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A 15-Day Peru and Galapagos Journey Through History and Wildlife
Peru Machu Picchu And Galapagos Islands Explorer
Duration
15 DaysStarts In
LimaRoute
Lima, Cusco , Sacred Valley, Cusco , Quito, Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil
Embark on the Peru, Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Ultimate Adventure, an extraordinary journey through two of South America’s most iconic destinations. Begin in Peru, where expert-guided explorations take you through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the legendary Machu Picchu, immersing you in the heart of the ancient Incan civilization. Marvel at breathtaking mountain landscapes, sacred ruins, and vibrant Andean culture. Then, fly to Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, a wildlife paradise like no other. Travel to the Galapagos islands, where you’ll encounter giant tortoises, marine iguanas, playful sea lions, and rare bird species in their pristine natural habitat. This fully customizable itinerary offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable journey tailored to your schedule. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or luxury traveler, this bucket-list experience delivers the best of Peru’s ancient wonders and the Galapagos’ breathtaking biodiversity in one seamless trip.
Includes
- Private English-speaking guide as per itinerary
- Driver/Guide: Private as per itinerary
- Keytours 24-hour emergency assistance
- Local guide: Private during tours where necessary
- Private arrival and departure transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodations of your choice
- Sightseeing tours and/or activites of your choice
Excludes
- Items of a personal nature
- All other items not mentioned as included
- Domestic flights; please inquire with your Keytours travel consultant
- International flights
- Travel insurance; please inquire with your Keytours travel consultant
- Gratuities for drivers, guides, and escorts
Itinerary
Day
1
1
Day 1
Day 1: Welcome to Lima – A Journey Through the City of Kings
Arrive in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, where your journey begins. After a private transfer from the airport to your city hotel, set off on a full-day Tour of Lima. Discover the rich history of Lima’s colonial architecture, UNESCO-listed Historic Center, and highlights like Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the Cathedral. Visit the Larco Museum, renowned for its extensive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, and explore Miraflores for stunning ocean views. By evening, return to your Lima hotel, reflecting on a day filled with historical and cultural insights. Overnight in Lima, ready for more adventures in Peru.
Day
2
2
Day 2
Day 2: Sip & Savor – A Pisco, Wine & Culinary Exploration
Start the day with a half-day Pisco & Wine Tour, where you’ll learn about Peru’s famous pisco and regional wines, tasting a variety of artisanal offerings along the way. In the evening, indulge in the Lima Gourmet Food Tour, a culinary journey that takes you to top restaurants and local eateries to sample classic Peruvian dishes and flavors. Enjoy the vibrant food scene, from fresh ceviche to flavorful anticuchos, paired with cocktails crafted by local mixologists. Return to your Lima hotel, savoring the tastes and experiences of Peru’s culinary capital. Overnight in Lima.
Day
3
3
Day 3
Day 3: Gateway to the Andes – Arrival in Cusco
After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, enjoy a comfortable transfer from the airport to your city hotel. Take the rest of the day to acclimate to the high altitude and explore Cusco’s cobbled streets, filled with a unique blend of Incan and Spanish architecture. With evening at leisure, consider a stroll through Cusco’s lively plazas or a visit to nearby shops for Andean crafts. Overnight in Cusco, resting up for tomorrow’s exploration of this historic city.
Day
4
4
Day 4
Day 4: The Best of Cusco & Sacred Incan Ruins
Begin your day with a half-day City Tour of Cusco, exploring the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, and other historic sites that reflect the city’s rich heritage. In the afternoon, visit the incredible Sacsayhuaman Incan Ruins, a fortress known for its massive stone walls and breathtaking views over Cusco. Learn about the significance of this archaeological marvel and the engineering skills of the Incas. Afterward, transfer to the Sacred Valley for a restful night surrounded by scenic Andean landscapes. Overnight in the Sacred Valley.
Day
5
5
Day 5
Day 5: Legendary Machu Picchu & A Taste of Peruvian Wine
Take a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, enjoy a half-day guided tour of this iconic Incan site, exploring its terraces, temples, and stunning views. Later, indulge in a Blind Wine Tasting at Hacienda de Letras Vineyard, sampling fine wines in a unique setting. Return to the Sacred Valley for a peaceful overnight stay, reflecting on the wonders of Machu Picchu and the flavors of Peruvian wine.
