14 Day Trip to Enchanted Galapagos Islands & Challenging Inca Trail

WE CUSTOMIZE VIRTUALLY ALL SERVICES AVAILABLE IN PERU

Duration 14 Days and 13 Nights
Departures Daily departures from Quito Ecuador
Activities The best of 2 countries
Airfares NOT INCLUDED, can easily be included in the package upon request
Customizable YES, feel free to ask for extra services or modifications

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL TO QUITO

Arrive to the airport in Quito and our representative will greet you for the transfer to your hotel for the night. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Overnight in Quito. (No meals included.)

DAY 2 – ARRIVAL TO GALAPAGOS & CRUISE

Begin your exciting Galapagos adventure with a transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. (Airfare mainland Ecuador to/from Galapagos included.) A cruise representative will meet you on arrival and take you to the boat for your cruise.
In the afternoon, take an excursion to Morquera, an islet tucked between the North and South Seymour Islands. It is home to a group of sea lions that come to laze on the soft white sand. It is a good spot to observe shorebirds as well as herons, lava gulls and boobies. Snorkeling or diving here, you can often see sharks, rays and barracudas.
Overnight on cruise vessel. (B, L, D)

DAY 3 – GALAPAGOS CRUISE

In the morning, visit Egas Port, a black volcanic sand beach, visited by Darwin in 1835. The beginning section of the trail is formed of volcanic ash and turns into an uneven terrain of volcanic basaltic rock. The striking shoreline of Santiago is home to a variety of animals including the bizarre yellow-crowned night heron and marine wildlife including lobster, starfish and marine iguanas grazing on algae beds alongside Sally Lightfoot crabs.
In the afternoon, go to Rabida, an island considered the epicenter of the Galapagos Islands due to the diversity of its volcanic geology. The unique red sand beaches are home to colonies of sea lions. Take a dinghy ride and witness the island’s thriving marine ecosystem while you snorkel.
Overnight on cruise vessel. (B, L, D)

DAY 4 – GALAPAGOS CRUISE

In the morning, arrive to a volcanic black beach. At certain times of the year it’s possible to find giant tortoises, land iguanas, and the unusual flightless cormorant. Take a short walk with your naturalist guide to Urbina Bay to swim and snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions, and countless tropical fish. The uplifted coral reef that resulted from seismic activity is a main highlight of the island.
In the afternoon, visit the largest island in the Galapagos. Go on a guided walk along a trail on Isabela Island to Darwin’s salt-water crater lake and see views of lava fields and volcanic formations. Then explore the island’s shoreline aboard a dinghy ride to admire a variety of seabirds and snorkel in the deep water. Depending on the season, you may see a large number of Galapagos Penguins; the only penguin species in the world to live in the tropics.
Overnight on cruise vessel. (B, L, D)

DAY 5 – DEPARTURE FROM GALAPAGOS & OVERNIGHT IN QUITO

In the morning, set out on your final excursion to the Highlands Tortoise Reserve on Santa Cruz Island. With your naturalist guide, observ famous giant tortoises in their natural habitat at the national reserve. The road from the coast through the agricultural zone and straight up to the dense humid forests of the highlands is where various types of birds live, such as the ground finch, yellow warblers, and paint-billed crakes.
Later, transfer to the airport for your return to Quito, mainland Ecuador. Spend the rest of your evening at your leisure in Quito.
Overnight in Quito. (B)

DAY 6 – ARRIVAL IN LIMA

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima, the capital of Peru. Our representative will be there to greet you and take you to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy free time.
Overnight in Lima. (B)

DAY 7 – ARRIVAL TO CUSCO & CITY TOUR

In the morning, take a flight to Cusco. Our representative will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Take it easy as you adjust to the altitude of the high Andean region and rest up.
Later, set out on an afternoon guided tour of the highlights of Cusco. Visit the amazing archeological sites in and around the city, including the Cusco Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), and the fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
Overnight in Cusco. (B)
NOTE: Let you travel advisor know if you would like to customize this itinerary with an extra day in Cusco for more time to adjust to the altitude before your trek.

