or boat.

There are many options on Galapagos, from 4-15 day cruises, to active land trips.

Please get in touch to discuss your preferences or with any questions you may have as the suitability of a trip.

Day 17: Fly back to Quito/Guayaquil, transfer to hotel (B)

We bid farewell to the Enchanted Islands.

We return to Quito/Guayaquil where we are met on arrival and return to the same hotel in Quito/Guayaquil.

Our representative in Quito/Guayaquil will be able to advise you and help with some of the many day tours available in and around Quito/Guayaquil if you need any setting up.

Day 18: Transfer out, ends (B)

Departure day, tour ends.

Note:   We reserve the right to change the itinerary due to weather conditions and/or Galapagos National Park regulation changes.

Prices From $4,204 / £3,418 per person

Enquire about booking

What's Included?

Exact services depend on trek/boat/trip chosen. All meals provided are indicated in the itinerary. (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). We can work out an itinerary to suit your requirements.

What's Not Included?

Exact services depend on trek/boat/trip chosen. We can work out an itinerary to suit your requirements.

Accommodation

Mixture of hotels, camping on Inca Trail and cabin on a boat.

Hotels  are 2-3* with private bathrooms – upgrades available at extra cost.

Inc Trail camping

We use four season tents, designed for all weather conditions, and with lots of space for you and your belongings.

If you travel solo and have a tent to yourself, it will be 2m long x 1.4m wide – a two person tent.

Those sharing a tent will be in a tent 2.2m long x 2m wide – a four person tent.

If you stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes, we add a 2* hotel but can book 3, 4 and 5* options on request (extra cost).

Toilet facilities on the standard Inca Trail trek

All of the campsites that we use have a toilet block with running water. Facilities have improved a lot on the Inca Trail in the last few years. If you do need to go the toilet when there aren’t any toilets then do so well away from the trail and water supplies; dig a hole, and take the paper with you in a bag to deposit in one of the several bins along the way, do not leave it to blow about in the wind. There are shower facilities at Wiñay Wayna on day 3 although these basic and most people wait until Aguas Calientes showers or their hotel in Cusco.

Galapagos boats

There are a variety of cabin types, from bunks to twins, doubles and triples.

All have private bathrooms with hot/cold water showers and air conditioning.

Galapagos hotels

Hotels – singles, twin, doubles and some triples and family rooms available.

The islands aren’t known for glamorous lodgings, and our starting price hotels are standard hotels (comparable to 2* hotels), that we have chosen on the basis of comfort and cleanliness.

Upgrades to 3-5* hotels available on request (extra cost).

In Cusco you will meet Jesus Sucari, our local man on the ground, and he’ll answer any questions with a pre-trek briefing.

We operate the Inca Trail together with our Cusco partner, owned and managed locally, in accordance with Inca Trail regulations.

On the Inca Trail we employ local staff, who are paid fair wages. We provide free life insurance to all of our porters. Tented accommodation and meals are provided for all trekking staff as well as foam mats, sleeping bags and rain ponchos.

We have also provided the staff with trekking shoes. We try to ensure our porters carry a maximum of only 20kg. We offer them backpacks and they generally use back supports.

Additionally, each year we donate to the communities our Inca Trail porters come from. We ask the community what is most needed and usually we are asked to provide materials (books, pencils, paper etc.) for the children and the local school.

Most of the porters are farmers and cannot afford to pay for all of the materials their kids require for school. By trekking on the Inca Trail you are directly helping the families and communities of your porters.

Staff are “Galapagueños”, most of the guides, captains and crew members were born and raised in the Galapagos Islands.

They know the area well and are prepared to show you the islands only like a native can do it.

Our Naturalist-English speaking guides have studied and been trained at Charles Darwin Scientific Station, and have long years of experience guiding at the Galapagos Islands.

Almost all dietary requirements can be catered for – please ask us for more information.

General advice

Breakfasts at hotels will feature teas, coffees and juices to drink, plus cereals, fruit, eggs, toast and jams etc.

While out on tours, we either supply a packed lunch of sandwiches, snacks, soup, fruit etc, or we eat at a local restaurant. These are often buffet style with soups, rice, pasta, potatoes and then puddings/fruit.

Evenings are often free for you to choose to eat in a local restaurant. Bigger towns have international and local options.

The boats use as much locally sourced produce as possible, including fish, coffee, eggs, fruits and meat farmed in Galapagos, to reduce carbon footprints and make sure the best ingredients are used.

The chef prepares three main meals a day, with snacks and drinks available after activities.

Breakfast usually features a juice, tea and coffee, toast, jams, eggs and pastries.

Lunch will include soups, then a main meal of rices, pastas, fish, omelettes and many more options, and often a small pudding.

Dinner will again be a hearty affair, with a starter, main meal and pudding, with water, teas and coffees available.

Galapagos hotel-based trips

Breakfast at hotels usually features coffee, cereals, fruits, toast and eggs.

Lunch will either be a packed lunch while on a trip, or your guide will take the group to a locally-run restaurant on the island, where they will be a choice of dishes. Galapagos is a very remote area and not everything is available here.

Typically, there is a lot of eggs, fish, chicken, rice and some potatoes, plus fresh fruit and vegetables and coffee. There are also international plates such as pasta, pizza, hamburgers etc.

When you have free time (evening meals) to choose your own meals, our guide can make recommendations or you can explore on your own.

Standard menu

A typical day’s menu would be something along the following lines:

Snack:  Mandarins and granola bar

Breakfast:  Porridge , bread, butter, jam, milk, coffee, tea, fruit juice and fruit salad.

Lunch:  Wantan (deep-fried pastry filled with cheese and ham),  quinoa soup,  chicken with stir fried rice, corn salad

Afternoon tea:  Biscuits, pop corn, coffee, tea, infusions.

Dinner:  Vegetable soup, meatballs with gratin potatoes and rice, salad selection and swiss chard pie, fried bananas.

Special dietary requirements

People with special dietary requirements are well catered for. A typical day of vegan fare on the standard Inca Trail could be:

Breakfast:  Corn bread,  fruit salad, soya yoghurt, quinoa flakes, hot drinks.

Lunch:  Vegetable soup; broad bean, carrot, mushroom and seaweed salad with “sancochadas” potatoes. Hot drinks.

Dinner:  Vegetarian minestrone soup, sautéed green beans with soya meat, vegetables and rice, poached apples. Hot drinks.

Celiacs/gluten free diets  are catered for by replacing rice and pasta with quinoa, canihua and quiwicha as well as special produce such as camote (sweet potato) bread.

Water on the trail

You will be provided with boiled water every morning, and evening – fit for drinking. There are always generous amounts available.

The sterilising tablets ‘MicroPur’ can be bought in most pharmacies in Cusco. With these you put the tablets in the water and then wait 40 minutes before drinking. Try to ensure that the mouth of the bottle is also fully sterilised, by tipping your bottle up and down and allowing sterilised water to flow out before you drink.

Activity Level

This tour can be tailored to your needs – from active to more relaxed. Below is a general guide.

Galapagos hotel-based

This is an active tour where you will have 1-2 activities each day, each being 2-3 hours in length.

Snorkelling last 1-2 hours usually, depending on water temperatures.

The longest hiking day on Sierra Negra involves 4-5 hours of walking in total. A shorter, 1-2 hour hike is possible, too – please ask at time of booking for the shorter hike.

All activities are within the scope of people that like to be active. No previous experience is necessary for any of the activities, however, as none are designed to be overly strenuous.

The majority of the trip is open to people of good mobility and health. We build in acclimatisation, and the first tours are not physically strenuous.

The Inca Trail requires every participant to be well acclimatised to high altitude and to be in good physical condition.

We grade this as a ‘medium’ trek because of the high altitude and consecutive trekking days.

Trekkers ideally need to be used to walking while carrying a rucksack and ideally accustomed to walking several days in a row.

However, it is also open to first time trekkers who are in good physical shape.

Approximate walking times:

Day 1:  4-5 hours Days 2 + 3:  5-7 hours Day 4:  1 hour + tour (2 hours)

Practical Information

Introduction to peru.

Peru is the perfect holiday destination for adventure travellers that want an amazing variety of activity, geography and cultural travel experiences.

The breadth of travel experiences in Peru is breathtaking – from trekking in the Andes to Machu Picchu to the tropical jungle of the Amazon, and plenty in between.

The people of Peru make it a special destination too, with its colourful and traditional street life and friendly locals.

Weather in Peru

You can also read about the weather of Peru  in our blog.

Peru is located in the southern tropics (latitudes 0º to 18º), but climate varies significantly according to season, altitude and region.

Lima & the coast

From May to October, Lima is often overcast, but with minimal precipitation. There are sunny spells, and it’s a fresh to pleasant 13-20ºC.

At the same time, inland  areas and the north coast mid to high 20’s ºC.

November to April is generally warm and sunny and Lima enjoys warm temperature of 19-25ºC, with the coast averaging 22-30ºC.

Climate depends largely on altitude. As a rule of thumb, below 2,000m climate is mild and above 2,000m warm clothing is required for evenings, nights and early mornings.

The Andean sun is very strong.

May to Oct (dry season in The Andes)

Cusco (3,300m): Average max/min temps: 22ºC /2ºC. Average 3 or 4 wet days per month.

Arequipa (2,380m): Average max/min temps: 26ºC /9ºC. Sunny more than 340 days/year with minimal precipitation.

On highland treks: Conditions are generally dry. However, at this time of year, expect a range of conditions within a single day: cold/freezing nights at camps above 4,000m, where pre-dawn temperatures can be -5ºC; warm, spring-like mornings and afternoons; and cold evenings.

Note that mountain weather can be fickle and localised, and that precipitation is not unknown in the dry season. Expect temperatures to swing between sun and shade, sheltered and exposed ground and with altitude gain and loss. A quick-setting sun means temperatures drop fast.

In the cloud forest, e.g. around Machu Picchu, daytime conditions are generally warm or hot, and evenings cool.

Nov to March/April (wet season in The Andes)

Cusco: Average max/min temps: 23ºC /6ºC. Average 13 wet days per month.

Arequipa: Average max/min temps: 25ºC /14ºC.

On highland treks: Wetter conditions, with cooler days and milder nights than dry season. Jan-Mar usually the wettest months.

The Amazon rainforest

Year-round, weather conditions are hot and humid and there is always the risk of rain

There is a ‘dry season’ in Tambopata and Manu between May and October. The average daytime high temperature is between 25°C and 34°C and the average nighttime low is between 16°C and 22°C. Heavy downpours typically occur every few days.

Around 80% of annual average rainfall – approx 2,000 mm in Manu and Tambopata and 1,400 mm in Iquitos – occurs in the wet season Nov-April.

On rare occasions, between May and September, cold fronts from Argentina – ‘friajes’ – can sweep into southwest Amazonia and push temperatures down to 9° C. (Friajes usually last between 1 and 3 days).

Geography of Peru

Peru is made up of 3 distinct geographical areas: the coast, the mountains and the jungle.

The costa or coastal region is a narrow ribbon of desert 2,250 km long, crossed by fertile river valleys flowing from the Andes. It takes up 11% of the country and holds more than 40% of the population.

The cold Humboldt current gives rise to a blanket of mist – the garua – which hangs above coastal cities like the capital Lima from May to November.

Heading east, you’re soon climbing above the garua and into the Andes . The sierra, or mountainous region, covers some 25% of Peru’s territory and contains 50% of the population. The sierra inhabitants are mainly Indigenous or Mestizo, and many still speak Quechua or Aymara.

The sierra contains dozens of 6,000-metre snow peaks and volcanoes, including Huascaran (6,768m) the highest mountain in the tropics. The deep valley basins contain most of the towns and arable land; the terracing and canal systems of the Incas and pre-Incas are often still used today.

The eastern Andes are heavily forested up to 3,350m and sweep down into the Amazon Basin.

Peru’s selva or jungle makes up almost two thirds of the country’s area, but holds only about 6% of the population: the only towns with significant populations are Iquitos and Pucallpa.

Good kit is vital for every trip.

Book with Andean Trails and get 15% off Páramo’s  fantastic ethical and high performance outdoor gear.

When planning for the varied climatic conditions you will encounter across Peru, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system.

The sun is very strong throughout the country, so good sun cream, a hat and sunglasses are vital.

It can also get very cold at night time especially in the mountains. Jumpers, fleeces and warms hats – which you can buy there – are also essential.

Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.

Below is a more detailed guide.

Detailed kit list

• Medium weight parka or a down jacket.
• Waterproof jacket and trousers. The jacket needs to be water proof and roomy. Side-zip pants are recommended.
• 2-3 long-sleeve shirts – no cotton
• 2-3 short-sleeve T-shirts – no cotton
• 2 pair of hiking trousers- cotton or synthetic material (no jeans)
• 1 fleece or sweat trousers (for cold evenings)
• 2 pair hiking shorts
• Long thermals – synthetic or wool – light to medium weight top & bottoms.
• 2-3 mid-weight (wool or synthetic) socks.
• 2-3 liner socks if needed
• Athletic-type socks, several pairs, city use
• Hiking boots that are waterproof and well broken-in.
• Running/tennis shoes or sandals are very comfortable when you are in cities
• 1 lightweight wool sweater or windproof fleece
• 1 wool or synthetic warm hat.
• 1 light sun hat with a wide brim.
• 1 pair of medium-weight wool or synthetic gloves
• Broad-brimmed sunhat, essential.
• Sunglasses with UV filter.
• Scarf for cold.
• Bandanna – to protect neck from strong sun.
• Daypack (at least 30 litres). Comfortable and with waterproof lining or cover.
• Water bottle (2 litres approx.) & purification tablets.
• Personal first-aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, anti-biotic cream, general antibiotics (ask your GP), after-bite (tiger balm), anti-diarrhoea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication.
• Insect repellent (just in case)
• Towel & wash-kit.
• Wet Wipes/antiseptic hand-wash cream.
• Sunscreen (factor 30+) and lip salve.
• Head-lamp (plus spare bulb and batteries).
• Travel alarm clock.
• Plastic bags – ‘Zip-loc’ & tough bin liners.
• Camera and film / memory cards (take at least twice the amount you think you will need!).
• Book, e-book, mp3 player/ipod or other to help pass the time.
• Binoculars.
• Spanish/English phrasebook.
• Extra snacks i.e. cereal bars or favourite chocolate bars.

Miscellaneous others

• Money belt.
• U.S. dollars cash, mixed-denomination notes, undamaged and unmarked.
• ATM cash/credit card.
• Any inoculation certificates.
• Personal & medical insurance certificates.
• Presents e.g. Postcards from home.
• Comfortable clothes for travel, smart clothes for night life.

ATOL holiday protection

Andean Trails has 25 years of experience of putting together the best South America holidays.

We pay a fee to the CAA for every licensable passenger we book since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking.

We also offer ATOL (Civil Aviation Authority) protected holidays to give our customers peace of mind when booking and travelling.

When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from Andean Trails Ltd you will receive a Confirmation Invoice from us confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 6275.

You can read more about ATOL, who is covered and what protections you have if not ATOL-covered, on our ATOL page.

What is ATOL?

The CAA’s ATOL scheme offers protection to your money and your holiday if you book with us. Not everybody is covered (see ‘Who is covered?’ for more), as you must purchase an ‘air package holiday’ with Andean Trails to be protected.

And  ‘air package holiday’ is defined as including a flight and some ground services (hotel, transfer, trek etc). This is also known as an ‘ATOL-protected holiday’.

Who is covered?

To be covered by ATOL, you must book a flight and some ground services with us and be from the UK. If you are from the UK and only book ground services and no flights, you are not covered by ATOL (see below for more on how non-ATOL clients are covered).

If you are outside the UK and buy flights with us, you will be ATOL protected IF any of the flights booked with Andean Trails touches/stops in the UK at any point during your holiday package booked with us.

If you buy your flights elsewhere, please check with that agent if you are ATOL protected. Be careful with online flight purchases and make sure you know what protection you have, if any, before paying for flights.

Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking.

For land only holidays not involving any air travel, in accordance with “The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992”, all UK passengers booking with Andean Trails Ltd. are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all money paid to us, arising from cancellation or curtailment of travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Andean Trails.

I’m not ATOL covered, what protection do I have?

If you are not ATOL covered, any payments you make to us go to a Trust account.

We can only access this money once your tour has been completed, meaning that if anything happens to Andean Trails Limited while you are on holiday, then your money is secure and you can either complete the trip or be able to make it home.

If you pay for your holiday with a credit card, some offer payment protection – please check with your cardholder.

You also should have cancellation protection written into your insurance (which we recommend you have at the time of booking) in case you need to cancel.

Peru’s Amazon Rainforest

Peru boasts in its Amazonian region a vast swathe of world-class tropical wilderness with several rain forest and cloud forest reserves which are home to an immense diversity of wildlife.

Accessible from Lima, Iquitos or Cusco, the Amazon jungle is just a short flight away.

In Peru’s southeast lies the extraordinary region comprising the Tambopata National Reserve and the Bahuaja Sonene and Manu National Parks, with the greatest animal and plant diversity anywhere in the world.

Whether you choose to base yourself at a comfortable lodge or enjoy a more demanding camping trip, you can be sure of a unique, exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Arequipa & Colca Canyon, Peru

The beautiful colonial city of Arequipa is replete with history and culture, and is the gateway to the condors of Colca Canyon.

Nestled at 2,325m/7,627ft, the ‘white city’ sits at the foot of three tremendous volcanoes: El Misti (5,821m/19,098ft), Chachani (6,075m/19,930ft) and Pichu Pichu (5,542m/18,182ft).

Arequipa’s attractions include the Cathedral, Compañía de Jesús Church, Santa Catalina Convent and the Dama de Ampato (Juanita Mummy) Museum.

With a year-round spring climate and sunshine guaranteed for 300 days of the year, it is the perfect place to begin acclimatising before continuing upwards.

Nearby is the famous Colca Canyon. At hundred kilometres long, this incredible gorge  is said to reach a maximum depth of 3,400m/11,155ft – twice that of the Grand Canyon.

An overnight tour to Colca gives you the chance to see the iconic, soaring condors of the canyon.

Cusco, Peru

Cusco is the archaeological and cultural capital of South America.

The one-time centre of the vast Inca Empire is a bustling highland city with bags of character.

Its whitewashed streets and plazas feature a fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish colonial stonework and offer endless possibilities for exploration.

You don’t have to venture far to find outstanding examples of high quality Inca architecture, including the monumental temple fortress of Sacsayhuaman.

There is also the fertile farming land of the Sacred Valley on the doorstep,  with many Inca terraces, temples and fortresses, plus colourful local markets and small villages.

At night, Cusco offers an excellent array or restaurants and bars plus the continent’s best Andean folk music scene.

Kuelap, Peru

In the northeast of Peru lies Kuelap – the jewel in the massive archaeological crown of the Chachapoyas Cloud People.

The mystical structure of Kuelap – dubbed the Peru’s second Machu Picchu by locals – is 1,200 years old.

It features massive limestone walls towering 60 feet, pottery, bones and hundreds of mysterious round stone structures, and away from the crowds of other sites.

This is a remote area of sub-tropical valleys, half way down the eastern slopes of the Andes. The jungle is impenetrable, dense with low trees, bromeliads, bamboos, orchids and mosses.

Lake Titicaca, Peru

Lake Titicaca, at around 4,000m/13,123ft above sea level, is a vast shimmering body of water on the Peru/Bolivia border.

It is the world’s highest navigable lake, set against a breathtaking background of towering ice-covered Andean mountain peaks.

The islands and shoreline of Lake Titicaca support many Indian communities, including the well known floating islands of Uros and the more remote islands of Taquile and Amantani. Here, traditions are strong and it appears time really does stand.

Agriculture, fishing, knitting and weaving are important to the islanders and by staying a day or two you gain just a small insights into this traditional way of life.

Islanders welcome tourists into their homes and this is a wonderful opportunity to experience island life.

Lima, the capital city of Peru, is a vibrant bustling place with a wide variety of things to do.

Stroll or bike around the historic centre, visiting the many museums or just chilling out in a café or restaurant in Miraflores.

In Parque Kennedy you can sit outside in Parisian fashion and watch the world go by in cafes and restaurants, or walk to the shore and the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

There are a number of artisan shops & market stalls, plus a big silver jewellery trade, and a burgeoning number of top end restaurants with delicious food.

The centre of Lima is home to impressive Colonial architecture – Plaza de Armas has the Palace, official residence of the president, on one side, and on another is the Cathedral.

San Francisco Church, home of the Catacombs, is well worth a visit, as is the Inquisition museum.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Nothing says Peru quite the way Machu Picchu does.

The Lost City of the Incas, perches dramatically on a ridge-top 400 metres above the Urubamba river. The extensive site, with its many terraces, temples and palaces, is set amid a beautiful landscape of deep gorges and thickly forested mountains.

