Intrepid Travel
Galapagos Cruise & Peru in Depth (Grand Queen Beatriz)
Galapagos Cruise & Peru in Depth (Grand Queen Beatriz)
If you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, this 24-day journey from the waters of the Galapagos to Peru might just be it! On this adventure, spend ten days drifting across the Pacific Ocean and uncover the natural beauty and unique wildlife of the Ecuadorian Isles. Retrace the voyage of Charles Darwin by sea, admiring the sandy beaches of Espumilla and the volcanic craters of Isla Santiago. Look out for blue-footed boobies, Galapagos sea turtles and sea lions in their natural habitat, then fly to Peru for lush valleys, rich rainforests and the Inca heartlands. Travel south from Lima to Arequipa, see condors in Colca Canyon and get to the wild heart of the Amazon Jungle. Consider trekking along the acclaimed Inca Trail or relax on a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu – one of the Seven Wonders of the World. With a local leader each step of the way, you’ll get all the best insights, too!
Activities
- Isla San Cristobal – Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) – Dry Landing
- Isla San Cristobal – Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) – Dry Landing
- Isla Santiago – Sullivan Bay – Walk (1.5 hours) – Dry Landing
- Isla Bartolome – Walk (1.5 hours) – Dry Landing
- Isla Bartolome – Snorkelling (1.5 hours)
- Isla Bartolome – Panga ride (30 mins)
- Isla Santiago – Puerto Egas – Walk (1.45 hours) – Wet Landing
- Isla Santiago – Puerto Egas – Snorkelling (1 hour)
- Isla Sanitago – Espumilla Beach – Panga ride or Snorkelling (45 mins)
- Isla Sanitago – Espumilla Beach – Walk (1.5 hours) – Wet Landing
- Isla Sanitago – Buccaneer’s Cove – Snorkelling (1 hour)
- Isla Sanitago – Buccaneer’s Cove – Panga Ride (45 mins)
- Isla Santa Cruz – Highlands Visit (1.5 hours) – Dry Landing
- Isla North Seymour – Walk (2 hours) – Dry Landing
- Isla North Seymour – Snorkelling (1 hours)
- Isla Mosquera – Snorkelling (1 hour)
- Isla Mosquera – Beach Walk (1.5 hours) – Wet Landing
- Isla Santa Cruz – Black Turtle Cove – Panga ride (1.5 hours)
- Isla Santa Cruz – Cerro Dragon – Walk (1.5 hours) – Dry Landing
- Isla Santa Cruz – Cerro Dragon – Snorkelling or swimming (1 hour)
- Isla Santiago – Sombrero Chino – Snorkelling (1 hour)
- Sombrero Chino – Walk and Panga ride (2 hours) – Wet Landing
- Isla Rabida – Snorkelling (1 hour)
- Isla Rabida – Walk (1.5 hours) – Wet Landing
- Isla Santa Cruz – Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) – Dry Landing
- Lima – Welcome Dinner
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Arequipa – Leader-led orientation walk
- Lima – Downtown walking tour
- Arequipa – Walking tour
- Arequipa – Santa Catalina Monastery Admission Fee
- Arequipa – San Ignacio Chapel
- Arequipa – Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa
- Colca Canyon – Viewpoint photo stop
- Colca Canyon – Mirador Cruz del Condor
- Puno – Sillustani archaeological site
- Lake Titicaca – Floating Uros Islands & Taquile Island
- Cusco – Leader-led orientation walk
- Raqchi Inca Site, between Puno and Cuzco
- Cusco – Cathedral tour with Specialist Historian Guide
- Cusco – Coricancha Temple (entrance fee)
- Cusco – Walking tour
- Ollantaytambo – Archaeological site
- Sacred Valley – Community workshops visit
- Sacred Valley – Home-cooked pachamanca lunch
- Sacred Valley – Snack & drink at AMA Restaurant social enterprise
- Machu Picchu – Entrance & Guided visit
- Ollantaytambo – 360 degree train to Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu – Second visit
- Amazon Jungle – Night boat tour
- Amazon Jungle – Oxbow Lake
- Amazon Jungle – Canopy Walkway
- Amazon Jungle – Night jungle walk
- Lima – Farewell Dinner
Highlights
- Get a taste of the Galapagos, sailing through its central and eastern islands and look out for the giant Galapagos tortoises as well as blue-footed and masked boobies, pelicans and frigate birds, land and marine iguanas, sea lions, fur seals, dolphins, whales and sea turtles.
