From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with the Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise 2026 - 20 Day River Cruise Lima to Quito

Call Us 800.528.9300

From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with the Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise 2026

20 Day River Cruise Lima to Quito



Tour Description:

Experience the fascinating Nazca Lines, archaeological treasures, and gastronomic delights of Peru, with the untamed rainforest of the Amazon, on this thrilling river cruise adventure that offers a little something for everyone!

Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Lima with a guided sightseeing tour, a visit to the Larco Herrera Museum, and a special welcome dinner in an ornate family-owned mansion. Fly to Cusco and descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas for guided tours of the ceremonial site of Kenko, where ancient rituals were performed, and the Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Of course, no vacation to Peru is complete without visiting astonishing Machu Picchu, built around 1450, and sitting majestically above the Sacred Valley. Stand in awe as you witness one of the most majestic images in South America, if not the entire world! Next, you’ll embark on a journey to one of the world’s vastly unexplored regions where biodiversity is at its greatest—the mighty Amazon. Board one of the world’s most luxurious small ships, the Delfin III, and enjoy fine wine, famous Peruvian cuisine, and all-inclusive comfort while venturing deep into the Amazon jungle in search of elusive wildlife. Take naturalist-guided panga rides through the river tributaries, swim with pink dolphins, and visit native communities—all while returning to your plush five-star yacht.

Your unforgettable trip to Peru is not complete without seeing the Nazca Lines. When seen from the air, the lines form precise geometric shapes that number in the hundreds, as well as 70 figures, which include a monkey, whale, hummingbird, shark, spiders, and plants. Archaeologists remain puzzled about why the ancient Nazca people, who thrived here from 200 BC to 500 AD, created illustrations that could only be seen from far above the earth.

Before this cruise adventure is complete, you’ll get a chance to explore the beautiful Galápagos Islands onboard the 20-passenger MS Infinity yacht! Have your camera ready as your Naturalist points out colonies of sea lions, pelicans, albatross, marine iguanas, flamingos, blue-footed boobies, short-eared owls, and other birds. You’ll also have a chance to snorkel in the tropical waters and perhaps get a look at sea turtles, sharks, and rays. A perfect ending to this trip of a lifetime!

Map for From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with the Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise 2026 - 20 Day River Cruise Lima to Quito
Click for larger view.

Dates & Pricing

Thursday 09 Apr 26 — Wednesday 29 Apr 26Starting at $13,869 Get a Quote
Thursday 07 May 26 — Wednesday 27 May 26Starting at $13,869 Get a Quote
Thursday 21 May 26 — Wednesday 10 Jun 26Starting at $13,869 Get a Quote
Thursday 04 Jun 26 — Wednesday 24 Jun 26Starting at $13,819 Get a Quote
Thursday 08 Oct 26 — Wednesday 28 Oct 26Starting at $13,869 Get a Quote
Thursday 22 Oct 26 — Wednesday 11 Nov 26Starting at $13,869 Get a Quote
Thursday 05 Nov 26 — Wednesday 25 Nov 26Starting at $13,819 Get a Quote


Destination & Sightseeing

Maximum enjoyment of this vacation requires walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. The maximum elevation on this tour is 12,200 ft.

In the Galápagos, there will be “wet landings” meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. Hikes include rocky and uneven terrain up to 2 miles (3.2km) in distance.

Note: This itinerary varies from your standard river cruises as the itinerary includes sailing in open water and around remote islands while focusing on wildlife viewing in isolated ecosystems. The MS Infinity is a sea vessel subject to impacts from weather, sea currents, and general sailing conditions. The ship’s itinerary may vary according to regional policies and regulations, weather conditions, and seasonal changes to create the perfect cross-section of sites visited.
Notes:
Maximum enjoyment of this vacation requires walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. Maximum elevation on this tour is 12,200 ft. In the Galápagos, there will be “wet landings” meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. Terrain is rocky and uneven. Itinerary in the Galápagos are subject to change.

For Nazca Lines flights, any guest who weighs more than 220 pounds will need to buy an additional ticket (est. $275 USD) at the time of the flight.