When Machu Picchu was rediscovered early in the 20th century and cleared of forest, it was found to be very well preserved. It has since presented archaeologists with many unanswered questions regarding the role it played in Inca times.

The sense of grandeur, whether you arrive on the Inca Trail or not, is impressive.

Try to arrive early at the site to enjoy it at its best – and late afternoon can often see you almost alone in the ruins.

The Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash, Peru

North east of Lima, the Cordillera Blanca offers fantastic mountain scenery and some of the best trekking and climbing in the Andes.

The Cordillera Blanca boasts dozens of peaks over 6,000 metres, including Peru’s highest Huascaran at 6,768m/22,205ft above sea level.

The Blanca range also contains the world’s largest concentration of tropical glaciers.

This is an ideal destination for treks, from just a few to 12 days or so and also an ideal starting place for learning or improving mountaineering skills.

The nearby Huayhuash mountain range contains a dazzling array of snow peaks including seven summits above 6,000 metres.

This is a trekking paradise with breathtaking majestic panoramas and stunningly remote and picturesque camping spots. There is no better place to visit to get away from it all.

Available Dates

Dates & Prices

Select an available date to view pricing and information for that particular trip.

2024 price, two people, shared room basis Final price depends on Galapagos element Daily departures Based on standard Inca Trail and Santa Cruz & Isabela Upgrades available Shorter/longer stays possible

$4,204 / £3,418

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Get in Touch

+44 (0)131 378 5593

+44 (0)131 554 6025

[email protected]

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4-day inca trail hike to machu picchu, peru.

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Join a small group of like-minded travellers on a guided trip.

What's a tailor made trip?

We put together a bespoke tour to fit your requirements.

What's part of a tailor made trip?

Include this guided group tour within your tailor-made tour.

Prices From $1,148 / £933 per person

Dates: From March 2024 to January 2025

Duration: 4

Comfort Level:

Capacity: 16 people

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Dates: From April 2024 to December 2024

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Community Projects Update

Supporting Community Projects across South America Travelling to South America with Andean Trails will help make a positive impact,  as you contribute to our support of several community projects. Your visit is much more than creating local employment. It generates bonds between people and leaves beneficial footprints. We’re proud to financially support several local NGOs and charities. These unsung champions work tirelessly to improve their neighbourhoods. None of this could happen without you. Here’s how booking with Andean Trails helps us to help South America.  (Read our Community Projects page for more.)   Danielle Children’s Fund Danielle Children’s Fund in …

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Galápagos Islands and Inca Trail 13 Days / 12 Nights

Location : Peru, Ecuador Duration:  13 Days Type:  South America Tours Destinations:  Lima, Cusco,  Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Ecuador, Guayaquil, Baltra, Galapagos, Santa Cruz,  Rabida, Santiago Egas Port,  Isabela Tagus Cove,  Guayaquil. Description:  ILE Tours and Galapagos Eco Tours is happy to offer a new program designed for adventure, culture, nature and archeology lovers. This program begins with the famous Inca Trail hike which ends at the East Gate overlooking Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. The Inca Trail also offers the opportunity to stop and marvel and many other Inca sites before reaching Machu Picchu.

Magnificent structures, aqueducts, walls, and trails all built in accordance with nature will greet you daily on the Inca Trail ,  Machu Picchu  and the Sacred Valley.

After the hike concludes your tour with one of South America’s other gems with a cruise of the Galápagos Islands  off the coast of Ecuador. Here you will be transported to a pre-historic paradise on the relatively young Galápagos Islands with their volcanos, lava fields, and a plethora of wild and sea life unlike any place in the world.

Whales, porpoises, giant tortoises, cormorants, red dragons, land and sea iguanas, magnificently colorful fish and birds everywhere. Soak in clear water and appreciate the Galápagos archipelago aboard a luxury cruise or with daily island excursions from a luxury seaside resort.

Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Galapagos Island

• Day 1: Welcome to Lima.
• Day 2: Flight Lima Cusco.
• Day 3: Inca Trail, Piscacucho – Patallaqta.
• Day 4: Inca Trail, Wayllabamba, Warmiwañusca, Pacaymayu.
• Day 5: Inca Trail, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñaywauna.
• Day 6: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco.
• Day 7: Cusco Lima Guayaquil Ecuador.
• Day 8: Guayaquil – Baltra – Galapagos – Santa Cruz, (Yacht Coral).
• Day 9: Galapagos, Rabida, Santiago Egas Port.
• Day 10: Galapagos, Fernandina, Isabela Tagus Cove.
• Day 11: Galapagos, Bartolome Island, Santa Cruz.
• Day 12: Galapagos, Baltra, Guayaquil.
• Day 13: Guayaquil – Lima – Home.

ITINERARY DETAILS

Day 1: welcome to lima.

Welcome and reception in Lima airport. You will be transferred to your hotel in Miraflores by private car.

Day 2: Flight Lima Cusco

Airport reception in Cusco and private transfer to the Hotel Jose Antonio (or equivalent). Rest and acclimate to Cusco’s 3,300 meters (11,000 feet) elevation by breathing, relaxing and drinking the coca tea provided in your hotel. In the afternoon take the Cusco City Tour  (Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay and Puca Pucara). Evening orientation with your guide in the hotel lobby to discuss hike, answer questions and let you know what time you will be picked up the next morning.

Day 3: Inca Trail, Piscacucho, Patallaqta

Check out of your hotel and store the bulk of your luggage safely with your hotel until you return. Get and keep your luggage claim check. Depart from Cusco by bus through Urubamba before stopping briefly at Ollaytaytambo where you can buy last-minute gear and personal supplies. Next, we move on to Piskacucho (Km 82) and the start of the Inca Trail hike. We will have lunch in Miskay and relax a bit before hiking to our first campsite. Along the way, we will visit the Patallaqta archaeological site. L/D

Day 4: Inca Trail, Wayllabamba, Warmiwañusca, Pacaymayu

We’ll start the day early in the morning with a hearty breakfast before hiking to the highest point of the  Inca Trail . Here we can literally see the various ecological zones and microclimates from a panoramic viewpoint. We will cross the Warmiwañusca pass at 4,200 meters/ 13,780 feet above sea level. After lunch, we will continue on to the Pacaymayo campsite where we will enjoy dinner at our campsite.

Day 5: Inca Trail, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñaywauna

Day 3 of the hike begins with a nutritious breakfast and then a 45-minute hike up to the second-highest pass on the Trail (3,850 meters/12,631 feet above sea level). Along the way, we will visit the Runcuracay archaeological site. Throughout the day we will also visit the Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca Archaeological Complexes.

After lunch, we will head to the Wiñaywayna ruins where we will spend our last night on the Trail.

Day 6: Wiñaywayna, Machu Picchu, Cusco

After a very early breakfast begin the final leg of the trek to the lost city of Machu Picchu. First, hike to Inti Punku (“Sun Gate”) to take in an inspiring and panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel. After a short hike down to Machu Picchu, register and then enjoy a 3-hour private guided tour of the sanctuary-city. After the tour of Machu Picchu take the bus down to Aguas Calientes and board the Vistadome train back to Cusco where you will be greeted and taken to the Hotel Jose Antonio.

Day 7: Cusco Lima Guayaquil Ecuador

After breakfast, you will checkout and be taken to the Cusco airport for your flight to Lima and a connection to Guayaquil. In the Guayaquil airport, you will be greeted and taken to the Hotel Continental in the center of Guayaquil.

Day 8: Guayaquil, Baltra, Galapagos, Santa Cruz, (Yacht Coral)

After breakfast checkout of your hotel. Store the bulk of your luggage safely with the hotel until you return and bring only what you need for the cruise. Santa Cruz (Dragon Hill) Wet landing. Visitors walk to a saltwater pond, which is occasionally visited by pink flamingos. Then they’ll hike up to Dragon Hill, which provides a beautiful view of the bay. This area is a nesting site for numerous reintroduced land iguanas.

There is also a peculiar scalesia tree forest. Santa Cruz (Venice): Dinghy ride around the islet along the coast of Santa Cruz. The land iguanas inhabiting Venice are protected from the wild dogs on the island of Santa Cruz. In Santa Cruz, it is possible to observe the vegetation and marine animals like spotted eagle rays and golden rays, mullets, white-tipped reef sharks and Pacific green sea turtles which rest in the calm waters of the coves and channels.

Day 9: Galapagos, Rabida, Santiago Egas Port

The volcano-formed beach is dark red and is a favorite place for sea lions. It’s considered the geographic center of Galapagos because it has the most diverse volcanic rocks on the Islands. You’ll hike to a salt-water pond, where flamingos can sometimes be found. July through September is a good time to observe brown pelicans nesting in the salty bushes. Boobies and nine species of Darwin’s finches can also be observed.

You can take a dinghy ride by the reefs, as well as snorkel. Santiago (Egas Port): Wet landing on a dark-sand beach. Most of the landscape is tuff-stone layers and lava flows. You can observe hunting herons, great blue herons, lava herons, yellow-crowned night herons, and oystercatchers. Passengers will see marine iguanas grazing on algae beds alongside red Sally Light-foot crabs.

There is a colony of fur seals swimming in deep cool-water pools. Here you can swim and snorkel and find octopuses, sea horses, starfish.

Day 10: Galapagos, Fernandina, Isabela Tagus Cove

Fernandina (Espinosa Point) Dry landing. Visitors will see the biggest marine iguanas mingling with red Sally Light-foot crabs, as well as flightless cormorants nesting sites, Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, and sea lions. Among the flora and volcanic formations, observers will spot brachycereus cactus, and “pa-hoe-hoe” lava and “AA” lava formations. Numerous mangrove beds extend into the sea.Isabela (Tagus Cove): Dry landing on Galapagos’s largest island.

Visitors will learn about the five volcanoes that formed this island with their eruptions. The trail leads to Darwin’s salt-water pond and an excellent view of the lava fields and volcanic formations. You’ll take a dinghy to observe marine life. Galapagos penguins can often be seen here. Opportunity for snorkeling. The graffiti is believed to have been written by 19th-century pirates and they help passengers appreciate the relationship between the islands and tourism today.

Day 11: Galapagos, Bartolome Island, Santa Cruz

Bartolome Dry landing. Passengers will see volcanic formations such as lava bombs, spatter, and cinder cones. After hiking to the summit you can enjoy a great view of the surrounding islands, including Pinnacle Rock’s eroded tuff cone. On the way to the summit, you’ll often see colonies of marine iguanas, lava lizards, tiquilla and various cacti. You’ll be able to snorkel and see the Galapagos penguin, sea turtles, and white-tipped sharks at a safe distance.

Santa Cruz (Black Turtle Cove) Located near Las Bachas beach on the northern side of the island. Passengers will take a dinghy through the mangrove. The motor is turned off to allow close observation of marine turtles, white-tipped reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, and yellow rays.

Day 12: Galapagos, Baltra, Guayaquil

Santa Cruz (Charles Darwin Research Station)Travelers will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, staffed with international scientists conducting biological research and conservation projects. Here you’ll be able to admire the giant tortoises involved in the breeding program. Visitors can also admire the prickly-pear cactus forest and many land birds.

Later on, you’ll have some free time to walk around town and shop for souvenirs. Disembark at Baltra. Airport, flight to Guayaquil reception and transfer to Hotel Continental.

Day 13: Guayaquil, Lima, Home

After breakfast, you will be greeted in your hotel and taken by private car to the airport for your flight to Lima. END OF SERVICES

What is Included:

• Lima, Cusco, Lima airfare.
• Lima, Guayaquil, Lima airfare.
• Guayaquil, Galapagos, Guayaquil airfare.
• 3 nights Hotel Jose Antonio Cusco.
• 2 nights Hotel Continental Guayaquil.
• All hotel /port /airport in-out transfers.
• Bilingual naturalist guide on cruise.
• Professional English speaking guides on Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• Porters to carry tents, cooking equipment and group equipment on Inca Trail.
• Professional cook on Inca Trail.
• All accommodations in tourist quality 3 and 4* hotels centrally located.
• Bus tickets Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes.
• Machu Picchu admission.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Vistadome train tickets from Aguas Calientes-Cusco Day 04 of hike.
• Breakfasts in hotels.
• All meals on Inca Trail.
• Tents, sleeping bags w/pads and prepared meals on Inca Trail.
• Vegetarian meal option on Inca Trail.
• All meals aboard Galapagos yacht cruise.
• Personal assistance every day.
• Bank transfer, credit card, Pay Pal or Western Union payment fees.

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Home 〉 Tours 〉 South & Central America Tours  〉Ecuador

Galapagos & inca trail adventure.

This unique adventure focuses on two of South America’s heaviest hitters – the Galapagos Islands and the Inca Trail. Take 17 days to explore these wildly different parts of the region. Snorkel the turtle-filled waters of Leon Dormido, then walk the cobblestone streets of Cusco. Sit on black-sand beaches watching sea lions lounge and later conquer the 4200-metre-high Dead Woman’s Pass. Witness breathtaking natural beauty among the surreal landscapes of the Galapagos, then wonder at the man-made elegance of Machu Picchu. This tour offers immersive and active adventure led by locals in two bucket-list favourites.

17 days, from

16 people max Traveling in a small group people gets you closer to your travel companions, your destination and its culture. Grab a few friends, then grab a few more, and if you get 10 friends together you’ll be traveling in an exclusive small group with a local leader and an incredible itinerary. Traveling in a small group people gets you closer to your travel companions, your destination and its culture. Grab a few friends, then grab a few more, and if you get 10 friends together you’ll be traveling in an exclusive small group with a local leader and an incredible itinerary.

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Countries Visited:  Ecuador Peru Accommodation:  Route 1 - Inca Trail: Camping with basic facilities (3 nights), Hotel (3 nights). Route 2 - Quarry Trail: Camping with basic facilities (2 nights), Hotel (4 nights). Route 3 - Train option: Hotel (6 nights) Transportation: Plane , Speed Boat , Bus , Private Vehicle , Taxi , Train - Route 3 only Included Meals:

• 14 breakfasts

Group size: Minimum 1, Max 16

This trip gives both trekkers and non-trekkers the chance to visit Machu Picchu with Inca Trail*, Quarry Trail and train options.

Admire the ingenuity of Inca engineering in https://hybris.intrepidgroup.travel/cockpit/images/icon_func_inlinetext_openwysiwyg.pngOllantaytambo (Sacred Valley) and contemplate how stone was excavated to build the structures still standing there.

Explore Cusco, South America's oldest continuously inhabited city. The city has ancient foundations, an interesting blend of Incan and colonial influences, and seemingly endless things to do and see.

Snorkel the incredible marine life-filled waters of Kicker Rock, also known as Leon Dormido, one of the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos and an absolute highlight for many travellers.

Encounter the wildlife wonders of the Galapagos Islands up close. Giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas and more await.

Hike to the top of one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos – the Sierra Negra – and peer into the second-largest caldera in the world.

Show Full Itinerary

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Quito, Ecuador. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2 pm. Get straight into it with a walking tour to get you acquainted with the colonial buildings and help you explore the nooks and crannies of the cosy Old Town. Don’t forget, you’ll be back in a short while, so don’t be too stressed about cramming in lots of sightseeing.

Welcome to San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands! As you start this trip on the Galapagos Islands you have two options for joining the group, as outlined in Special Information below. After joining up with your fellow travellers, head to La Loberia where you'll put on snorkelling gear for the first time and go for a swim among sea lions, perhaps spotting sea turtles too. Return to town for a free evening. Perhaps head out with the group and enjoy some of the fresh seafood available.

Today begins with a 45-minute boat ride to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock). On the way we might be able to spot nesting frigates and blue-footed boobies. There is also potential to swim among playful young sea lions. At Leon Dormido you can snorkel and look for sea turtles, manta rays and maybe the odd harmless Galapagos shark. Currents can be quite strong so it's important you are a confident swimmer to participate in this activity. If you have any concerns, please ensure you speak with your leader. Eat lunch on the boat then head to the Interpretation Center. Learn about the history of the 'Enchanted Islands' and the conservation projects which seek to preserve them. Continue to Frigatebird Hill (Cerro Tijeretas), which is located two kilometres from the Interpretation Center. It's quite a climb to the top, but well worth the amazing views of the bay. Return to town in the late afternoon or early evening.

Take an early morning boat ride towards Isla Floreana, which should take about 2.5 hours. Along the way keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as dolphins and whales. On arrival to the island, snorkel in the clear blue waters and then break for lunch. Afterwards venture to a black-sand beach which belongs to the Witmers, decedents of some of the first settlers on the Galapagos. The town here, Puerto Velasco Ibarra, has about 150 residents and an intriguing history involving deaths, disappearances and murders. Later in the afternoon, wave goodbye to Floreana and continue to Isla Isabela (approximately 2 hours). From Isabela Port it's a short transfer to the hotel where we will spend the night (approximately 15 minutes).

Start your second day on Isla Isabela with a short bus ride (approximately 15 minutes) to the Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center where you'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development. The centre has almost a thousand giant tortoises preparing for life on their own. Afterwards, head to a brackish lagoon to observe flamingos. In the afternoon, board a small Zodiac (panga) and cruise to Las Tintoreras (Shark Alley), where your naturalist guide will help you look out for blue-footed boobies and the famous Galapagos penguin. On arrival, take a short walk on this isolated islet and popular iguana nesting site. Snorkel in a calm inlet with colourful fish and winding underground lava tubes. This area is frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom. In the late afternoon return to town in search of your own sandy resting spot and enjoy your first Isabela sunset, arguably the most beautiful of all the islands.

Start your last day on Isla Isabela by heading towards the Sierra Negra Volcano (approximately 45 minutes by bus), one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos and the second-largest crater in the world. Weather permitting, take a challenging hike of around 17 kilometres up the rocky mountain, which takes 5—6 hours. After the hike, make your way back to town for some free time to curl up with a book or venture down to the water for a relaxing swim before dinner.

Start the day with a kayak around Isabela before transferring by private speedboat to Isla Santa Cruz. Once you arrive on Santa Cruz head to a restaurant that offers a typical Eduadorian lunch package, simply referred to as ‘Menu’. This usually this consists of a fresh juice, a basic entree (usually a soup) and a main meal. These lunch deals are very popular throughout Ecuador so it’s a great way to eat like a local. In the afternoon enjoy free time to further explore the town or go on an optional excursion to the Charles Darwin Research Centre.

In the afternoon visit the highland of Isla Santa Cruz to observe the giant tortoise roaming the wild – your naturalist guide will fill you in on the lives and habits of these fascinating creatures. Afterwards visit a locally owned sugar cane farm. Here the farmers will show us the ways sugar cane is processed and turned into alcohol. Along the way, keep an eye out for eagle rays, sea turtles and blue-footed boobies. Later, head back to Puerto Ayora.

Say goodbye to the glorious Galapagos today and return to Quito by plane, with a brief touchdown en route in Guayaquil. Arrive in Quito for a free afternoon and evening. As gorgeous as the islands were, perhaps take advantage of the cosmopolitan food and bar scene in Quito and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Take an included flight to Lima, where you can use any free time to explore before a meeting at 2 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure. After the meeting, go on a walking tour of downtown Lima, one of the most beautiful cities in South America, and an optional dinner with your group. Be sure to get your hands on Peru's national dish of ceviche during your stay.

Transfer to the airport and board your flight to lofty Cusco. The next stage of your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you. After the meeting, get acquainted with this charming city's intriguing blend of Inca and Spanish culture on a guided walking tour with your leader. Check out some of Cusco's main attractions, as well as its lesser-known sights such as the Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, the 12-Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. End the walking tour with a visit to the Chocolate Museum where you will sample hot chocolate made from local beans. There’s also a small store where you can shop handicrafts and artisanal chocolate products. Don't miss the opportunity to sample mate de coca (coca tea) while here.

Travel by private bus through the Sacred Valley for about two hours. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the valley has been a source of livelihood to the locals for hundreds of years. You’ll see maize crops covering the terraced valley walls and the sacred river beneath. Stop for lunch in a local community, where you'll also get the chance to learn about their traditional lifestyle and maybe wrap your tongue around a few words of the Quechua language. If it’s market day, you'll have time to browse the local handicrafts on offer, such as beads and ponchos. Continue your journey to the town of Ollantaytambo where we check out the town’s archaeological site – a magnificent example of Incan urban planning – which includes remnants of an Inca city and soaring views over the present-day settlement. Spend the night in Ollantaytambo.

Depending on the travel arrangements you made before the trip, during the next four days you’ll be doing one of the following: hiking the Inca Trail (Route 1), hiking the Quarry Trail (Route 2) or staying in Cusco for two days before taking the train to Aguas Calientes (Route 3). All routes visit Machu Picchu.

