Touch down in Lima, the sprawling and spirited capital of Peru, where your journey truly begins. Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by a local representative who will assist you with a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Feel the excitement build as you travel through the city that seamlessly blends pre-Columbian heritage with modern flair.

The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. We recommend taking a gentle stroll through the surrounding neighbourhoods, or perhaps enjoying a taste of Peru’s world-renowned gastronomy. Lima is not just a city—it’s a living, breathing tapestry of colonial architecture, vibrant markets, cutting-edge art, and deeply rooted traditions. With over 10 million inhabitants, this dynamic metropolis is undergoing a thrilling transformation, where past and present coexist in colourful harmony.

From its grand plazas and cathedrals to trendy cafés and oceanfront promenades, Lima offers a perfect prelude to the wonders awaiting you in the Andes and Amazon.

Overnight in Lima.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, your day begins at approximately 9:00 am with a guided exploration of Lima’s historic centre, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and cultural significance. This immersive experience reveals the fascinating layers of history that have shaped Peru’s capital over the centuries.

Your first stop is the charming district of Pueblo Libre, home to the renowned Larco Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century viceregal mansion built atop a pre-Columbian pyramid, this museum showcases an extraordinary collection of pre-Hispanic art, including ceremonial gold and silver artefacts, finely crafted pottery, and a famous exhibit of ancient erotic art. It’s a compelling introduction to the rich tapestry of Peru’s indigenous cultures.

Continue to the splendid Casa Aliaga, one of Lima’s best-kept secrets. This elegant colonial mansion has been continuously inhabited by the same family since it was granted to Captain Jerónimo de Aliaga by conquistador Francisco Pizarro in the 16th century. Its antique furnishings, intricate woodwork, and historical relics offer a rare glimpse into the city’s colonial aristocracy.

Next, enjoy a panoramic drive through colonial Lima, where the grandeur of the Spanish Empire still echoes through the architecture. At the heart of it all lies the Main Square (Plaza Mayor), surrounded by iconic buildings including the Government Palace and the magnificent Lima Cathedral, originally constructed in the 16th century atop the ruins of an Inca temple.

Your tour concludes around 1:00 pm with a return to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax or continue discovering Lima at your own pace—perhaps sampling ceviche at a local eatery or strolling along the coastal cliffs of Miraflores.

Overnight in Lima.

After breakfast at your hotel, a private transfer to Lima Airport will be arranged to catch your short domestic flight to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. Please note: your flight should arrive in Cusco by no later than 10:30 am to ensure a smooth continuation of the day’s schedule.

Upon landing in the Imperial City of Cusco, you'll be greeted by a local representative and escorted to your hotel. After a short rest and time to acclimatise to the altitude, your afternoon adventure begins at 1:00 pm with an immersive guided city tour that brings Cusco’s vibrant past to life.

Your journey starts at the magnificent Santo Domingo Convent, a striking colonial structure built over the revered Inca Coricancha Temple—once the most sacred temple dedicated to the sun god Inti. Its original stone foundations remain intact, showcasing the impeccable engineering of Inca architecture. Historical accounts describe its walls once glistening with gold leaf and adorned with lifelike representations of the natural world.

Next, step inside the grand Cusco Cathedral, the dominant monument on the Main Square (Plaza de Armas). Built atop an Inca palace, this imposing masterpiece of colonial art and architecture holds centuries of history within its stone walls.

Leaving the city behind, ascend to the hills above Cusco for a visit to the awe-inspiring fortress of Sacsayhuamán. This colossal Inca structure is famed for its massive stone walls, panoramic views over Cusco, and ceremonial significance.

Continue to the mysterious site of Qenqo, an ancient temple complex thought to have hosted agricultural and fertility rituals. Its carved rock amphitheatre and intricate passageways speak of deeply spiritual Incan practices.

Your final stop is the fascinating Puka Pukara, meaning "Red Fortress" in Quechua. This strategically positioned Inca military outpost features ancient squares, watchtowers, and aqueducts, offering insights into the empire’s defensive ingenuity.

At approximately 5:30 pm, return to your hotel, enriched by the stories and sacred sites of one of South America’s most compelling cities.

Overnight in Cusco.

After breakfast, your journey into the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas begins. Depart Cusco in the morning and head towards the highland town of Chinchero, nestled at an elevated plateau that offers breathtaking views over the valley below. Rich in culture and heritage, Chinchero is renowned for its vibrant weaving traditions and colonial-era charm. On Sundays, the visit includes a stroll through the lively Chinchero market, where locals trade colourful textiles and handicrafts just as their ancestors have for centuries.