ITINERARY

Day 1
ARRIVE IN LIMA, PERU Welcome to Peru! Meet your Local Guide

Day 2
LIMA–PISCO–PARACAS & NAZCA LINES Mysterious Signs Drive south along the scenic Pan-American Highway to Pisco, the wine capital of Peru, and take a guided two-hour flight over the Nazca Lines—a series of drawings of animals and geometric figures etched into the parched soil—some up to 1,000 feet long—believed by some to be the astronomical calendar of the ancient Peruvians
Meal Icon BreakfastMeal Icon Dinner

Day 3
PARACAS–BALLESTAS ISLAND CRUISE–LIMA Exotic Life This morning, head to the Bay of Paracas and take a cruise to the Ballestas Islands—home to a wide variety of sea mammals and exotic birds. See the huge Candelabro, a candelabra-shaped etching on the Paracas cliffside. Later, return to Lima where you will have free time to explore the fascinating Peruvian capital – where high-rises tower above ancient temples and colorful colonial architecture
Meal Icon Breakfast

Day 4
LIMA Peruvian Treasures, Presidential Palaces, and Pizarro’s Conquests CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Lima to see the colonial Old Quarter, Plaza de Armas, the presidential Government Palace, and the Lima Cathedral. Visit San Francisco Monastery to see the famous catacombs followed by the Larco Herrera Museum—with the world’s largest private collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art. DISCOVERY Later, enjoy a Culinary Experience with an authentic Peruvian welcome dinner in the exquisite, historic mansion—Casa Garcia Alvarado
Meal Icon BreakfastMeal Icon Dinner

Day 5
SACRED VALLEY Alpacas, Llamas, and Ancient Rituals of the Andes CLASSIC Fly to Cusco, the ancient Andean city and former capital of the Inca Empire. A Guided Excursion into the Sacred Valley reveals the hillside Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Marvel at the remarkable Inca stonework of this 15th-century fortress that was once the site of the largest battle between the Incas and the Spanish. The Spanish were ultimately victorious in 1536, disassembling part of the site to build homes in Cusco and leaving behind the ruins we find today. You will also see the Inca military post of Puca Pucara and visit the ceremonial site of Kenko where ancient Peruvian rituals and sacrifices were performed. DISCOVERY Enjoy an encounter with llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos and learn about their vital role in Peruvian culture. Continue to the old mountain village of Pisaq. Take time to shop in the large indigenous Quechua community market for treasures such as alpaca sweaters, woven blankets, and handmade jewelry. This evening, enjoy dinner featuring Andean and Western dishes with wine
Meal Icon BreakfastLunchMeal Icon Dinner

Day 6
SACRED VALLEY Stone Temples and Formidable Fortresses CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the adobe village of Ollantaytambo this morning to visit the ruins of an Inca fortress. See the massive stones and amazing engineering design, including the Sun Temple and Princess Baths fountain. DISCOVERY Join an Escorted Visit to a native Incan home to experience the way of life that has endured since the 13th century. MACHU PICCHU Andean Heights and Hidden Secrets of the Inca’s Lost City CLASSIC Join a Guided Excursion aboard the 360° Machu Picchu Train boasting spectacular panoramic views of the lush countryside of Urubamba Valley from its panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage. Travel by rail to Aguas Calientes to take the winding road to legendary Machu Picchu. ACTIVE Take a Guided Walk to explore the “Lost City of the Incas” high atop the Andes once overlaid with dense forest. Learn about the lives and mysteries still hidden in this ancient citadel and the amazing structures built by the pre-Columbian masters of this sacred land. DISCOVERY Enjoy your overnight stay at the foot of the mountain where Machu Picchu is found with a gourmet Peruvian dinner
Meal Icon BreakfastMeal Icon Dinner

Day 7
MACHU PICCHU A Miraculous Sanctuary in a Tropical Mountain Cloud Forest CLASSIC Take a second included Guided Excursion to Machu Picchu. Set out early to see the sunrise over the ruins, explore the terraces or perhaps venture up to see the Sun Gate, once used as the ancient entrance to the Sanctuary. After lunch, return to the Sacred Valley by train and then continue on to Cusco
Meal Icon BreakfastLunch

Day 8
CUSCO Conquistadors, Churches, and the Colorful Culture of Peru CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Cusco and learn about the Inca culture and the Spanish invasion that threatened their way of life and very existence. Visit Santo Domingo Monastery, originally called Koricancha and built by the Incas as a Temple of the Sun with extraordinary engineering and masonry design. Continue to the Plaza de Armas to visit the Cusco Cathedral. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore Cusco’s colorful culture. DISCOVERY Tonight, an elegant dinner includes wine and a menu inspired by Peru’s eclectic mix of cultures
Meal Icon BreakfastMeal Icon Dinner

Day 9
CUSCO–LIMA–IQUITOS–NAUTA–PERUVIAN AMAZON RIVER (EMBARKATION) Your Amazon Adventure Begins CLASSIC Today, you’ll travel by air to Lima and then on to Iquitos to begin your Amazon journey. Travel to Nauta and embark the luxurious vessel, the Delfin III, to cruise the Peruvian Amazon in comfort and convenience. Settle into your spacious suite before meeting your onboard Naturalist and Cruise Director. DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Welcome Reception to gain an overview of your upcoming Amazon experience. Your Naturalist Guide will offer information about the animal species of the Amazon ecosystem, the native villagers you’ll meet, and the spectacular plant life that thrives in this astonishing environment. See the two powerful Amazon tributaries—the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers—which converge to create the mighty Peruvian Amazon. Later, on board, enjoy an unforgettable dinner featuring Peruvian cuisine with the freshest local ingredients