While away from Cusco, the bulk of your luggage will be stored at your hotel. If you’re hiking the Inca Trail or the Quarry Trail, the evening before you leave Cusco you'll receive a small duffle bag to carry your clothes in for the next four days (5kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, together with the food and equipment for the trail. You won't have access to these items until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. If you’re travelling to Aguas Calientes by train, you'll be able to leave most of your luggage at the hotel in Cusco and travel with only a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

Route 1 Inca Trail: Today travel by minivan to the 82 kilometre marker and meet your crew of local porters, cook and guide. The first day includes uphill trekking to the campsite, which is at 3100m above sea level. On the way you’ll see the Inca sites of Ollantaytambo, Huillca Raccay and Llactapata, as well as incredible views of snow-capped Veronica Peak. In the evening, unwind at the campsite with a nourishing meal prepared by your cook.

Route 2 Quarry Trail: Make an early start today and drive to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial place where Incas worshipped the moon. Drive to the starting point of the trek, Rafq'a, and meet the horsemen who join us on the hike. After an hour’s walk, reach the small community of Socma. Carry on to the Perolniyoc Cascade lookout, an opportunity to stop for photos and a food break. Continue to the campsite, which is 3700 metres above sea level. You should reach the campsite around lunchtime. After lunch, set off to explore the Q'orimarca archaeological site, which once served as a checkpoint to the Incas.

Route 3 Cusco: After spending the night in Ollantaytambo, take a short drive to the town of Pisac. Pisac is well known for its market. Here you’ll have the opportunity to shop for souvenirs and perhaps try some local empanadas. Arrive back into Cusco in the afternoon, where your leader will take you to San Pedro Market in order to buy some things for a picnic tomorrow.

Route 1 Inca Trail: This is the most challenging day of the trek as you ascend a long steep path (approximately 5 hours) to reach the highest point of the trail. Colloquially known as 'Dead Woman's Pass', Warmiwanusca sits at a height of 4200 metres above sea level, providing amazing views of the valley below. The group will then descend to the campsite in the Pacaymayo Valley at 3650 metres.

Route 2 Quarry Trail: This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the hike. A 3 hour walk takes us to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa (approximately 4370 metres high). After enjoying picturesque views of the valley, it’s a short walk before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, make the two-hour hike to Kuychicassa, the highest pass of the trek at 4450 metres. From here, descend to the sacred site the Incas called Intipunku. This is a sun gate, where the sun will stream through at particular times of the year and there are views of the Nevado Veronica mountain year-round. The Incas built several sun gates, the most notable overlooking Machu Picchu. Head to the campsite, only a stone’s throw away and at 3600 metres.

Route 3 Cusco: Today, take a taxi to Tambomachay, an archaeological site just outside of Cusco. From here you’ll take a short downhill walk (between 1 and 3 hours) back to Cusco. On the way, stop to admire some of the archaeological sites, including Puka Pukara, Qinqu Quenqo and Saksaywaman. Arrive back in Cusco in the afternoon and enjoy some free time to go shopping, or perhaps visit Merida, Mendivil and Olave art galleries and workshops. Your tour leader will be able to give you some suggestions.

Route 1 Inca Trail: Start the day with a climb through the Pacaymayo Valley to Runkuracay Pass (3980 metres). Enjoy views of the snow-capped mountain of Cordillera Vilcabamba before descending for around 2 to 3 hours to the ruins of Sayacmarca. Continue over the trail’s third pass to the ruins of Phuyupatamarca (3850 metres), also known as 'Town Above the Clouds'. Start the 2 hour descent down the Inca steps to the final night's campsite by the Winay Wayna archaeological site.

Route 2 Quarry Trail to Aguas Calientes: Today’s hike will all be downhill. The first stop is the incomplete Kachiqata quarry, where the Incas were intercepted by the Spanish. Around midday, come to the end of the trek. Explore the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo before taking the short train journey to Aguas Calientes. This is where you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who didn't hike. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Route 3 Train to Aguas Calientes: After a drive to Ollantaytambo (about 1.5 hours), catch a train through the winding Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes (another 1.5 hours). The city is nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu. This is where you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who hiked the Quarry Trail. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Route 1 Inca Trail: This is the final and most spectacular leg of the trek to Machu Picchu. The day starts before dawn with breakfast at 4 am. Say farewell to the porters as they descend to the train station and then begin hiking by 4.30 am. Once the final checkpoint opens at 5 am, begin the final leg of the trek. The walk to Intipunku (the Sun Gate) takes around 2.5 hours. Weather permitting, enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Route 2 Machu Picchu to Cusco: Take an early bus up to Machu Picchu at 5.30 am. The city was built around 1440 AD as a country retreat for Incan nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Incan site for much longer. Take a guided tour around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters.

Route 3 Machu Picchu to Cusco: Take an early bus up to Machu Picchu at 5.30 am. The city was built around 1440 AD as a country retreat for Incan nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Incan site for much longer. Take a guided tour around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters.

For all travellers, after taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, it's time to catch the bus to Aguas Calientes where you’ll stop for lunch together. From here, take a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo, then drive back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Your tour comes to an end today and there are no activities planned. You may like to stay on for a few extra days to make the most of your visit here. We’ll be happy to assist in booking accommodation (subject to availability).

Inca Trail & Galapagos Tour (14 Day Adventure)

Unforgettable Journey with Aventuras Naturales

Welcome to Aventuras Naturales, the ultimate destination for extraordinary travel experiences. Embark on a 14-day adventure like no other with our Inca Trail & Galapagos Tour. This remarkable journey combines the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu with the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers seeking both cultural and natural wonders.

Exploring the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is a renowned hiking route in Peru that leads to the stunning archaeological site of Machu Picchu. This 14-day tour with Aventuras Naturales takes you on an immersive journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, tracing the footsteps of the ancient Incas.

Starting in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, you'll begin your trek and encounter remarkable Inca ruins, picturesque mountain passes, and breathtaking scenery along the way. Our expert guides will provide fascinating insights into the history and culture of the Incas, making your journey even more enriching and captivating.

Discovering the Galapagos Islands

After exploring the Inca Trail, it's time to immerse yourself in the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. Aventuras Naturales ensures that you have an unforgettable experience in this ecological paradise, where you'll encounter diverse animal species found nowhere else on Earth.

From swimming alongside sea turtles in crystal-clear waters to marveling at the majestic beauty of giant tortoises, the Galapagos Islands offer endless opportunities for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. Our expert naturalist guides will lead you through the islands, providing you with an in-depth understanding of the delicate ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

Creating Lasting Memories

At Aventuras Naturales, we believe that travel should be transformative and leave a lasting impact on your life. Our Inca Trail & Galapagos Tour is designed to provide you with extraordinary experiences, ensuring that every moment of your adventure is filled with awe and wonder.

During your 14-day journey, you'll have the chance to capture breathtaking photographs, meet fellow like-minded travelers, taste delicious local cuisine, and create memories that will stay with you forever. Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional service, ensuring your comfort and enjoyment throughout the entire tour.

Book Your Inca Trail & Galapagos Adventure Now!

Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands. Book your Inca Trail & Galapagos Tour with Aventuras Naturales today and embark on a truly unforgettable journey. Contact us now to secure your spot!

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Welcome to Aventuras Naturales

Galapagos & Inca Trail Adventure

Health Safety +

• This trip gives both trekkers and non-trekkers the chance to visit Machu Picchu with Inca Trail*, Quarry Trail and train options.
• Admire the ingenuity of Inca engineering in Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley) and contemplate how stone was excavated to build the structures still standing there.
• Explore Cusco, South America's oldest continuously inhabited city. The city has ancient foundations, an interesting blend of Incan and colonial influences, and seemingly endless things to do and see.
• Snorkel the incredible marine life-filled waters of Kicker Rock, also known as Leon Dormido, one of the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos and an absolute highlight for many travellers.
• Encounter the wildlife wonders of the Galapagos Islands up close. Giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas and more await.
• Hike to the top of one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos – the Sierra Negra – and peer into the second-largest caldera in the world.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• Hiking & Walking
• National Parks
• Nature & Wildlife
• Trekking & Expeditions

Destinations

• South America

Attractions

• Aguas Calientes
• Galapagos Islands
• Machu Picchu
• Ollantaytambo
• San Cristobal
• Wildlife viewing

Trip includes

• Quito - Historic District Walking Tour
• Isla San Cristobal- Snorkeling in La Loberia (1.5 Hours)
• San Cristobal - Excursion to Leon Dormido or Lobos Islands
• Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center (45 minutes)
• Isla San Cristobal - Cerro Tijeretas View Point (1 Hour)
• Floreana - Snorkeling
• Isla Isabela -Tintoreras or Shark Alley (2.5 Hours)
• Isla Isabela - Flamingo lagoon visit (30 Minutes)
• Isla Isabela - Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre (1 Hour)
• Isla Isabela - Kayaking
• Isla Isabela - Sierra Negra Volcano Hike (5-6 Hours)
• Santa Cruz Highlands Visit (3 Hours)
• Santa Cruz – Organic Farm Tour
• Santa Cruz – Encebollado Cooking Class
• Isla Santa Cruz - Tortuga Bay walk
• Isla Santa Cruz - The Galapagos Conservancy visit
• Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Centre
• Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk
• Sacred Valley - Community visit & lunch
• Sacred Valley - Coffee & cake
• 3 Night/4 Day Inca Trail (or 2 Night/3 Day Inca Quarry Trail) guided hike(s) with porters' support. Or guided Cusco stay (Machu Picchu by train)
• Machu Picchu - Guided tour

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Say goodbye to the glorious Galapagos today and return to Quito by plane, with a brief touchdown en route in Guayaquil. Arrive in Quito for a free afternoon and evening. As gorgeous as the islands were, perhaps take advantage of the cosmopolitan food and bar scene in Quito and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Your tour comes to an end today and there are no activities planned. You may like to stay on for a few extra days to make the most of your visit here. We’ll be happy to assist in booking accommodation (subject to availability).

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Intrepid Travel Reviews & Ratings

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If you’re looking for adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 25 years, we’ve been taking small groups of travelers on unforgettable trips around the world. What makes them unforgettable? Take a look for yourself and discover the Intrepid experience.

Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

Why Intrepid?

•   Small groups - average of 10 people per trip
•   Sustainability - pioneers for the industry
•   Local leaders - authentic perspectives
•   Local transport - get close and personal
•   Local accommodation - experience real living
•   Intrepid travelers - like-minded companions 

Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

• Integrity – Doing the right thing
• Responsible – Think global, act local
• Growth – Stakeholders in our own success
• Innovation – Thriving on new ideas and embracing change
• Fun – It’s engrained into who we are and what we do
• Passion – We are inspired by the work we do and the trips we offer

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INCA TRAIL TREK TO MACHU PICCHU AND GALAPAGOS ISLANDS CRUISE

Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands Cruise

Trek the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and then swim with the sea lions on a cruise through the enchanted Galapagos Islands. The trip begins with acclimatizing hikes to impressive ruins in Cusco and the Sacred Valley to help get you acclimatize, but also because these sites shouldn’t be missed!

On this unique 5 day Inca Trail trek you begin hiking after the hordes have departed on the traditional trek, so you can hike and camp in relative solitude away from the masses of other trekkers. This schedule also gives you more time to explore ruins along the way and at Machu Picchu.

In the Galapagos Islands, you board the Archipel I & II Catamarans for a cruise around the islands. You experience the unique ecosystems of each island and see tons of incredible wildlife by walking, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Trip Length : 14 or 18 Days Destinations : Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, Sacred Valley, Cusco, Galapagos Islands Lodging : Comfortable camping, boutique 3-star plus hotels, and tourist superior cruise Activities : Trekking, Inca ruins, cultural experiences, naturalist walks, kayaking, snorkeling, wildlife viewing

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Why This Trip 

Trek the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and then swim with the sea lions on a cruise through the enchanted Galapagos Islands. The trip begins with acclimatizing hikes to impressive ruins in Cusco and the Sacred Valley to help get you acclimatize, but also because these sites shouldn’t be missed! On this unique 5 day Inca Trail trek you begin hiking after the hordes have departed on the traditional trek, so you can hike and camp in relative solitude away from the masses of other trekkers. This schedule also gives you more time to explore ruins along the way and at Machu Picchu. In the Galapagos Islands, you board the Archipel I & II Catamarans for a cruise around the islands. You experience the unique ecosystems of each island and see tons of incredible wildlife by walking, kayaking, and snorkeling. 

Unique 5 Day Inca Trail Trek Itinerary Avoids The Crowds

You'll start hiking in the early afternoon on the first day, rather than in the morning. This puts you in between the massive groups that start every morning. This gives you as much solitude as possible while hiking and camping. You'll also have more time to relax and to explore ruins along the way.

See Machu Picchu Twice!

You'll arrive to Machu Picchu through the Gate of the Sun on the early afternoon of Day 8. You have the entire afternoon and early evening to hike the last mile down to the ruins, plenty of time to soak in the view. You spend the night at a hotel, and then go back to Machu Picchu for the second time, for your in depth tour of the ruins.

Very Comfortable Tent Camping

You'll have three hot, delicious meals a day while camping, with snacks in between, and plenty of coca tea or coffee to get you going in the morning. Porters carry your personal and group gear, so all you need to carry is your day pack. Spacious two person tents and thick, full length Therma-Rest pads make for great sleep!

Close Encounters With Unique Wildlife

You'll get up close and personal with all of the amazing wildlife of the Galapagos: frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, iguanas, giant tortoises, finches, sea lions, sharks, sea turtles, rays, penguins, waved albatross, flightless cormorants, red-footed boobies, flamingos, and so much more.

Snorkeling, Walking, & Kayaking

Each day you'll have excursions out in the islands to see wildlife and to explore the different ecosystems. You'll be snorkeling, walking, paddling, and taking zodiac (small motorized boat) rides along the shore. You'll usually have two to four excursions a day, ranging from one to three hours each. In between, you'll have time to relax on board.

Cruise In Style

All of the cabins on the Archipel I & II are on the main deck, and have picture windows, air conditioning, private bathrooms, and your choice of two twin beds or one double bed. While the cabins are cozy, the common areas are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of indoor and outdoor (sunny and shaded) places to stretch out and relax.

14 or 18 Days, starting in Lima and ending in Quito

• Easy day hikes to Inca ruins in Cusco and Sacred Valley while acclimatizing and warming up for your trek
• Unique 5 Day Inca Trail itinerary that keeps you away from the crowds
• Visit Machu Picchu twice
• Cruise around the Galapagos Islands in style for your choice of 4 days or 8 days
• See incredible wildlife up close by walking, kayaking, and snorkeling every day

Departures every Friday, from March to December

• Trip departures guaranteed with 2 travelers
• Availability is dependent on Inca Trail permits and cruise space
• Small groups average 6 trekkers on the Inca Trail, and 16 passengers on the Galapagos cruise
• Maximum Group Size: 16
• World class English speaking guides

$5,245 - $8,110 per person (double occupancy)

• 3 Nights comfortable full service camping with porters, cooks and world-class guides
• 3 Nights in Cusco at Quinta San Blas Hotel
• 1 Night in the Sacred Valley at Hotel Pakaritampu
• 1 Night in Aguas Calientes at El Mapi by Inkaterra
• 3 or 7 Nights in the Galapagos on board the Archipel I & II Catamarans

SLOW DOWN, YOU'RE MOVING TOO FAST . . .

Don't just check machu picchu & the galapagos off your list.  take enough time to experience these amazing places. get away from the crowds, meet local people, see the best sites. come home relaxed and rejuvenated..

DAY 1 : Arrive in Lima, and overnight at the airport hotel (not very exciting, but after a day of travel, convenience is best!) (Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel).

DAY 2: Arrive Cusco, “Local’s Guide to Cusco” walking tour of the town (Quinta San Blas Hotel in Cusco). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch DAY 3: Hike to explore Cusco and nearby ruins like Sacsayhuaman, Tambo Machay, and the Temple of the Moon (Quinta San Blas Hotel in Cusco). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch DAY 4 : Hike Moray ruins to Maras salt pans and the Sacred Valley (Hotel Pakaritampu in Ollantaytambo). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch DAY 5: Inca Trail: Explore the old Inca town of Ollantaytambo and it’s hilltop ruins in the morning & start the Inca Trail after lunch with a mellow walk above the Urubamba River (camp beside spectacular ruins of Llactapata). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 6 : Inca Trail: Climb gently from camp to the last settlement along the trail, then climb more steeply on a beautiful Inca trail to Llulluchapampa (camp with outstanding views at Llulluchapampa). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 7: Inca Trail: Today is the hardest day. Climb to the highest point on the Inca Trail at Dead Woman’s Pass, descend to the Pacasmayo Valley, then climb again to the  ruins at Runkuracay and another high pass, before descending a bit to the ruins at Phuyupatamarca (camp at Phuyupatamarca, "the place above the clouds"). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8: Inca Trail: Wake up to stunning views of Mounts Salcantay and Veronica, then descend through the cloudforest to the ruins of Wiña Wayna before arrive to Inti Punku, the Gate of the Sun, and the entrance to Machu Picchu. After enjoying the view, head to your hotel in town for a hot shower and comfortable hotel. (El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra in Aguas Calientes). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 9: Head back to Machu Picchu early in the morning for a guided tour and time to explore, then return to Aguas Calientes to catch the train and return to Cusco. (Quinta San Blas Hotel in Cusco). Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunc h DAY 10: Travel day! Fly to Guayaquil, Ecuador, to start the next part of your journey. (Hotel Oro Verde in Guayaquil). Meals Included: Breakfast

DAYS 11 - 14 : In the morning, you fly from Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands. and you have your first excursion in the islands. You spend your days going snorkeling, on naturalist walks, and paddling kayaks in search of wildlife. You'll have two to four excursions each day, with downtime between each one. You'll snorkel with sea lions, sea turtles, and penguins. You'll see colonies of blue-footed boobies, and roam with the giant tortoises. The iguanas will be sunbathing or searching for food. And so much more! (Overnight on board the Archipel I & II Catamarans). Meals Included: All meals through Breakfast on the last day

DAYS 11 - 18 : In the morning of Day 11, you fly from Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands. and you have your first excursion in the islands. You spend your days going snorkeling, on naturalist walks, and paddling kayaks in search of wildlife. You'll have two to four excursions each day, with downtime between each one. You'll snorkel with sea lions, sea turtles, and penguins. You'll see colonies of blue-footed boobies, and roam with the giant tortoises. The iguanas will be sunbathing or searching for food. A longer cruise takes you to the more remote islands in the Galapagos, where you can see more isolated wildlife, like the waved albatross or flightless cormorant. And so much more! (Overnight on board the Archipel I & II Catamarans). Meals Included: All meals through Breakfast on the last day

On the last day of your trip, DAY 14 or 18 , you'll have one last excursion in the morning, and then head back to mainland Ecuador. You can fly into Quito or Guayaquil. From there, you'll bid adiós to South America and head home. 

LEAVE A POSITIVE TRACE

Just by taking this trip you are making the world a better place., amazonas explorer, your local tour operator in peru:.

• Is the only Tour Operator in Peru who is a member of 1% For the Planet, donating 1% of sales annually to reforest the Lares Valley. Working with local communities they have planted over 500,00 trees there
• Is a member of Travelers Against Plastic. You will be provided a re-usable metal water bottle and fresh water to keep it filled.
• Has a Porter Protection Policy pays higher wages, provides training, and provides for transportation, good food, and shelter for porters. Porters can move up to become cooks and even guides.
• Recently became Peru's first certified B Coporation, changing their business charter to emphasize social and environmental good.

LOCAL OPERATORS: AMAZONAS EXPLORER AND ANDEAN TRAVEL COMPANY

For more than 30 years Amazonas Explorer has used a different approach in leading high-quality trips and adventures in South America. While the company had its beginnings in adventure tourism, its success in building a strong team of knowledgeable guides has enhanced its ability to offer a range of innovative cultural tours. By raft, bike, foot, horse and even paddleboard, travelers are immersed in their surroundings to explore in unique ways the highlights of southern Peru, the company’s home turf. Every adventure with Amazonas Explorer is treated with impeccable care and top-notch services, all focused on the client’s comfort and safety.

The current owners, while originally from the United Kingdom, have lived and played in the Cusco region for more than 20 years. The itineraries they’ve crafted are based on places they love and activities they enjoy. Their obvious love for Peru shines through in the company’s efforts to maximize benefits to local economies and to promote responsible tourism across the country. Beginning in the home office, its professionally trained guides, cooks and support crew are well cared for as they build rewarding careers for themselves within the hierarchy of the company. With more than 20 office staff and a Peruvian team total of nearly 200, Amazonas Explorer prides itself on being a great place to work. On an Inca Trail hiking trip, for instance, it is likely you will have the support of porters who have been with the company more than 10 years. Amazonas has a porter protection policy in place and all employees enjoy the provisions of proper working conditions, fair wages, quality gear, and insurance.

