South America's wonders: Incas & Galapagos

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off towards Cuzco, with the opportunity to enjoy the optional Sacred Valley excursion along the way, to experience the best of the region*. Arrive in Cuzco and spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, enjoying the lively plazas at night. Overnight stay in Cuzco.

*Optional Essence of the Sacred Valley Excursion: Discover the millenary history and vibrant culture of the Sacred Valley. Begin in Chinchero, visiting the Parwa Cultural Center to learn about traditional textiles and their symbolism. Observe the artisans in action, from the extraction of natural dyes to the weaving techniques passed down through generations. Explore the archaeological complex of Chinchero, an ancient agricultural and livestock center of the Tahuantinsuyo, and admire the Nuestra Señora de Monserrat church, an example of the fusion between Andean and Spanish cultures. Then, visit Moray, a fascinating archaeological site with concentric terraces that functioned as an Incan agricultural laboratory. Enjoy a local lunch before heading to Ollantaytambo, an ancient military, religious, and agricultural center. Tour its impressive stone fortress and main temple while enjoying unparalleled views of the town, which still retains its original Incan urban design. Stroll through its stone streets, visit the market, and immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of the Andes.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off on a fascinating half-day tour of Cuzco. Begin in the iconic Plaza de Armas, and visit the Cathedral. From here, walk to the Koricancha Temple, an impressive ancient Inca palace, in honour of the Sun God. Today, a Dominican church stands on the site. Finally, visit the lively San Blas neighbourhood, known for its artists, shops and artisan workshops. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, soaking up the atmosphere of the city and sampling the local cuisine. Overnight stay in Cuzco.

*Optional Dinner Show in Cusco: A perfect occasion to enjoy a wonderful dinner in the heart of Cusco, and a lively and colorful show with live music and traditional dances.

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight to Lima and get ready to say goodbye to Peru and begin the second part of your extraordinary journey. Arrive, transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Lima.

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight to Quito. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1978. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and vibrant culture, the city seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern energy, making it one of the most captivating destinations in South America. Overnight stay in Quito.

Breakfast at the hotel. Throughout the day, a representative will contact you to review your full itinerary, day by day, and answer any questions you may have. In the morning, set out to explore colonial Quito, visiting a traditional market, the city's charming narrow streets, and its iconic plazas.

Afterward, journey from the Ecuadorian highlands to the highest point of the road in the páramos of Papallacta before descending into the eastern jungle. Upon arrival at the jungle lodge, enjoy a delicious included dinner.

Later, embark on an exciting night walk around the lodge to uncover the secrets of the Amazon after dark. This guided experience offers a rare glimpse into the region’s fascinating nocturnal wildlife. Listen to the symphony of the jungle as you spot colorful frogs, spiders, owls, and even snakes—all under the guidance of an expert naturalist. This short yet captivating adventure is perfect for those looking to experience the rainforest's mystery and beauty at night without venturing too far. Overnight stay in Tena.

Distance covered today: 240 km by bus (approximately 6h).

Full board at the lodge. This morning, set out on a guided wildlife walk through the secondary forest, a unique ecosystem that has regenerated after past disturbances, fostering a rich variety of plant and animal life. Wander along lush jungle trails and observe the region’s incredible biodiversity up close. Keep an eye out for monkeys, colorful birds, frogs, and insects—and with a bit of luck, even sloths or wild cats. Walk through dense vegetation filled with towering trees, exotic plants, and medicinal flora used by indigenous communities. Guided by a naturalist, you’ll gain insight into the intricate relationships between the Amazon’s flora and fauna while immersing yourself in the sounds of the rainforest, from singing birds to the rustling leaves of hidden wildlife.

After lunch, enjoy free time to relax and unwind at the lodge's facilities. Overnight stay in Tena.

Please note: The lodge will provide details on optional activities, which can be booked and paid for directly on-site.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we’ll depart from Tena and head to the majestic city of Baños, renowned for its adventure sports and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. During the journey, after approximately a 3.5-hour drive, we’ll stop to admire the spectacular Pailón del Diablo waterfall, one of Ecuador’s most breathtaking natural wonders. To fully appreciate its beauty, you’ll take a 30-minute walk to reach a hanging bridge, offering a panoramic view of the impressive 80-metre waterfall of the Río Verde. The water cascades into a basin, creating swirling whirlpools and foam at the base, which is why the waterfall is named “Pailón,” meaning a large pot or container, evoking the visual effect of the falling water.

