Machu Picchu to the Galapagos

Machu Picchu’s enigmatic ruins and the fascinating Galapagos Islands rank among South America’s greatest treasures, and a small group tour – limited to 20 guests – is the ideal way to experience both.  Your 17-day journey begins with historic and contemporary highlights of the Peruvian capital, Lima.  Stop at Cuzco’s important ruin site, Sacsayhuamán, before continuing on to the magnificent Sacred Valley for a two-night stay, visiting Ollantaytambo’s massive Incan ruins and indigenous villages where ancient traditions live on.  After a scenic train ride, explore Machu Picchu’s astounding ruins on two separate days, including one in the early morning before the crowds arrive. We overnight at a hotel in nearby Aquas Calientes.  Exploration of Cuzco – a UNESCO site and the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city – follows, with a two-night stay that includes touring the grand Plaza de Armas.  Travel to Quito, another UNESCO site boasting an Andean backdrop and abundant history, for two nights.  Then fly to the Galapagos for four-nights; between day cruises on a privately chartered yacht to North Seymour and South Plaza islands, we lodge at a beautiful hotel on Santa Cruz Island. Accompanied by an expert Galapagos naturalist guide, learn about Darwin’s unique “living laboratory” up close while observing iconic giant Galapagos tortoises, iguanas, and other unique wildlife and birdlife.  Explore Santa Cruz’s lava tunnels, craters, and beach before returning to Quito for a final day of touring and relaxation.  Discover the Amazon’s amazing flora, fauna, and villages on an exceptional 4-day/4-night optional pre-tour extension.