Dedicated to sustainable tourism projects in alliance with local communities, Amazonas Explorer purchases local food and, when available, local equipment and gear. Its exceptional cultural experiences include engagement with local people and opportunities for travelers to purchase local crafts and weavings directly from their source. The largely paperless company takes significant steps to further reduce its carbon impact by minimizing its impact to the environment with small group sizes, smart transportation choices, recycling whatever it can, cooking with gas not kerosene or firewood and carefully disposing of all waste generated on trips. Above all, the entire crew of experts holds collective focus on safety and on providing memorable experiences that are equal to none. Amazonas Explorer is also a member of One Percent for the Planet, donating annually its time and money to reforestation efforts in Peru’s Lares Valley.

Andean Travel Company was set up in 2001 as a tour operator specialized in Incoming Tourism and focused on providing unique itineraries and services that surpass expectations of the most demanding customers. Strong foundations based on respect and cooperation have ensured a steady growth of the company, both in size and reputation.

Nowadays, Andean Travel Company arranges all services for travelers from around the world so they can enjoy and get to know the diversity of the vast destinations that South America has to offer.

The main compromise for Andean Travel Company is to work in the field of sustainable tourism and interact with communities in conservation projects, coaching it’s members and sharing their knowledge about preservation of natural resources.

With that in mind the company offers this approach as part of the interaction with the local communities in lodging conditioned to serve with high quality services and strong conservation policies, ensuring the decimation of unfavorable impacts on the nature surroundings.

Click the Abbreviated Itinerary to see the Detailed Itinerary

Itineraries: All itineraries have the same Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu. The Archipel I & II Galapagos Cruises are sister ships that have slightly different itineraries.

18 Day Itinerary A (on the Archipel I) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center & Frigate Hill (yacht) DAY 12: Santa Fe Island & South Plaza Island (yacht) DAY 13: North Seymour Island & Sombrero Chino (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station (yacht) DAY 15: Isabela Island: Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay (yacht) DAY 16: Isabela Island: Tagus Cove & Fernandina Island: Punta Espinoza (yacht) DAY 17: Santiago Island: Egas Port & Rabida Island (yacht) DAY 18: Santa Cruz Island: Las Bachas & Depart Galapagos

DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru

Fly Home – Lima (flights are not included, and can be arranged on your own or with our flight partners at Exito Travel). Upon arrival, you will walk to the Lima Airport Hotel (less than 300m away from the aiport) for the night.

Overnight in Lima: Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel or similar Meals Included: None

DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local’s Tour of Cusco

You will walk to the departures terminal in the morning (about 5 minutes). Fly Lima – Cusco (flights are not included, and can be arranged on your own or with our flight partners at Exito Travel).

On arrival from your spectacular flight along the Andes to Cusco, you will be met and escorted to your hotel. After some time to check in you are introduced to Cusco with the “Locals’ guide to Cusco” tour. This short walking tour is a great way to get your bearings, stretch your legs after traveling and experience hiking at 3,300 meters.

The beautiful historic center was declared a World Heritage Site in 1983 with Inca and colonial architecture evident all around. At a convenient time your guide will arrange a full briefing for the days ahead.

Overnight in Cusco: Hotel Quinta San Blas or similar Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike

Today you stretch your legs with a delightful hike in the hills above Cusco. First you visit the impressive site of Sacsayhuaman. Huge stone ramparts surround a beautiful grass amphitheater. Once the scene of fierce battles it now hosts the recreation of traditional Inca ceremonies such as Inti Raymi and Warachikuy.

Next is the Inca water temple of Tambo Machay lying at 3,700 meters (12,000 feet) followed by a special picnic lunch. From here it is all downhill to Cusco, stopping at the Temple of the Moon and other historical sites along the way.

Hiking distance: 8km / 5mi Hiking time: A full day includes time to explore Hiking Elevation: 3750 to 3300m / 12,303ft to 10,827ft

DAY 4): Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans

Leaving Cusco behind you start your journey to Machu Picchu. The hike starts at the fascinating circular ruins of Moray. While some think it was a landing pad for alien spaceships, more likely is that the Incas built this as an experimental agricultural center.

Concentric circular terraces allowed them to simulate different facing slopes and different growing temperatures to see what crops would grow where. With another homemade picnic along the way you hike on down, past the spectacular salt pans of Maras to end in the Sacred Valley.

Hiking distance: 11km / 7mi Hiking time: 6 hours includes time to explore Hiking Elevation: 3532 m to 4050m / 11,588ft to 13,288ft

Overnight in the Sacred Valley: Hotel Pakaritampu or similar Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail

Your five-day Inca Trail is carefully tailored to avoid the crowds. By leaving later than everyone else, and allowing an extra day, you spend the whole trail out of sync with other tourists. Thus you will literally have the trail to yourself.

This morning you visit the old Inca town of Ollantaytambo. After a look around and some lunch you have a short drive to the trailhead at Piscacucho (km 82). Here you meet the porters and cooks that will support your journey to Machu Picchu. With the crowds now long gone, you hike an undulating trail above the Urubamba River to camp beside the spectacular ruins of Llactapata (2,788 meters/9,146 feet).

While walking all you need to carry is a daypack. Your luggage is carried by the porters, your tents are put up for you and your food is prepared for you. All you have to do is shoulder your daypack and enjoy the walking.

Total distance: 5km (3.1mi) Estimated walking time: 2.5 – 3 hours Maximum altitude point: 2,650m (8,690ft) Campsite altitude: 2,650m (8,690ft)

Overnight: Comfortable tent camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa

After a hearty breakfast you climb gently up the Cusichaca valley to the small hamlet of Huayllabamba. This is the last inhabited place on the trail. A little steeper now, you head up the beautiful Inca path, past hummingbirds and stunted cloud forest to your camp at Llulluchapampa (3,680 meters/12,073 feet).

This beautiful grassy area has outstanding views and you may be even see the Andean deer that come to feed here.

Total distance: 12km (7.5mi) Estimated walking time: 5 – 6 hours Maximum altitude point: 3,850m (12,590ft) Campsite altitude: 3,850m (12,590ft)

DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca

Today is the most challenging day but also the most exhilarating. You climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,212 meters/13,819 feet) the high point of the trail before dropping into the Pacasmayo valley. Climbing once more you pass the Inca control post of Runkuracay to the second pass of the day (3,998 meters/13,117 feet). On a clear day there are spectacular views toward Pumahuanca mountain in the Vilcabamba range.

You continue on well preserved Inca trail to Sayacmarca. Located at the junction of two old Inca roads, historians still argue over its exact purpose. A few more gentle ups and downs and you arrive to your stunning campsite for the night at Phuyupatamarca, or “the place above the clouds” (3,650 meters/11,975 feet).

Total distance: 15km (9.3mi) Estimated walking time: 8 hours Maximum altitude point: 4,200m (13,780ft) Campsite altitude: 3,600m (12,030ft)

DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu

This is the day you finally reach Machu Picchu. As you step out of your tent the views are stunning. Perhaps you will see the sun rising over the snow-capped mountains of Salkantay (6,200 meters/20,341 feet) and Veronica (5,800 meters/19,029 feet).

Or perhaps you will have a cloud inversion, with the clouds filling the valleys beneath your feet. After saying a fond farewell to your porters it is time to put on your boots and head to Machu Picchu.

You descend through the cloud forest on beautiful Inca stairways, to Winay Wayna, another interesting ruin full of swallows and orchids. Finally you contour the hillside to arrive at Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun. As you step through the old stone gateway Machu Picchu appears laid out before your eyes.

After plenty of photos you carry on past this wonder of the world to catch the bus down to the colorful town of Machu Picchu Pueblo and a well-deserved hotel and shower.

Total distance: 11km (6.8mi) Estimated walking time: 5 hours Maximum altitude point: 3,600m (11,770ft) Hotel altitude: 2,400m (7,870ft)

Overnight in Aguas Calientes: El MaPi by Inkaterra or similar Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco

Relaxed after a comfortable night, you head back up to Machu Picchu for your fully guided tour before the crowds arrive. There is time afterwards to hike to the Inca Bridge, Watchman’s Hut or to wander through the ruins soaking up the atmosphere. In the afternoon you descend to the waiting train to enjoy one of the great train journeys of the world back towards Cusco.

Overnight in Cusco: Hotel Quinta San Blas or similar Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the Cusco Airport in time for your departing flight. Fly Cusco – Lima – Guayaquil, Ecuador (flights are not included, and can be arranged on your own or with our flight partners at Exito Travel).

Upon arrival, you will be met by the hotel airport shuttle, and taken to your hotel in the heart of Guayaquil.

Overnight in Guayaquil: Hotel Oro Verde or similar Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center & Frigate Hill

You will take the hotel airport shuttle back to the Guayaquil Airport in time for your flight to the Galapagos. Fly Guayaquil – San Cristobal, Galapagos (flight is not included, but will be arranged through your cruise operator, via Detour).

AM: Arrival at San Cristobal airport Upon arrival at San Cristobal airport, you will pass through an airport inspection point to insure that no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the islands, as well as to pay the park entrance fee of $100 (unless it has been prepaid). A guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage, and escort you on a short bus ride to the harbor.

PM: San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Centre and Frigatebird Hill The Interpretation Centre, just outside the provincial capital city of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, gives a perfect explanation of this unique archipelago. Its attractive exhibition is quite complete and helps you to get a clear overview and learn what makes this archipelago so unique.

Information panels (in English and Spanish), pictures, documents, maquettes, and true-to-life dioramas tell various background and conservation stories about the islands in a different way. A short, though often hot, uphill trail with steps, leads from the Interpretation Centre to the summit of Frigatebird Hill. Four panoramic viewpoints show Puerto Baquerizo Moreno from above, as well as the bays on both sides of the headland.

On clear days even the distant, offshore sculpture of Kicker Rock can be seen! These wooded hilltops are one of the rare places where some magnificent and great frigatebirds form a mixed breeding colony. A viewpoint with another Charles Darwin statue is a reminder that the HMS Beagle anchored in the exotic bay below.

Overnight: On board the Archipel I Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12: Santa Fe Island & South Plaza Island

AM: Santa Fe Island Located in the southeastern part of the Galapagos, this island was formed from an uplift instead of a volcanic origin, which is why it is mostly flat. Some theories assure this could be the oldest island in the archipelago. Santa Fe is the home of several endemic species like the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, Galapagos mockingbird, rice rats and one of the two species of land iguanas of the islands.

After disembarking in the beautiful and clear waters, you will be in contact with one of the many sea lion colonies. Along the trail, many salt bushes can be seen as well as giant prickly pear cactus, gigantism is a characteristic of oceanic islands.

PM: South Plaza Island South Plaza is located to the east of Santa Cruz Island, and forms part of a pair of islands known as “Islas Plazas”. Despite its small size, some of the most interesting and outstanding species of the Galapagos are found here. The Plazas land iguanas are smaller than their relatives found on other islands.

There are several hybrid iguanas throughout the island; a result of crossing a marine iguana with a land iguana. They are unique and recognizable at first glance by their black/grey color, with a land iguana’s crest, but the face and tail of the marine iguana.

The big population of iguanas is due to the presence of prickly pears, their favorite food. Swallow-tailed gulls nesting in the rugged cliffs are seen along with other sea birds as Audubon shearwaters, red-billed tropicbirds, frigate birds and brown pelicans.

Overnight: On board the Archipel I Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13: North Seymour Island & Sombrero Chino

AM: North Seymour Island Seymour is an uplifted (as opposed to volcanic) island and therefore is generally flat and strewn with boulders. There are good nesting sites here for a large population of magnificent frigate birds.

Blue-footed boobies perform their courtship dance in the more open areas and swallow-tailed gulls perch on the cliff edges. Despite the tremendous surf that can pound the outer shore, sea lions haul out onto the beach and can be found bodysurfing.

PM: Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino) Chinese Hat is a 52 m/170 ft high volcanic cone, forming another islet right off the rocky coast of Santiago, where a small colony of Galapagos penguins have settled. Approaching Chinese Hat from the north, you will understand the meaning of the name. This is an excellent place to learn more about volcanoes, lava bombs and lava tunnels.

You will arrive just in time to witness how this barren islet is colonized by pioneer species that have begun to sprout! Beautiful beaches of white coral sand and holes in the eroding lava fields are filled up with lava sand, which enables rooting. Galapagos sea lions and countless marine iguanas contribute to fertilization and thus create many favorable options for newcomers, such as saltbush and the sesuvium carpet.

DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station

AM: Santa Cruz Island Highlands: Twin Craters and El Chato Reserve

The native scalesia forest of El Chato Tortoise Reserve is the best place to search for Galapagos giant tortoises in their most authentic setting! Despite the interesting breeding centers – where you are guaranteed to find tortoises in their corrals – there is nothing better than to observe them in their wild environment.

Though it can be quite moist and muddy, your visit may turn into an adventurous quest when they have left their favorite pond silently. The Twin Craters are found on either side of the road leading to Puerto Ayora.

These impressive formations are not really volcanic craters and were formed by magma domes, which hardened on the outside while the lava continued flowing inside, leaving huge and empty magma chambers that eventually collapsed, leaving two large holes.

The craters lie within a lush scalesia cloud forest, a high-altitude plant species that are endemic to the Galapagos. This area is also home to the carpenter finch, which uses tools to search for food. There may also be opportunities to see the vermillion flycatcher, a small red-breasted bird.

PM: Santa Cruz Island: Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre & Charles Darwin Research Station At this site, you can observe tortoises that come from various islands of the archipelago. They comply with the captive breeding program and then return to repopulate the areas where their population has been affected. The land iguanas of Santa Cruz, Isabela and North Seymour are also in a captive breeding program, as the populations in these areas suffered from feral dogs.

One of the main attractions is the famous embalmed Lonesome George. Estimated to have died between 93 and 109 years of age, it is recognized as the last of its kind and a symbol of the efforts invested to conserve endangered species. The captive tortoises are used to the presence of visitors, so it’s a great place to take photos with them.

DAY 15: Isabela Island: Moreno Point & Elizabeth Bay

AM: Isabela Island: Moreno Point Moreno Point is located on the north coast of Isabela Island, between the volcanos Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul. The trail runs along a solidified pahoehoe lava flow into a complex of coastal lagoons. Its main attractions are several species of birds, which are found around the lakes and mangroves.

PM: Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay This is a marine visitor site, so the excursion has no landing point. Your dinghy ride starts with a visit to the Marielas islets where the largest and most important penguin colony resides in the Galapagos Islands. The excursion continues into the cove, surrounded by red mangroves where you can admire their red roots and green leaves.

Here, you can observe sea turtles, flightless cormorants, spotted eagle rays, golden rays, brown pelicans and sea lions. Frequent visitors have been able to see Galapagos hawks soaring overhead with schools of pompano and dorado fish swimming down below.

DAY 16: Isabela Island: Tagus Cove & Fernandina Island: Espinoza Point

AM: Isabela Island: Tagus Cove A tour along the cliffs in a dinghy will give the visitors a good chance to see the Galapagos penguin, the flightless cormorant and other sea birds. From the landing dock, it is about a 30-minute hike along the trail up to the top of the cliff from where you can view Darwin Lake, an uplifted ultra saline lake saltier than the sea.

You can also see several volcanoes from this location. Look carefully at the graffiti on the surrounding cliffs of the cove! They were written by pirates, whalers and buccaneers in past centuries.

PM: Fernandina Island: Espinoza Point Fernandina is the third-largest island in the archipelago and has a single visitor site: Punta Espinoza, located at the northeastern tip of the island. Marine iguanas conglomerate in larger groups than on any other island.

They bask around in the sand, swim near the shore and sometimes block the way at the landing dock. Among the unique species found here, is the flightless cormorant. This bird had to adjust its way of survival and perfection its skills of finding food in the ocean. Their wings, tails and feet progressively adapted for swimming. To see these birds is to witness evolution happening right in front of you.

DAY 17: Santiago Island: Egas Port & Rabida Island

AM: Santiago Island: Egas Port Puerto Egas is a black beach located on the west side of Santiago Island. Volcanic tuff deposits have favored the formation of this special black sand beach and this is the main attraction of the Island. This site is called Puerto Egas because there was an attempt of Hector Egas to start the exploitation of salt, which failed.

After all, the price of salt on the continent was very cheap and did not justify its exploitation in the Galapagos. The project was abandoned and they left their infrastructure.

PM: Rábida Island Rábida Island is unique because of the red color of the rocks and sand. The volcanic material in this island is very porous and external factors such as rain, saltwater and sea breeze have acted as an oxidizing agent.

A short walk along a trail will lead you to a coastal lagoon behind the beach that allows for the observation of land birds as finches, doves, yellow warblers and mockingbirds. There is also a colony of flamingos at the lagoon.

DAY 18: Santa Cruz Island: Las Bachas Beach & Depart Galapagos

AM: Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach These two small beaches are found to the west of Turtle Cove. Their sand is made of decomposed coral, which makes it white and soft, making it a favourite nesting site for sea turtles. There is a small brackish water lagoon behind one of the beaches, where occasionally it is possible to observe flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilts and whimbrels.

The other beach is longer, but it has two old barges that were abandoned during the Second World War, when the USA used Baltra Island as a strategic point to protect the Panama Channel.

PM: Transfer to Baltra Airport After your last excursion, you will be taken to the Baltra Airport for your flight to Quito or Guayaquil (flights are not included, but will be arranged through your cruise operator, via Detour).

From Quito or Guayaquil, you will catch your international flight home, arriving home the following day (flights are not included, and can be arranged on your own or with our flight partners at Exito Travel).

Meals Included: Breakfast

18 Day Itinerary A (on the Archipel II) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. San Cristobal Island: Cerro Colorado (yacht) DAY 12: South Plaza Island & Santa Fe Island (yacht) DAY 13: Sombrero Chino & Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station & Highlands (yacht) DAY 15: Isabela Island: Tintoreras, Tortoise Breeding Center, & Wetlands (yacht) DAY 16: Isabela Island: Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay (yacht) DAY 17: Isabela Island: Tagus Cove & Fernandina Island: Punta Espinoza (yacht) DAY 18: Santa Cruz Island: Las Bachas Beach & Depart Galapagos

Fly Home – Lima (flights are not included, and can be arranged on your own or with our flight partners at Exito Travel). Upon arrival, you will walk to the Lima Airport Hotel (a couple of minutes walking) for the night.

DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans

This morning you visit the old Inca town of Ollantaytambo. After a look around and some lunch you have a short drive to the trailhead at Piscacucho (km 82). Here you meet the porters and cooks that will support your journey to Machu Picchu.

With the crowds now long gone, you hike an undulating trail above the Urubamba River to camp beside the spectacular ruins of Llactapata (2,788 meters/9,146 feet). While walking all you need to carry is a daypack. Your luggage is carried by the porters, your tents are put up for you and your food is prepared for you. All you have to do is shoulder your daypack and enjoy the walking.

After a hearty breakfast you climb gently up the Cusichaca valley to the small hamlet of Huayllabamba. This is the last inhabited place on the trail. A little steeper now, you head up the beautiful Inca path, past hummingbirds and stunted cloud forest to your camp at Llulluchapampa (3,680 meters/12,073 feet). This beautiful grassy area has outstanding views and you may be even see the Andean deer that come to feed here.

This is the day you finally reach Machu Picchu. As you step out of your tent the views are stunning. Perhaps you will see the sun rising over the snow-capped mountains of Salkantay (6,200 meters/20,341 feet) and Veronica (5,800 meters/19,029 feet). Or perhaps you will have a cloud inversion, with the clouds filling the valleys beneath your feet. After saying a fond farewell to your porters it is time to put on your boots and head to Machu Picchu.

You descend through the cloud forest on beautiful Inca stairways, to Winay Wayna, another interesting ruin full of swallows and orchids. Finally you contour the hillside to arrive at Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun. As you step through the old stone gateway Machu Picchu appears laid out before your eyes. After plenty of photos you carry on past this wonder of the world to catch the bus down to the colorful town of Machu Picchu Pueblo and a well-deserved hotel and shower.

DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. San Cristobal Island: Cerro Colorado

AM: Arrival at San Cristobal Airport Upon arrival at San Cristóbal Airport, a check-up is carried out first, to ensure that no foreign plant or animal species are introduced on the islands. Furthermore, your TCC (Transit Control Card) is stamped; this must be kept safe during your trip, as it has to be presented again on your return flight. In addition, entrance to the Galapagos National Park is due for entry (US $ 100), if this has not yet been paid.

Your guide will meet you at the airport, assist you with the luggage and accompany you on the short bus ride to the port of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Here you will climb aboard the catamaran Archipel I. After greeting the crew and the captain, your cabins will be assigned to you and then you will enjoy your first lunch on-board.

PM: Cerro Colorado (San Cristobal) Cerro Colorado Tortoises Protection and Growing Centre, is located at approximately 40 minutes by bus to the southeast of the island. This centre was built to improve the status of the population of the island tortoises. It includes a large corral, a visitor centre, breeding centre and an interpretive trail.

Along this trail it is possible to see different species of native and endemic plants as well as birds including the San Cristobal Mockingbird, Yellow Warblers, and many species of finches and the Galapagos flycatcher.

