Day 2 Arrival In Galapagos
Eat breakfast at your hotel and take a transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. On arrival, a cruise representative will meet you and escort you to your cruise.In the afternoon, take an excursion to the Charles Darwin Research Station plays an important role to preserve the fragile ecosystems in the Galapagos and provides environmental education to visitors. Among many important programs, the research station has a successful Galapagos giant tortoise breeding program. Have some free time to visit the town of Puerto Ayora and shop for souvenirs.
Top Wildlife Viewing On Isabela Island Galapagos
Isabela Island, by far the largest island in the Galapagos, is also one of the richest in wildlife. Home to more wild tortoises than all the other Galapagos Islands combined, its also the best place to spot penguins in the archipelago, which harbors the most northerly penguin colony on earth. (Isabela lies directly on
The Fascinating Wildlife Of Fernandina Island Galapagos
Lying across a narrow channel from the much larger Isabela Island, Fernandina Island is best known for its abundance of marine iguanas: reptiles that the revered Charles Darwin himself called hideous-looking and imps of darkness and, indeed, they have a prehistoric look that only a mother could love
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Day 3 Galapagos Cruise
In the morning, visit a lagoon to see flamingos and then continue on the trail to Dragon Hill, a key nesting ground for endemic iguanas. The terrain is also home to mockingbirds, Darwins finches, yellow warblers, and Galapagos doves.In the afternoon, set out on an excursion to appreciate the fascinating landscape made up of volcanic formations and impressive views of the surrounding islands at the summit, including the eroded tuff cone Pinnacle Rock. Wildlife here includes marine iguanas, lava lizards, and blue-footed boobies. Following your walk, spend time at the beach and go snorkeling you might come across Galapagos Penguins, sea turtles and White-tipped Reef Sharks.
Days / 7 Nights Package
Agenda
*** All cruises and boat trips are strictly regulated and scheduled by the Galapagos National Park to ensure the protection of these precious islands. The destinations of our yacht expeditions will depend upon the day of your excursion, currently we offer three trips per week, one trip to each of the following three destinations: North Seymour Island and Bachas Beach South Plaza Island and Punta Carrion Bartolome. Click here for full detail on our yacht expeditions. Please check with our adventure designers for expected scheduling during your stay.
- All packages include return transfers, full board including soft drinks, your chosen activities & excursions and taxes.
- Alcoholic beverages are available and are charged separately.
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Genovesa Island Galapagos: Prime Territory For Birds
To reach little Genovesa, the most northeastern island of the Galapagos, cruise vessels must sail up to eight hours from other more visited islands. Large cruise ships have to bypass Genovesa also called Tower Island because the reef makes it risky for them to enter into and anchor at Darwin Bay, where passengers
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Itinerary
Day 1Arrival in Cusco and Cusco City Tour
Upon your arrival to Cusco city, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your selected hotel.
In the afternoon, one of our local guides will take you on a half day tour of the city of Cusco. You will be shown the exact center of the Inca Empire, the Plaza de Armas. There one can find the Cathedral built on the ruins of the Inca Palace. Next stop will be the old town with its magnificent renovated colonial buildings. Also in Cusco, we will visit Qorikancha, the Main Temple of the Incas, where Sun God is worshiped.
After, we will visit Sacsayhuaman, a ruins site located approximately 3 kilometers from Cusco. Sacsayhuaman also offers a fabulous view of the entire city. After that, the tour will stop shortly in Tambomachay, the bath of the Inca Kenko, the giant rock whose niches and gaps were carved in an eccentric way and Puca Pucara, the ruins of a fort.
Return to Cusco where you can relax, enjoy the local food and exciting nightlife.Overnight in Cusco
Day 2Sacred Valley Tour
After lunch you will continue the tour and be driven along the Urubamba River towards the town of Ollantaytambo. Here you will visit the ruins of Ollantaytambo, an important Inca construction built during the Incas most powerful times.
After the tour you will take the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes .
