Classic: Absolute Peru & Galapagos Central Islands (SPH07MB)

Countries Visited: Ecuador, Peru
Trip Style: Classic - Designed for maximum variety, these trips are geared towards travellers searching for a healthy mix of active exploration, uncommon landscapes, amazing wildlife and local cultures.
Service Level: Standard
  • Great value, reasonable prices, quality experiences
  • Comfortable and varied tourist-class accommodations chosen for location and character
  • Mix of public and private transport for the best overall experience
  • All the top highlights included, plus plenty of time to explore on your own
    Physical Demands Rating: 4 - You might encounter a few high-altitude hikes or other more strenuous activities. Pro tip: Put down that pastry, buster.
    Group Size: Max 16, Avg 12.
    Meals Included: 22 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners
    Accommodations: Hotels/guesthouses (15 nts), G Lodge Amazon (2 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), camping (3 nts), motorized yacht (4 nts, twin-share).

    Highlights
    Cruise the Galapagos for four nights aboard the Xavier III, snorkel with sea lions, spot rare birds in secluded lagoons, find land iguanas feeding in the cactus forests on South Plaza Island, witness Lake Titicaca and opt to fly over the Nazca Lines, trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, encounter wildlife in the Amazon Jungle.

    Description
    Explore Perus southern coast, its Incan Highlands and the Galapagos Islands. From the soaring heights of the Inca Trail to the steamy jungle stay at the exclusive G Lodge Amazon, this epic journey includes an all-encompassing tour of Peru and four nights exploring the Galapagos. As one of the biggest tour operators in the region, our exclusively operated fleet of yachts offers great value, and in Peru, we run our own treks, ensuring the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment as you follow the Inca Trail to majestic Machu Picchu.
  • Call (866) 206-7713 for more information or to book today! Mention code 13723211