Overnight: On board the Archipel II Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12: South Plaza Island & Santa Fe Island

AM: South Plaza After breakfast you will enjoy an unforgettable guided walk on South Plaza, the best place to encounter endemic Galapagos land iguanas, patient and photogenic models. You can also look out for some of the unique hybrids between the male marine iguana and female land iguana.

Arriving at the upper rim, about 20m/75ft downwards impressively droning waves splash against the foot of soaring cliffs. Clouds of petrels, storm petrels, shearwaters and brown noddies make spectacular flights and sometimes look like they’re walking on the waves.

Take your binoculars and don’t miss the red-billed tropicbird with its graceful long tail and spectacular mating fights. These cliffs are also a nesting place for the endemic swallow-tailed gull.

PM: Barrington Bay (Santa Fe) After lunch you will land right in the middle of a Galapagos sea lion colony on the beach, where you will have time for a refreshing swim or excellent snorkeling among tropical reef fish in the crystal-clear azure waters of Barrington Bay.

You will also encounter bizarre giant prickly pear cactus (opuntia) forests. These are the largest cacti on the islands, with extremely thick trunks, and can grow over 10m/33ft tall! At the end of the morning we have a wet landing at the beach of Santa Fe where we have a guided nature walk.

This extraordinary island is a remnant of probably the most ancient volcano on the Galapagos. Your guide will decide whether the easy shorter circuit is followed, or a strenuous longer hike land inward (moderate level; about 3km/2mi).

DAY 13: Sombrero Chino & Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill

AM: Chinese Hat Chinese Hat is a 52m/170ft high volcanic cone, forming another islet right out off the rocky coast of Santiago, where a small colony of Galapagos penguins has settled. Because its primordial fire has been extinguished recently, this is an excellent place to learn more about volcanism, lava bombs and lava tunnels.

On the beach you can also find curious pillow-type lavas with coral heads on top! These spheres have a submarine origin before being lifted above sea level. Beaches of white coral sand grow, and holes in the eroding lava fields are filled up with lava sand, which enables rooting. Galapagos sea lions and countless marine iguanas contribute to fertilization.

All together create more favorable options for newcomers, like saltbush and the discoloring sesuvium carpet. Colonization of Chinese Hat can occur in a much higher pace than elsewhere, hence Santiago is just a stone’s throw away.

PM: Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz) The Dragon Hill has been open to the public since 1993 and is located in the north-west of the island of Santa Cruz. A path leads to a salted water lagoon behind the beach, which is visited by flamingos, ducks and other bird species. This place was re-populated with land iguanas of Seymour, Isabela and Santa Cruz. From the top of the hill you have a beautiful view of the bay.

DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station & Highlands

AM: Charles Darwin Station (Santa Cruz) Our dinghies will bring you to the touristic pier of Puerto Ayora, from where you will be brought to the Charles Darwin Research Station. This is where biological research and indispensable conservation management of this unique archipelago are carried out.

The complex houses interpretation and information centres about the National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve. The most memorable part of your visit will probably be the successful breeding centre and the enclosures with Galapagos giant tortoises. Afterwards, you will have some free time to stroll around.

PM: Highlands (Santa Cruz) Because wild Galapagos giant tortoises don’t stop at official National Park boundaries, dozens of them also roam on the adjacent woodlands in the populated agricultural zone of Santa Cruz. Thanks to their concentration around their favorite muddy pools, these semi-open pastures and moist scalesia-woodlands are the best place for a visit.

DAY 15: Isablea Island: Tintorerras, Tortoise Breeding Center, & Wetlands

AM: Las Tintoreras (Isabela) Just outside the harbor of Puerto Villamil a group of islets protrude just above the ocean. The jagged black formations, dotted with mangrove and candelabra cactus, are the remnants of a lava stream that has ended up in the ocean. Marine life gets trapped, including spectacular white tip reef sharks (called “tintoreras” in Spanish, as is the site’s official name).

This species of shark is fairly common in the archipelago, and generally spotted on the seabed when snorkeling, while they rest from their nocturnal hunts. At this unique location you can observe them comfortably from the bank in the crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Sometimes turtles and elegant white-spotted eagle rays or golden rays glide back and forth through this calm channel, as well as smaller fish and Galapagos sea lions. Also, this is where the largest species of marine iguanas reproduce. The rocky shoreline with its intertidal life also attracts sally lightfoot crabs, lava herons and Galapagos penguins, which reside on the other (western) side of Isabela.

PM: Tortoise breeding centre & Wetlands Isabela Island is the largest and one of the youngest islands in the Galapagos archipelago. We land in Puerto Villamil, which has the second smallest population in the Galapagos with approximately 3000 habitants. First, we will visit the Flamingos Lagoon; the largest coastal lagoon found in the Galapagos and one of the main reproductive sites for the greater flamingos.

On your visit to Colorado Hill, you will get to discover the amazing and emblematic giant Galapagos tortoises in the Tortoise breeding centre, and maybe even get to see one hatch (seasonally)! In addition, you will get to see how much hard work is put into saving the last local giants of San Cristobal.

DAY 16: Isabela Island: Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay

AM: Punta Moreno (Isabela) Punta Moreno is located between the volcanoes Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul, on the north coast of Isabela Island. The trail leads along the lava river Pahoehoe to a complex of several coastal lagoons. The main attraction are various bird species which can be found in lakes and mangrove forests.

PM: Elizabeth Bay The inflatable dinghy will turn landwards, leaving the surf behind and entering the calm estuary of Elizabeth Bay through a narrow entrance. Graceful Pacific green turtles swim gracefully around you, sometimes popping up their heads to take a breath.

You might also see spotted eagle rays or sharks. Brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies show diverging plunge-diving techniques, while lava herons and great blue herons prefer to wait patiently for what comes along. You can also compare the huge red mangroves with black, white and button mangroves.

DAY 17: Isabela Island: Tagus Cove & Fernandina Island: Punta Espinoza

AM: Tagus Cove (Isabela) In the morning we will enter the Bolivar Channel to Tagus Cove (navigation time: 3h). Meanwhile you can enjoy the delicious lunch buffet before snorkeling and visiting Tagus Cove. Explosive eruptions have blown out a part of the outer rims of both tuff cones, and created their characteristic horseshoe shapes and Tagus Cove.

The inner crater rim contains Darwin Lake. Traditionally sailors started to write the names of their vessels on the eastern cliffs of Tagus cove. During the hike along the inner crater ridge of Darwin Lake you can continue to a great viewpoint on the outer caldera rim, with views to the outstretched lava slopes of Darwin Volcano.

This arid inland zone is overgrown with characteristic tropical dry forest vegetation including a special variety of palo santo, Galapagos cotton and yellow cordia (muyuyu). During the hike you can spot different Darwin’s finches, flycatchers and Galapagos hawks.

PM: Punta Espinoza (Fernandina) Espinoza Point is Fernandina’s only terrestrial visitors site, and one of the few locations where you will find some bizarre outgrowths of natural selection. The figurehead is the emblematic flightless cormorant that lives exclusively in the remote west of Galapagos, and could be considered as the ‘holy grail of evolution’.

You will also love the almost unworldly views with the dominating cone of Volcán La Cumbre as a spectacular backdrop. The narrow headland that you walk along is the end of a lava tongue that has reached the coast and solidified upon contact with the cold seawater.

AM: Las Bachas (Santa Cruz) These two small beaches are located in the west of the Turtle Cove on Santa Cruz. Their sand consists of decomposed corals, which makes it white and soft. This makes it the favorite nesting site for sea turtles. Behind one of the beaches there are small water lagoons, where flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilt birds and rainbows, can occasionally be spotted.

On the second beach, which is the wider one, you can explore the remains of two abandoned warships. In the Second World War these were left by the US, as the island of Baltra was used as a strategic point for the protection of the Panama Canal.

18 Day Itinerary B (on the Archipel I) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. Mosquera Islet (yacht) DAY 12: Genovesa Island: Price Philip's Steps & Darwin Bay (yacht) DAY 13: Bartolome Island & Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station (yacht) DAY 15: Floreana Island: Cormorant Point, Devil's Crown, Post Office Bay, Baroness Lookout (yacht) DAY 16: Española Island: Osborn Islet, Gardner Bay, & Punta Suarez (yacht) DAY 17: San Cristobal Island: Punta Pitt & Cerro Brujo (yacht) DAY 18: San Cristobal Island: Isla Lobos & Depart Galapagos

Fly from home – Lima (flights are not included, and can be arranged on your own or with our flight partners at Exito Travel). Upon arrival, you will walk to the Lima Airport Hotel (a couple of minutes walking) for the night.

DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos & Mosquera Islet

AM: Arrival at Baltra airport Upon arrival at the Baltra airport, you will pass through an airport inspection point to ensure that no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the islands, as well as to pay the park entrance fee of $100 (unless it has been prepaid). A guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage, and escort you on a short bus ride to the harbor.

PM: Mosquera Islet Mosquera Islet is located between Baltra and North Seymour. This is a small islet formed by a geological uplift, with a reef of rocks and coral and a great white sand beach where a big population of sea lions likes to relax. You can also observe several species of shorebirds and the site offers great snorkeling and swimming. Along the rocks, it is common to see the red lava crabs and sally light-foot crabs.

DAY 12: Genovesa Island: Price Philip’s Steps & Darwin Bay

AM: Genovesa Island: Prince Philip’s Steps Before landing, you will take a dinghy ride along the eastern arm of the caldera. As you approach, the soaring 25 m/80 ft high walls become overwhelming. Sometimes, a Galapagos fur seal is resting or a seabird is nesting on one of the ledges at the base.

You will then have to hike and overcome the steep stairs from the landing dock to a bush of palo santo shrubs on top. Red-footed boobies gratefully use these scarce nesting places; so that they don’t have to nest on the rocky ground. Upon arriving at the edge of the rim, the bushes open up and you can enjoy panoramic views, a strong sea breeze and the amazing flying skills of countless seabirds.

Following the exposed rim, you will first pass the Nazca boobies and finally reach the extensive storm petrel nesting places, where, if you’re lucky, you can spot the well-camouflaged short-eared owl hunting for food!

PM: Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay Inside the submerged caldera of Genovesa lies Darwin Bay, with a diameter of more than 1.5 km/1 mi and it is almost 200 m/650 ft deep. The small area will surprise you repeatedly, walking along a coral sand beach, crossing barren lava formations and creeks, passing tidal pools, shrubs and further ahead following the top of some cliffs.

With these peaceful surroundings, every single species has occupied its ecological niche (or habitat) without disturbing others.

DAY 13: Bartolome Island & Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay

AM: Bartolome Island The beautiful volcanic islet of Bartholomew is among the youngest of the islands and, on a geological scale, was just recently born out of the fire. Although it looks lifeless at first sight, Bartholomew offers some of the wildest landscapes and best panoramas of the entire archipelago.

To enjoy the postcard view of the idyllic “Pinnacle Bay” you will have to climb the stairs to the viewpoint on top of the island (114 m/375 ft). Enter a dramatic world of threatening (though extinguished) nearby spatter cones, craters, and lightweight lava droplets that have been spewed out by fiery fountains. The summit trail is also ideal for witnessing how scanty pioneer vegetation, such as lava cactus, struggles to take root in the bare virgin lava fields.

PM: Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay The arrival in Sullivan Bay is like a moon landing. The desolate, sprawling fields seem to be mostly lifeless, but this island, which is particularly popular among photographers, still offers a lot to see. There is even some life! Green sea turtles burrow in the small white sand beach, where you can also find crabs, blue herons and oystercatchers.

AM: Santa Cruz Island Highlands: Twin Craters and El Chato Reserve The native scalesia forest of El Chato Tortoise Reserve is the best place to search for Galapagos giant tortoises in their most authentic setting! Despite the interesting breeding centers – where you are guaranteed to find tortoises in their corrals – there is nothing better than to observe them in their wild environment.

Though it can be quite moist and muddy, your visit may turn into an adventurous quest when they have left their favorite pond silently. The Twin Craters are found on either side of the road leading to Puerto Ayora. These impressive formations are not volcanic craters and were formed by magma domes, which hardened on the outside while the lava continued flowing inside, leaving huge and empty magma chambers that eventually collapsed, leaving two large holes.

DAY 15: Floreana Island: Cormorant Point, Devil’s Crown, Post Office Bay, & Baroness Lookout

AM: Floreana Island: Cormorant Point and Devil’s Crown The peninsula of Cormorant Point forms the extreme north cape of Floreana, which exists out of smaller volcanic cones, covered by a tropical dry forest of palo santo. At the landing beach, you will be welcomed by a small Galapagos sea lion colony.

The green sand on this beach contains a high percentage of glassy olivine crystals which have been blown out by the surrounding tuff cones. The “flour sand” beach on the southern side of the peninsula is made up of even finer white coral sand which feels very smooth on the feet. Parrotfish have pulverized it, grinding the calcareous skeletons of living coral.

You can spot schools of stingrays who love the sandy bottom to hide. During the first months of the year, Pacific green turtles come ashore to bury their eggs. Devil’s Crown offers one of the best snorkeling spots in the Galapagos due to the coral reef in its centre, which attracts a lot of marine life.

Here you can spot Galapagos penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, many different colorful fish and even some dolphins. The current can be a bit strong sometimes, so it should not be attempted by novice swimmers.

PM: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay and Baroness Lookout Historically, this site is the location of a wooden barrel that was placed there in the 18th century by the crew of a whaling ship. Letters found inside the barrel were collected and delivered by sailors returning home. There was no postage fee and, surprisingly, this mailbox and its honor system are still in use today.

Although letters are no longer important messages from sailors to their loved ones, tourists leave thousands of them today and many still reach their destination. You can also relax on the beach, where in addition to Galapagos sea lions, Pacific green turtles and golden rays, you may see Galapagos penguins.

This is the only place in the southeastern archipelago where penguins reside. You can also climb the small basaltic cone of the Baroness Lookout and enjoy the coastline’s paradisiacal views. This viewpoint was the favorite spot of one of Floreana’s first settlers, the eccentric baroness and self-proclaimed “Empress of Galapagos” Eloisa von Wagner, who even built her house a few meters further back.

DAY 16: Española Island: Osborn Islet, Gardner Bay, & Punta Suarez

AM: Española Island: Osborn Islet and Gardner Bay The striking white beach at Gardner Bay is an important breeding site for Pacific green turtles. However, without a doubt, its main attraction is the Galapagos sea lion colony. Females stay year-round in this nursery, suckling their pups until they are three years old, although they start to fish at five months. During the breeding and mating season, the colony becomes even bigger.

PM: Española Island: Suarez Point Huge ocean waves crash onto the southern basaltic cliffs of Suarez Point, forming a spectacular blowhole, where the water sprays meters high into the air (depending on the season, the tide and how strongly the sea breeze pushes the waves). Take your time for a meditative break in silence on this emblematic viewpoint, and convert this unforgettable moment into a lifetime experience.

DAY 17: San Cristobal Island: Punta Pitt & Cerro Brujo

AM: San Cristobal Island: Punta Pitt Two wind-sculptured tuff cones at Pitt Point make up the extreme eastern end of San Cristobal, thus the archipelago. These cliffs were the first sight of land when HMS Beagle and Charles Darwin arrived on the 15th of September, 1835. On the small green sand beach, you will be welcomed by a group of barking Galapagos sea lions. This is a bachelor colony, where males usually relax and prepare themselves for fighting and mating.

PM: San Cristobal Island: Witch Hill (Cerro Brujo) This site’s primary attraction is the coral sand beach; an excellent place to swim and snorkel. Witch Hill is the remains of a tuff cone and one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin. It has an impressive landscape, where it is often possible to see coastal and migratory birds, including pelicans, blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls; as well as sea lions and marine iguanas.

At times, the lagoon is completely dry and deposits of salt can be found at the bottom. The people of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno used to use the lagoon as a salt mine.

DAY 18: San Cristobal Island: Isla Lobos & Depart Galapagos

AM: San Cristobal Island: Isla Lobos The Lobos Islet’s beach harbors a colony of Galapagos sea lions. As in other colonies in the archipelago, you can approach nurturing females within a few meters. In the breeding season, this colony is also visited by territorial males, defending and mating the harem on their part of the beach.

This low islet is home to more than just Galapagos sea lions. Two other emblematic species breed here: male blue-footed boobies and great frigate birds who try to impress the females (and tourists) with clumsy dances, heaving their striking blue feet or blowing up their balloon-sized scarlet pouches. During the breeding season, the fluffy and hungry chicks cry for food, and when their wings get strong enough, they will learn to fly.

PM: Transfer to San Cristobal Airport After your last excursion, you will be taken to the San Cristobal Airport for your flight to Quito or Guayaquil (flights are not included, but will be arranged through your cruise operator, via Detour).

18 Day Itinerary B (on the Archipel II) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. North Seymour Island (yacht) DAY 12: Bartolome Island & Santiago Island: Espumilla Beach & Buccaneer Cove (yacht) DAY 13: Santiago Island: Puerto Egas & Rabida Island (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station & Highlands (yacht) DAY 15: Floreana Island: Cormorant Point, Post Office Bay, & Baroness Lookout (yacht) DAY 16: Española Island: Gardner Bay & Punta Suarez (yacht) DAY 17: San Cristobal Island: Punta Pitt & Cerro Brujo (yacht) DAY 18: San Cristobal Island: Isla Lobos & Depart Galapagos

Hiking distance : 11km / 7mi Hiking time: 6 hours includes time to explore Hiking Elevation: 3532 m to 4050m / 11,588ft to 13,288ft

Or perhaps you will have a cloud inversion, with the clouds filling the valleys beneath your feet. After saying a fond farewell to your porters it is time to put on your boots and head to Machu Picchu. You descend through the cloud forest on beautiful Inca stairways, to Winay Wayna, another interesting ruin full of swallows and orchids.

Finally you contour the hillside to arrive at Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun. As you step through the old stone gateway Machu Picchu appears laid out before your eyes. After plenty of photos you carry on past this wonder of the world to catch the bus down to the colorful town of Machu Picchu Pueblo and a well-deserved hotel and shower.

DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos & North Seymour Island

AM: Arrival at Baltra Airport Upon arrival at Seymour Ecological Airport, a check-up is carried out first, to ensure that no foreign plant or animal species are introduced on the islands. Furthermore, your TCC (Transit Control Card) is stamped; this must be kept safe during your trip, as it has to be presented again on your return flight.

In addition, entrance to the Galapagos National Park is due for entry (US $ 100), if this has not yet been paid. Your guide will meet you at the airport, assist you with the luggage and accompany you on the short bus ride to the harbour of Puerto Ayora. Here you will climb aboard the yacht Archipel I.

After greeting the crew and the captain, your cabins will be assigned to you and then you will enjoy your first lunch on-board.

PM: North Seymour The tabletop islet of North Seymour is an uplifted part of the seabed. Between the dry shrubs you might perceive a Galapagos land iguana. You can spot lots of seabirds, such as brown pelicans, red-billed tropicbirds, endemic swallow-tailed gulls and seasonally even Nazca boobies.

But the main attraction are the archipelago’s most extensive breeding colonies of blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. At the start of the breeding season adult male frigatebirds blow up their vivid red pouches to impressive football-sized balloons.

DAY 12: Bartolome Island & Santiago Island: Espumilla Beach & Buccaneer Cove

AM: Bartolome The island of Bartolomé rises 114m above Sullivan Bay. Climb the steps of the Bartolomé Peak Trail and you will be rewarded with panoramic views over volcanic peaks, lunar craters and lava fields. Afterwards you can refresh yourself at the foot of the famous “Pinnacle Rock” and explore the underwater world in the shallow water while snorkeling.

Although there is little vegetation on this island, it has two breathtaking beaches, where sea turtles live. At the foot of the mountain you can also discover a small colony of Galapagos penguins.

PM: Espumilla Beach & Buccaneer Cove (Santiago) Espumilla Beach is a visitor’s site at the northern end of James Bay, on the western coast of Santiago. This beach has been revived as an important breeding site for turtles, as it is no longer suffering from digging wild pigs. The turtles return year after year to bury their eggs into the cinnamon colored sand dunes.

The beach ridge hides a mangle with two picturesque lagoons. The colony of American flamingos and aquatic birds used to be its main attraction, but after the climate phenomenon of El Niño, strong sedimentation altered the brackish water environment, and it no longer contains their food.

During the climb of a hill you will be rewarded with a beautiful overview of the transitions from sea into beach into mangrove into dry palo santo forest.

DAY 13: Santiago Island: Puerto Egas & Rabida Island

AM: Puerto Egas (Santiago) After breakfast we will navigate south to Puerto Egas with its famous fur seal grottos, where you will enjoy another, very different guided walk along the coastline. Its masterly sculptured coastline of black basalts and polished multi-colored ash-layers forms a photogenic scene with collapsed lava tunnels, natural arches, caves and blowholes such as ‘Darwin’s toilet’.

