Essential Ecuador And Peru

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

11 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

22 peopleMaximum group size

8 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Quito, Ecuador

Ends

Cusco, Peru

Highlights

Walk among giant tortoises roaming freely in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the Galpagos

Snorkel with playful sea lions, sea turtles, and colorful fish in the clear waters of La Lobera

Stroll through the streets of Quito, a UNESCO-listed gem with rich history and mountain views

Explore Limas districts, Miraflores and San Isidro, filled with parks, shops, and ocean views

Wander through Cuscos streets and visit the awe-inspiring Inca Fortress of Sacsayhuaman

Explore Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a marvel of Inca design

Itinerary

Ecuador and Peru—two countries famed for their ancient mysteries and natural wonders—await discovery on the "Essential Ecuador And Peru" wildlife tour. Spanning 11 days, this guided group journey is ideal for seasoned travelers with a taste for adventure and moderate activity. Begin in Quito, gateway to the Galapagos, then fly to Baltra and immerse yourself in Santa Cruz’s Giant Tortoise Reserve, surrounded by lush mountains and forests. Snorkel alongside sea lions and turtles at La Loberia, and explore the wildlife-rich North Seymour and Bachas Islands. Continue to Lima to discover trendy neighborhoods and the Pacific coastline, then soar over the Andes to Cusco. Venture through Peru’s Sacred Valley and stand in awe at Machu Picchu, the fabled Lost City of the Incas. The tour concludes with the ancient wonders of Cusco, including the Temple of the Sun and Sacsayhuaman Fortress. This trip’s unique selling point is the rare combination of Galapagos wildlife encounters and Incan archaeological marvels, offering an immersive experience of South America’s most iconic destinations—all with comfortable accommodations, included transport, and meals.

day 1 - – Quito(arrival)

Today, make your own way to your chosen airport to board your international flight to Quito. Enjoy in-flight meals and services. Upon arrival at Quito International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight in Quito

day 2 - Quito – Baltra (by Flight) — Santa Cruz

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to the enchanting Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival at Baltra Island — the gateway to this pristine archipelago — you’ll be welcomed by your English-speaking guide. Once a strategic WWII airbase, Baltra is now home to the world’s first ecological airport, thoughtfully designed to minimize its environmental footprint. From here, take a scenic ferry ride across the turquoise Itabaca Channel to reach Santa Cruz Island, where your Galápagos adventure begins.

Your first taste of the Galápagos wilderness begins in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, a dramatic contrast to the coastal arid zones. Here, misty forests and rolling green pastures are home to one of the islands’ most iconic residents: the Giant Galápagos Tortoise. Visit a private reserve where you can quietly observe these gentle giants ambling through their natural habitat. Continue your exploration to the fascinating lava tunnels, formed by ancient volcanic activity — walk through these subterranean wonders for a unique glimpse into the islands’ fiery origins. Depending on your energy and curiosity, you may also visit Los Gemelos (The Twins), a pair of impressive pit craters formed by collapsing lava chambers, now shrouded in Scalesia forest. These craters are a birdwatcher’s paradise — keep your eyes open for vibrant Darwin’s finches, Galápagos doves, and cattle egrets flitting through the canopy. As the day winds down, drive to Puerto Ayora, the lively main town of Santa Cruz Island, where you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy your first island evening surrounded by the magic of the Galápagos.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora

day 3 - Loberia Islands – Punta Estrada – Puerto Ayora

After breakfast, prepare for an exciting Half-Day Bay Exploration Tour (Shared Service). Set out from Puerto Ayora’s main dock for a short and scenic 10-minute boat ride to La Lobería Island, aptly named for the playful sea lion colony that calls it home. This tiny rocky islet offers incredible snorkeling opportunities — slip into the crystal-clear waters to swim alongside graceful sea turtles, vibrant schools of tropical fish, and the ever-curious Galápagos sea lions, known for their friendly and inquisitive nature. Continue your adventure with a guided walk to the Túnel del Amor (Lover’s Tunnel), a dramatic natural rock formation offering breathtaking coastal views. If you’re lucky, you may spot white-tip reef sharks resting in the shallow turquoise waters below — a thrilling sight from the viewpoint above. On the return, visit Punta Estrada’s dock, where you’ll stroll along the lava-fringed coast and observe marine iguanas basking on the rocks — the only lizards in the world that have adapted to life in the ocean. This half-day tour is the perfect introduction to the Galápagos’ rich marine life and unique coastal landscapes.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora