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Machu Picchu Cruise Guide
If you love cruising and have always wanted to visit Machu Picchu, youre in luck. Cruising is a great way to visit the famed Incan site, though not many people realize a Machu Picchu cruise vacation is possible, since the landmark is nestled far within the Andes Mountains.
On a South America cruise that sails to Peru, strategically planned ports of call in Lima with multiple overnights offer you the opportunity to do a land excursion to Machu Picchu. In addition, Machu Picchu can be visited as part of our Galapagos Islands cruise vacations.
Best Time To Visit Peru
Peru is made up of three distinct geographical subsections, each with their own weather and temperature patterns. The country is split by the Andes mountains and contains parts of the Amazon jungle in the East. Although each of these locals experiences slightly different weather patterns, November through March is generally considered to be the Wet season�? and April through October is generally considered to be the Dry season�? throughout the entire country. Read on to learn more about the best times to visit Peru on your next vacation!
COASTAL REGION
Temperatures are generally warm throughout the year and the coastal region usually experiences little rainfall. High daytime temperatures and lower nighttime temperatures make for a relaxing vacation. The city of Lima can get quite foggy from April through October but the sun breaks through clouds the further out from Lima you travel. The capital city is warm and humid from November through March.
ANDES / MACHU PICCHU
Expect high temperatures and dry climates from April through October although temperatures vary by altitude so light layers are encouraged for those planning to visit the peaks of Machu Picchu. Sudden, heavy showers occur from November through March so raincoats are a must.
AMAZON RAINFOREST
Humidity is high throughout the year and rainfall should be expected from November through March. Warm days and cool nights demand layers for travelers who expect to be outside for long periods of time.
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Your Galapagos Adventure Value Packages
The Original Experience Always Amazing!
You cannot simply visit the Galapagos Islands it is an immersion into a different world. Take the journey of a lifetime and discover the unrivalled uniqueness of this archipelago of volcanic islands and its endemic species. Marvel at its unspoiled natural beauty and be touched by the magic of millions of years of evolution. This is a timeless wilderness of wonder, which reminds us how fragile our planet is. We ask you to leave only footprints and take only memories.
When you are on holiday, you should be able to do what you like when you like, and we want to give you as much choice as possible. We offer 3, 4, 5 & 7 night packages of activities to help you plan how much to see and do whilst you are staying with us.
Even if you are travelling in a group, you may choose different activities and excursions to suit your requirements individually, in couples, threes, fours or in a group. Our Adventure Designers are always available to help you to perfect your Galapagos Adventure.
All packages include return transfers, full board including soft drinks, your chosen activities & excursions and taxes. Packages do not include the National Park entry fee or any flights.
Galapagos National Park regulations applicable to tours and excursions:
How Darwins Findings In Galapagos Contributed To His Theory Of Natural Selection
In 1835, not long before arriving at the Galapagos Islands, Charles Darwin wrote a letter to his friend and mentor John Stevens Henslow. In a few days time, he wrote, the Beagle will sail for the Galapagos Islands. I look forward with joy and interest to this, both as being somewhat nearer to England and for the sake
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Day 11 From Machu Picchu To Cusco
After breakfast, go to Machu Picchu for another tour of the amazing Inca construction that UNESCO declared a Historic Heritage Site. Machu Picchu is one of those once in a lifetime experiences, so why rush through something that youve been waiting so long to see? Touring Machu Picchu two times is something not many travelers get to enjoy.In the afternoon, take a comfortable train back to Cusco and transfer to your hotel in Cusco for the night.Overnight in Cusco.