DAY 8 – INCA TRAIL

Begin your Inca Trail adventure! Transfer from Cusco to the start of the trail at Piscacucho km 82. After crossing the trailhead checkpoint, you’ll walk on a mostly flat trail to the community of Miskay, take a short rest, and then continue on a steeper path to the first archaeological site at Patallacta. After lunch, you’ll continue walking for about 2 hours until you reach the first campsite at Wayllabamba.
Overnight Inca Trail. (B, L, D)

DAY 9 – INCA TRAIL

The second day of trekking is the most difficult due to the terrain and the altitude, but also the most rewarding for the gorgeous views you’ll get along the way. You’re encouraged to find a pace that’s most comfortable for you. After breakfast, you’ll begin the climb to Abra de Warmiwañusca, known in English as “Dead Woman’s Pass,” at over 13,700 feet (4,200 meters). On the other side, a stairway path descends steeply into the Pacamayo Valley and your campsite for the night.
Overnight Inca Trail. (B, L, D)

DAY 10 – INCA TRAIL

Today you’ll be treated to the trail’s most impressive archaeological sites which are scattered between the trek’s final two passes, Runkurakay and Phuyupatamarca. You’ll begin with an uphill climb to the circular ruins of Runkurakay, continuing on to the ruins of Sayacmarca or “Inaccessible Town” and the Phuyupatamarca. At day’s end you’ll arrive to the last campsite at Wiñay Wayna.
Tonight you’ll have dinner and celebrate the near completion of the trek alongside the trekking staff who have accompanied you this far. The cooks and porters will walk ahead of you the next morning to catch an early train back to Cusco. Remember, it is customary for trekkers to contribute to a tip pool, which will then be distributed amongst the staff (guide, cook, and porters). These tips are voluntary, so feel free to tip according to the service you received.
Overnight Inca Trail. (B, L, D)

DAY 11 – INCA TRAIL & MACHU PICCHU TOUR

Wake early for breakfast and then start walking the final stretch of the trail to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate entrance to lost Inca city. Descend the stone path to the Inca citadel. After a short rest, you’ll meet with your trekking guide for a 2-hour tour of Machu Picchu. You’ll visit the primary temples and palaces of the Inca citadel and then you’ll have time to explore the ruins on your own.
In the late afternoon, take a 20-minute bus transfer down the mountain to the town of Aguas Calientes. Check in to your hotel and spend the rest of your evening at your leisure.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes. (B)

DAY 12 – FREE DAY MACHU PICCHU & OVERNIGHT IN SACRED VALLEY

A free day around Machu Picchu is the perfect opportunity to stay in Aguas Calientes and relax. Explore the town, book a spa treatment at your hotel, soak in the natural hot springs, or hike to Mandor gardens. Alternatively, ask your travel advisor about customizing this itinerary by adding another visit to Machu Picchu.
In the afternoon, walk to the train station for the ride to the Sacred Valley.
Overnight in Sacred Valley. (B)

DAY 13 – SACRED VALLEY TOUR

The Sacred Valley was the spiritual center of the Inca Empire, where all-powerful emperors built private estates, temples, fortifications, and thousands of agricultural terraces.
Join your guide for a jaunt through the Sacred Valley’s remarkable places. Explore the Pisac ruins and shop at the famous artisan market in the village plaza. Scale the heights of Ollantaytambo fortress and be sure to explore the stone-lined streets of the village where water still flows through Inca-built channels.
After the tour, drop off at your hotel in Cusco and enjoy free time.
Overnight Cusco. (B)

DAY 14 – DEPARTURE FROM CUSCO

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Cusco and leisure time until your transfer to the airport.
(B)

*INCA TRAIL INFORMATION

OUR SERVICE INCLUDED
*Transfer by bus to km.82 (trail head)
*Entrance Fee, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
*A large tent, for each 2 persons.
*Mattress, one per person.
*Kitchen tent.
*Dining tent.
*Enough tables and chairs.
*English speaking professional tour guide (over 8 members, 2 guides).
*An expert cook.
*Porters (to carry tent, food, cooking equipment)
*Train Ticket
*Full meals during the trek.
*Daily snack bag.
*Daily afternoon tea service.
*Daily wake up tea, and hot water for washing.
*Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
*Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
*Transfer train station / hotel
*Bus Ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes

NOT INCLUDED:
*Breakfast first day (you can order an early breakfast at your hotel)
*Lunch last day
*Hot springs pool visit (on your own).
*Tips to the crew (guides, cooks and porters).
*Sleeping bag

WHAT WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU BRING
*A backpack with necessary change of clothes for the whole period of the trek
*Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
*Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended
*Sandals or jogging shoes for a higher comfort while at camp
*Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping
*Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
*Camera, films and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
*Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
*Sun block
*After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
*Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – no malaria risk has been reported
*Handkerchiefs
*Toilet paper
*Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc. Please note that we do provide a daily morning snack and our meal service is very complete and well supplied. This recommendation applies for all clients being used to a specific snack, as it may happen that it is not included in our selection
*Water container and water for the first morning. Important notice: plastic water bottles are no longer allowed into the Inca Trail. Plastic water containers (ie. Nalgene) or metal ones are recommended
*Optionally: water- sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health problem so far
*Small towel
*Swimsuit (if you wish to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
*Cash in soles and/or US$ (No ATM machines in Aguas Calientes)
*Original passport
*Original International Student Identity Card (in case you have applied for a student discount)
*Optional: walking sticks or poles (rubber covers required in order not to damage the Inca Trail)


