Highlights of Peru with Galápagos Legend East Cruise
Highlights of Peru with Galápagos Legend East Cruise
$6625
Highlights of Peru with Galápagos Legend East Cruise
13 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Quito, Ecuador
Visiting: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Quito, North Seymour Island, Galapagos Islands, San Cristobal Island
Tour operator:
Tour code:
LHPECN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Ruins-Archaeology, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Peru and Ecuador with the "Highlights of Peru with Galápagos Legend East Cruise" tour. Begin your adventure in Lima, exploring its colonial heritage and vibrant culinary scene. Discover the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, where you'll connect with local traditions and artisans. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Cusco and the Andean highlands, and enjoy a scenic train ride aboard the Vistadome. In Ecuador, explore the historic city of Quito and stand on the Equator. Set sail on the M/V Galápagos Legend to uncover the unique wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, including sea lions, blue-footed boobies, and giant tortoises. With luxury accommodations and expert guidance, this tour offers a seamless blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation: Iberostar Hotel Lima
Accommodation Name: Iberostar Hotel Lima
Meals Included: Dinner
The Capital of the New World extends a warm welcome on your epic voyage through the iconic and unexpected highlights of Peru. Meet your local host on arrival and transfer to your hotel in the upscale shopping district of Miraflores. This evening, you’ll join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for dinner.
Day 2: Experience The Sights And Flavors Of Lima Connect With Locals
Location: Lima
Accommodation: Iberostar Hotel Lima
Accommodation Name: Iberostar Hotel Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Connect with the colonial heritage of Francisco Pizzaro’s 'City of Kings', admiring the colonial splendor of Lima’s UNESCO-listed Historic Center, with your Local Specialist. Stand in the birthplace of this ancient, yet modern city, surrounded by the Baroque façades of Cathedral of Lima and Palace of the Union. See the Church of San Francisco and discover its hidden catacombs. Celebrate Lima’s status as the culinary capital of South America and Connect With Locals when you meet Ignacio Barrios, who has worked alongside many of Peru's most award-winning chefs. We visit a local market where Ignacio will explain how Peruvian fruits, vegetables, seafood and meats are the basis of Peruvian cooking. Then, continue to Chef Ignacio's cooking school where we’ll enjoy a demonstration on how to prepare some of Peru's most popular dishes and have an opportunity to sample some at a Be My Guest experience with lunch before spending the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 3: Journey To The Sacred Valley Dive Into Culture Connect With Locals Make Travel Matter Stays With Stories
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation: Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Board a morning flight to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® when you visit Manos de la Comunidad, a Weaving Center where you’ll uncover the traditions of the Sacred Valley, called “lindaje.” Then continue to a former 18th century colonial-style monastery, our hotel for the night. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® and learn more about the artisan traditions meeting Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, a master Quechua weaver and the first person from her village to attend university. She has been an ambassador for Andean traditions since she began learning ancient pre-Columbian weaving techniques as a young girl in the 1960s. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as your visit helps to preserve and promote traditional pre-Columbian weaving techniques in the 21st century.
Day 4: Explore Iconic Machu Picchu
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation: El MaPi
Accommodation Name: El MaPi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The mystical empire of the Incas takes center stage today. We visit the famous Sacred Valley stronghold of Ollantaytambo before boarding the Vistadome train (light snack included) for our epic journey to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Delve into the mysteries of this once-great civilization, admiring the 15th century stone ruins of temples, palaces and terraces perched high amidst the clouds. Join your Local Specialist for an exploration of the iconic great Temple of the Sun, the House of the Priest, the Sacred Plaza and the Intihuatana, an intricately carved rock most likely used as a sundial centuries ago.
Day 5: The Sites Of Machu Picchu And Cusco Dive Into Culture
Location: Cusco
Accommodation: Hotel Novotel Cusco
Accommodation Name: Novotel Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
The ancient ruins of Machu Picchu beckon again and you have an opportunity to re-connect with this ancient wonder. Board the train to the Sacred Valley, then head to the colonial city of Cusco, stopping en route at a local chicheria. Dive into Culture and enjoy the sweet flavors of chicha as you learn how this Peruvian corn beer is brewed by the local women.
Day 6: Step Back In Time In Cusco Dive Into Culture
Location: Cusco
Accommodation: Hotel Novotel Cusco
Accommodation Name: Novotel Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of Cusco this morning, admiring the 16th-century Spanish colonial buildings that stand on the foundations of former Inca temples and palaces. See the baroque Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas and 17th-century Church of Santo Domingo. Visit the ruins of the Sacsayhuaman fortress and see nearby warehouses where the Incas once stored their grain. The afternoon is free to explore on your terms.
Day 7: Delve Into Pre-Columbian Art In Lima Dive Into Culture
Location: Lima
Accommodation: Iberostar Hotel Lima
Accommodation Name: Iberostar Hotel Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A leisurely start to our day sees us return to Lima this afternoon. Meet a Local Specialist at the Larco Museum, which houses one of the largest private collections of pre-Columbian art in the world. This evening we join our travel companions for dinner in the museum's garden restaurant.