Galapagos Giant Tortoise: 23 Interesting Facts
When it comes to wildlife-watching opportunities, the Galapagos Islands are second to none. Blue-footed boobies waddle along the shores, marine iguanas lounge on the rocks, and Galapagos penguins splash around in the waters, not to mention sea lions, fur seals, and sea turtles everywhere you turn. However
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Top Galapagos Activities By Land Or By Sea
So: youve deplaned at Baltra Islands airport, been carted down to the docks on your shuttle, and just stepped off the barge onto Santa Cruz Island, the Galapagos main tourist hub. Congratulationsbut dont flop back in your hammock just yet. With 18 main islands, 107 islets, and 116 authorized visitor sites to choose from
Visit The Legendary Incan Landmark On A Machu Picchu Cruise
A Machu Picchu cruise takes you to some of the most epic scenery and ancient ruins in South America. In addition to visiting Machu Picchu, which was named one of the new seven wonders of the world, youll also see the breathtaking peaks and valleys of the Andes mountain range and the towns and cities nestled among it.
Machu Picchu
No surprise hereseeing Machu Picchu with your own eyes and exploring the ruins is the top highlight of a Machu Picchu cruise! During your walking tour, youll learn more about the construction of the site and what various buildings were used for.
Cusco
In addition to traveling to Machu Picchu during a multi-day excursion, youll spend time in Cusco, a handsome city often used as the jumping-off point for travelers visiting the ruins. Cusco also has delicious restaurants, vibrant squares, and great shopping.
Llamas and Alpacas
Youre likely to see several llamas and possibly even an alpaca or two while walking around Machu Picchu and Cusco. The long-necked animals makes for a fun photo op, especially with the ruins of Machu Picchu in the background.
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Popular Shore Excursions In Machu Picchu
If youre spending multiple overnights in port in Pisco or Lima, you get the special opportunity to take a mini-vacation within your cruise on an escorted tour to Machu Picchu thanks to multi-day shore excursions.
Multi-Day Machu Picchu
This shore excursion encompasses three days and takes you to the wonder that is Machu Picchu. Youll also visit top sites in Cusco and another Incan site called the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. During this unique shore excursion, youll stay in 5-star accommodations in Cusco.
Orient Express Hiram Bingham Train
Part of your transportation from Machu Picchu will include a ride on this luxury train that features domed ceilings, live entertainment with a local flair, and a gourmet meal. Its part of the multi-day Machu Picchu shore excursion, but feels like an extra excursion unto itself.
Galapagos Islands Vacation Package
Another way to visit Machu Picchu via a cruise vacation is by adding a land component to your Galapagos Islands cruise. Our all-inclusive Galapagos Islands vacation packages can include a cruise around the islands followed by a multi-day escorted tour to Machu Picchu.
The Best Places For Snorkeling In The Galapagos
The Galapagos Marine Reserve is the second largest marine reserve in the world, and the largest in a developing country. Due to its protected status, many areas of the marine reserve are off-limits to snorkelers and divers. But there are plenty of sites open to visitors, where with just some basic snorkeling equipment
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How To Get To Galapagos & Machu Picchu
Getting to each of these secluded oases is part of the adventure. You should familiarize yourself with these recommendations to ease your travel to and from each destination.
In order to get to the Galapagos Islands, you must first fly into Ecuadors major airports in either Quito or Guayaquil. Most tourists will then fly to Baltra Island before transferring to other tourist hubs in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.
The best way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a regional flight from Lima to the Andean city of Cusco. From there, travelers can choose to hike the Inca Trail or travel via luxury train through the Sacred Valley. Most travelers will spend the night in the base town of Aguas Calientes before boarding a shuttle bus to the summit of the UNESCO ruins the following morning.
Santa Cruz Highlands Tour With Lunch
Visit the Santa Cruz highlands and see the Twin Craters, also known as Los Gemelos. Located side by side and connecting Puerto Ayora to Baltra, the magnificent Twin Craters were formed as a result of the collapse of the crust into the crater. There are many craters of this type in this area, signaling the possibility that these craters are all elements of the same fissure.
The vegetation of this area is dominated by Scalesia trees, giving the whole landscape a lush green feel. See a lava tunnel and take a short walk where you can observe the famous giant tortoise in its natural environment. Have lunch in the highlands.
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Helpful Tips Before You Go
You wont find much opportunity to shop when youre at the ancient site of Machu Picchu. Instead, do your shopping in Cusco, where youll find a bustling market, an artisan shopping neighborhood, and plenty of shops within the streets adjacent to the main square of Plaza de Armas. Youll also have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs while on the train youll take from Machu Picchu back to Cusco.