    Tour Operator
    G Adventures
    Duration
    27 Days
    Escorted
    Escorted - Yes
    DayDestinationDescription
    Day 1LimaDay 1 Lima
    Arrive at any time. Additional Notes: If you booked the Culinary Bundle it does not include extra time in Lima and we highly recommend booking pre-trip accommodation. You will be picked up from your hotel at approx 10:00 (10:30 from Aug-Dec) and taken to a local market and restaurant to prepare and enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal. You will return back to your hotel around 13:00. Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Peru (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control. Included Activities: Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
    Day 2ParacasDay 2 Lima/Paracas (1B)
    Take the morning to explore more of Lima before journeying down the coast to Paracas. Walk the town's lively peatonal (pedestrian avenue) and find a cafE to sample some Peruvian food, such as ceviche or papa a la huancaina (potatoes with a chili cheese sauce). Try your first Pisco sour while staying in Piscos neighbour of Paracas. Transport: Local bus (4.00 hour(s), 250km) Minibus (0.50 hour(s))
    Day 3NazcaDay 3 Paracas/Nazca
    There is time in the morning for an optional excursion to the popular Ballestas Islands, an excellent chance to view a lively sea lion colony, pelicans, penguins, and other varieties of bird life. Back on land, catch a bus south to Nazca. On the way, pass by the pleasant colonial town of Ica. Ica enjoys a dry, sunny climate year-round and is known for its huge sand dunes. Located around the nearby oasis of Huacachina, the dunes are perfect subjects for photography and for a favourite local past time: sandboarding. Apart from the dunes, Ica is famous for its wines and there are several wineries and distilleries in the area. Included Activities: Huacachina Winery Visit Huacachina Oasis visit Transport: Private Vehicle (1.00 hour(s), 60km) Private Vehicle (3.00 hour(s), 140km)
    Day 4ArequipaDay 4 Nazca/Arequipa
    Travel south to one of the worlds greatest archaeological mysteries, the Nazca Lines. The lines consist of patterns and pictures etched in the ground, crisscrossing a wide area of flat desert. From the ground we can make out very little, and the best view is from a light aircraft, which can easily be arranged. Remains of the Nazca culture are still visible during our included tour of the ancient Pre-Inca desert cemetery site of Chauchilla, with 2000-year-old mummies, bones, and pottery on the desert floor. The tour also includes a visit to an artisan's workshop, where modern masters create Nazca style pottery. Later, board a night bus to Arequipa. Included Activities: Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potters Studio Guided Tour Transport: This comfortable double decker bus has toilet facilities on board. Overnight bus (10.00 hour(s), 560km)
    Day 5ArequipaDay 5 Arequipa
    Explore Arequipa, the white city. Interested in history and architectures Opt to visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery, offering a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a bygone way of life. For those spicy food lovers, checking out one of the "PicanterIas" is a must. Arequipa holds a variety of regional food- alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces waiting for you to dig in.
    Day 6Colca CanyonDay 6 Arequipa/Colca Canyon (1B)
    Travel a rough, rutted road through the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Along the way there are chances to see vicunas, alpacas and llamas. Stop at Mirador de Patapampa lookout, the highest point on the tour at 4,910m with views of nearby volcanoes. Transport: Private Vehicle (4.00-5.00 hours, 165km)
    Day 7Colca CanyonDay 7 Colca Canyon (1B)
    Take a tour around the canyon, stopping in fascinating villages and at "miradors" (scenic lookouts), where, with a little luck, Andean condors will soar over the majestic mountains. Included Activities: Colca Canyon Guided Tour
    Day 8PunoDay 8 Colca Canyon/Puno
    Climb over the mountains today, descending at Puno, which is on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Titicaca is also the largest lake in the world above 2000m, and the views from its Islands are stunning. Transport: Local bus (6.00 hour(s), 250km)
    Day 9Lago TiticacaDay 9 Puno/Lago Titicaca (1B, 1D)
    Head out by boat across Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on the Taquile Islands and stop at a local restaurant to enjoy a lunch with spectacular views. After, cruise to the another village (this can vary based on community availability) for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake. This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quecha and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 1 Lake Titicaca Homestay
    Day 10PunoDay 10 Lago Titicaca/Puno (1B, 1L)
    Leave the homestay families late morning and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is to visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 2 Uros Floating Islands Visit
    Day 11CuscoDay 11 Puno/Cusco (1B)
    The trip from Puno to Cusco takes the better part of the day, with stark, beautiful scenery en route as you travel through the high Altiplano region. Check out a bit of Cusco, find a spot for dinner, or get prepared to head into the Sacred Valley. Transport: Local bus (7.50 hour(s), 389km)
    Day 12OllantaytamboDay 12 Cusco/Ollantaytambo (1B, 1L)
    Travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting a G Adventures-supported womens weaving co-op. Meet the women who work there and learn about traditional weaving and dyeing practices. Opt to pick up some handmade souvenirs right from the source. Take a guided tour of the impressive Pisac ruins, the colourful artisan market (on market days only), and a small indigenous village of Huchuy Qosco. Here, have lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa community restaurant. Learn about the project and eat a delicious buffet-style lunch, the proceeds from which go directly back to the remote community. Continue on to the town of Ollantaytambo. Go for a guided tour of the large ruin site just adjacent to the town. Ollayntaytambo is the first taste of what lies ahead in Machu Picchu. Included Activities: Ccaccaccollo Community and Womens Weaving Co-op visit Pisac Ruins Guided Tour Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley Ollantaytambo Ruins Guided Tour Transport: Make stops along the way as you pass through this gorgeous valley, descending in elevation the whole way. Private Vehicle (95km)
    Day 13Inca TrailDay 13 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Trek through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons, passing several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata. Additional Notes: A crew of local porters, cooks, and guides will take care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear so you'll only need to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Transport: Private Vehicle (0.75 hour(s))
    Day 14Inca TrailDay 14 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Start early to climb the long steep path to WarmiwaNusca, better known as Dead Woman's Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 15Inca TrailDay 15 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the WiNay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft). Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 16CuscoDay 16 Machu Picchu/Cusco (1B)
