Description
This 16-day expedition blends two of South America’s most extraordinary worlds into a single, seamless journey - the wildlife-rich Galápagos Marine Reserve and the cultural heartland of the ancient Inca civilization. Beginning in Ecuador and concluding in Lima, Peru, the experience moves from remote volcanic islands and pristine marine ecosystems to Andean highlands, sacred valleys, and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. The design is immersive and purposeful, combining expedition cruising with land-based cultural exploration guided by expert naturalists and historians.
The first half of the journey unfolds entirely within the Galápagos Archipelago, where daily Zodiac landings, snorkeling, kayaking, and guided nature walks reveal the evolutionary story of the islands at close range. Carefully managed schedules align with conservation regulations, ensuring meaningful wildlife encounters while supporting responsible tourism. The second half transitions inland across Peru, tracing the legacy of the Inca through Lima, the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Machu Picchu - connecting natural history with human ingenuity across dramatically different landscapes.
About Our Service in the Galápagos and Peru
This professionally managed expedition operates with a high staff-to-guest ratio throughout both the maritime and land-based segments. In the Galápagos, experienced naturalist guides lead all excursions, adapting routes and activities to wildlife behavior and environmental conditions. Educational briefings and interpretive sessions provide context between landings, while snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are included to enhance active exploration. In Peru, expert historians and local guides accompany guests through archaeological sites, museums, and living communities, ensuring cultural depth and continuity from coast to Andes.
Day 1 - Arrival in Ecuador | Quito or Guayaquil
Arrive in Ecuador at any time during the day, either in Quito or Guayaquil. An included airport transfer brings you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to rest, adjust to altitude if arriving in Quito, or explore independently before the expedition begins.
Day 2 - Flight to the Galápagos | Embarkation
Early morning transfer to the airport for a scheduled flight to the Galápagos Islands via Guayaquil. Upon arrival late morning, meet the expedition team and embark the ship. After lunch onboard, begin the journey with an afternoon Zodiac landing along volcanic shores, marking your first wildlife encounters in the archipelago.
Day 3 - Central Galápagos | Coastal and Inland Exploration
The day begins with guided walks along coastal trails populated by seabirds and sea lions, followed by inland exploration revealing contrasting ecosystems. Afternoon activities include snorkeling or kayaking in calm waters rich with tropical fish and marine life.
Day 4 - Western Galápagos | Volcanic Landscapes
Arrive in the western Galápagos to explore lava fields and rugged coastlines shaped by ongoing volcanism. Zodiac cruising offers close-up wildlife viewing, while afternoon snorkeling takes place in nutrient-rich waters known for marine biodiversity.
Day 5 - Pristine Islands | Active Marine Exploration
Spend the day on one of the archipelago’s most untouched islands. Guided walks focus on endemic reptiles and seabirds, while afternoon activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling close to shore.
Day 6 - Southern Galápagos | Beaches and Birdlife
Explore a southern island known for white-sand beaches and exceptional biodiversity. Morning wildlife observation is followed by an afternoon of snorkeling with sea lions and colorful reef fish in clear, sheltered waters.
Day 7 - Historic Galápagos | Lagoons and Marine Life
The day centers on a historically significant island featuring coastal lagoons often frequented by flamingos. Zodiac cruising and snorkeling reveal coral reefs and fish-filled waters, complemented by visits to traditional maritime landmarks.
Day 8 - Highlands and Conservation Centers
Land in the morning to explore lush highlands where giant tortoises roam freely. Visits to research and conservation centers highlight ongoing preservation efforts. The afternoon returns you to the ship for farewell activities in the Galápagos.
Day 9 - Galápagos to Lima via Guayaquil
Disembark early morning and fly to Lima via Guayaquil. Upon arrival, transfer to a hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The remainder of the day is free to relax after travel.
Day 10 - Lima | Colonial Heritage and Culture
Explore Lima’s historic center, visiting colonial plazas and a renowned museum showcasing pre-Columbian art. A hosted lunch with cultural performances adds depth to the experience, followed by an evening at leisure.
Day 11 - Lima to Cusco | Sacred Valley Transition
Fly to Cusco in the morning and continue by road into the Sacred Valley. Visits to archaeological sites and local markets introduce Andean culture before checking into a countryside hotel surrounded by fertile farmland.
Day 12 - Sacred Valley | Living Inca Heritage
Explore major Inca sites, including a monumental stone fortress overlooking an active community. A traditional hacienda lunch and cultural demonstrations showcase Andean textiles, crafts, and horsemanship.
Day 13 - Scenic Train to Machu Picchu
Travel by scenic train through river valleys to Machu Picchu. After lunch, begin guided exploration of the ancient citadel, with time to absorb its setting and architectural mastery. Overnight near the site.
Day 14 - Machu Picchu | Return to Cusco
Return to Machu Picchu in the morning for deeper guided exploration. After lunch, travel by train and road back to Cusco and check into a historic city-center hotel.
Day 15 - Cusco | Inca Capital Exploration
Discover Cusco’s cathedral, ancient temples, and hilltop ruins overlooking the city. The afternoon is free for museums, shopping, or relaxation, allowing time to reflect on the journey’s cultural arc.
Day 16 - Cusco to Lima | Departure
After breakfast, fly from Cusco to Lima for onward international connections. Optional airport day-use rooms or post-journey extensions may be arranged depending on departure time.
About Our Expedition Ship
The Galápagos portion of the journey is hosted aboard a purpose-built expedition ship designed for protected environments. With capacity for 48 guests supported by 57 professional crew and staff, the experience remains intimate and highly personalized. The vessel measures 296 feet in length with a 43-foot beam, offering excellent stability for inter-island navigation.
Across four decks, 28 well-appointed cabins feature private bathrooms, climate control, and modern comforts. Public spaces include indoor lounges, dining areas, wellness facilities, and observation decks. Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling equipment are carried onboard, supporting daily active exploration.
Why This Galápagos and Inca Expedition Is Truly Unique
This journey connects two UNESCO-recognized worlds - the evolutionary laboratory of the Galápagos and the cultural legacy of the Inca Empire. By pairing immersive wildlife exploration with deep cultural discovery, the itinerary offers a rare, holistic understanding of South America’s natural and human history. Guided by experts, supported by seamless logistics, and designed around responsible exploration, this 16-day expedition delivers an experience that is both intellectually enriching and profoundly memorable.