Popular souvenirs include locally made, 100% alpaca wool sweaters, hats, and scarves. Handmade jewelry and loom-created weaves by local artisans are great souvenirs, too. Youll also find colorfully painted wooden figurines which commonly depict the nativity.
As is the case in most tourist areas, pickpocketing is prevalent in Cusco. Keep your belongings where you can see them and keep purses and bags to the front of you. Backpacks and wallets in back pockets are easy targets for pickpocketers.
When packing, keep in mind that Machu Picchu has some strict rules. Changing your clothes once youre on the site is not allowed, even if its putting a dress or skirt on over your pants, so pack the exact outfit you want to wear while there. Other things that are not permitted are drones, tripods, large backpacks, and food or drinks. If you have mobility issues, you are permitted to bring a walking stick, but it must have a rubber end so the stones and walking paths of Machu Picchu are better protected.
What To See In Galapagos
Home to one of the most pristine ecosystems in the world, the islands of the Galapagos contain animals, flora and fauna that delight and mystify visitors and locals alike. Visiting the Galapagos Islands is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers of all ages but tourists will want to reserve more than just a day trip in their itinerary to ensure they get the most out of this beautiful and historic area!
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Day 9 Puerto Ayora Santa Cruz Island
The main population center of the islands, Puerto Ayora is home to the National Park Service tortoise-breeding center and the Charles Darwin Research Station. You will be able to visit the breeding center and walk through the Research Station. You will also have the opportunity to take a bus ride to the highlands to observe giant tortoises in the wild and walk through a lava tunnel. In addition, you will have an exclusive opportunity to participate in the Scalesia reforestation project.
Day 10 – Disembarkation- Baltra-Quito-Lima Arrival
Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and heading to the Baltra airport for your flight to Quito and on to Lima. Upon arrival at the Quito airport, a Celebrity representative will be on hand to assist you with your Lima flight check-in. For your convenience, they will provide an entry voucher to the airport VIP lounge in Quito. Upon your arrival in Lima, and clearing customs and immigration formalities, you will be greeted by a Celebrity Cruises representative at the airport. A detailed schedule of events will be provided. Dinner and overnight at the Westin Lima.
Westin: Grande Deluxe Room
Day 11 – Lima, Peru
You will be back at the hotel in the late afternoon with ample time to get ready for the next days early departure to Cuzco.
Westin: Grande Deluxe Room
Day 12 – Lima / Cuzco – Sacred Valley, Peru
Dinner and overnight at the Tambo del Inca Luxury Collection hotel in The Sacred Valley.
Day 13 – The Sacred Valley
Top 10 Ways To Combine Machu Picchu And The Galapagos Islands
Posted by Rachel Harris on February 2nd, 2021
If youre thinking about travel to South America, you dont need to limit yourself to just one destination. Visiting Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands in the same trip lets you combine two iconic highlights for an unforgettable experience. Vayas Destination Specialists are experts in arranging seamless logistics, letting you maximize your vacation time without worrying about the details.
Unlike other small group tours to Machu Picchu and Galapagos, a Vaya trip includes private local guides for your entire land itinerary. Traveling with a private local guide gives you total flexibility to structure your time and travel the way you like to travel, spending more time on the things that interest you and skipping the things that dont.
There are so many ways to structure your Machu Picchu and Galapagos Vacation, depending on your interests, your budget, and how much time you have. Here are our top 10 ways to arrange your Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands tour:
1. Peru Highlights + 8 Day Galapagos Cruise
Travel by train through mountainous scenery to Machu Picchu, one of the worlds most iconic sites, where your private local guide will show you the mysteries of these spectacular ruins. Spend a night in the village at the base of the mountains, then return to the ruins in the morning for a spectacular hike up one of Machu Picchus towering peaks for a birds-eye view of the site.
2. Peru Highlights + 5 Day Galapagos Cruise
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