In a grotto directly below a spectacular rock arch at the end of the beach, a colony of sea lions occupies the shade. Hundreds of sally lightfoot crabs seem even brighter orange against the black rocks.

PM: Rabida After lunch and a ‘wet landing’ on the remarkable red beach of Rabida, there are two short guided hikes. Oxidized iron particles give the rocks and sand their rusty color. The beach wall holds a shallow green-fringed lagoon; this oasis is the most fertile place on the otherwise arid islet, which is overgrown with leaf-dropping palo santo trees.

The salty pool attracts all kind of aquatic birds, like pintails and sometimes American flamingos. Between the evergreen foliage of the surrounding mangrove bushes many species of songbirds hide and breed. One of the most outstanding attractions is the major breeding colony of brown pelicans, the only ones in the world that plunge-dive.

On return you will be picked up by the inflatable dinghies, to get ready for snorkeling.

The complex houses interpretation and information centers about the National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve. The most memorable part of your visit will probably be the successful breeding centre and the enclosures with Galapagos giant tortoises.

DAY 15: Floreana Island: Cormorant Point, Post Office Bay, & Baroness Lookout

AM: Cormorant Point (Floreana) The peninsula of Cormorant Point forms the extreme north cape of Floreana, which was formed by a number of smaller volcanic cones, covered with tropical dry forest (palo santo). At the landing beach, you will be welcomed by a small Galapagos sea lion-colony.

The green sand on this beach contains a high percentage of glassy olivine crystals that have been blown out by the surrounding tuff cones. The ‘flour sand’ beach on the southern side of the peninsula is made up of even finer white coral sand that feels very smooth on your feet. Parrotfish have pulverized it, grinding the calcareous skeletons of living coral.

You can spot schools of stingrays who love burying themselves in the sandy bottom. During the first months of the year, Pacific green turtles come ashore to bury their eggs.

PM: Post Office Bay & Baroness Lookout (Floreana) While having lunch we will navigate back to Post Office Bay (about 1hr). Post your holiday greetings in the historical barrel, one of three nearby visitor’s sites on Floreana’s north coast (short displacement, wet landing) and relax. Besides Galapagos sea lions, Pacific green turtles and golden cownose rays you might spot Galapagos penguins!

This is the only place in the south-eastern archipelago where penguins reside. Explore by inflatable dinghy – or in your own pace by sea-kayak – another submerged crater rim around the bay of Baroness Lookout. Climb the miniature basaltic cone of Baroness Lookout and take in the paradisiacal coastal views.

This viewpoint was the favorite spot of one of Floreana’s first colonists, the eccentric Baroness and self-proclaimed ‘Empress of Galapagos’ Eloisa von Wagner Bosquet, who even built her house a few meters behind. She and one of her lovers were the first in a series of mysterious disappearances and deaths in the 1930s.

DAY 16: Española Island: Gardner Bay & Punta Suarez

AM: Gardner Bay (Española) On the north-eastern coast of the island of Española, Gardner Bay offers a wonderful place to refresh in the turquoise sea and to admire the large number of colorful reef fish. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel side by side with green sea turtles, or to enjoy the proximity of the playful Galapagos sea lion.

The white sand beach is also an important breeding ground for the green sea turtles. In the crystal-clear ocean, sometimes whales can be sighted under certain circumstances.

PM: Punta Suarez (Española) This rocky area is home to the most impressive and diverse seabirds of the archipelago. The endangered Galapagos albatross returns to Española (March – December) annually. This allows visitors to admire the balances of pipes and bows (especially in October).

Blue-fronted and nazcat oil pipes, black-tailed gulls and red-billed tropic birds are native to this island. Along the southern coast, high cliffs allow spectacular views of ascending birds and the sea water shot through air holes.

AM: Punta Pitt (San Cristobal) Two wind sculptured tuff cones at Pitt Point constitute the extreme eastern end of San Cristobal. On the small green sand beach, you will be welcomed by a cacophony of barking Galapagos sea lions.

From saltbush and spiny shrubs behind the beach a trail leads up to an area of tropical dry forest vegetation: most of the year leafless palo santo trees, yellow cordia shrubs, tiny prickly pear cacti and carpetweed, that turns red in the dry season.

After the pretty steep climb through a gully to the cliff top, you can wander around the only colony in Galapagos that is home to all species of booby.

PM: Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal) The primary attraction of this site is the coral sand beach. It is an excellent place to swim and snorkel. Cerro Brujo is the remains of a tuff cone. It is one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin. Captain Fitzroy climbed to the top of the hill to scout out reefs.

It has an impressive landscape, where it is often possible to see coastal and migratory birds, including pelicans, Blue-footed Boobies, and Swallow-tailed Gulls, as well as sea lions and marine iguanas. At times the lagoon is completely dry and deposits of salt may be found in the bottom. The people of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno used to use the lagoon as a salt mine.

AM: Isla Lobos The island is named after the amount of sea lions that rest on the seaside. Though at first sight it appears to just be barren rocks overgrown by palo santo, this low islet is home to male blue footed boobies and great frigate birds that try to impress the females with clumsy dances heaving their striking blue feet or blowing up their balloon-sized scarlet pouches.

You can also find a lot of life in the intertidal zone, including striking bright orange sally lightfoot crabs and marine iguanas on the boulders. On the horizon you can distinguish the contours of Kicker Rock. That impressive rock islet has become one of the landmarks of Galapagos.

14 Day Itinerary A (on the Archipel I) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center & Frigate Hill (yacht) DAY 12: Santa Fe Island & South Plaza Island (yacht) DAY 13: North Seymour Island & Sombrero Chino (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Depart Galapagos

Information panels (in English and Spanish), pictures, documents, maquettes, and true-to-life dioramas tell various background and conservation stories about the islands in a different way. A short, though often hot, uphill trail with steps, leads from the Interpretation Centre to the summit of Frigatebird Hill.

Four panoramic viewpoints show Puerto Baquerizo Moreno from above, as well as the bays on both sides of the headland. On clear days even the distant, offshore sculpture of Kicker Rock can be seen! These wooded hilltops are one of the rare places where some magnificent and great frigatebirds form a mixed breeding colony.

A viewpoint with another Charles Darwin statue is a reminder that the HMS Beagle anchored in the exotic bay below.

AM: Santa Fe Island Located in the southeastern part of the Galapagos, this island was formed from an uplift instead of a volcanic origin, which is why it is mostly flat. Some theories assure this could be the oldest island in the archipelago.

Santa Fe is the home of several endemic species like the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, Galapagos mockingbird, rice rats and one of the two species of land iguanas of the islands. After disembarking in the beautiful and clear waters, you will be in contact with one of the many sea lion colonies.

Along the trail, many salt bushes can be seen as well as giant prickly pear cactus, gigantism is a characteristic of oceanic islands.

PM: South Plaza Island South Plaza is located to the east of Santa Cruz Island, and forms part of a pair of islands known as “Islas Plazas”. Despite its small size, some of the most interesting and outstanding species of the Galapagos are found here.

The Plazas land iguanas are smaller than their relatives found on other islands. There are several hybrid iguanas throughout the island; a result of crossing a marine iguana with a land iguana. They are unique and recognizable at first glance by their black/grey color, with a land iguana’s crest, but the face and tail of the marine iguana.

PM: Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino) Chinese Hat is a 52 m/170 ft high volcanic cone, forming another islet right off the rocky coast of Santiago, where a small colony of Galapagos penguins have settled. Approaching Chinese Hat from the north, you will understand the meaning of the name.

This is an excellent place to learn more about volcanoes, lava bombs and lava tunnels. You will arrive just in time to witness how this barren islet is colonized by pioneer species that have begun to sprout!

Beautiful beaches of white coral sand and holes in the eroding lava fields are filled up with lava sand, which enables rooting. Galapagos sea lions and countless marine iguanas contribute to fertilization and thus create many favorable options for newcomers, such as saltbush and the sesuvium carpet.

DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Depart Galapagos

14 Day Itinerary A (on the Archipel II) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. San Cristobal Island: Cerro Colorado (yacht) DAY 12: South Plaza Island & Santa Fe Island (yacht) DAY 13: Sombrero Chino & Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station & Depart Galapagos

This is the day you finally reach Machu Picchu. As you step out of your tent the views are stunning. Perhaps you will see the sun rising over the snow-capped mountains of Salkantay (6,200 meters/20,341 feet) and Veronica (5,800 meters/19,029 feet). Or perhaps you will have a cloud inversion, with the clouds filling the valleys beneath your feet.

After saying a fond farewell to your porters it is time to put on your boots and head to Machu Picchu. You descend through the cloud forest on beautiful Inca stairways, to Winay Wayna, another interesting ruin full of swallows and orchids. Finally you contour the hillside to arrive at Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun.

As you step through the old stone gateway Machu Picchu appears laid out before your eyes. After plenty of photos you carry on past this wonder of the world to catch the bus down to the colorful town of Machu Picchu Pueblo and a well-deserved hotel and shower.

AM: Arrival at San Cristobal Airport Upon arrival at San Cristóbal Airport, a check-up is carried out first, to ensure that no foreign plant or animal species are introduced on the islands. Furthermore, your TCC (Transit Control Card) is stamped; this must be kept safe during your trip, as it has to be presented again on your return flight.

In addition, entrance to the Galapagos National Park is due for entry (US $ 100), if this has not yet been paid. Your guide will meet you at the airport, assist you with the luggage and accompany you on the short bus ride to the port of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Here you will climb aboard the catamaran Archipel I. After greeting the crew and the captain, your cabins will be assigned to you and then you will enjoy your first lunch on-board.

PM: Cerro Colorado (San Cristobal) Cerro Colorado Tortoises Protection and Growing Centre, is located at approximately 40 minutes by bus to the southeast of the island. This centre was built to improve the status of the population of the island tortoises.

It includes a large corral, a visitor centre, breeding centre and an interpretive trail. Along this trail it is possible to see different species of native and endemic plants as well as birds including the San Cristobal Mockingbird, Yellow Warblers, and many species of finches and the Galapagos flycatcher.

On the beach you can also find curious pillow-type lavas with coral heads on top! These spheres have a submarine origin before being lifted above sea level. Beaches of white coral sand grow, and holes in the eroding lava fields are filled up with lava sand, which enables rooting.

Galapagos sea lions and countless marine iguanas contribute to fertilization. All together create more favorable options for newcomers, like saltbush and the discoloring sesuvium carpet. Colonization of Chinese Hat can occur in a much higher pace than elsewhere, hence Santiago is just a stone’s throw away.

DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station & Depart Galapagos

14 Day Itinerary B (on the Archipel I) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4 : Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. Mosquera Islet (yacht) DAY 12: Genovesa Island: Price Philip's Steps & Darwin Bay (yacht) DAY 13: Bartolome Island & Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Depart Galapagos

You will take the hotel airport shuttle back to the Guayaquil Airport in time for your flight to the Galapagos. Fly Guayaquil – Baltra, Galapagos (flight is not included, but will be arranged through your cruise operator, via Detour).

AM: Genovesa Island: Prince Philip’s Steps Before landing, you will take a dinghy ride along the eastern arm of the caldera. As you approach, the soaring 25 m/80 ft high walls become overwhelming. Sometimes, a Galapagos fur seal is resting or a seabird is nesting on one of the ledges at the base. You will then have to hike and overcome the steep stairs from the landing dock to a bush of palo santo shrubs on top.

Red-footed boobies gratefully use these scarce nesting places; so that they don’t have to nest on the rocky ground. Upon arriving at the edge of the rim, the bushes open up and you can enjoy panoramic views, a strong sea breeze and the amazing flying skills of countless seabirds.

PM: Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay Inside the submerged caldera of Genovesa lies Darwin Bay, with a diameter of more than 1.5 km/1 mi and it is almost 200 m/650 ft deep.

The small area will surprise you repeatedly, walking along a coral sand beach, crossing barren lava formations and creeks, passing tidal pools, shrubs and further ahead following the top of some cliffs. With these peaceful surroundings, every single species has occupied its ecological niche (or habitat) without disturbing others.

To enjoy the postcard view of the idyllic “Pinnacle Bay” you will have to climb the stairs to the viewpoint on top of the island (114 m/375 ft). Enter a dramatic world of threatening (though extinguished) nearby spatter cones, craters, and lightweight lava droplets that have been spewed out by fiery fountains.

The summit trail is also ideal for witnessing how scanty pioneer vegetation, such as lava cactus, struggles to take root in the bare virgin lava fields.

These impressive formations are not volcanic craters and were formed by magma domes, which hardened on the outside while the lava continued flowing inside, leaving huge and empty magma chambers that eventually collapsed, leaving two large holes.

14 Day Itinerary B (on the Archipel II) DAY 1: Arrive in Lima, Peru (Lima Airport hotel) DAY 2: Arrive Cusco & Local's Tour of Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 3: Cusco Ruins Hike (Cusco hotel) DAY 4: Sacred Valley Hike: Moray to Salt Pans (Ollantaytambo hotel) DAY 5: Ollantaytambo & Start the Inca Trail (camp) DAY 6: Inca Trail: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa (camp) DAY 7: Inca Trail: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca (camp) DAY 8: Inca Trail: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes hotel) DAY 9: Machu Picchu Ruins Tour & Return to Cusco (Cusco hotel) DAY 10: Depart Cusco & Travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador (Guayaquil hotel) DAY 11: Arrive Galapagos. North Seymour Island (yacht) DAY 12: Bartolome Island & Santiago Island: Espumilla Beach & Buccaneer Cove (yacht) DAY 13: Santiago Island: Puerto Egas & Rabida Island (yacht) DAY 14: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station & Depart Galapagos

Today is the most challenging day but also the most exhilarating. You climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,212 meters/13,819 feet) the high point of the trail before dropping into the Pacasmayo valley. Climbing once more you pass the Inca control post of Runkuracay to the second pass of the day (3,998 meters/13,117 feet).

On a clear day there are spectacular views toward Pumahuanca mountain in the Vilcabamba range. You continue on well preserved Inca trail to Sayacmarca. Located at the junction of two old Inca roads, historians still argue over its exact purpose.

A few more gentle ups and downs and you arrive to your stunning campsite for the night at Phuyupatamarca, or “the place above the clouds” (3,650 meters/11,975 feet).

travel logistics

You will need to get an international flight to Lima arriving at any time on the Day 1. The following day, you will take a short flight from Lima to Cusco, arriving in the morning on Day 2. If your flight schedule into Cusco is a little different, we can arrange for that as well.

Your trip will end on Day 14 or Day 18 (depending on the itinerary you choose). On this last day, you will travel from the Galapagos to mainland Ecuador, either Quito or Guayaquil. Your trip will end in one of these cities, and you will catch your international flights home. You will get home the following day.

We do not arrange international or domestic Peru airfare but partner with a flight specialty company, Exito Travel, who can arrange all of your flights for you, simplifying the process of this part of your trip. For your flights between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, your flights will be arranged by your cruise operator (via Detour) and added onto your trip pricing.

Trip Start:  Trip starts upon your arrival at the Lima Airport in Peru.

Trip End:  Trip ends at the Quito or Guayaquil Airport in Ecuador.

Complete Your Trip

This trip is a complete package, starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador. International and domestic flights are not included, but can be booked through our travel partner Exito Travel. Roundtrip domestic flights between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos will be arranged through your cruise operator (via Detour).

We can also help you add to your journey with trips to the Amazon, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, the Avenue of the Volcanos, the cloudforest, Otavalo, or any other destination in South America.

Prices & Dates

Please enquire about prices.

• 2023/24 Dates: 
• Private Departures: Can depart on any day from March through December, pending availability
• Group Departures: Every Saturday, mid-March through December
• 2023/24 Prices (per person rates, based on double occupancy):
• Private Departures: please inquire

Notes on Group Sizes: The number of travelers refers to you and your travel companions. This trip is a combination of private and group services. The Inca Trail Trek & Machu Picchu part of the trip (Days 5 – 9) is a group departure, with capacity for up to 16 travelers total. The Archipel I & II Galapagos Cruise part of the trip (Days 11 – 14 or Days 11 – 18, depending on the itinerary you choose) is a group trip, with capacity for 16 travelers as well. Every other part of this trip (Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Guayaquil) is private basis.

Notes on the Single Supplement: The single supplement is to have single accommodations at all hotels, a single tent on the Inca Trail Trek, and a single cabin on board the Archipel I & II Galapagos Cruise. If you are willing to share a cabin on board the cruise with another traveler of the same gender, the single supplement would go down to $733.00 for either itinerary. There is not a willing to share option for the rest of the trip.

Holiday Surcharge: For departures over the Christmas and New Years holidays, the additional cost is +$200.00 per person on a 14 day itinerary, and +$400.00 per person on an 18 day itinerary.

What's Included / Not Included

• All transportation as indicated
• All tours as described in the itinerary with an expert, English-speaking guide (tours subject to change due to government regulations, weather, and your guide’s discretion)
• All camping and cooking equipment on the Inca Trail: Therm-a-rests, spacious two-person tents, dining tent, table and chairs, and toilet tent (except sleeping bags, which are available to rent)
• An emergency first-aid kit and oxygen
• Entrances to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, and all other ruins visited on the itinerary
• All porters and cook team, including the porters’ correct wages, Inca Trail entrances, transport, tents, food, and insurance
• Bus tickets between Machu Picchu ruins and Aguas Calientes
• Train tickets for returning from Aguas Calientes
• Accommodation will be 3-star plus boutique hotels in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes
• All meals provided are indicated in the itinerary, including three hot meals a day while trekking the Inca Trail
• One hotel night near the Lima Airport
• Accommodations in a double cabin on the main deck, with picture windows, a private bathroom, and your choice of two twin beds or one double bed
• All meals, water, coffee, and tea while in the Galapagos Islands on board the cruise
• All excursions as mentioned in the itinerary with an expert English-speaking naturalist guide (tours subject to change due to national park regulations, weather, and your guide’s discretion)
• Snorkeling equipment
• Use of kayaks in designated areas
• One hotel night in in Guayaquil, with breakfast and airport transfers
• All transfers in the Galapagos (pick up and drop off at the airport in the Galapagos is only guaranteed if you book your flights between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos through the cruise operator, via Detour

View Trip Terms and Conditions: http://detourdestinations.com/terms-and-conditions/amazonas-explorer https://detourdestinations.com/terms-and-conditions/andean-travel-company

• Optional permits to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (both are $85* per person). Before you confirm your trip to Machu Picchu, consider whether or not you want to do one of these hikes, and let us know what you decide. For more details: http://detourdestinations.com/blog/should-you-hike-huayna-picchu-mountain-or-machu-picchu-mountain
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Health insurance (required)
• Personal or medical expenses
• Personal belongings
• Tips for guides and support team
• Services and meals not indicated
• Soft drinks or alcoholic beverages
• Sleeping bag: available for rent at $30 per person for the length of the trek
• Wetsuit rental on board the Galapagos Cruise: $32 per person on the 14 day itinerary, $64 per person on the 18 day itinerary
• Galapagos Migration Control Card: $20.00* per person
• Galapagos National Park Entrance: $100.00* per person
• Domestic Ecuador flights (Guayaquil – Galapagos – Quito or Guayaquil): About $500.00* per person. This flights will be booked through your cruise operator, via Detour, and added to your trip pricing
• DAY 1: Home – Lima (LIM), arriving any time
• DAY 2: Lima (LIM) – Cusco (CUZ), arriving before noon
• DAY 10: Cusco (CUZ) – Guayaquil (GYE), arriving any time this day
• DAY 14 or DAY 18 (depending on your itinerary): Guayaquil (GYE) or Quito (UIO) – Home, departing on a red-eye flight and getting home the following day

* prices subject to change

Lima Hotel: Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport or similar

Cusco Hotel:  Hotel Quinta San Blas  or similar

Sacred Valley Hotel: Hotel Pakaritampu or similar

Inca Trail Camping:  Gear includes spacious two person tents or single tents, dining tent, cook tent, portable camp toilet, and toilet tent. All camping and cooking equipment including Therm-a-rest inflatable mattresses, camping stools, tables, utensils, etc. Sleeping bags and pillows are not included, but can be rented upon request.

Bowls of hot water are supplied in the morning and in the evening at camp. Clean hand washing water is available in camp. Filtered water is available in camp and at meal times (please bring a refillable water bottle).

Aguas Calientes: El MaPi by Inkaterra or similar

Guayaquil Hotel: Hotel Oro Verde or similar

Galapagos Islands: Archipel I or II Galapagos Catamarans

Rooming Options

ROOMING OPTIONS:  Double, Single, Willing to Share, Single Supplement

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Galapagos & Inca Trail Adventure

• Partially Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Quito
• Day 2 Isla San Cristobal, Galapagos
• Day 3 Isla San Cristobal
• Day 4 Isla Floreana/ Isla Isabela
• Day 5 Isla Isabela
• Day 6 Isla Isabela
• Day 7 Isla Isabela / Isla Santa Cruz
• Day 8 Isla Santa Cruz
• Day 9 Isla Santa Cruz, Galapagos/Quito
• Day 10 Lima
• Day 11 Cusco
• Day 12 Ollantaytambo
• Day 13 Inca Trail
• Day 14 Inca Trail
• Day 15 Inca Trail
• Day 16 Cusco
• Day 17 Cusco

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Sustainability initiatives.