- Experience Peru’s best during a full day of wildlife activities in the Amazon, explorations of Arequipa and Colca Canyon and two guided visits to Machu Picchu, reached by 360 train offering unbeatable views of the Andes.
- Taste the flavours of Peru during Exclusive Experiences, including dinner at one of Lima’s best restaurants, a snack at a cafe helping single mothers and a home-cooked pachamanca lunch in the Sacred Valley.
- Take in truly stunning surroundings at your Feature Stay hotel along the Colca River, offering grounds dotted with waterfalls, organic gardens and pools, plus modern rooms, first-class service and fantastic amenities.
- Get to know the real Peru as you travel with a local leader, stay in a stunning eco-lodge in the Amazon, visit a local community in the Sacred Valley and explore with specialist guides in Cusco and Machu Picchu.
| Day 1 |
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you. From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador. Find your next adventure in Quito! |
| Day 2 |
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you. From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador. Find your next adventure in Quito! |
| Day 3 |
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| Day 4 |
Flanked by the Chilean Coast Range and the snowy Andes, Chile's largest metropolis offers a dazzling array of sights and attractions for visitors to pursue. Mirrored skyscrapers, 16th-century churches, hip cafes, dance clubs... and did we mention the delicious Chilean cuisine? Must-sees in scenic Santiago include the famous city center Plaza de Armas, Parque Tupahue with its zoo and cable cars, and San Cristóbal Hill, with its hikes and widescreen city views. |
| Day 5 |
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| Day 6 |
Sea lions and birds populate Ecuador's North Seymour Island. |
| Day 7 |
Isla Santa Cruz, or Santa Cruz Island, is one of the Galápagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador. This tropical and volcanic island in the Pacific Ocean is the typical starting place for excursions throughout the Galápagos Islands and is famous for its spectacular biodiversity, especially the iconic Galápagos tortoises. Highlights of Santa Cruz Island include the Charles Darwin Research Station, the town of Puerto Ayora, Carrion Point lagoon, and Tortuga Bay. |
| Day 8 |
Rabida Island, part of the Galápagos archipelago in Ecuador, offers an extraordinary glimpse into the natural beauty and biodiversity that make these islands famous. Known for its striking reddish-brown volcanic soil, Rabida Island stands out with its dramatic landscape and rich array of wildlife. The island’s distinctive color is due to its high iron content, creating a vivid contrast with the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore its unique terrain through guided hikes and scenic walks along its rugged coastline. For a deeper understanding of the island’s geological formation, the nearby cliffs and volcanic features provide excellent educational opportunities. Wildlife enthusiasts will be enchanted by the diverse species that inhabit Rabida. The island is renowned for its large population of sea lions, which can be observed lounging on the beaches or playfully interacting with snorkelers. Birdwatchers will also find Rabida to be a treasure trove, with opportunities to spot red-footed boobies, finches, and the Galápagos hawk. The island’s mangroves and saltwater lagoons further enhance its appeal, attracting a variety of bird species and providing stunning photographic opportunities. A highlight of visiting Rabida is the opportunity to snorkel in its clear waters, which teem with colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasionally even sharks. The island’s coral reefs are home to an array of marine life, making snorkeling and diving experiences both exhilarating and memorable. The shallow waters near the shore are perfect for beginners, while more experienced divers can explore the deeper, more challenging spots. Fun fact: Rabida Island is one of the few places in the Galápagos where you can see the rare and endangered Galápagos fur seal. This seal, smaller and darker than its counterparts, is a true testament to the islands' unique ecosystem. |
| Day 9 |
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you. From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador. Find your next adventure in Quito! |
| Day 10 |
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you. From stunning churches and basilicas to exquisite art galleries and museums, visit Old Town to explore Quito’s history and architectural splendor. Highlights include the city’s Gothic-style Basílica del Voto Nacional, whose vaulted spires and stained-glass windows tower over the city center, the sumptuous Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, decorated throughout with rich golds, and the expansive Convento de San Francisco, the Spanish style convent brimming with centuries-old art. Plaza Grande, the city’s central square, provides access to all of these religious landmarks, as well as excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Venture to the city limits to experience Quito’s natural marvels. A quick cable car ride from TelefériQo will take you to the peak of Pichincha volcano, whose dizzying heights offer magnificent views of the city below. Better yet, journey to the middle of the world at Mitad del Mundo, which marks the exact spot where the equator crosses through Ecuador. Find your next adventure in Quito! |
| Day 11 |
The second largest city in Peru, Arequipa is called the "white city" because of the white volcano stone with which much of the city was built. Here you'll see charming colonial buildings, a 400 year old convent and gilded churches.
