Journey Through Ecuador & Peru. Front the Enchanted Isles to the Lost City of the Incas.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through two of South America’s most captivating countries: Ecuador and Peru. This extraordinary journey blends the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands with the rich cultural heritage and ancient mysteries of the Andes and Amazon.
Begin in Ecuador, with an incredible trip to the Galapagos Islands – a living museum of evolution and home to extraordinary wildlife found nowhere else on Earth before venturing to the Otavalo Markets, where vibrant traditions and colourful textiles await. Then, journey deep into the Peruvian Amazon, where lush rainforest and exotic species provide a true taste of wilderness. Continue to the highlands of Cuzco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, and culminate your adventure with a breathtaking visit to the world-renowned Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” From volcanic islands to mist-shrouded mountains, this immersive itinerary offers a perfect balance of discovery, culture, and natural beauty — a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of South America’s most iconic destinations.
Highlights
- Galapagos Islands
- Quito
- Otavalo
- Cuzco
- Amazon Jungle
- Sacred Valley
- Machu Picchu
Tour Itinerary
On arrival at Guayaquil Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
The afternoon once you have settled into your hotel, you will be collected and taken on a city sights tour. Offering a vibrant introduction to Ecuador’s largest and most dynamic city, blending modern energy with colonial charm. You will begin along the Malecón 2000, a beautifully revitalized waterfront promenade lined with gardens, monuments, and views of the Guayas River. Explore the historic Las Peñas neighborhood, a colorful hillside district of art galleries, cafés, and cobblestone streets leading up to Santa Ana Hill, where a climb rewards you with panoramic views over the city and river.
Today you will fly from Guayaquil to the Galápagos Islands and embark on your 3-night/4-day Galápagos cruise. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage archipelago aboard the M/C Archipel I, visiting many islands teeming with wildlife such as sea lions, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and giant tortoises. Enjoy guided hikes, snorkelling excursions, and close encounters with the Galápagos’ unique ecosystems.
Your 4 day Galápagos Islands cruise offers an unforgettable journey through one of the planet’s most extraordinary natural sanctuaries. This M/C Archipel I is a comfortable, first-class twin-hulled catamaran that accommodates only 16 passengers, ensuring an intimate and eco-friendly exploration of the islands’ unique ecosystems. Each day brings new adventures as you sail between volcanic islands, with expertly guided excursions led by certified naturalists. Hike across lava fields on Santiago Island, snorkel alongside playful sea lions and graceful sea turtles at Bartolomé, or observe the remarkable blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas of North Seymour. Evenings are spent relaxing on deck, watching spectacular sunsets over the Pacific or stargazing under pristine skies. Onboard amenities include spacious cabins with ocean views, indoor and outdoor lounges, and freshly prepared Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
This morning you will transfer back to Baltra for your flight to Quito. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Enjoy a full day City Tour of Quito, Ecuador’s stunning capital nestled high in the Andes where colonial splendor meets dramatic mountain scenery. Explore the beautifully preserved colonial Old Town, including Plaza de la Independencia, La Compañía Church, and Panecillo Hill for incredible views of the city. Afterward, travel just outside the city to the Mitad del Mundo ‘Middle of the world’ complex, where you can literally place one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere.
Today you have a full-day excursion to Otavalo, one of South America’s most vibrant and celebrated indigenous markets, set amid the spectacular Andean highlands north of Quito. Upon arrival in Otavalo, you’ll be immersed in a kaleidoscope of colour and culture at the town’s famous Plaza de los Ponchos, where local Otavaleño artisans display their exquisite handwoven textiles, alpaca wool garments, jewellery, ceramics, and other traditional crafts. The market is not only a place to shop but also a window into centuries-old Andean traditions, music, and community life. Visit nearby Cotacachi, a charming town known for its fine leather goods, and Peguche Waterfall, a sacred site for the local people and a beautiful natural spot surrounded by eucalyptus trees.
Today you depart Ecuador for Peru. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima (additional cost) where on arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Lima is the vibrant capital of Peru, known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You might like to stroll along the Miraflores clifftops, explore the historic centre, or sample Lima’s famous ceviche in one of its excellent restaurants.
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to Peru’s Amazon region. Upon arrival, travel by boat and road to your Amazon lodge, set deep within the rainforest.
After settling in, enjoy a guided walk or boat excursion to discover the incredible biodiversity of the area — from tropical birds and monkeys to giant river otters and caimans.
Spend the next few days immersed in the wonders of the Amazon Rainforest. Daily guided excursions will introduce you to the region’s diverse ecosystems — explore winding jungle trails, visit oxbow lakes, and learn about the medicinal plants used by local communities. Evenings offer the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife or simply relax and listen to the sounds of the jungle.
After breakfast, return to Puerto Maldonado for your flight to Cuzco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. On arrival, transfer to your hotel where you will spend the next 2 nights and take the rest of the day to relax and acclimatise to the altitude.
Today, enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley, a fertile region dotted with traditional Andean villages, Inca ruins, and colourful markets. Visit key sites such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where ancient terraces and temples reveal the engineering brilliance of the Incas. Lunch is included at a local restaurant.
An early start this morning as you board the train through the spectacular mountain scenery to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour of this iconic archaeological site, exploring its temples, terraces, and mysterious stone structures while learning about its fascinating history.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes for your overnight stay.
Morning at leisure in Aguas Calientes — you may wish to revisit the local market or relax in the town’s hot springs. Later, take the train back to Cuzco and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the city’s cobbled streets, artisan shops, and lively cafés.
This morning, enjoy a half-day guided tour of Cuzco, exploring its blend of Inca and Spanish colonial heritage. Highlights include the Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), and nearby Inca archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuamán. Afternoon at leisure for shopping, museum visits, or relaxation.
After breakfast, transfer to Cuzco Airport for your onward flight.
Highlights Reel
Inclusions
- 10 nights Hotel accommodation
- 3 nights Galapagos Cruise
- 3 nights Amazon Lodge
- All meals as per itinerary
- Return flights from Guayaquil to Galapagos to Quito
- Return flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado to Cuzco
- Transport and sightseeing as specified
Exclusions
- All international flights
- Flight Quito to Lima and Lima to Cuzco
- Visas
- Gratuities
- Meals other than specified
- Travel insurance