Day
6
6
Day 6
Day 6: Cooking, Culture & Chocolate – A Day of Peruvian Flavors
Start the day with a Peruvian Cooking Class and a guided visit to San Pedro Market in Cusco, where you’ll gather ingredients and learn to prepare traditional dishes. In the afternoon, delight in a hands-on experience at ChocoMuseo with a Bean to Bar Chocolate Workshop, crafting your own chocolate creations from raw cacao. This day of culinary discovery offers a deep dive into Peru’s flavors. Overnight in Cusco, savoring memories of local cuisine and sweet treats.
Day
7
7
Day 7
Day 7: Journey to Ecuador – From the Andes to Quito
After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to Cusco Airport for your flight to Quito, Ecuador. Upon arrival, another private transfer will bring you to your hotel in Quito’s historic center. Take the evening to settle in and enjoy the beautiful colonial architecture and lively atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed city. Prepare for a day of exploration ahead in Ecuador’s capital. Overnight in Quito, ready to discover its rich heritage.
Day
8
8
Day 8
Day 8: Quito & Otavalo – Culture, Markets & The Middle of the World
Start with a half-day Quito City Tour, visiting landmarks like the Plaza de la Independencia, the Basilica del Voto Nacional, and the “Mitad del Mundo,” where you can stand on the equatorial line. In the afternoon, head to Otavalo to explore its famous indigenous market, filled with handicrafts, textiles, and local products. Soak in the vibrant colors and culture before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Quito, with memories of the bustling market and the city’s charm.
Day
9
9
Day 9
Day 9: Welcome to the Galapagos – A Wildlife Wonderland
This morning, following breakfast, a private transfer will escort you to Quito Airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you'll be welcomed and taken to Santa Cruz Island, with a scenic crossing of the Itabaca Channel en route. Once checked in at your hotel, take some time to settle into your new island surroundings before the afternoon’s adventure begins.
Your introduction to the Galápagos starts in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz. Visit a Giant Tortoise Reserve, where these gentle giants wander freely in their natural environment. Then, venture into the island’s remarkable lava tunnels—vast subterranean passages formed by ancient volcanic flows. After an inspiring afternoon of exploration, return to your hotel to unwind and take in the peaceful rhythm of island life, ready for the extraordinary days to come.
Day
10
10
Day 10
Day 10: Galápagos Discovery: Private Full-Day Yacht Excursion
Start your day with an early breakfast before setting off on an exclusive full-day cruise to one of the remarkable islands within the Galápagos National Park. Depending on weather and park regulations, today’s destination might include iconic sites such as North Seymour, Bartolomé, or South Plaza — each known for their striking scenery and extraordinary wildlife.
Guided by a certified naturalist, you’ll explore scenic trails on foot, snorkel in crystal-clear waters with curious sea lions and colorful reef fish, and observe unique species like blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and more — all in their native habitat. A freshly prepared lunch will be served aboard your yacht, adding comfort and flavor to your adventure. After a day of unforgettable encounters and island exploration, return to your lodge on Santa Cruz for a peaceful evening in the heart of the archipelago.
Day
11
11
Day 11
Day 11: Las Grietas & Tortuga Bay: An Active Day on Santa Cruz
uel up with a hearty breakfast before heading out for a dynamic day of exploration on Santa Cruz Island. Your adventure begins with a private scenic walk to Las Grietas, a stunning natural formation of crystal-clear pools nestled between towering lava rock walls. Take time to swim or snorkel in these cool, sheltered waters while taking in the dramatic volcanic landscape.
Next, make your way to the iconic Tortuga Bay, famed for its powdery white sand beaches and abundant wildlife. Here, you’ll hop into a kayak and paddle through calm coastal waters, watching for sea turtles, reef sharks, and marine iguanas lounging along the shore. After a day filled with striking scenery and close-up nature encounters, return to your lodge for a peaceful and well-earned evening of rest.
Day
12
12
Day 12
Day 12: Santa Cruz or Isabela: A Day Tailored to You
Today is all about choice — enjoy the freedom to shape your Galápagos experience your way. You may opt for a leisurely day soaking in the tranquility of Santa Cruz Island, unwinding at your lodge and taking in the serene surroundings.
