Machu Picchu to the Galapagos

We depart today for the Peruvian capital. Upon arrival we transfer directly to our hotel.

We meet our Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director and fellow travelers at a briefing, then embark on a tour of colonial Lima and the MALI art museum. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at our hotel. B,D

Arriving in Cuzco today, we stop at the important Incan site of Koricancha, dedicated to the Sun God. Then we continue on to Sacred Valley, a region of Inca sites and indigenous villages. We visit the colorful Indian market at Pisac before reaching our hotel late afternoon. B,L,D

Today we explore Ollantaytambo, both a living town and site of massive Incan ruins that still inspire wonder. Then we visit the Incan farming town of Chinchero, where residents live much as their ancestors did and where we see a traditional weaving demonstration. Before dinner at our hotel tonight, we attend a native “Offering to the Earth” ceremony. B,L,D

This morning we board a train for the 1½-hour journey to Aguas Calientes, where we transfer by shuttle bus to our hotel for lunch. Then we embark on our first guided visit of the stunning ruins at Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” Thanks to the small size of our group, we will be able to move nimbly through the ruins and have the leisure to absorb both the beauty and the mystery of this impressive site. With an over-night stay here, we have the rare privilege of seeing the ruins after the tourists have departed. B,L,D

This morning before the day trippers arrive, we enjoy our second guided tour of this UNESCO site. Following lunch at our lodge, we return to Aguas Calientes with some free time before our mid-afternoon train to Cuzco. B,L

Known for its Incan and Spanish colonial heritage, Cuzco is the archaeological “hub” of the Americas and the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. This morning we tour this UNESCO site then stop at the ruins of Sacsayhuaman fortress, a masterpiece of Incan architecture. We enjoy lunch today at a local restaurant. B,L

Early today we fly via Lima to the Ecuadorian capital of Quito, arriving late afternoon. This evening, we attend a briefing about our Galapagos adventure and then dine together at our hotel. B,D

Nestled in the Andes foothills, Quito boats a well-preserved historic center, as we see on today’s city tour that includes the Middle of the World Monument. B,L

Today we fly to the island of Baltra then transfer to Santa Cruz, our island-based home for our Galapagos exploration. We reach our beautiful hotel set on 370 lush, unspoiled, and secluded acres in the highlands within Galapagos National Park in time for lunch. Then we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see and learn about the giant Galapagos tortoises. B,L,D

This morning we embark on our first excursion aboard the Santa Fe, our privately chartered yacht. We set out for North Seymour, a flat, low-lying island with ample opportunities for close encounters with the wildlife on our naturalist-led walk. After lunch, we head back to Santa Cruz island for a nature walk. B,L,D

Today’s destination is the small in size but rich in flora and fauna island of South Plaza. Boasting abundant wildlife and colorful flora, and surrounded by turquoise waters, South Plaza ranks as one of the most popular (and colorful) of the Galapagos islands. During our nature walk, we are on the lookout for such local residents as land and marine iguanas, bright orange Sally Lightfoot crabs, red-billed tropic birds, Nazca and blue-footed boobies, and a male colony of sea lions (“the bachelors”). Then we cruise to Punta Carrion, where we have the opportunity to snorkel in the calm waters of a shallow cove. B,L,D

Today we explore Santa Cruz itself, the second largest of the Galapagos islands. We see the giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat; the huge twin craters of Los Gemelos; and Garrapatero, a secluded white-sand beach where we see an abundance of marine and terrestrial wildlife. B,L,D

This morning we transfer to Baltra for the flight to Quito, arriving mid-afternoon. Tonight we celebrate our adventure at a farewell dinner in a local restaurant. B,D

This morning we visit Quito’s otanical Gardens, featuring an orchidarium with more than 1,200 species of orchids; and Iaquito Market, a colorful riot of fresh produce and spices. Then we return to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure before tonight’s transfer to the airport for our overnight flight to the U.S. B

We arrive in the U.S. this morning and connect with our return flights home.

Please note: This trip involves considerable walking on uneven terrain. Also, there are both wet and dry landings in the Galapagos. You should be in good physical condition to enjoy the tour to the fullest. In addition, Cuzco’s high altitude (11,150 feet) could pose problems for travelers with certain health conditions. Please consult your physician if you have concerns.

B = Breakfast included L = Lunch included D = Dinner included