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
• Giacomo · 20th May 2024 Once again a dream that I realize Gorgoeous trip. This trip will not so fantastatic without Carmen our tour leader.... Show more
• Diana · 3rd April 2024 If you like primitive camping this is the trip for you. Disconnecting was just what I needed to reset. Make sure you... Show more
• Lea · 3rd October 2023 Very great experience, good organization, great guides, great group

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• Currencies $ US Dollar Ecuador $ Mexican Peso Mexico S/. Sol Peru

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F. As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F.

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• Rabies - Recommended for Ecuador and Peru. Ideally 1 month before travel.
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• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 28th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 28th July 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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Home » Tours » Galapagos, Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and Easter Island

Galapagos, Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and Easter Island

21 Days/20 Nights

From $8,999 per person

(Dbl. Occupancy, Not Incl. Airfare)

Saturday Departures Throughout the Year

Experience three of the most fascinating destinations in South America on this incredible journey to Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.  Enjoy the incomparable natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands on a five day cruise aboard the Santa Cruz II.  Observe iguanas, giant tortoises, blue footed boobies and other animals found nowhere else on Earth.  Challenge yourself with a four day hike of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and uncover the mysteries of the Moai statues on Easter Island.

Lodging and Meals: This tour includes accommodations for 20 nights (2 nights in Quito, 4 nights on the Santa Cruz II, 2 nights in Lima, 3 nights in Cusco, 3 nights on the Inca trail, 1 night in Machu Picchu, 2 nights in Santiago, 3 nights in Easter Island) and 37 meals (20 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 7 dinners).

Best Time to Go: April-October.

Category: Galapagos, Machu Picchu, and Easter Island Tours .

Destinations: South America , Ecuador , Galapagos , Peru , and Chile .

Interests: Adventure , Camping , Culture & History , Expedition Cruising , Hiking & Trekking , Sea Kayaking , Snorkeling , Wildlife Viewing , and Wine Tasting .

Places Visited: Quito , the Galapagos Islands , Baltra Island , Bartolomé Island , Genovesa Island , Rábida Island , Santa Cruz Island , Santiago Island , Guayaquil , Lima , Cusco , the Sacred Valley , Machu Picchu , Santiago , and Easter Island .

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Note: The route and program may vary according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety reasons and wildlife encounters. Dry Landing: Guests step from the dinghy directly onto rocks or a dock. Wet Landing: As the dinghy edges onto a sandy beach, guests step into knee-deep water and wade ashore.

Day 1 (Sat): Quito.

Depart to Quito. After passing through immigration and customs, proceed to the reception area, where our representative will be holding a sign with your name on it. You will be greeted and then transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Quito.

Day 2 (Sun): City Tour of Quito-Equatorial Monument.

This morning, you will visit to downtown Quito to relish in this urban jewel and its treasures of art and architecture. Quito’s colonial quarter, the largest and best preserved of South America, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stroll starts at the Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace. Visit the temple of La Compañía de Jesús and its awesome gilded interior. Continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco, one the of great religious buildings of the New World; its impressive façade and atrium that lead to its Baroque interior influenced by Moorish style, with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar.

Then continue to the Equatorial Monument, 16 miles north of Quito, which marks the exact Middle of the World, latitude 0º, where you can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. Visit the Ethnographic Museum inside the monument, which shows the different Native American groups living in Ecuador. Beside the monument there is a colonial-style town, complete with main square, church, post office, bullring, cafeterias, restaurants and many gift shops with postcards and souvenirs. You will get a certificate for having crossed the Equator. Overnight in Quito. (B)

Day 3 (Mon): Quito-Baltra Airport-Las Bachas (Santa Cruz).

Morning transfer to the airport in Quito for the flight to Galapagos. You land at Baltra Island by plane in the morning and transfer to the dock to board the Santa Cruz II, where you receive a welcome introductory briefing, and lunch.

Las Bachas . This beautiful visitor site is located on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, a glorious white beach with a couple of brackish lagoons only a few steps away from the sea. These lagoons are the feeding grounds of various wading birds, from stilts to flamingos. Welcome cocktail, expedition plan for Tuesday and dinner. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)

Day 4 (Tue): Buccaneer Cove-Puerto Egas (Santiago).

After breakfast, you explore the coastline along the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove , learning about the area’s distant and recent history. The cove is home to a large number of marine birds, sea lions, and inter-tidal organisms. Enjoy fantastic natural formations such as the “Elephant Rock”, “The Bishop” and an impressive natural cave.

Puerto Egas . Once you disembark at the beach, you can enjoy a swim or snorkel amid a rocky shoreline, usually in the company of marine turtles. From here, you head off for a walk, a great opportunity to see land and marine birds amid landscape of tuff-stone layers and lava flows. At low tide, marine iguanas graze upon the algae beds and you can also observe a colony of fur-sea lions. Non-snorkelers can enjoy a longer walk. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)

Day 5 (Wed): Rabida-Bartolome.

Rábida . Some groups will go for a fascinating panga ride along the shores while others will disembark on Rábida Island’s red-colored beach, caused by the unusually high content of iron in the volcanic material. Your walk brings you close to a colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin’s finches. Very close to the beach, a salt pond hosts migrating greater flamingos at certain times of year. This is a great place to snorkel from the beach, both for beginners as well as for experienced snorkelers, due to the unique combination of underwater species and submarine landscapes. During navigation to the next island, dolphins are sometimes spotted!

Bartolome . Today’s activities begin with a wet landing on the golden beach of this famous island, dominated by the imposing Pinnacle Rock. There’s great snorkeling and swimming from the beach plus the chance to ride the glass bottom boat. After returning to the ship, you then split into two groups, the first lands for a hike to the summit of this diminutive island that boasts fantastic views of the archipelago. This is a moderately steep climb aided by a wooden staircase, resting platforms and handrails – the view from the top is worth the effort! The second takes to the pangas to explore the rugged and volcanic shoreline. The groups then swap activities. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)

Day 6 (Thu): Prince Philip Steps-Darwin Bay (Genovesa).

Prince Philip Steps . The morning starts with a steep climb (90 feet) up some stairs to reach a flat rocky plateau. Along the walk, you can observe large colonies of Nazca boobies, red footed boobies, great frigate birds and storm petrels. Those not wishing to disembark can enjoy a longer panga ride along the cliffs (depending on weather conditions).

Darwin Bay . In the afternoon, you land at this beautiful beach to enjoy some swimming and/or snorkeling. Following the dip, you take an easy stroll to observe hundreds of birds, mainly frigate birds, red footed and Nazca boobies, gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)

Day 7 (Fri): Highlands (Santa Cruz)-Baltra Airport-Guayaquil.

You start the last morning at the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. After breakfast, your luggage will be taken to the airport, while you visit the Tortoise Reserve in the Highlands of Santa Cruz. A dry landing at a passenger’s wharf and a bus ride to the loftier region of the island will provide the last highlight of the cruise: giant tortoises in the wild. The windward slopes of the island are home to two species of giant tortoises. These lush highlands include dense forests of Galapagos daisies, orchids and bromeliads, and several endemic land birds.

After the visit, passengers will be transferred to Baltra Airport for the flight to Guayaquil. You will be greeted and then transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Guayaquil. (B)

Day 8 (Sat): Guayaquil-Lima-City Tour.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima, Peru. After passing through immigration and customs, proceed to the reception area, where our inbound services representative will be holding a sign with your name on it. You will be greeted and then transferred to your hotel.

In the afternoon, you will have a city tour of Lima. The tour begins in Miraflores with a stop at the Parque del Amor, a seaside park with a huge statue of a kissing couple and continues with a drive by of the Huaca Huallamarca, a restored adobe pyramid dating from the pre-Inca period located in San Isidro. The next stop is the Plaza de Armas in downtown Lima, where you will visit City Hall (Palacio Municipal), the Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno), and the Cathedral of Lima. The last stop is the Convent of Santo Domingo. Following the tour, you will be returned to your hotel. Overnight in Lima. (B)

Day 9 (Sun): Lima-Cusco-City Tour.

Early morning transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Because of the high altitude (10,912 feet above sea level), we recommend that you rest for a short period. In the afternoon, you will have a city tour that includes a walk-through of the Cathedral, the Koricancha (‘site of gold’), typical streets, and the four ruins that surround the city: the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Kenko, Puca Pucara, and Tampumachay. Overnight in Cusco. (B)

Day 10 (Mon): Cusco-Sacred Valley-Awanakancha-Pisac Market-Ollantaytambo.

Today you will have a full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The tour begins at Awanakancha, a living museum of the Peruvian Andes, where you can observe traditional textile dyeing and weaving techniques and the four types of camelids that are native to the region. You will also visit the Indian artisan market in Pisac and have lunch at a local restaurant (included). The last stop is the impressive Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo that served as both a fortress and ceremonial center, and is the site of a short-lived victory by the Incas over the Spanish. Overnight in Cusco. (B,L) Note: The Indian market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from October to March, and daily from April to September. On the days of the week that the market is not open, you will be taken to the Inca ruins above the village.

Day 11 (Tue): Cusco-Chilca-Inca Trail.

Early morning transfer by minivan to the town of Chilca (km. 82), the start of the Inca Trail. We begin escorted by native “quechua” porters going through semi-arid terrain along the Urubamba River with magnificent views of snowcapped mount Veronica (18,636 feet). We walk past the Inca hamlet of Huayllabamba, an ancient Inca citadel that protected the entry to two valleys. Overnight on the Inca Trail. (B,L,D)

Day 12 (Wed): Inca Trail-Warmiwañusqa-Pacamayo.

We will begin to climb the first pass, Warmiwañusqa (13,776 feet), where there is a spectacular view of the valley below. At this pass we move from the dry puna ecology to elf forest, the highest of the tropical forest types where gnarled trees grow to two meters amid fog and low clouds, habitat for a profusion of orchids and strange animals. On this night, we will camp along river Pacamayo at the bottom of the pass. Overnight on the Inca Trail. (B,L,D)

Day 13 (Thu): Inca Trail-Runku Rakay-Sayacmarca-Wiñayhuayna.

After breakfast, we will hike towards Runku Rakay and traverse the second pass of the same name (12,464 feet). We will descend to Sayacmarca, an important archaeological complex, where we will have lunch. We will spend the night near the ruins of Wiñayhuayna, which means ‘city above the clouds’. Overnight on the Inca Trail. (B,L,D)

Day 14 (Fri): Inca Trail-Inti Punku-Machu Picchu.

We will arise very early so that we may watch the sunrise from Inti Punku and have our first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu ‘the Lost City of the Incas’ (7,900 feet). This mountaintop citadel, which served as both a center of worship and an astronomic observatory, is located in the middle of the cloud forest overlooking the Urubamba River. There are both agricultural and urban areas constructed with the precision stonework that the Incas are known for. The agricultural area consists of terraces and food storehouses, and the urban area contains temples, squares, and royal tombs. Guided tour followed by lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Aguas Calientes. (B,L)

Day 15 (Sat): Machu Picchu-Cusco.

This is a free day to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You may want to hike Huayna Picchu or enjoy another activity. Mid-afternoon, you will depart from Machu Picchu by train to Poroy Station in the Sacred Valley, and then be taken to your hotel in Cusco. Overnight in Cusco. (B)

Day 16 (Sun): Cusco-Lima-Santiago.

Morning transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima and then Santiago, Chile. After passing through immigration and customs, proceed to the reception area, where our inbound services representative will be holding a sign with your name on it. You will be greeted and then transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Santiago. (B)

Day 17 (Mon): Santiago-City Tour-Winery Tour.

In the morning, you will have a panoramic city tour of Santiago, which will include Parque O’Higgins, Plaza de Armas (the city’s historic center), Palacio de la Moneda, ex-National Congress, Mapocho Station Cultural Center, Santa Lucia Hill, the place of Santiago’s founding in 1541,and the Bohemian district of Bellavista. In the afternoon, you will visit your choice of one of the following vineyards around Santiago (included in price): Concha y Torro, Cousino Macul, and Undurraga. Overnight in Santiago. (B)

Day 18 (Tue): Santiago-Easter Island.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Easter Island. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Easter Island. (B)

Day 19 (Wed): Easter Island-Rano Raraku-Anakena Beach.

Full day excursion visiting the archaeological site of Akahanga and the quarry at Rano Raraku volcano, where all of the moai on the island were carved. You will see over 300 statues in various stages of completion, and one giant moai, 21 meters (69 ft.) tall. You will also visit Ahu Tongariki, the largest ahu (burial site), whose moai were re-erected after a tsunami flattened the statues, Ahu Te Pito Kura, site of the largest moai moved from the quarry, and the ahu Nau Nau at Anakena Beach. Picnic lunch at Anakena Beach. Overnight in Easter Island. (B,L)

Day 20 (Thu): Easter Island-Orongo-Ahu Akivi.

Morning visit to the Rano Kau extinct volcano crater (1.6 km in diameter), the ceremonial village of Orongo, which features the largest concentration of Petroglyphs on the island, with images of post-moai deity’s, such as Tangata Manu (birdman), Make Make (the creator), and Komari, and then to Ahu Vinapu. After lunch (not included), the tour continues on to Ahu Akivi, site of the seven moais overlooking the sea, the Caves of Ana Tepahu, among the largest on the island, and Pun-a-Pau quarry, the sole source of red scoria that was used to carve the pukao (topknots) of some of the moia. Overnight in Easter Island. (B)

Day 21 (Fri): Easter Island-Santiago.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Santiago and your final destination. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

About the Inca Trail

The Incas built a vast network of roads to communicate with the four regions of their vast empire. The network was called Qapaq Ñan (the sovereign’s highway) or Inca Road, and was made up of stone paths suitable for two or three people with trains of llamas. Rivers were crossed by hanging bridges and the steep slopes were mastered with steps and ramps. There are remains of the Qhapaq Ñan throughout Peru that are still used to this day by local villagers and farmers. One of the most impressive and best preserved roads is the trail that links Cusco and Machu Picchu. Today, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu allows the visitor to step back in time and walk through a variety of eco-systems and dazzling scenery. The length of the 39 kilometers (24 miles) includes unforgettable views, archaeological remains; 400 different species of orchids and begonias, exotic trees like the pisonay, the queñual and innumerable species of fauna in their natural habitat, such as the cock-of-the-rocks, llamas and vicuñas, the white-tailed deer, the vizcacha and, if visitors are lucky, the endangered and vegetarian spectacled bear. The Inca Trail is one of the world’s leading trekking and camping routes. (Source: PromPeru)

A Note About Your Free Day in Machu Picchu

On your free day, you will be on your own. If you choose to revisit Machu Picchu, you will need to purchase a second entrance ticket, which currently costs $74 per person. If you are staying in Aguas Calientes, you will also need to purchase a round-trip bus ticket ($28 per person) for transportation to the site. The first bus departs at 5:30 AM. As an alternative to visiting Machu Picchu again, you can hike Huayna Picchu (a +/- 60 minute hike), or partake in another activity. The cost for hiking Huayna Picchu is $13 (in addition to the second entrance ticket). At the end of the day (mid-late afternoon), you will walk to the train station for the return ride to Poroy train station, where our local representative will be waiting for you to take you to your hotel in Cusco.

Itinerary Map

What's Included

Price includes.

• South American Vacations’ expert pre-departure planning services and documentation.
• Airport/hotel transfers including baggage handling.
• Hotel accommodations including taxes and service charges.
• Accommodations on board the M/V Santa Cruz II.
• All meals scheduled on board and others as indicated on the itinerary.
• Excursions to the islands conducted by English-speaking naturalist guides, and all other excursions as indicated on the itinerary including all applicable entrance fees.
• Evening briefings and lectures.
• Use of snorkeling equipment and kayaks.
• Double occupancy tents.
• Camping equipment: Bathroom tent, kitchen tent, dining tent, chairs, tables, and comfortable mattresses.
• Cook, porters to carry food, tents, and cooking gear.
• Porters for personal belongings (one for every two passengers).
• Coffee breaks during the trek, first aid kit/oxygen.
• Local, English-speaking tour guides.

Price Does Not Include

• International airfare.
• Domestic airfare.
• Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee ($100).
• Transit control card ($20).
• Meals not indicated on the itinerary.
• Gratuities to ship crew and naturalist guides, tour guides, porters, drivers, and hotel staff.
• Bar, gifts, and personal items.
• Travel insurance.

We will be happy to quote the cost of airfare and travel insurance, and to make these arrangements for you.

Accommodations

Quito & galapagos.

Hotel Patio Andaluz

Santa Cruz II

J.W. Marriott Hotel Lima

Miraflores Park Hotel

Casa Andina Classic Miraflores Centro

Jose Antonio Deluxe Hotel

Hotel Monasterio

Libertador Palacio del Inka

Casa Andina Classic Cusco Plaza

Hotel Novotel Cusco

Machu picchu.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

El Mapi Hotel

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel

The Singular Santiago

Hotel Eco Boutique Bidasoa

Renaissance Santiago Hotel

Easter Island

Taha Tai Hotel

Altiplanico Easter Island Hotel

Hotel Hare Noi

Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa

Additional details.

Group Private: In Quito, all transfers are private and the city tour and Middle of the World excursion is a group tour. All services in the Galapagos are operated on a group basis. In Peru, all airport/hotel transfers are private, and the city tour of Lima, city tour of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas excursion are group tours for single passengers and 3 star accommodations, and private for 4 Star, 5 Star, and Deluxe accommodation levels. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hike is a group tour. In Santiago, all airport/hotel transfers are private, and the city tour and winery tour are group tours for single passengers and 3 star accommodations, and private for 4 Star, 5 Star, and Deluxe accommodation levels. All services in Easter Island are operated on a group basis for single passengers and 3 Star accommodations, and are private for 4 Star, 5 Star, and Deluxe accommodations.

Elevations: Quito is 9,350 feet above sea level, Cusco is 10,912 feet, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is 8,944 feet, the Inca Trail varies from 8,528 feet to 13,776 feet, and Machu Picchu is 7,900 feet.

IGTOA’S Galapagos Traveler Conservation Fund: South American Vacations is an active member of IGTOA (International Galapagos Tour Operators Association).  In support of IGTOA’s Galapagos Traveler Conservation Fund, we contribute $20 for each passenger that we send to the Galapagos Islands.  You’ll travel knowing that you support the lasting protection of Galapagos Islands.

Sixty percent of the funding of this program goes directly to the Charles Darwin Foundation for science, conservation, and education.  Their work, carried out through the Charles Darwin Research Station and Galapagos National Park, is vital to the preservation of the islands.  You can visit their web site to learn more www.darwinfoundation.org .  The remainder goes toward IGTOA’s mission of creating a model of responsible and sustainable tourism.

Passport/Visa: For Ecuador , U.S., Australian, Canadian, and EU citizens require a passport valid for at least six months from date of entry and return ticket for stays of up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries are advised to contact the Ecuadorian embassy in their country before traveling. For Peru , U.S., Australian, Canadian, and EU citizens require a passport valid for at least six months from date of entry and return ticket for stays of up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries are advised to contact the Peruvian embassy in their country before traveling. For Chile , U.S., Australian, Canadian, and EU citizens (except Greece) require a valid passport (for the duration of your visit) and return ticket for stays of up to 90 days. Greek citizens can stay for up to 60 days. Australian, and Canadian citizens are required to pay a reciprocity fee (considered a multiple entry visa) of $95 and $132 respectively upon arrival (subject to change without notice due to currency fluctuations or other reasons). Citizens of other countries are advised to contact the Chilean embassy in their country before traveling.

Travel Insurance: In order to protect your travel investment from unforeseen circumstances that may arise before or during your trip, we strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance. We offer Allianz Global Assistance’s Classic Comprehensive and other plans. The Benefits and Coverage Limits are summarized on our Travel Insurance page. Call your travel counselor if you have any questions or to purchase a plan.

To Book This Trip: Call or email us to confirm the availability of a cabin on this ship for your desired dates of travel.  The non-refundable deposits for single, double, and triple passengers are $1,350, $1,450, and $1,450 per person, plus the cost of the airfare (if we arrange it for you).

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Our expert team are explorers from diverse backgrounds with something in common, a passion for Peru

Grecia Fuentes

I was born in Lima and I currently live in La Paz. I studied Public Relations, but my life has always been linked to tourism where I have been working for more than 10 years. I am passionate about my country, and I believe that everyone should someday discover Peru for its great cultural, gastronomic and natural wealth. I have been lucky enough to visit most of Peru, including the Coast, Andes and Jungle! In my spare time, I love to cook and eat, but above all, I like to spend as much time as possible with my baby boy.