Day 8: Travel To Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation: Sheraton
Accommodation Name: Sheraton
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Ecuador (flight not included in holiday price). Enjoy a warm welcome in Quito where you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel.
Day 9: Uncover Historic Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation: Sheraton
Accommodation Name: Sheraton
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the historical center of Quito, which was the first place in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and travel to the 'Middle of the World' to stand on the Equator. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 10: Sea Lions And North Seymour Island
Location: North Seymour Island
Accommodation: M/V Galápagos Legend
Accommodation Name: M/V Galápagos Legend
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover a land that inspired Darwin to form his Theory of Natural Selection. On arrival at Baltra airport, transfer to the M/V Galápagos Legend. Set sail to North Seymour Island, an important spot to see magnificent frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies and sea lions.
Day 11: Bartolome And Santiago Island
Location: Galapagos Islands
Accommodation: M/V Galápagos Legend
Accommodation Name: M/V Galápagos Legend
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our first destination today is Bartolome Island, hiking to its summit for soul stirring views, then enjoying snorkelling and an opportunity to see the famous Galapagos Penguins.
Day 12: Uncover San Cristobal Island
Location: San Cristobal Island
Accommodation: M/V Galápagos Legend
Accommodation Name: M/V Galápagos Legend
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We journey to Pitt Point this morning, ascending to a high point on the steep volcanic tuff hill to see if we can spot all three of the booby species simultaneously. Cerro Brujo’s coral sand beach is our next destination, where we can connect with the resident sea lions or snorkel in the shadow of Witch’s Hill.
Day 13: Depart San Cristobal Island
Location: San Cristobal Island
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a first-hand encounter with the giant tortoises of La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado, a tortoise reserve that protects the island’s tortoise population. Your Galápagos exhibition at its end, transfer to San Cristobal Airport for your return flight to Quito. Airport arrival time in Quito will be at 7 p.m.; please be aware when booking your flights.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included to guide and assist you throughout the tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted for quality and comfort.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour package.
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Must-see Sightseeing
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included in the itinerary.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing experiences.
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Luxury Transportation
Travel in luxury air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Intra-Air Flights
A Trafalgar Bonus includes all Intra-Air Flights: Lima to Cusco and Cusco to Lima, with porter service at all airports.
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Vistadome Train Tickets
Tickets for a ride aboard the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu are included.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
Optional experiences and free time are part of the tour package.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not covered.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Peru and Ecuador are not included.
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Gratuities for Guides and Drivers
Gratuities for guides and drivers are not included and are at the traveler's discretion.
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Flight from Ecuador to Galápagos
The flight from Ecuador to the Galápagos Islands is not included in the holiday price.
Dining Summary
6 Dinner (D)12 Breakfast (B)5 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
Lima: You’re treated to a lesson on how to pour the perfect Pisco sour, Peru’s native drink. In the good hands of professional chef Ignacio, the results are sure to be delicious. Ignacio will explain the history of Pisco – a type pf wine, the typical Pisco Sour, and an internationally less known but locally more popular drink called “Chilcano”. This cocktail of pisco, lime juice, Ginger ale and bitters is a refreshing twist on the pisco sour that will have you eager to share the recipe with your friends.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches, enjoy scenic train rides aboard the Vistadome to Machu Picchu, and experience the Galápagos Islands on the M/V Galápagos Legend cruise, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Iberostar Hotel Lima, Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay, El MaPi, Novotel Cusco, and Sheraton, with a unique experience aboard the M/V Galápagos Legend, offering a blend of modern amenities and historical charm throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Manos de la Comunidad weaving center in Cusco, where you can learn about traditional Andean weaving techniques and the cultural significance of the four Andean camels. In Lima, you will visit a local market with Chef Ignacio and enjoy a cooking demonstration and lunch at his cooking school. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to taste chicha, a traditional Peruvian corn beer, and learn about its history.
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the Galápagos Islands portion of the tour?
During the Galápagos Islands portion of the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including magnificent frigatebirds, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and the famous Galápagos Penguins. You will also have the opportunity to encounter giant tortoises at the La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado tortoise reserve.
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What is the significance of the 'Make Travel Matter' experiences on this tour?
The 'Make Travel Matter' experiences on this tour are designed to support local communities and preserve cultural traditions. In Cusco, you will visit the Manos de la Comunidad weaving center, which helps preserve traditional pre-Columbian weaving techniques. Your visit supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting reduced inequalities and sustainable communities.
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as the UNESCO-listed Historic Center of Lima, the ruins at Ollantaytambo, the 15th-century fortress of Machu Picchu, and the Sacsayhuaman fortress in Cusco. In Quito, you will explore the historical center, which was the first place in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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What kind of accommodations are provided during the tour?
Accommodations during the tour include stays at the Iberostar Hotel Lima, Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay, El MaPi, Novotel Cusco, and Sheraton. You will also experience a unique stay aboard the M/V Galápagos Legend, which offers a blend of modern amenities and historical charm.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions