Embark on a 23-day adventure through Peru, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands, where diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unique wildlife await.
Begin in Peru with Lima’s vibrant markets, culinary experiences, and a walk through its colonial and modern districts. Journey to Lake Titicaca, exploring ancient cultures on Taquile and Uros Islands. In Cusco, visit iconic Inca sites and discover the Sacred Valley, leading to the legendary Machu Picchu.
Then, venture into the Amazon at Puerto Maldonado, exploring the rainforest and its exotic wildlife from a secluded jungle lodge. Next, wander through Quito, Ecuador’s colonial heart, and taste its famous chocolate.
In the Galapagos, encounter giant tortoises, snorkel among sea lions, and trek volcanic trails on Isabela Island. Finally, unwind in Guayaquil, enjoying coastal sights and vibrant local life.
Prepare to be captivated by the wonders of South America—an adventure of a lifetime awaits!
See the itinerary section below for more details.
Cusco, Machu Picchu, Quito, Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Puno, Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil, Amazon Peru, Sandoval Lake, Puerto Quito, Puerto Ayora, Isabela Island, Taquile Island, Sacred Valley
This was a fantastic trip that lived up fully to its billing, as we saw many spectacular and varied landscapes and we sampled many gorgeous wines. The guide Lucia was very knowledgeable and helpful throughout. My only observation is that it was a hard trip in terms of several very long days travelling of 8 or more hours - over 12 hours on one day - which meant we rarely had the chance to relax and/or enjoy the hotel facilities (e.g. pools in most hotels).
The Trip Notes highlighted this but even so, after more than a dozen Explore trips previously which we thought prepared us for a lot of time on the road , we were still surprised. Essentially the trip was 12 full days and we thought it could have been stretched to 14 to cover the same itinerary - maybe an extra day in Cafayate and in Cachi?
Why for example, did we travel from Mendoza to Aconcagua (a brilliant trip) but then back to Mendoza (3 hours each way) on one day, only to retrace our steps almost all the way back to Aconcagua on the next day, on the way to the next stop? This retracing of the same route wasted 6 hours, or almost a full day? Why did we not go from Aconcagua directly to the next stop, instead of back to Mendoza?
In summary, this is a great tour, but we recommend you review the itinerary and through better planning and some extra time make it a more relaxing tour spread over over one or two more days.
Indulge yourself! This Colchagua three-day wine and dine tour is the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a weekend of wine and fine cuisine or the ideal romantic getaway with your partner.
Spend three days in the beautiful valley of Colchagua. Fill your time with wine tastings, strolls through the vineyards, sampling the fine dining, and even a horseback ride if you choose. Personalize your trip by choosing either to spend the night in a boutique hotel in the Santa Cruz area or enjoying nature in a cosy countryside lodge.
The Colchagua Valley is located approximately 180 km south of Santiago and is one of Chile's best-known wine areas! The area has won various awards for their full-bodied cabernet sauvignons, malbecs, merlots, syrahs and carménères. Despite a calm rural oasis atmosphere, the area has a rich culture and history. Come and experience this wonderful region!