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| Day 12 |
The second largest city in Peru, Arequipa is called the "white city" because of the white volcano stone with which much of the city was built. Here you'll see charming colonial buildings, a 400 year old convent and gilded churches.
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| Day 13 |
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| Day 14 |
Traditionally regarded as the highest navigable body of water in the world (in reality there are higher lakes in Chile and Peru), Lake Titicaca is immense: its dimensions measure 233km from north-west to south-east and 97km from north-east to south-west. The lake has an indented shoreline, 36 islands and exceptionally clear sapphire-blue water. Titicaca is revered by the Indians who live on its shores, and the Islas del Sol and Islas de la Luna, two islands in the lake, are
the legendary sites of the Inca's creation myths. The main town in the area is Copacabana, which has a sparkling white Moorish-style Cathedral and is host to the Fiesta de la Virgen de Candelaria. Isla Suriqui is world-renowned for its totora reed boats; Isla Kalahuta for its stone tombs; and Isla Incas is reputed in legend to have an underground network of passageways linking it to the old Inca capital of Cuzco in Peru. Travelers should wear protective headgear around the lake because the thin air results in scorchingly high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Half of the lake lies within the borders of Peru; Puno is the principal settlement and main center for excursions on the Peruvian shore of the lake. |
| Day 15 |
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| Day 16 |
Cusco is the South America's oldest continuously inhabited city, the gateway to Machu Picchu and once was the capital of the Inca Empire. Make sure you get to Plaza de Armas, the main square and center of the city. Walk through the nearby San Pedro Market to find a special gift for loved ones (or yourself!) or view the Sun Temple Coricancha. |
| Day 17 |
Cusco is the South America's oldest continuously inhabited city, the gateway to Machu Picchu and once was the capital of the Inca Empire. Make sure you get to Plaza de Armas, the main square and center of the city. Walk through the nearby San Pedro Market to find a special gift for loved ones (or yourself!) or view the Sun Temple Coricancha. |
| Day 18 |
Most commonly reached via travel from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is an Incan archaeological site in the Sacred Valley of southern Peru. The town dates from the late 15th century and is home to some of the oldest continuously-occupied dwellings in South America. Its primary attraction is the fortress ruins, and it's also a favorite starting point for the famous Inca Trail, a four-day, three-night hike to Machu Picchu. |
| Day 19 |
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| Day 20 |
Cusco is the South America's oldest continuously inhabited city, the gateway to Machu Picchu and once was the capital of the Inca Empire. Make sure you get to Plaza de Armas, the main square and center of the city. Walk through the nearby San Pedro Market to find a special gift for loved ones (or yourself!) or view the Sun Temple Coricancha. |
| Day 21 |
Exploring the Amazon Jungle in Brazil is like venturing into the heart of a living, breathing world. The Amazon Rainforest, often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," is a lush, sprawling expanse that teems with extraordinary biodiversity. Located primarily in northern Brazil, this vast jungle covers over 5.5 million square kilometers and is home to an estimated 10% of the known species on the planet. One of the highlights of visiting the Amazon Jungle is immersing yourself in its rich ecosystem. From guided boat tours along the meandering Amazon River to treks through dense jungle trails, the region offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife spotting. Expect to encounter vibrant toucans, elusive jaguars, and playful pink river dolphins. For an in-depth exploration, you might consider a stay at an eco-lodge, where you can experience the forest's serenity while supporting sustainable