day 4 - Galapagos

After breakfast, embark on a Full-Day Motor Yacht Tour with a Local Galapagueño. Step aboard a privately chartered motor yacht captained by an ex-fisherman turned eco-tourism ambassador, accompanied by his friendly crew and a certified naturalist guide. Together, they’ll take you on an unforgettable journey across the pristine waters surrounding one of the Galápagos' more remote and less-visited islands. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective into the region’s cultural evolution — from a past reliant on subsistence fishing to a present rooted in sustainable tourism. By joining this excursion, you’re not only exploring the Galápagos' incredible marine biodiversity, but also supporting a community of former fishermen who now dedicate their lives to protecting it. Cruise along secluded coastlines, stopping at prime locations for snorkeling and swimming. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish, rays, sea turtles, and possibly even reef sharks, all while surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes. Whether you're floating beside playful sea lions or observing the underwater ballet of marine life, every moment is a celebration of nature and conservation. This is more than a boat tour — it’s a heartfelt encounter with the people and ecosystems that make the Galápagos one of the most extraordinary destinations on Earth.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora

*Note: Due to inclement weather conditions, today’s activity may be changed without prior notice

day 5 - Galapagos – Baltra – Lima (by Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to Baltra Airport to board your connecting flight to Lima, Peru. Upon arrival in Lima, a representative will be waiting to greet you and escort you to your hotel. You’ll receive a comprehensive documentation kit with a detailed explanation of your upcoming itinerary. Assistance will be provided with luggage handling and the hotel check-in process, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start to your Peruvian adventure.

Overnight in Lima

day 6 - Lima

After breakfast, set out on a half-day city tour exploring both colonial and modern Lima, with a visit to the renowned Larco Museum. Discover the dual soul of Peru’s capital — the vibrant modernity of Miraflores and San Isidro, and the rich colonial heritage of the historic center, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. As we journey through Lima’s contrasting neighborhoods, you’ll observe how contemporary life weaves into the city's colonial fabric, with landmarks such as the Museum of Italian Art, Palace of Justice, and Plaza San Martín lining the way. We’ll continue with a walking tour of Lima’s historic core, centering around the beautiful Plaza Mayor — a photogenic colonial square surrounded by iconic structures like the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Step into history as we visit the Santo Domingo Convent, home to the relics of Peru’s most beloved saints: Santa Rosa de Lima, San Martín de Porres, and San Juan Macías. To complete the experience, we’ll visit the esteemed Rafael Larco Herrera Museum. Housed in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion, this world-class museum showcases a treasure trove of over 45,000 artifacts from Peru’s ancient civilizations, especially the Moche culture. Highlights include intricately crafted jewelry, finely woven textiles, and the museum’s famous “erotic gallery” — a collection of ceramics dedicated to fertility themes. The museum also offers rare access to its open-storage galleries and a digital archive of its entire collection, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.

Overnight in Lima

day 7 - Lima – Cusco (by Flight)

After breakfast, at the scheduled time, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in this enchanting Andean city, you'll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and acclimate to the altitude as you begin exploring Cusco at your own pace. Take time to soak in the unique charm of this beautiful colonial city, built upon the impressive foundations of ancient Inca temples and palaces. Don’t miss a visit to the Temple of the Sun (Koricancha), once the most important religious site in the Inca Empire. Stroll through the Main Square, admire the magnificent Cathedral, and, if energy allows, venture uphill to the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, known for its massive stone walls and panoramic views over the city.

Overnight in Cusco

Optional: Afternoon City Tour, Ruins & San Pedro Market (SIB)
This charming half-day tour of Cusco offers us history, living culture and art. We will be able to appreciate how the Andean and Spanish cultures, as well as the past and the present, coexist in harmony in the Imperial City. We will arrive at the center to walk the halls of the San Pedro market, the oldest in the city. Designed in 1925 by Gustave Eiffel, today it brings together hundreds of merchants selling local products. We will also visit the Koricancha temple, which during the Inca empire was a center of worship of the Sun and on which the Santo Domingo convent was later built as part of the evangelization process. Its baroque style façade built on solid Inca walls perfectly summarizes the syncretism of cultures in the city of Cusco. To appreciate the greatness of the Incas, we will ascend to the monumental fortress of Sacsayhuamán, one of the best examples of their military architecture, and we will tour the archaeological center of Kenko, a ceremonial place where the Sun, the Moon and the stars were worshiped. We couldn't take a tour of the city without visiting the cathedral, its most important temple. It was built on the palace of the Inca Huiracoha. Its interior houses a wonderful collection of colonial art composed of goldsmith pieces and representative canvases of the Cusco School of Art.