*Participants need to be in good physical health and condition it is good for travelers who are in condition to hike up to ten hours, with breaks in a single day to enjoy the Inka Trail. The trekking will be difficult if you have not exercised regularly before your trip. To fully enjoy an Inka Trail adventure, we advise passengers to get into an exercise program for their own safety and enjoyment. If a passenger suffers from any medical condition, we advise him/her to consult a physician about joining an Inka Trail Expedition.
Take only the necessary items for the 4/3 days trek, You can leave the rest of your luggage at your hotel in Cusco (most of hotels and hostals has an storage rooms to keep it until your return)

PARK REGULATIONS
Park authorities may occasionally designate different campsites than those indicate The Inca Trail is part of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, a protected area of 32,592 hectares. Every visitor must obey park regulations prohibiting littering, cutting or damaging trees, removing or damaging stones of ruins and the Trail, removing plants, killing animals, lighting open fires or camping in the archeological sites (Only authorized campsites can be used).


Trek Options:
1. Personal porters can be hired to help carry your personal items such as clothes, sleeping bag etc. The services of a third of a porter (maximum 9kg or 18lb per person) can be hired for US$189. If you hire the services of a third of a porter (you will need to supply the small padlock). However, even with this service you will still need to take a daypack to carry your essential items such as rain poncho, warm fleece, camera and water bottle.
Please note that due to new government regulations the maximum number of porters that we can use in each group has now been capped. This is why we have had to limit the maximum amount of personal equipment that you can give to a porter to carry for you to 7kg or 14lb per person. (The maximum amount that each porter can carry on the Inca Trail has also been limited to 20kg or 42lb per porter). Approximately 30% of our clients hire the services of an extra third porter.
2. We can also provide vegetarian meals or cater for special diets at no extra cost but we need to know when you make the trek reservation.
3. You can hire sleeping bags in our office. All sleeping bags are synthetic (easy to wash). They are washed after every use and are guaranteed to be clean.
Cost: US$40 per person for the 4 day/3 night trek. Weight 2.5 kg and are rated to 12 degrees below freezing (nice and warm even during the coldest of nights experienced on the Inca Trail).

TRAIN SERVICES:
The Vistadome connect your senses through a sophisticated and sensory travel experience; is the ideal train for those who want to be in contact with the environment and appreciate the wonderful journey to Machu Picchu.
Surrounded entirely by glass and wagons with large panoramic windows offering incomparable scenic views and innumerous opportunities to capture amazing pictures, Vistadome travelers feel connected and part of the impressive landscape of Peru.
The Vistadome also has air conditioning and heating, leather seats that adjust the body to provide comfort and relaxation during the entire trip and has a different service, which allows the visitor to be immersed and feel the Andean culture through its landscapes, music, dance and even food carefully prepared with local ingredients

The Expedition is a travel experience with all the quality and benefits at a lower cost. Is a service designed for the traveler’s comfort, with four passenger seats located in front of each other, so you can share your experience, and for the faithful backpack that is always with you we offer racks placed above the seats. Also, this train has panoramic windows, air conditioning and heating, and Andean music that creates a cheerful atmosphere.

END OF SERVICES

INCLUDES:
 All hotel and lodge accommodations based on double or single occupancy. Camping and gear for Inca Trail (detailed above). All scheduled transportation. All transfers. Flights mainland Ecuador to/from Galapagos. All scheduled excursions with English-speaking guide services. All entrance fees. Meals as specified in the itinerary. B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner.

NOT INCLUDED: International and domestic airfares (not mentioned in itinerary), Galapagos entrance fee US$100 per adult and US$50 per children, rate subject to change and
INGALA tax $10, airport departure taxes or visa fees, excess baggage charges, additional nights during the trip due to flight cancellations, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages or bottled water, snacks, insurance of any kind, laundry, phone calls, radio calls or messages, reconfirmation of international flights and items of personal nature.

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Packages start at USD$1,239 for our 4-day Cusco & Machu Picchu package (with domestic flights included.)
We specialize in complete travel packages that allow you to enjoy your travels while we handle the logistics.
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Kim MacQuarrie
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PH.D. GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
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