Silvia Rincon

Maracaibo, Venezuela

I am extremely passionate about traveling. I love Latin American landscapes, from the Caribbean beaches, to highlands of the Andes, to the magical Patagonia lands. I truly believe sustainable tourism is essential for traveling, to ensure that future generations enjoy the same landscapes we see today. I have worked in the tourism industry for over ten years. I value friendship and happiness, so you will find a friend in me. In my spare time, I love to travel, go to the beach, get some wine, meditate and read a good book.

Debbie Sutcliffe

I was born and raised in Peru and have 21 years of experience in the tourism industry. I'm passionate about traveling and being able to create memories by showcasing my country. I consider myself lucky to have traveled the world on a cruise ship for over 10 years, giving me the opportunity to explore different destinations and learn about countries' customs, food and cultures. I love to bake, barbecue, visit the beach and, of course, travel and explore new destinations. I am also a big believer that every country has its own charm, but Peru will always have a special place in my heart.

Leila Dancuart

I was born in Lima, Peru, but my mom is from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and my dad is from Lima. I can speak fluent English, Spanish, and Portuguese! Travelling has always been my passion, and learning about different cultures and trying new experiences is my favorite thing to do. Because of this, I studied Hotel & Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. After graduating, I found an opportunity to learn more about the tourism industry while customizing & crafting trips to South America! When I'm not working, I love to visit new restaurants, coffee shops, nearby bars, spend time with family and friends, take dance lessons, and discover new music and movies. My favorite food is Nikkei, which is a fusion between Peruvian and Japanese or Peruvian-Italian cuisine. One of my favorite drinks is coffee & Pisco Sour too!

Melissa Schenk

Stuttgart, Germany

I was born and raised in Germany . I received a bachelor’s degree in Health and Tourism Management from the University of Economics and Environment Nürtingen-Geislingen in Germany. During a semester abroad in Peru I got to know various places in the country and fell in love, so I decided to move back to Lima after the pandemic.

Noelia Castro

Noelia was born in Lima, she got her bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Houston. Always eager to travel the world, she consistently explored Peru including: Cusco, Ica, Piura, Pasco, Junín, La Libertad, Cajamarca, Huánuco and San Martin.

Mikey Blount

Prague, Czech Republic

I was born in Prague to a Czech mother and an American father, growing up I often moved between the two countries, which fueled my passion for travel from a young age. While studying for a psychology degree in the UK, I used part-time work to finance my travels in Europe and Asia. However, after a two-week field trip working on housing issues in Salvador, Brazil, I became hooked on Latin American culture, food, and lifestyle.

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At Inca Expert, we believe in enriched travel. We have sought the expert opinion of our preeminent specialists to craft for you the most authentic experiences possible.

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Allyson and John K.

North Carolina, USA Traveled to: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Aracelli Gutierrez

Saint Louis, MO, USA Traveled to: Lima, Cusco, Lares, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain

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Trekking the Inca Trail: 4D/3N

4 days, cusco to cusco.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Eager to do Peru your own way but still looking for guidance on the tough but rewarding Inca Trail? Then we've got the trip for you. This four-day guided tour takes you past rambling rivers, ancient ruins, and scenic mountain views with the guidance and support of porters, cooks, and guides hired from local communities. The terrain is rugged and steep but the sense of accomplishment you'll feel is unparalleled once you reach Machu Picchu by sunrise.

Award Winning Inca Trail Program

Named Best Inca Trail Tour Operator by the Regional Direction of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Cusco (RDFTTC) in Peru. Your purchase of this tour helps employ over 560 local guides, porters, cooks, drivers, and office staff — connecting local communities to the global tourism chain. Learn more .

Cusco to Cusco

Is this tour for me, travel style: active.

Hiking, trekking, biking, rafting, and kayaking adventures all over the world, made for outdoor types.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 4 - Demanding

Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

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In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 4

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Create ripples that change lives. The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 99

More from Trekking the Inca Trail: 4D/3N

Places visited

• Machu Picchu

Itinerary Notes

Please note it is mandatory to attend a pre-trek briefing the afternoon before the first day of the tour at 16:00. See the joining instructions section of the tour details for additional information.

We highly recommended arriving at least one day prior to the tour in order to acclimatize to the altitude prior to the trek. A full day spent in Cusco (3249m/10659 ft), taking it easy and drinking plenty of water, is usually enough time for most people to acclimatize.

Day 1 Cusco/Inca Trail

Depart Cusco by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meals included:, day 2 inca trail.

Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax.

Day 3 Inca Trail

Cross two more passes and ruins on today's trek. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through the cloud forest on a gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley.

At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).

Day 4 Machu Picchu/Cusco

The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down for a guided tour of the site before returning to Cusco in the evening where the tour ends upon arrival.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: Handmade Biodegradable Soap Products
• Inca Trail guided hike with cooks and porters (4 days)
• Included foam sleeping mat and duffel for porters to carry personal items on the trek
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Camping (3 nts).

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Allow USD30-40 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, train, hiking.

Staff & experts

G Adventures Representative in Cusco, specialist Inca Trail CEO (Chief Experience Officer) on hike.

Extend your stay with these add-on tours

Trekking the inca trail: 5d/4n - from $849.

Want a hotel night included before the first day of the trek? Check out the 5D/4N version of this trip.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

The Ultimate Hiking Adventure to a Legendary Lost City

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

From $5,995

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu the WT way, with spectacular campsites (two of the four are exclusive to our groups), topped off by a night at the acclaimed Sanctuary Lodge, just steps from Machu Picchu. With five full days on the trail (other companies rush it in four), we enjoy well-paced hiking days, fewer trekkers, and fascinating Inca sites others miss. Superb Trip Leaders bring the Inca world to life for us, and our top-notch trail crew keeps us well fed. We've perfected this experience over 40+ years!

Arrive: Cusco, Peru

Depart: Cusco, Peru

• Hike to Machu Picchu on mystical, stone-paved paths built by the Incas
• Explore trail-side archaeological sites that only Inca Trail hikers have access to
• Relish the comfort of our famous Inca Trail camping service—the best on the trail!
• Superb accommodations at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, right at the ruins, and at Cusco's 5-star Hotel Monasterio

In Cusco, we begin to understand the power of the Incas as we explore Saqsayhuaman, the grand fortress overlooking the city. In the Incas' Sacred Valley, we climb up through the terraces of the monumental citadel at Pisac to see its intricate stonework.

We explore Ollantaytambo, where the rebel Manco Inca held off Pizarro and his men in 1536, then begin our hike to Machu Picchu. Our special five-day route brings you shorter hiking days, optimum altitude acclimatization, and more time to explore hidden sites along the way. On the first two nights, we stay at our own private campsites with full amenities—one even has a sauna! Our trail cuisine is unmatched, and our well-paced hiking days give you plenty of time to see the fascinating archaeological sites along the route.

Phuyupatamarka ("Town in the Clouds") and elegant Wiñay Wayna ("Forever Young") are the last major Inca sites on our trail. Hiking up to Intipunku, the "Gate of the Sun," the original entrance to Machu Picchu, the dazzling lost city is revealed below us and we are joined by our Machu Picchu specialist guide. We also have the option to hike up Huayna Picchu, the striking peak above the ruins. Our stay at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel right at the ruins, allows us unparalleled access and a fantastic sunset view. Return to Cusco on Day 8 and depart on Day 9.

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

At time of reservation: $600 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum fee (Inca Trail permit fee): $110 per person 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in hotels and full-service camping
• All meals included except 1 lunch and 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Group camping and cooking equipment and staff
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Loan of sleeping bag, pad, and duffel bag on trek

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Hotel Monasterio

Cusco, Peru

Day 1 (1 night)

Hotel Pakaritampu

Ollantaytambo, Peru

Day 2 (1 night)

Private Camp at Kilometer 82

Chilca, Peru

Day 3 (1 night)

Inca Trail Trek Camps

Inca Trail, Peru

Days 4-6 (3 nights)

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

Machu Picchu Ruins, Peru

Day 7 (1 night)

Day 8 (1 night)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Jhon Elguera

Miguel Pacsi

Holly Wissler

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 5, Strenuous, according to our trip grading system. Most hiking is between 8,000 and 13,000 feet. The maximum elevation we reach is 13,830 feet, and the highest place we camp is 12,180 feet. The total mileage hiked is about 30. Our group will spread out along the trail during about six to seven hours of hiking each day (shorter on some days).

The Inca Trail is mostly stone-paved (Inca stones!) and it undulates up and down across green mountains while crossing two high-altitude passes. Trails can be rugged, not the well-maintained trails you may be accustomed to in the United States. For the most part, you can hike at your own speed because we always have a staff member hiking in the lead as well as one behind with the slowest hiker in our group. The altitudes are high, but our first hotel night is in Cusco at 11,200 feet, our second overnight is in the Sacred Valley of the Incas at 9,500 feet, our third is at our first camp at 8,700 feet, and our fourth is at our second camp at 8,900 feet. These four days will help your altitude acclimatization before climbing the first pass.

Any fit, experienced hiker will enjoy this hike, but we recommend you make an extra effort to prepare by engaging in regular exercise well beyond your normal routine. To accelerate your conditioning, try walking faster than 1.5 miles per hour, walking on steeper inclines, using your gym’s stair-climbing machines, or going on long hikes (also a good way to break in your boots). Please be aware that there are a few sections of long, steep stone “staircases,” so we do suggest hiking poles to protect your knees. The trek takes place at altitudes between 8,700 feet and 13,830 feet.

Being so close to the equator, Peru has only two climate seasons: a dry season from April to October, and a wet season from December to March. Altitude is the main factor controlling the climate. In the mountains, you'll encounter sunny days with daytime temperatures ranging between 65°F and 70°F, dropping to the 40s and lower at night. The sun is very strong at high altitude and it can often be warm enough to hike in shorts and a t-shirt. However, it can also get extremely cold; if you're familiar with mountain weather, you know how suddenly it can get cold even in the daytime if the sun slips behind a cloud. Nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing. Rain should not be a problem on our treks, but always keep in mind that mountain weather is unpredictable and sudden storms can occur, especially on high mountain passes.

Lima lies in a coastal desert where rainfall is rare and temperatures are usually warm (70s and 80s). Days are overcast most of the year due to the Humboldt current that comes up from Antarctica and meets the warm, tropical El Niño current from the north to create the garua, or coastal fog/mist.

The climate in the Amazon Basin is generally warm and humid throughout the year but can also be unexpectedly cool (usually 60s) due to the breezes that blow down from the Andes.

A Typical Trekking Day

Hiking distances on trek are normally measured in hours, not miles, since maps aren't really accurate enough to assess how far we walk up and down on winding mountain trails. With rest stops and photo stops, few people walk faster than one mile an hour in a mountainous region. Some hiking days are shorter than others, and some days are more difficult than others due to altitude gain and loss.

On a typical trek day, you'll wake up to hot coffee, cocoa, and a choice of teas, brought right to your tent. This is followed by a freshly prepared breakfast of eggs, pancakes, French toast, or oatmeal. We set off on the trail while the crew strikes camp and the porters shoulder their loads. There is always a guide in the lead, usually the Trip Leader or the camp manager, who supervises the crew, and someone who hikes behind the slowest hiker. Most of our hikers tend to spread out over the trail, taking photos, stopping to rest, and enjoying the scenery. We typically walk for three or four hours in the morning, depending on the day, then stop for a leisurely lunch at a scenic spot. Lunches consist of a wide variety of dishes, including delicious pasta salads, soup, casseroles, and other offerings. After lunch, we walk for another three hours or so until we reach our next night's camp. The porters and crew pass us in mid-afternoon and set up our next camp. When we arrive at camp, snacks are available, including popcorn, cookies, crackers, and hot or cold drinks. Dinner begins with hearty soup followed by an entrée of fish, beef, or chicken (with vegetarian options), along with vegetable dishes, fruit, and a light dessert.

Extend Your Trip

Arequipa and Colca Canyon Extension

From $1,450

Amazon Rainforest Extension: Reserva Amazonica

When is the Best Time to Go?

The Inca Trail can be hiked all year except in late January and February, the rainiest months, when the trail is closed for repairs. The trail reopens in March and April, when the rains lighten up and the mountains are still green. High season begins in May and extends through September, as these are the driest months. October through December are considered shoulder season, when occasional rain is possible, but keep in mind that the highlands of Peru are a temperate desert and it is not uncommon for it not to rain for weeks at a time even in the height of the rainy season. This is also the time with the fewest hikers on the trail, more flowers in bloom, and fewer tourists at Machu Picchu as well as in Cusco. Temperatures in the Cusco-Machu Picchu region range from the high 60s in the daytime to the low 40s at night, with some variation depending on the time of year you go.

Best Time to Hike the Inca Trail

Why Do You Need to Book So Early?

To protect the Inca Trail's monuments and environment, Peruvian authorities only issue 200 permits each day for hikers (plus an additional 300 permits for the licensed porters and staff who carry the gear and work on the trips). Permits sell out extremely fast! We must obtain your permit for you when you sign up, so we urge you to book your trip at least six months in advance, especially if you are considering going between May and September.

Why Should I Hike the Inca Trail with WT?

• We are experts on the Inca Trail with over 40 years of experience.
• A perfectly paced itinerary , with five full trekking days (most companies push it with just four days on the trail—and some even three). This allows for a better pace, fewer crowds, and more sites and exploration along the way.
• Exceptional camps with the finest equipment, delicious meals, and hot coffee, cocoa, or tea brought to your tent each morning. The first two nights are inprivate campsites completely to ourselves!
• The most qualified guides—experts in Inca history and culture.
• Overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel just steps away from the ruins, giving you access to Machu Picchu without the crowds.

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

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Number of ruins: 2

Average duration: 1 day

Peak time to trek: May to September

Trips that include the one day inca trail.

The One Day Inca Trail is included in the following trips; however we are happy to discuss ways to include it in other Peru itineraries for you. Contact us to discuss your options.

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Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Highlights of the One Day Inca Trail

Winayhuayna (Forever Young)

Winayhuayna packs a punch overlooking the Urubamba River – with upper and lower terraces lined with well-preserved stone houses on a hillside. Said to be one of the highlights of the region, this is one of the final ruins that you will see before you reach Machu Picchu.

Into Punku (Sun Gate)

Inti Punku, better known as the Sun Gate, brings you to the spectacular entrance of Machu Picchu. Evidence suggests this structure was used as a security checkpoint, and the views overlooking the ancient city ruins are impressive to say the least.

Why choose Intrepid

Trek experts

All our guides are certified local tour guides and trained in-house on Intrepid Safety Policies. Each trekking guide also receives exclusive Intrepid training, provided by mountain rescue experts in the field.

Safety First

All our guides and trek leaders have been trained by medical specialists in handling altitude illness and are proficient in first aid. Our team carries oxygen cylinders on all treks for emergency use.

Local matters

Our team members live and work in the Andean region, which means revenue from all our treks benefit the local economy.

Full inclusions

We take care of the details, so you can focus more on enjoying the journey. Our tours include all meals, with essential camping equipment and the option to hire additional hiking equipment if needed.

Rainforest Alliance tick of approval

We are proud to have the tick of approval from the Rainforest Alliance indicating that we meet and operate at the highest standards in environmental, social and economic sustainability

Sustainable travel

We strive to use travel as a force for good. That’s why we choose to give back to the communities we visit, carbon offset all our trips and take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. We’ve been officially certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid Travel, you can rest assured you’re travelling to improve the planet.

Meet our team

Maritza, operations manager

"I am passionate about empowering local Indigenous communities, especially women, and am also a committed defender of Mother Earth, known in the Andes as Pachamama. I have also worked tirelessly with local communities and governments to help improve the sustainability of treks in the Cusco region".

Paul, leader

“It will be a pleasure to share our traditions and beliefs, take you to the most amazing sites and, most importantly, interact with the locals! Get ready for a behind-the-scenes tour where we’ll visit hole-in-the-wall restaurants and find the best picarones (Andean doughnuts). I’ll be waiting for you here, in my beloved Peru."

Fernando, general manager

"I like working for Intrepid because their social and environmental philosophy isn’t just a slogan to sell more trips, they really do care about it. I have changed my life in so many aspects due to all the learning coming from Intrepid, from recycling to accepting myself, and being proud for who I am."

Ascencio, porter

"I started working with Intrepid in 2014 and now I'm 61 years old. I'm very happy to be working with Intrepid because each porter's treatment is better than other tour operators in Peru. Because of this job (which includes fair pay), I can provide a better education for my children". 

Valentina, porter

"I come from Huilloc Community in Ollantaytambo town in the Sacred Valley (Cusco), and I started working as a porter on the Inca Trail in 2021. I love walking the Inca Trail and I'm very happy to be working for Intrepid as my income enables me to provide a better education for my 7 children". 

Teofilo, porter

"I'm from the Community of Kalla Rayan (Calca town) in the Sacred Valley, and I'm 53 years old. I've worked as a porter for Intrepid since 2009, mainly because I love it and we have very good working conditions. Thanks to my job, I've saved money to spend on my wife and better education for my children". 

Can I add the One Day Inca Trail to my Peru trip?

We are able to add the One Day Inca Trail to a number of our existing Peru itineraries. Please contact us to discuss the different options available to you.

Do you need a permit?

While you don’t need the same permit you need for the Inca trail, places are limited so you must pre-book this option at least 30 days prior to departure. We will arrange all the necessary paperwork on your behalf.

How does the One Day Inca Trail work?

On trips where the One Day Inca Trail is included, the day begins bright and early with a 6:30am train ride to the starting point. With a local guide leading the way, the trail will lead uphill and downhill, passing a few archaeological sites. See Winayhuayna (2680 metres), also known as 'Forever Young'. This impressive complex is considered by many to be most impressive site on the whole Inca Trail, and is made up of a terraced agricultural centre, religious sector and urban sector. From here, it's about a one-hour trek to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), where (weather permitting), you'll enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu. Depending on how long the trek takes, you'll have a guided tour of the area for 1.5 to 2 hours, with time to take photos, before taking a short bus ride down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).

When is the high season at Machu Picchu?

The high season for trekking in Peru runs over the drier months from April to October. The most popular time to hike to Machu Picchu is in June and July – which is therefore the most crowded time.

When is the rainy season at Machu Picchu?

The wet season runs from November to March – this is when the temperature rises, and the region receives heavy rainfall. The Inca Trail closes every year in February (the wettest month of the year) for maintenance.

How high is Machu Picchu?

The altitude at Machu Picchu is 2430 metres (7970 feet) above sea level.

Is the One Day Inca Trail a difficult trek?

The One Day Inca Trail is 15 kilometres (just over 9 miles) in total. The first 10 kilometres are uphill and can be pretty steep, but if you have a moderate level of fitness you should be fine. The trek takes about 4 hours at leisurely pace.

Is there a minimum age requirement for children?

While there is no official minimum age for hiking the trail, we do recommend children be at least 10 years old. While the trail can be completed by a person with moderate fitness, it is worth considering whether your child would be able to meet the physical requirements of the trek.

Is altitude sickness common?

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 2000 metres (6561 feet) regardless of age, gender or fitness level. While our leaders have basic first aid training and are aware of the closest medical facilities, it is very important that you make yourself aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your leader at once if you feel unwell. We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip. Particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking any medication.

What is the suggested amount I should tip the local guide?

For the One Day Inca Trail, we suggest you tip the local guide between PEN 10 and PEN 20.

What are the toilets like on the One Day Inca Trail?

Basic toilet blocks are situated along the Inca Trail. We recommend you bring some toilet paper and a bottle of hand sanitiser.

What should I pack?

You shouldn’t need too much to complete the One Day Inca Trail, but we do recommend bringing a small day pack containing essentials like water, sunscreen and snacks, as there are few opportunities to purchase food at Machu Picchu. If you wish to bring walking poles you may, but they are not essential.

How do we get back to Cusco?

After spending the day exploring Machu Picchu, you will take a train and bus through the Sacred Valley and back to Cusco. You also have the option to walk back to Cusco if you want, which takes between 45 minutes and one hour.

Can I do the One Day Inca Train if I have a disability?

Yes, but of course it will depend on your specific condition, fitness and what support will be available to you. Contact us to discuss your circumstances and we can assess you from there.

Is it possible to skip the One Day Inca Trail even if the tour includes it?

Yes, it is always possible to skip trekking components on our trips, with no extra charge. Simply speak to us at the time of booking and we can discuss alternative options for you, such as a train to Machu Picchu.

Responsible trekking

Intrepid Travel is absolutely committed to ensuring the environmental sustainability of the amazing destinations we visit and we take our social responsibilities very seriously. In Peru , we have committed to paying our porters and guides a fair wage and supplying them with the necessary equipment and resources to undertake their work safely. We also support several community initiatives aimed at promoting the long-term sustainability of the region's environment and preserving the traditional cultures of its communities. 

Read more about Machu Picchu