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Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands Adventure

This Machu Picchu Galapagos tour brings together two of South America’s most remarkable places in one beautifully guided adventure. Hike through Peru’s Sacred Valley, stand among the stone terraces of Machu Picchu, then journey to the Galapagos Islands for sea lions, giant tortoises, lava tunnels, kayaking, snorkeling, and wild island trails.

Start - End: Cusco - Quito

Total trip: 13 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 2

from NZD 17,199/pp including taxes and fees

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Diving and snorkeling with sea lions galapagos

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A 13-Day Machu Picchu and Galápagos Islands Tour Through Peru and Ecuador

In under two weeks, you’ll move from the high stone paths of the Andes to the bright blue waters of the Galapagos. Cycle into the Sacred Valley, hike to Huchuy Qosqo, explore Machu Picchu with a local guide, then trade mountain air for island breezes as you kayak, snorkel, bike, and walk among wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.

If you’re only likely to visit this part of South America once, we’ll make sure it feels worth every step. You’ll start in Cusco, wander colorful markets, hike ancient Inca trails, and stand among the terraces of Machu Picchu. From there, you’ll fly on to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, where the days unfold with sea lions on the sand, giant tortoises in the highlands, lava tunnels underfoot, and clear water waiting at Kicker Rock and Tortuga Bay.

Trip Highlights

Hiking

Sacsayhuamán fortress

Wander along ancient stone paths to the mighty Sacsayhuamán fortress, where massive Inca stonework meets sweeping views over Cusco. It's a hike rich in history, mystery, and jaw-dropping panoramas.

Hiking

The Sacred Valley of the Incas

Trek through the heart of the Sacred Valley, where golden fields, soaring Andean peaks, and timeless villages bring the legacy of the Incas vividly to life.

Hiking

Hike to Huchuy Qosqo

Hike a scenic, seldom-traveled trail to the hidden ruins of Huchuy Qosqo, perched high above the Sacred Valley. You'll find that the dramatic landscapes and ancient history collide in spectacular fashion.

Hiking

Sierra Negra Volcano & Santa Cruz

Hike the dramatic rim of Sierra Negra Volcano, with sweeping views over vast lava fields, then explore the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, where giant tortoises roam and ancient lava tunnels reveal the island’s volcanic soul.

Biking

Bike to Loberia Beach

Pedal toward the coast with the sun on your back and a salty breeze in your hair. At Loberia Beach, sleepy sea lions bask in the sand, waiting to greet you.

Kayaking

Tortuga Bay

Paddle around Tortuga Bay, where turquoise waters reveal curious sea lions, marine iguanas bask on black lava rocks, and every stroke brings you closer to the magic of the Galapagos.

Plus...

Visit Machu Picchu

Stand in awe at the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, where mist-shrouded peaks, ancient stone terraces, and a sense of wonder make this a moment you’ll never forget.

Plus...

Explore Cusco, Lima and Quito

Dive into vibrant city life as you explore the rich history, colorful markets, and delicious flavors of Cusco, Lima, and Quito. Each city is bursting with culture and stories waiting for you to discover.

Plus...

Lava Tunnels

Step inside a fascinating lava tunnel — an underground world carved by ancient volcanic forces, where every twist and turn reveals nature’s raw, volcanic artistry.

Plus...

Ollantaytambo archaeology tour

Explore the impressive Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, where ancient terraces, stone temples, and winding cobblestone streets tell stories of ingenuity and timeless culture.

Plus...

Giant tortoises and iguanas

Get up close with the legendary giant tortoises and quirky iguanas of the Galapagos. They're ancient marvels of nature that have roamed these islands for centuries.

Plus...

Kicker Rock Swim & Snorkel OR Dive

Dive or snorkel alongside towering Kicker Rock’s dramatic cliffs, where colorful marine life and graceful sea turtles create an underwater playground like you've never experienced before.

Day by day trip

Every day on your adventure promises a combination of incredible views, rich culture, fun-filled moments, and wildlife discovery.

Day 1

Arrive in Cusco, hike Sacsayhuaman Fortress

Our trip starts in Cusco, the heart of the Inca empire. After lunch, we’ll set off for a walk around this amazing ancient city and up to Sacsayhuamán fortress overlooking the main Plaza and Cusco Valley. The fortress is a magnificent archaeological site representing a set of jaguar’s teeth with massive, perfectly fitted stones weighing up to 130 tonnes each and was the place where the Incas made their final stand against the Spanish conquistadores. No one really knows what the Incas used Sacsayhuamán for – some say it was a sanctuary and temple of the sun, others say it was a granary, and yet another theory is that it was the place where the old Inca king would play football using the heads of his enemies! No matter who is right, you’ll have a lot of fun hearing all the stories this amazing area inspires.

