17-day to Experience the Top South American Icons culturenature
OVERVIEW
Duration: 17 days, 16 nights
Accommodation: 12 first class hotel nights and 4 nights on a Galapagos cruise
Availability: All year round
Who is this tour for:
Recommended age: 6-80
Better for families, solo travelers, seniors and couples
Nature
Active
Foodie
Culture
Relax
Ecuador and Peru have it all! Adventure, wildlife encounters, cultural enrichment, meaningful connections with locals, and a fresh perspective beyond the everyday. Both are among the best places to travel in South America and this unique journey begins in Quito, at the Middle of the World. Then, explore the lush wonders of the Amazon Rainforest, followed by an unforgettable Galapagos cruise. Next, head to Cusco and culminate your adventure with a visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Come and experience the magic of these iconic destinations!
Nestled among towering Andean peaks, Quito greets us with open arms for the start of an unforgettable travel experience. Upon arrival, we‘ll be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel, where we can relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2
Quito and the Middle of the World
Ecuador |
Breakfast, Lunch
Step into Quito’s UNESCO-listed historic center, where colonial charm meets vibrant culture. We will walk along cobblestone streets lined with colorful facades and explore iconic landmarks like the golden La Compañía de Jesús, the neo-Gothic Basílica del Voto Nacional, or the grand San Francisco Church. At Panecillo Hill, we take in sweeping views of Quito’s rooftops and surrounding mountains, followed by an immersive experience as we cross into the equatorial line at the Middle of the World and learn how the Geodesic Mission determined Earth’s shape. Let’s explore the fascinating mysteries of latitude 0°.
Day 3
Yasuni National Park
Ecuador |
Breakfast, Lunch Box, Dinner
Early hotel pick-up and transfer to the airport for our flight to the amazon city of Coca.
Followed by a scenic 30-minute flight from Quito to Coca, our adventure begins with a short transfer to the Napo River pier. An approximately two-hour motorized boat ride takes us deep into the Amazon Rainforest, offering glimpses of exotic birds along the way. We then switch to a traditional dugout canoe, gliding through winding creeks where monkeys, toucans, and macaws can often be spotted on-route to our lodge in the heart of the rainforest.
Days 4-5
Amazon Rainforest Experience
Ecuador |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Over the next few days, we enjoy immersive activities designed to connect us with nature and the local life. In between explorations, we can rest or enjoy the lodge’s amenities. Tea, coffee and snacks are always available!
The order of the excursions is subject to change and will be coordinated directly by the lodge and our expert guide. The following are a few of the activities we may enjoy in our itinerary:
Canopy Tower:Hike up to a panoramic viewpoint above the treetops, where we may spot toucans, macaws, tanagers, and even monkeys moving through the high branches.
Wildlife Observation Expeditions: Join birdwatching outings like a visit to the Parrot Clay Licks, then search for monkeys, tapirs, armadillos, and other fascinating mammals.
Creek and Pond Explorations: Glide through waterways where we might encounter giant river otters, turtles, and a variety of freshwater fish.
Nocturnal Walks & Canoe Rides: As night falls, discover the rainforest’s hidden life: glowing insects, croaking frogs, and elusive caimans, all while learning about the region’s incredible and unique biodiversity.
Local Family or Community Visit: Gain insight into local traditions and daily life while learning about community-led sustainable initiatives that support both people and the environment.
Day 6
Farewell Amazon Rainforest
Ecuador |
Breakfast, Lunch Box
As our journey comes to an end, we take one last canoe excursion, then we board the motorized canoe for our return trip down the Napo River to Coca, where we will catch our flight back to Quito. Upon our arrival, we are transferred to our hotel to settle in and prepare for the next leg of our trip.
Day 7
From Quito to the Galapagos Islands
Ecuador |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer to the airport for our Galapagos flight. Upon arrival in the islands, we are met by a cruise representative to board our ship and get our discovery adventure started.
Each Galapagos itinerary is designed to enjoy wildlife encounters in both land expeditions and water activities. We will walk alongside giant tortoises, marvel at birdlife like blue-footed boobies and flamingos. We will snorkel among sea lions, reef sharks, and vibrant marine life as we explore stunning volcanic landscapes, guided by a certified naturalist and with a professional and friendly crew, our Galapagos trip will be a truly unforgettable experience.
Days 8-10
Galapagos cruise
Ecuador |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
With the exception of the first and last day, Galapagos cruises include two guided excursions daily, with time to relax in between or enjoy the yacht’s social areas and amenities. Snorkeling is an essential part of every itinerary, and some vessels also offer kayaks and paddleboards for added adventure. Each outing brings us face to face with remarkable wildlife and the intriguing natural history of the archipelago. In the evenings, we gather for informative talks on the islands’ flora, fauna, or geology, followed by some stargazing before retiring to our private cabins to rest and recharge for another extraordinary day.
Day 11
Farewell Enchanted Islands
Ecuador |
Breakfast
Our last expedition on the Galapagos is followed by a transfer to the airport to board our flight back to mainland Ecuador. Depending on our flight, we are met by our driver at the Quito airport or Guayaquil airport and transferred to our hotel.
Day 12
Arrival in Peru
Peru |
No Meals Included
Welcome to Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Upon arrival, we’ll greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to settle in and explore at your own pace—perhaps a stroll along the Pacific coast or enjoy a delightful moment through the renowned Peruvian cuisine. Please note that hotel check-in is typically available from 2:00 pm.
Day 13
Welcome to Cusco
Peru |
Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for a short flight to Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. At 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, this charming city welcomes us with its blend of ancient Inca heritage and colonial allure. Upon arrival, we’ll be transported to our hotel to acclimate before an afternoon exploration of the city’s most iconic sites.