    The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site and free time to explore until noon as permitted by the tourist ticket. Opt to visit the Inca Bridge, if time allows. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes to meet any non-hiking members of your group. Eat and relax before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Machu Picchu Guided Tour Transport: Train (1.50 hour(s), 118km) Private Vehicle (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 17CuscoDay 17 Cusco (1B)
    Enjoy a free day to explore Cusco or relax. Opt to go whitewater rafting, mountain biking or get a massage. Additional Notes: If you pre-book the Culinary Bundle, you will be picked up from your hotel at approx 12:30 and taken to a local market and restaurant to prepare and enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal. You will return back to your hotel around 16:00.
    Day 18TambopataDay 18 Cusco/Tambopata (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Fly to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon Jungle. After a brief stop in town to store large luggage, drive to the pier and travel by covered motorized boat to the jungle lodge. En route, see birds typical of the river or forest edge. The Tambopata Rainforest Area holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area. Local community members make up the majority of the lodge staff, including multilingual naturalist guides. Here you have the opportunity to learn from them not only about the area's rich flora and fauna, but also about their extensive practical uses for medicinal plants and other forest plant resources, through traditional techniques for building, fishing, and hunting. Additional Notes: The lodge itself combines native architectural style and materials with low-impact eco-friendly technology. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with mosquito netting for individual beds, flush toilets, showers (with solar-heated hot water), and candles for lighting (no electricity). Included Activities: Wildlife-spotting Night Walk Transport: On arrival, take a private vehicle to the lodges office in Puerto Maldonado town to store large luggage. You will be provided with duffels to bring only what you need into the jungle. From there, travel about 1 hr to reach the boat landing. Plane (0.75 hour(s), 320km) Motorized canoe (2.00-3.00 hours)
    Day 19TambopataDay 19 Tambopata (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Head out early to catch the jungle at its wildest (and coolest). Walk slowly through the forest searching for wildlife before heading out on an oxbow lake by canoe. Search for anaconda, the elusive giant river otter or black caiman. Even if you dont spot these shy creatures, there are plenty of other birds, interesting plants and other animals to discover. Included Activities: Jungle Excursions Caiman-Spotting Cruise
    Day 20LimaDay 20 Tambopata/Lima (1B)
    Have a final delicious Amazonian breakfast before heading back towards the airport by motorized boat and van. Fly to Lima and opt for a final night out for dinner or Pisco Sours. Transport: Motorized canoe (3.00 hour(s)) Take a van from the pier to pick up stored luggage before heading to the Puerto Maldonado airport. Make a brief stop in Cusco en route to Lima. A private vehicle will be waiting to take the group to the Lima hotel. Plane (1.50-2.00 hours)
    Day 21QuitoDay 21 Lima/Quito (1B)
    Your transfer to the airport and your flight to Quito are included in this trip. Please note that this flight is unescorted and your transfer will be waiting for you at the Quito airport and will bring you to your hotel. Included Activities: Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos Transport: Private Vehicle Plane (2.50 hour(s)) Private Vehicle (0.50-1.00 hours)
    Day 22Puerto AyoraDay 22 Quito/Puerto Ayora (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Flights from Quito to Baltra depart between 6:40am and 9:40am depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into the Galapagos between 9:30am and 12:30pm with a short refuelling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane). You will generally arrive at the boat in time for lunch before the afternoon activity. Additional Notes: The National Park charges a visitor fee of USD100, payable on arrival, which funds park maintenance and supervision in the Galapagos as well as ecological study, conservation, and infrastructure development in Ecuadors other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage. Included Activities: Highlands Giant Tortoises Visit Transport: Plane (2.00 hour(s)) Xavier III
    Day 23Black Turtle CoveDay 23 Chinese Hat/Black Turtle Cove (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Spot Galapagos penguins and explore marine life that is fantastic for snorkelling. There is also a large sea lion colony at Chinese Hat as well as many marine iguanas that can be seen on the guided walk. Hike among the volcanic scenery, with good views to the cone of the islands volcano. In the afternoon, take an excursion by "panga" to Black Turtle Cove to witness the extensive mangrove system and interesting waterway canals. Sea turtles and different species of rays can often be seen in this cove, offering a peaceful and fascinating glimpse into the diversity of the area. Included Activities: Chinese Hat Visit Snorkelling (Chinese Hat) Black Turtle Cove Excursion Transport: Xavier III
    Day 24Islas DaphneDay 24 Cerro Dragon/Islas Daphne (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Visit Cerro Dragon on the west coast of Santa Cruz Island to see land iguanas and a salt water lagoon frequented by flamingos and other species of birds. Continue to Daphne Island in the afternoon to spot birds and wildlife. Included Activities: Cerro Dragon Visit Daphne Island Visit Transport: Xavier III
    Day 25Santa Fe IslandDay 25 Islas Plaza/Santa Fe Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Land at South Plaza in the morning for wildlife spotting opportunities. Afternoon visit to Santa Fe Island for guided walks to observe the wildlife and plentiful marine iguanas. Opportunities for swimming and snorkelling with the sea lions. Included Activities: South Plaza Island Visit Santa Fe Island Visit Transport: Xavier III
    Day 26QuitoDay 26 San Cristobal Island/Quito (1B)
    Transfer to the group hotel upon arrival, and enjoy one last night on the town. Additional Notes: Flights from San Cristobal to Quito depart between 11:30am and 1:30pm depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into Quito between 4:00pm and 5:40pm with a refuelling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane). You will arrive back at the hotel in the early evening in time for dinner. Included Activities: Interpretation Center Visit Transport: Plane (3.00 hour(s))
    Day 27QuitoDay 27 Quito (1B)
    Depart at any time. Additional Notes: Post nights in Quito are recommended to take advantage of the many activities available. Included Activities: Departure Day
    Disclaimer

    Local Flights: All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.

    Dossier Disclaimer:The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

    VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

    Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

    Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
      
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