Day 10
PERUVIAN AMAZON Spider Monkeys, Pink Dolphins, and Peru’s Favorite Cocktail CLASSIC Rise early this morning for your first glimpse of the majestic Amazon at sunrise to experience the sights and sounds. After breakfast, take a Guided Panga Ride down one of the Amazon’s tributaries in search of the incredible wildlife. Your Naturalist Guide helps to spot capuchin, howler, tamarin, and spider monkeys, as well as iguanas, sloths, freshwater pink dolphins, and a stunning array of birdlife. Watch for the extraordinary giant Amazonian water lily. CLASSIC This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve allows you to witness the activity of exotic birds, including trogons, macaws, parrots, falcons, and jacamars. ACTIVE Take a refreshing Swim in this unique area of the Amazon—with the chance to encounter the Amazon’s amazing pink dolphins. DISCOVERY Join in an onboard Cooking Class to learn about native fruits, vegetables, and fish. You’ll learn about local ingredients for delicious recipes. In the evening, enjoy a Mixology Lesson to create Peru’s famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour
Meal Icon BreakfastLunchMeal Icon Dinner

Day 11
PERUVIAN AMAZON Exotic Birds, Night Creatures, and Natural Remedies ACTIVE Join a morning Naturalist Guided Walk to explore tropical flora, including epiphytes, orchids, and indigenous jungle vegetation below the rainforest’s canopy. DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Nature Presentation about indigenous and medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetation used in the Amazonian culture for centuries. CLASSIC This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to the Amazon community of San Francisco introduces you to local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations. ACTIVE Join a Night Safari Excursion to spot nocturnal creatures, including caiman, frogs, bats, and boa constrictors. DISCOVERY Later tonight, enjoy Live Entertainment by the Delfin III crew of local performers to celebrate your Amazon adventure with music and dance
Meal Icon BreakfastLunchMeal Icon Dinner

Day 12
IQUITOS (DISEMBARKATION) A Manatee Introduction and an Amazon Farewell DISCOVERY This morning, disembark and bid your ship’s crew farewell. On the way to Iquitos, visit the Amazon Tropical Aquarium for a unique educational experience to learn about the river’s ecosystem, the behavior of the extraordinary species, and the vital role they play in the balance of nature. Later, fly to Lima

Day 13
LIMA–QUITO Adios, Lima! Fly from Lima to Quito. Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galápagos adventure, or walk through the historic city to sample ceviche or helado (Latin-American ice cream). Dine out tonight or ask about the best clubs for music and dancing
Meal Icon Breakfast

Day 14
QUITO A Gold Altar, Artistic Avenues, and Two Hemispheres in One Day DISCOVERY Travel through the Tandayapa Valley to the Andean Chocó cloud forest and nature reserve. The Alambi Reserve, renowned for bird watching, is home to more than 250 species of birds, including 30 different hummingbirds. While here, visit the hummingbird garden to observe these characteristic birds in their natural habitat. CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Quito that showcases the colonial city’s historic sites, including the impressive Legislative Palace with its enormous, sculpted mural of Ecuadorean history. You’ll also see Independence Plaza and visit the 16th-century San Francisco Monastery, and La Compañía Church—the exquisite Jesuit cathedral with its spectacular Spanish baroque architecture—more than 160 years in the making. DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk down Calle La Ronda—one of Quito’s oldest streets—with a wealth of artist’s workshops and galleries where you’ll meet local artists and learn about their original works. Later, visit a local chocolate factory for a tour and a tasting to discover why Ecuador is one of the world’s finest chocolate producers. CLASSIC Your day in Quito ends with a Guided Excursion to the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo—a monument to the Equator—the “middle of the world.” Stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time at the exact location of the Earth’s Equator. Observe the equatorial effects of the dual-spiraling directions of water and balancing eggs on end. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a famed local restaurant with delicious regional cuisine
Meal Icon BreakfastMeal Icon Dinner

Day 15
BALTRA–GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (EMBARKATION)–SANTA CRUZ ISLAND The Theory of Evolution—and Giant Babies This morning, take a flight to the Galápagos Island of Baltra where you’ll embark on your five-day cruise aboard the luxurious MS Infinity yacht. DISCOVERY Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion on Santa Cruz Island to visit the El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve, a unique natural reserve where you can observe the giant turtles and dozens of bird species. Later, join an onboard briefing of the next day’s adventures followed by dinner. NOTE: The ship is expedition-style designed for open water cruising, however, the itinerary is subject to changes based on open-water conditions, weather, seasonal currents and Galápagos National Park policies and regulations

Day 16
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND Marine Life, and Lunar Landscapes ACTIVE This morning, visit one of the newest visitor sites accessible to tourists in the Galápagos Islands, Dragon Hill. Walk along the beach and trails to a lagoon where bright flamingos, pintail ducks, and land iguanas can be spotted. This afternoon, travel to the north shore of Santa Cruz for Bachas Beach. DISCOVERY Explore Bachas Beach, named for some wrecked World War II barges whose ribs are still visible in the sand. This site offers great swimming, a lovely walk along the shore, and a visit to a lagoon with wading birds, marine iguanas, and sometimes flamingos. The area is also a frequent nesting site for sea turtles
Meal Icon BreakfastLunchMeal Icon Dinner

Day 17
FLOREANA ISLAND Pink Flamingos, Gliding Rays, and a Message in a Barrel CLASSIC Visit Floreana Island, home to the first “post office” in the islands. Visit the spot where 18th century whalers placed a wooden barrel used as an unofficial mailbox. The custom continues to this day with Galápagos visitors, so, don’t forget your postcards, and don’t be surprised if the post card arrives to its destination before you even get home! ACTIVE Enjoy free time at the sandy beach of Post Office Bay for swimming and snorkeling. See Green Sea Turtles, reef fish, and rays gliding in the shallow shoreline waters. DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk on Green Beach, so called due to its green color, which comes from a high percentage of olivine crystals in the sand, and the Flour Sand Beach is composed of white coral. See flamingos, flycatchers, finches, and more!
Meal Icon BreakfastLunchMeal Icon Dinner

Day 18
ESPAÑOLA ISLAND Diverse Life In and Out of the Water ACTIVE This morning, your Naturalist Guide takes you to the sheer cliffs of Punta Suárez to witness the spectacular spray from an ocean blowhole. Watch for the blue-footed and Nazca boobies, and other remarkable bird species, including the waved albatross. The island is the breeding site of nearly all of the world’s waved albatrosses! Be on the lookout for the male Christmas iguana that turns red and green during mating season. CLASSIC Take a Guided Excursion with your expert Naturalist to explore the southeastern part of the archipelago. Visit the glistening white coral beaches of Gardner Bay to see Galápagos sea lions, marine iguanas, seabirds, and hawks. Watch for three species of Darwin finches—a hallmark of his research. DISCOVERY Enjoy a prime snorkeling and swimming spot in Gardner Bay’s pristine waters. Spot a kaleidoscope of multi-colored reef fish, reef sharks, playful sea lions, and the amazing Green Sea Turtles
Meal Icon BreakfastLunchMeal Icon Dinner

Day 19
GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (DISEMBARKATION)–SAN CRISTOBAL–QUITO The Geological Genesis of a Magical Archipelago DISCOVERY This morning, cruise to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a Naturalist Guided Tour of the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. You’ll learn about the Galápagos’ fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, climate, and the arrival of diverse species that inspire both imagination and science. This afternoon, you’ll say farewell to the magical islands of Galápagos and fly to Quito. This evening, spend free time relaxing or enjoy one of Quito’s many fine restaurants

Day 20
QUITO Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning
Meal Icon Breakfast

Accommodations

LimaParacasSacred ValleyMachu PicchuCuscoQuito
Hilton Lima Miraflores
Moderate Deluxe



Avenida La Paz 1099 Lima Peru

Hilton Lima Miraflores features a rooftop terrace and puts you within a 10-minute walk of Larcomar Shopping Center. The outdoor pool is a great spot to take a dip, and guests can grab a bite to eat at Social, which serves Fusion cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A poolside bar, a 24-hour fitness center, are other highlights at this luxurious hotel.

FAQ Avalon Cruises Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Pavlus Travel tells you there's a wide World out there just waiting to be explored on river cruises by you, and Avalon Waterways like Pavlus Travel knows there is more than a river cruise for you and your family to see it all. Why not experience local cities, villages, and countrysides your way with a wide selection of active excursions and activities brought to you by Avalon River Cruises that put you right in the middle of it all. Borrow a bike to ride through the streets of Amsterdam, grab a Nordic walking stick to capture the castle with a hike up the vineyard off the Rhine River, or paddle a canoe along Austria’s river shores. Pavlus makes it easy to turn sightseeing into doing your adventure in real time. You’ll find all the guidance and gear you from Avalon Waterways staff to embark on an expedition of your own. From a complimentary yoga class aboard your Avalon River Cruise to a jogging tour of Vienna or an optional kayaking excursion. Know that Pavlus Travel discounts Avalon River Cruises be they in Europe or the Far East. You'll enjoy every Avalon River Cruises Ship.