In the afternoon, we will visit the Koricancha Temple, an important religious site of the Incas, that once was adorned with walls of solid gold. Next, it’s time to explore the Cusco Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial architecture housing an impressive collection of paintings from the School of Arte Cusqueño. Later, we will wander through Sacsayhuamán, a massive fortress built with large stones weighing up to 200 tons. Then, Tambomachay, known as the “Bath of the Inca”, Puca Pucara and the ceremonial site of Qenqo, await our exploration.
Day 14
Urubamba: The Sacred Valley
Peru |
Breakfast, Lunch
Today, we set out on a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region of breathtaking beauty and deep historical significance. Our journey begins in Maras, home to the remarkable terraced salt mines that have been in use since Inca times and create a fantastic contrast against the Andean landscape. Then we visit the enigmatic site of Moray: circular agricultural terraces that showcase the advanced farming knowledge and practices.
Continuing north, Ollantaytambo fortress welcomes us to magnificent stone terraces with spectacular views of the valley. The charming village of Pisac, famous for its traditional open-air market, provides the perfect opportunity to interact with locals, experience Andean culture firsthand, and perhaps take home a unique souvenir.
Return to Cusco at the end of the day.
Day 15
A Full Machu Picchu Experience
Peru |
Breakfast, Lunch
Today is the highlight of our journey! We take an early morning transfer to Poroy and board the Vistadome train, featuring panoramic windows for breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. As we wind through the Andean mountains, watch the landscape shift from rugged peaks to lush cloud forests, a preview of the world that awaits.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we take a short bus ride up the winding road to Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca civilization. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1911, this UNESCO Site remains one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth. With our expert guide, we will explore one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth and its most iconic areas, while unraveling the mysteries behind its construction and purpose.
As night falls over this awe-inspiring location, soak in the mystical ambiance of the Andean peaks, steeped in history and whispers of the past. The timeless spirit of the Machu Picchu sanctuary embraces us for a restful night.
Day 16
Machu Picchu: The lost Inca City
Peru |
Breakfast
Wake up to the magic of Machu Picchu, where the morning mist slowly lifts to unveil the breathtaking ruins once again. With the soft light of dawn casting a golden hue over the ancient stones, enjoy a leisurely morning in this extraordinary place. Take the special opportunity to explore the citadel for a second time and at your own pace. Wander through its terraces, marvel at the intricate stonework, and revisit the areas that captivated you the most. Take in the silence, interrupted only by the whisper of the wind and the distant call of Andean birds.
This is the perfect time to reflect on all you’ve seen and learned throughout your journey—from the bustling streets of Cusco to the sacred sites Urubamba.
In the afternoon, we will board the Vistadome train in Aguas Calientes back to Poroy. We’ll marvel at the gorgeous Andean landscapes one last time, before arriving at the station and taking our private transfer to our Cusco hotel for a well-earned rest.
Day 17
Cusco Departure - Conclusion of Trip
Peru |
Breakfast
Enjoy a final morning in Cusco before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima and connection with the international flight on our own. Aside from our luggage we take with us countless memories of stunning views, unique wildlife encounters, welcoming smiles and above all, the warm and lively spirit of Ecuador and Peru.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Ecuador
Day 2: Quito and the Middle of the World
Day 3: Yasuni National Park
Day 4: Amazon Rainforest Experience
Day 6: Farewell Amazon Rainforest
Day 7: From Quito to the Galapagos Islands
Day 8: Galapagos cruise
Day 11: Farewell Enchanted Islands
Day 12: Arrival in Peru
Day 13: Welcome to Cusco
Day 14: Urubamba: The Sacred Valley
Day 15: A Full Machu Picchu Experience
Day 16: Machu Picchu: The lost Inca City
Day 17: Cusco Departure - Conclusion of Trip
Itinerary Map
1
Welcome to Ecuador
2
Quito and the Middle of the World
3
Yasuni National Park
4-5
Amazon Rainforest Experience
6
Farewell Amazon Rainforest
7
From Quito to the Galapagos Islands
8-10
Galapagos cruise
11
Farewell Enchanted Islands
12
Arrival in Peru
13
Welcome to Cusco
14
Urubamba: The Sacred Valley
15
A Full Machu Picchu Experience
16
Machu Picchu: The lost Inca City
17
Cusco Departure - Conclusion of Trip
Availability: All year round
Price per person starting from:
Not available
Rates in US Dollars based on double accommodation (2 guests). Valid throughout 2025.
What's included and not:
Rates Include
16 nights of accommodation
Transfers, guided tours, and entrance fees as specified
Meals as described in the itinerary
English-speaking professional guides
Flight Quito – Galapagos – Quito
Flight Quito – Coca – Quito
Galapagos Migratory Card
Vistadome train OR Machu Picchu Train: Poroy or Ollantaytambo/Aguas Calientes/Poroy subject to confirmation or availability
Not Included
International and domestic flights, unless mentioned in the included list
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses, tips, and additional services
Video/camera fees where applicable
Guide for 2nd visit to Machu Picchu on Day 16
Optional/Extra Tours
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee 200 usd pp
Travel insurance
Additional Information
The itinerary and order of visits are subject to change due to guests’ interests, time constraints, physical endurance, weather, municipal regulations, safety, and/or unforeseen circumstances.
Hotel-to-airport transfers may be provided with a driver only (no guide).
Special dates like Christmas, New Year’s, Easter, Carnival, highly-demanded seasons and national holidays may have a surcharge.
Experience the Best South America Tours with the Experts
From the stunning landscapes of the Andes and Amazon to historical and modern cities, you can explore ancient civilizations, discover ancient ruins, hike through breathtaking national parks, and savor delicious local cuisine. South America: There is something for everyone!