Highlights Of Peru And The Galapagos

Highlights Of Peru And The
Galapagos
A journey of unmissable highlights and wonderful contrasts, this incredible adventure encompasses some of
South America’s biggest attractions. Combining the Inca treasures of Peru, including the spectacular and
iconic Machu Picchu, with the unique natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands, this remarkable trip ticks all
the boxes going! Beginning in Peru, you will start with Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you’ll
visit the colourful textile market at Chinchero and the terraces at Moray, before heading by train to the Lost
City of Machu Picchu. Without doubt one of the most awe-inspiring attractions anywhere in the Americas, this
incredible sanctuary is with good reason one of the most famous archaeological sites on earth. Heading back
into the Sacred Valley, you will then have a chance to explore the ruins at Pisac and many of Cusco’s famous
highlights before heading on to Ecuador. Flying to the Galapagos, you will then spend the next few days
exploring the most famous archipelago on earth. Home to marine iguanas, giant tortoise and blue footed
boobies, the islands are without doubt one of the most unique wildlife destinations anywhere and you will have
three full days of excursions here.
Highlights
Immerse yourself in the bustle of an indigenous market
Explore the dramatic scenery of the Sacred Valley
Take the train to the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu
Walk around beautiful Cuzco and its surrounding ruins
Snorkel with sea lions and manta rays in the Galapagos
Tour Includes:
6 nights in boutique colonial style accommodation, 2 nights in upmarket city hotels, 4 nights in eco-lodge
Five domestic flights in economy class
12 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
Accompanied by an experienced English speaking local guide
Private driver and vehicle
Sightseeing programme including all entrance fees (except Galapagos National Park)
Private guided transfers to and from all airports
Please note the prices shown are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin or double room
Itinerary
Day 1: Lima
Upon your arrival in Lima you will be welcomed at the airport and
escorted to your hotel.
Day 2: Lima - Cuzco - Sacred Valley
Today you will be transferred back to the airport for the short flight to
Cuzco, where you will be collected and taken on a scenic drive to your
hotel in the Sacred Valley. (B)
Day 3: Sacred Valley
This morning you will visit the charming community of Chinchero which is famed for its textile market. This is a
real hub of activity, vibrant with colour and movement where you can pick up a range of handicrafts.
Afterwards visit the salt mines of Maras with its intense white shine like snow on a sunny day - an impressive
sight for any visitor. Salt was extracted from these mines from Inca times on and the same method has been
used ever since. (B)
Day 4: Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu
Your private driver will transfer you to the nearby train station for your
short journey to the Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu. Upon arrival
a coach takes you up the steep road to the entrance of the incredibly
situated sanctuary. The ruins were left undiscovered by the Spaniards
for centuries before they were found by American explorer Hiram
Bingham. During a guided tour you can appreciate the genius that went
into its construction making it one of the new 7 wonders of the world. At
the end of the day, transfer to your hotel in the village at the bottom of
the citadel. (B,D)
Day 5: Machu Picchu - Sacred Valley
After breakfast you have the option to visit Machu Picchu again or climb Wayna Picchu which is the mountain
overlooking the ruins. A permit is required in advance so this hike needs to be pre-booked but it is well worth
the panoramic views at the summit. Should you wish to have the morning at leisure, there are some hot
springs in town which you can visit. In the afternoon, return by train to the Sacred Valley and transfer to your
hotel. (B)
Day 6: Sacred Valley - Cuzco
This morning you will make your way back to Cuzco via Pisac which has
become one of South America's most famous souvenir markets. Be sure
to sample some 'empanadas' baked in traditional clay ovens before
continuing your journey. On the approach to Cuzco, stop to explore the
Inca ruins outside the city, including a hilltop fortress and temple.
Transfer to your hotel in the early evening. (B)
Day 7: Cuzco
Your half day walking city tour of Cuzco allows you to investigate its famous attractions, including the
cathedral with its magnificently carved woodwork and Temple of the Sun where extraordinary Incan
engineering is on display. Your last stop is in the artisan quarter with workshops and galleries lining its
cobblestone alleys. (B)
Day 8: Cuzco - Lima - Guayaquil
Private transfer to the airport for the short hop to Lima and onward flight
to Guayaquil in Ecuador. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at the
airport and escorted to your hotel for the night. (B)
Day 9: Guayaquil - Galapagos
Morning flight to the Galapagos to begin your wildlife adventure. Your
land-based package is ideal for those without sea-legs who prefer to
visit the islands on guided daytrips and return to the safe comfort of a
hotel bed each night. You will visit the best highlights of Santa Cruz
Island as well as a selection of the surrounding islands over the next few
days. (B,L,D)
Day 10: Galapagos Islands
Full day of excursions. (B,L,D)
Day 11: Galapagos Islands
Full day of excursions. (B,L,D)
Day 12: Galapagos Islands
Full day of excursions. (B,L,D)
Day 13: Galapagos Islands - Guayaquil
Mid-morning return flight to Guayaquil, then connect with your international flight home. (B)
Accommodation
Aguas Calientes
El Mapi
Lima
Casa Andina Private Collection
Miraflores
Cuzco
La Casona Inkaterra
Sacred Valley
Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel and
Wellness
Galapagos
Silberstein Hotel