This picturesque town also houses important archaeological remains and a beautiful 17th-century colonial church, one of the oldest Catholic structures in Peru, built atop an Inca foundation. Here, the convergence of Spanish and Andean traditions is palpable in every stone and stitch of embroidery.

Your next stop is the fascinating Living Museum of Yucay, a unique Andean cultural centre that brings the past to life through hands-on demonstrations of ancient crafts. Watch local artisans practice traditional techniques in weaving, pottery, silverwork, and adobe-making, just as their Inca ancestors once did. The museum is also home to friendly llamas, sheep, and alpacas—you’re welcome to feed and interact with these gentle creatures.

From Yucay, continue to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, one of the few remaining settlements in Peru that has been continuously inhabited since Inca times. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring authentic Andean cuisine at a local restaurant before exploring the magnificent Ollantaytambo Fortress. This ancient stronghold, built into the mountainside, showcases superb Inca stonework and offers sweeping views over the valley. As you wander through its terraces, temples, and ceremonial centres, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the Inca civilisation’s architectural genius and spiritual depth.

At the end of the day, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the Sacred Valley to unwind amid the peace and beauty of this storied landscape.

Overnight in the Sacred Valley.

After breakfast at your hotel, prepare for the highlight of your journey: a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring Lost City of the Incas. Your day begins with a scenic 1.5-hour train ride from Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Along the way, marvel at the dramatic Andean landscapes, rushing rivers, terraced valleys, and lush cloud forests that surround you—it’s one of the most picturesque rail journeys in the world.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll be escorted to a shuttle bus for a breathtaking 25-minute ascent up the winding road to the mountain-top marvel of Machu Picchu. Perched dramatically between jungle-cloaked peaks, this ancient citadel was built around 1450 by the Inca emperor Pachacútec as a royal retreat. Abandoned just a century later during the Spanish conquest, Machu Picchu remained hidden beneath thick vegetation for centuries—untouched, undiscovered, and miraculously preserved.

Your expert guide will lead you on a captivating 2-hour tour through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, the Room of the Three Windows, and the royal quarters as you learn about Inca engineering, astronomy, and the spiritual significance of this extraordinary place. Every stone tells a story, and the sweeping views from the terraces will leave you speechless.

After your guided visit, descend back to Aguas Calientes where you’ll have time to relax or browse local markets before beginning your journey back to Cusco—first by train and then by road, retracing your path through the majestic Sacred Valley.

Overnight in Cusco.

After breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to say farewell to the majestic highlands of Peru as you begin the next leg of your South American adventure. A private transfer to Cusco Airport will be arranged for your included flight to Guayaquil, Ecuador’s bustling port city and commercial capital.

Upon arrival at José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, a friendly representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city. With its tropical climate, riverside promenade, and vibrant street life, Guayaquil offers a colourful contrast to the Andean landscapes you’ve just left behind.

The rest of the day is at your leisure. You might choose to explore the lively Malecón 2000 waterfront, take a walk through the artistic district of Las Peñas, or simply relax and enjoy the amenities at your hotel as you prepare for the Galápagos or mainland Ecuador adventures ahead.

Overnight in Guayaquil.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your hotel in Guayaquil to the airport to catch your flight to one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations—the Galápagos Islands. Please note: the flight from Guayaquil to Baltra Island is not included. We highly recommend booking the earliest available departure to maximise your time exploring the islands, and a later return flight for the same reason.

Upon arrival at Baltra Island Airport, and after completing the entry procedures, a local representative will welcome you and accompany you to the nearby port—just a 15-minute drive away. Here, you’ll board a short ferry that crosses the Itabaca Channel, delivering you to Santa Cruz Island, the second-largest island in the Galápagos archipelago.

Your Galápagos adventure begins with a visit to either Cerro Mesa Ecological Reserve or El Chato Reserve, both located in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz. These remarkable ecological sites are among the best places to witness the iconic giant Galápagos tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. The reserves also showcase unique endemic flora and offer opportunities to learn about the volcanic origins and biodiversity of the islands.

Following your highlands experience, you’ll descend to the coastal town of Puerto Ayora, the island’s main settlement. Here, you will visit the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station, a scientific hub dedicated to the preservation of Galápagos wildlife. Discover fascinating insights into evolutionary biology, view conservation programmes in action, and learn about the critical work being done to protect native species like the Galápagos tortoise and marine iguanas.

After an enriching introduction to the islands, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Puerto Ayora to unwind and reflect on your first day in this natural paradise.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora.