If adventure calls, consider a private half-day tour of the Itabaca Channel, where you can kayak through calm turquoise waters, snorkel among vibrant marine life, and admire the island’s striking coastal scenery. Another excellent option is a Santa Cruz Highlands tour, where you’ll encounter wild giant tortoises, walk through lush highland forests, and explore volcanic terrain shaped by millennia of geologic activity.
Alternatively, set out on a full-day expedition to Isabela Island. Travel by private boat to discover Roca Unión, a picturesque islet rich in birdlife, and visit the Tortoise Breeding Center, where you’ll learn about ongoing conservation efforts to protect one of the Galápagos’ most iconic species. In the evening, return to Santa Cruz to unwind and reflect on your personalized day of discovery.
Day
13
13
Day 13
Day 13: From the Galapagos to Guayaquil – Coastal Culture & City Charm
After a leisurely breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Baltra Airport (GPS) for your flight to Guayaquil. Upon arrival, enjoy a half-day Tour of Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, exploring sights like the Malecón 2000, Las Peñas neighborhood, and the city’s vibrant parks. Check into your hotel in Guayaquil for an overnight stay, with the evening free to enjoy this bustling city.
Day
14
14
Day 14
Day 14: Hacienda La Danesa – Elegance & Adventure in the Ecuadorian Countryside
Escape the city and journey into Ecuador’s serene coastal highlands with a full-day visit to Hacienda La Danesa, a historic family-owned estate just outside Guayaquil. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the hacienda’s tranquil charm—where rolling pastures, chocolate groves, and teak forests frame a day of hands-on cultural and culinary discovery. Participate in a bean-to-bar chocolate-making workshop, enjoy horseback riding or tubing along a scenic river, and indulge in a gourmet farm-to-table lunch crafted with fresh, local ingredients. With personalized service and authentic rural hospitality, this immersive experience offers a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and Ecuadorian tradition. Return to Guayaquil in the late afternoon, enriched by a day of countryside elegance.
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Day
15
15
Day 15
Day 15: Farewell to South America – Depart with Lasting Memories
Conclude your journey with a private transfer to Guayaquil Airport for your departure flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of Peru’s ancient ruins, Ecuador’s wildlife-filled islands, and the vibrant cities and landscapes that made this journey so extraordinary. Safe travels as you depart, carrying the spirit of South America’s rich nature and history with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Peru Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands Explorer package includes visits to Lima, Cusco City, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in Peru, followed by Quito, the Galapagos Islands, and Guayaquil in Ecuador. This 15-day itinerary offers a rich blend of historical exploration and natural wonders, providing an immersive experience in two of South America's most iconic regions.
Travelers will use a combination of private transfers and flights to move between destinations. Private transfers are provided for airport arrivals and departures, as well as for local excursions. Flights are required between Lima and Cusco, Cusco and Quito, Quito and the Galapagos Islands, and the Galapagos Islands and Guayaquil. Domestic and international flights are not included in the package price and should be arranged separately.
Yes, the Peru Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands Explorer package is fully customizable. Travelers can choose their preferred accommodations and select from various sightseeing tours and activities. Keytours Vacations offers the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to suit individual preferences, allowing for a personalized travel experience that meets specific interests and schedules.
This package includes private English-speaking guides, private driver/guide services, Keytours 24-hour emergency assistance, private arrival and departure transfers, accommodations of your choice, and selected sightseeing tours and activities. It does not include items of a personal nature, domestic and international flights, travel insurance, or gratuities for drivers, guides, and escorts.
The itinerary involves a moderate level of physical activity, including walking tours in cities like Lima and Quito, exploration of archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, and active adventures in the Galapagos Islands like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. Participants should be comfortable with walking and engaging in outdoor activities to fully enjoy the experiences offered.
In the Galapagos Islands, travelers can encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, and a variety of rare bird species. The islands are renowned for their unique biodiversity and offer opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitat during guided tours and excursions.
Travel insurance is not included in the package. It is highly recommended that travelers arrange their own travel insurance to cover unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other travel-related issues. Keytours Vacations can provide assistance in selecting suitable travel insurance options for added peace of mind.
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