tourism. In addition to its natural splendor, the Amazon is a cultural treasure trove. Indigenous communities, such as the Yanomami and Kayapo, live in harmony with their environment and offer visitors unique insights into traditional practices and crafts. Engaging with these communities through responsible tourism initiatives helps preserve their heritage and fosters a deeper understanding of their way of life. Fun Fact: The Amazon Rainforest is so vast that it influences global weather patterns. Its dense vegetation releases moisture into the atmosphere, which helps regulate the Earth's climate. So, by visiting the Amazon, you're not only experiencing its natural beauty but also contributing to the health of the planet. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, the Amazon Jungle offers an unparalleled journey into one of the world's most vital and vibrant ecosystems. |
| Day 22 |
Exploring the Amazon Jungle in Brazil is like venturing into the heart of a living, breathing world. The Amazon Rainforest, often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," is a lush, sprawling expanse that teems with extraordinary biodiversity. Located primarily in northern Brazil, this vast jungle covers over 5.5 million square kilometers and is home to an estimated 10% of the known species on the planet. One of the highlights of visiting the Amazon Jungle is immersing yourself in its rich ecosystem. From guided boat tours along the meandering Amazon River to treks through dense jungle trails, the region offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife spotting. Expect to encounter vibrant toucans, elusive jaguars, and playful pink river dolphins. For an in-depth exploration, you might consider a stay at an eco-lodge, where you can experience the forest's serenity while supporting sustainable tourism. In addition to its natural splendor, the Amazon is a cultural treasure trove. Indigenous communities, such as the Yanomami and Kayapo, live in harmony with their environment and offer visitors unique insights into traditional practices and crafts. Engaging with these communities through responsible tourism initiatives helps preserve their heritage and fosters a deeper understanding of their way of life. Fun Fact: The Amazon Rainforest is so vast that it influences global weather patterns. Its dense vegetation releases moisture into the atmosphere, which helps regulate the Earth's climate. So, by visiting the Amazon, you're not only experiencing its natural beauty but also contributing to the health of the planet. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, the Amazon Jungle offers an unparalleled journey into one of the world's most vital and vibrant ecosystems. |
| Day 23 |
Lima's sprawling size and unique embrace of both past and present make it an unforgettably unique destination. Colonial architecture, gastronomical delights, and art are all part of the fabric of this city. Visitors flock to Plaza De Armas De Lima, the spectacular birthplace of Lima, and Huaca Pucllana, a vast adobe and clay pyramid in central Lima. Additionally, UNESCO World Heritage Site Basilica y Convento de San Francisco (St. Francis Monastery) is a can't-miss part of the historic city center. This busy metropolis faces the Pacific Ocean and its popular seaport is Callao, about eight miles from the city center. |
| Day 24 |
Lima's sprawling size and unique embrace of both past and present make it an unforgettably unique destination. Colonial architecture, gastronomical delights, and art are all part of the fabric of this city. Visitors flock to Plaza De Armas De Lima, the spectacular birthplace of Lima, and Huaca Pucllana, a vast adobe and clay pyramid in central Lima. Additionally, UNESCO World Heritage Site Basilica y Convento de San Francisco (St. Francis Monastery) is a can't-miss part of the historic city center. This busy metropolis faces the Pacific Ocean and its popular seaport is Callao, about eight miles from the city center. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
06/21/25 - 07/14/25 |
Starting At $17,410 |
Get A Quote | |
|
10/25/25 - 12/05/26 |
Starting At $16,880 |
Get A Quote |
Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