day 8 - Cusco — Sacred Valley

After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley’s historical and cultural treasures: Maras, Moray, and Misminay. Begin with a scenic drive to the striking Maras Salt Mines, a breathtaking mosaic of nearly 3,000 salt ponds cascading down the mountainside. Once vital to the Inca economy, these pools continue to yield some of the world’s finest salt and remain a key livelihood for local families. This extraordinary site, with its gleaming white terraces set against the Andes, offers incredible photo opportunities. Next, visit the enigmatic archaeological site of Moray, a fascinating complex of concentric circular terraces that descend into the earth like a giant amphitheater. Believed to have served as an agricultural research center during the Inca Empire, Moray’s unique microclimates allowed for the cultivation of diverse crops and showcase the ingenuity of Inca engineering. Continue to the charming Andean community of Misminay, where you’ll be welcomed by the warm hospitality of the locals through traditional music and dance. This immersive experience offers a window into rural Andean life—participate in ancestral farming and weaving techniques, and share in the customs that have been passed down through generations. The day concludes with a sense of cultural connection and a deeper appreciation for the living traditions of the Sacred Valley.

Overnight in Sacred Valley.

day 9 - Sacred Valley — Machu Picchu — Cusco

After breakfast, at the scheduled time, board the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu for a full-day adventure to one of the world’s most iconic destinations. The journey begins with a scenic train ride through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley, following the winding path of the Vilcanota River. Gaze out at the lush cloud forests, rugged Andean peaks, and charming villages that line the route to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to the fabled Inca citadel. Upon arrival, a short bus ride will take you up the winding mountain road to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Perched high above the Urubamba Valley, this ancient Inca sanctuary captivates with its masterful stone architecture and mysterious legacy. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll uncover the secrets of this sacred site, from the Temple of the Sun to the Intihuatana sundial and the terraced fields that cling to the mountainside. Take your time to soak in the spiritual energy and dramatic vistas that make Machu Picchu a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After exploring the citadel, return to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved lunch and some free time to stroll through the local markets or relax by the riverside. Later, board the train back, your heart and camera full of unforgettable memories.

Overnight in Cusco

day 10 - Cusco

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure in Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. Take this opportunity to explore the city's charming cobblestone streets, marvel at the fusion of colonial and Incan architecture, or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this Andean gem. If you're in the mood for adventure, don’t miss the chance to visit Vinicunca — the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain. This natural wonder dazzles with its vibrant, multi-colored layers and offers a rewarding trek through dramatic landscapes, picturesque valleys, and traditional highland communities. Whether you choose to unwind or venture into the mountains, Cusco promises a day of unforgettable experiences and Andean magic.

Overnight in Cusco

Optional: Full Day Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (SIB)
Vinicunca or the Rainbow Mountain is one of the most popular destinations in Cusco. We will leave the hotel early to head to Cusipata and from there we will travel to Phulawasipata, starting point of the uphill trail. The path will be the perfect excuse to enjoy the nature of the place: herds of llamas and alpacas, as well as the majestic Apu Ausangate, the highest snow-capped mountain in Cusco. We will also be able to talk with the community members of the area and see the potato fields that they work every day. After approximately an hour and a half of walking, we will arrive at Vinicunca, at 5,020 m a.s.l. Arriving at the lookout, our reward is a stunning view of the colorful hillside. The minerals that make up the mountain|s soil give its slopes and summit curious shades of red, purple, green, yellow, and pink, among other colors. Make sure to have your camera ready! From there we will head back to Phulawasipata. After traveling a total of 8 km on foot, we head towards Cusipata, where we will enjoy a refreshing traditional lunch.

day 11 - Cusco (departure) –

Today you will be transferred back to Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport to check-in for your onward flight.

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What's Included

Accommodation

10 Nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listedsuperior hotels or similar

Meals

Daily buffet breakfast4 Special lunches at local restaurants

Transport

All Transportation in AC modern vehiclesFerry/boat tickets within the Galapagos Islands

Guide

Services of English-speaking guide during the tours

Others

Return train ticket to Machu PicchuDomestic airfare in Ecuador (Quito Baltra)Regional airfare (Baltra Lima)Domestic airfare in Peru (Lima Cusco)All local applicable taxes

Entrance

Sightseeing & entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary

What's Excluded

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