You’ll then have free time for lunch (not included). Afterward, the journey continues to Baños, where you’ll pass by several other waterfalls, including the Manto de la Novia. Once in Baños, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the city’s traditional sweets: Melcochas and Sugar Cane Juice, both made from locally harvested sugarcane. We also recommend you indulge in our optional wellness experience with dinner*. Overnight stay in Baños.

*Wellness Experience with dinner: Unwind at the serene Luna Volcán Spa in Baños, Ecuador. Enjoy a traditional Baño de Cajón hot bath, relax in mineral-rich thermal pools, and savor a gourmet meal made from local ingredients, all while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Breakfast at the hotel. Then depart from the natural beauty of Baños to return to Quito. If the weather permits, enjoy stunning views of the Avenue of the Volcanoes and the towering Cotopaxi Volcano.

Continue the journey with a visit to the Middle of the World, where you'll explore the Inti Ñan Museum and take part in fascinating experiments that demonstrate the unique effects of being right on the equator.

You'll also visit the Middle of the World Monument—the iconic landmark marking the equatorial line. Be  sure to capture a memorable photo standing with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere! Overnight stay in Quito.

The total transfer time is approximately 5 hours, not including the visits made along the route.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you have a free day in the city of Quito to relax at your own pace, but we also recommend you to join our optional activities: a tour to Otavalo* and a traditional Ecuadorian dinner**. Overnight stay in Quito.

*Tour to Otavalo: Discover Otavalo, starting with stunning mountain views, Chirimoya fruit in Guayllabamba, and Cayambe biscuits. Explore Cuicocha Crater Lake, visit Cotacachi for leatherwork, and shop at Plaza de Ponchos. 

**Traditional Ecuadorian dinner experience: Experience dining at Pim’s Panecillo, perched on El Panecillo Hill with stunning views of Quito. Relish a variety of Ecuadorian and international dishes made with fresh ingredients, all while enjoying the breathtaking city scenery.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport in Quito to take your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival at the enchanted islands, transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon we will take a walking tour of the city of Baquerizo Moreno to explore the main attractions. Also you can join a fun optional kayak tour*. Overnight stay in San Cristobal.

*Kayaking experience: Explore San Cristóbal Island’s breathtaking coast on a kayaking adventure. Glide past volcanic cliffs, secluded beaches, and hidden coves. Take a break to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, spotting reef fish, rays, and harmless sharks!

Breakfast at the hotel. Embark on an exciting journey through the Highlands of San Cristóbal, visiting iconic natural sites, enjoying a scenic lunch break, and exploring the island’s stunning coastal regions. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galápagos.

Start by visiting La Galapaguera, a tortoise conservation center in the Highlands, where you'll observe the famous giant Galápagos tortoises in their natural habitat and learn about the efforts to protect these iconic creatures.

Next, head to Puerto Chino, a beautiful, remote beach perfect for relaxation, swimming, or simply soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. Afterward, enjoy a lunch break (not included), and end the day at La Lobería, a popular spot to watch sea lions basking in the sun or swimming in the bay. Overnight stay in San Cristóbal.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you have a free day and to make the most of it we recommend you to choose one of our optional activities: a 360º tour of the island including snorkeling in Kicker Rock’ or a visit to Tijeretas and Playa Man with a ceviche cooking demonstration. Overnight in San Cristóbal.

*360° Island tour with snorkeling at Kicker Rock: Embark on an adventurous tour of San Cristóbal Island! Explore Rosa Blanca’s mangroves, Punta Pitt’s red-footed boobies, snorkel at Bahía Sardina, hike Punta Pucuna’s lava tunnels, and end the day with snorkeling at Kicker Rock, where, with a bit of luck, you may encounter turtles, manta rays, or even sharks in the crystal-clear waters.

**Visit to Tijeretas and Playa Mann with ceviche cooking demonstration: Experience the best of San Cristóbal Island on a tour to Tijeretas, the Interpretation Center, and Playa Mann. Enjoy breathtaking views, spot frigatebirds, and learn about the island’s rich history. Next, indulge in a ceviche-making session  guided by a local Galapagueña woman and translated by your guide. Discover the art of preparing ceviche by mixing fresh seafood, citrus juices, and local spices. Savor your culinary creation while soaking in the picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno!

Please note: You can only choose one between these two optional activities.

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, transfer to San Cristóbal airport for your flight to Quito. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in and enjoy some free time to relax and unwind. Overnight stay in Quito.

Breakfast at the hotel*. Unfortunately, it's time to end this adventure. At the designated time, take a shared transfer to the airport for your flight back to the US.

Please note: Depending on the flight departure time you may arrive back in the US today.

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.