Today promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you set out to explore one of the remarkable islands of the Galápagos Archipelago. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to the pier in Puerto Ayora to begin your full-day navigation excursion by boat. Depending on availability and park regulations, your excursion will take you to one of the following extraordinary islands: Bartolomé, Isabela, Plaza Sur, Santa Fe, Seymour Norte, or San Cristóbal. Final confirmation of your island destination will be provided a few days prior to departure.

Each island presents its own unique ecosystem and spectacular wildlife encounters. You’ll enjoy an exciting day filled with snorkelling, wildlife viewing, and learning about the fragile and fascinating biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands. A light lunch is included. After your adventure, you’ll return to your hotel in Puerto Ayora for a relaxing evening.

Sample Island Experiences:

Bartolomé Island
Known for the iconic Pinnacle Rock, Bartolomé is one of the most photogenic islands in the Galápagos. A short climb to the summit reveals panoramic views over the island's dramatic lava landscapes and turquoise bays. Keep an eye out for Galápagos penguins, the only penguin species north of the equator, and explore the rocky shoreline where lava meets sea. This island is a geological wonderland, offering striking volcanic formations and surreal moonscapes.

Isabela Island
The largest island in the archipelago, Isabela is a haven for birdwatchers and marine life lovers. Visit the Flamingo Lagoon to observe these elegant birds in their natural habitat. Stop at the local Breeding Center to learn about conservation efforts for giant tortoises, then make your way through a mangrove-lined path to Concha Perla Beach for swimming and snorkelling alongside sea lions, turtles, penguins, and colourful reef fish.

Plaza Sur Island
Small in size but rich in life, South Plaza is famous for its stunning landscape of red and green Sesuvium plants and towering Opuntia cacti. Spot Galápagos land iguanas basking on lava rocks and enjoy spectacular views from the cliff edge, where blue-footed boobies, tropicbirds, and frigatebirds ride the coastal breeze.

Santa Fe Island
Famed for its turquoise bay and cactus forest, Santa Fe offers a chance to see the endemic Santa Fe land iguana, unique to this island. Hike through trails flanked by towering prickly pear cacti and snorkel in calm, clear waters often shared with playful sea lions.

Seymour Norte Island
Formed by seismic uplift rather than volcanic activity, North Seymour is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Walk across flat, rocky terrain where you’ll see blue-footed boobies in courtship dances and one of the largest colonies of magnificent frigatebirds. During mating season, the males inflate their vibrant red throat pouches in one of nature’s most dazzling displays.

San Cristóbal Island
Begin your adventure with a boat ride from Santa Cruz to San Cristóbal. Explore its rugged coastline and discover pristine wildlife spots such as Lobos Island, Ochoa Beach, or the dramatic Kicker Rock. Here, snorkelling and wildlife encounters abound, offering memorable sightings of marine iguanas, rays, sharks, sea turtles, and more.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Puerto Ayora, ready to discover more of the Galápagos Islands’ natural wonders. At the previously coordinated time, your guide will meet you at the town’s dock to begin a half-day excursion exploring the stunning bay of Santa Cruz Island.

Your first stop is La Lobería, a small rocky islet that serves as a playground for a colony of sea lions. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel alongside these curious and playful marine mammals in crystal-clear waters—an unforgettable encounter with Galápagos wildlife.

Next, continue your journey through the Love Channel, where dramatic lava cliffs meet calm turquoise waters, followed by the intriguing Sharks Channel, known for sightings of harmless reef sharks resting in the shallow, shaded crevices. From there, venture to the unique geological formations known as Las Grietas (The Cracks), a series of deep, natural fissures filled with cool, brackish water—perfect for a refreshing dip surrounded by volcanic walls.

The final stop on your marine safari is the beautiful and lesser-known Los Perros Beach, home to a vibrant ecosystem of marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and often spotted stingrays gliding beneath the water’s surface. The diversity of species and habitats encountered along this coastal route highlights why the Galápagos are a global icon of conservation and biodiversity.

Return to Puerto Ayora around 12:30 pm. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax, explore the town’s shops and cafés, or simply unwind along the island’s scenic waterfront.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora.

Enjoy your final morning in the magical Galápagos Islands with breakfast at your hotel in Puerto Ayora. At the previously agreed time, a transport service will escort you to the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island for your departure transfer.

From the port, board a short ferry ride across the iconic Itabaca Channel, a scenic 20-minute journey between Santa Cruz and Baltra Island. Once you arrive at the port on Baltra, you’ll be transferred directly to Baltra Airport to board your flight back to continental Ecuador.

As your Galápagos adventure comes to an end, reflect on the unforgettable landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make this one of the most extraordinary destinations on Earth.