Later, we’ll take a walk through the colorful Cusco street markets. If you prefer, you can take some time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Cusco’s lively town square and meet up again later for an evening meal.
Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium, Cusco
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 1.2 miles (2 kilometers), 1-2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 656 feet (200 meters) ascent, 656 feet (200 meters) descent

Day 2

Cycle Sacred Valley, visit Pisac market, hike Pisac ruins

We’ll head into the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas this morning, stopping just above Cusco, where we’ll jump on our bikes and ride down through breathtaking scenery, dotted with local villages and surrounded by the massive green slopes of the Andes. We’ll finish our ride in the small town of Pisac, where we’ll have a chance to check out the colorful mercado artesanal.

From here, we’ll begin a spectacular hike up to the Pisac ruins. It’s a heart-pumping walk up through ancient agricultural terraces – you’ll never forget the views of Pisac and the Urubamba Valley! After exploring the ancient complex, we’ll descend the original Inca stairways and head further into the Sacred Valley.

Our home for the night is the small village of Yucay, in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
Accommodation: Sonesta Posada del Inka, Yucay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Biking: 12 miles (20 kilometers), 2-4 hours (flexible)

Hiking: 4.3 miles (7 kilometers), 2-4 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,476 feet (450 meters) ascent, 1,476 feet (450 meters) descent

Day 3

Explore Chinchero, hike to Huchuy Qosqo

We’ll set off early this morning and head to the remote market village of Chinchero. Said to be the birthplace of the rainbow, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time 500 years while we explore the cobbled alleyways and beautiful town square – still the main trading center of the Incas from over half a century ago. From Chinchero, we’ll drive past the Piuray Lagoon and on to the Andean village of Tauca, where we’ll begin our hike to Huchuy Qosqo. The dramatic mountain views of the Urubamba range and deep valleys below are off the charts! As we make our way over the Pucajasa Mountain Pass, we’ll pass through high mountain meadows, lagoons and indigenous communities that have little contact with the outside world.

Shortly before lunch, we’ll arrive at the spectacular ruins of Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco), thought to be the remnants of an Inca hideaway village.

After lunch, we’ll hike down to Lamay village and drive a short distance to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll take an unforgettable train ride down to the sub-tropical village of Aguas Calientes.

You’ll have a chance to wander around this colorful little town before dinner and relax after a full day of hiking!
Accommodation: Hatun Inti Boutique, Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 8.4 miles (13.5 kilometers), 5-7 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,900 feet (579 meters) ascent, 5,000 feet (1,524 meters)descent

Day 4

Visit Machu Picchu

After an early breakfast, we’ll head up to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, where we’ll meet our local guide who will show us around this fascinating ancient city. Afterwards, you’ll have all morning to explore the many passageways and stone structures of this mysterious place on your own. You’ll soak up incredible views of the Andes Mountains and marvel at the intricate Inca architecture up close.

After plenty of time to explore Machu Picchu, we’ll take a scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo, known to the locals simply as ‘Ollanta’.
Accommodation: El Arbergue Hotel, Ollantaytambo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 1-3 hours,
Elevation Gain/Loss: 656 feet (200 meters) ascent, 656 feet (200 meters) descent

Day 5

Ollantaytambo archaeology tour, hike to Las Salineras

Ollanta is dominated by two large ruins and is the best surviving example of Inca city planning, with narrow cobblestone streets that have been inhabited since the 13th Century! The Ollantaytambo ruins offer a fascinating insight into Inca archaeology, so we’ll spend the morning with a local guide discovering the site, placing our travels into context. Later, we’ll take an incredible hike into the majestic Valle Sagrado de Los Incas.

After a visit to the town of Maras, we’ll hike down to the salt pans of Las Salineras with the Rio Urubamba and the Sacred Valley below us. These unique salt terraces have been used since Inca times and provide a great opportunity to hone your camera skills.

A hot spring at the top of the valley discharges a small stream of heavily salt-laden water that the Incas diverted into shallow pools to produce salt, and this is still done today.
Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium, Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 2.5 miles (4 kilometers), 1-3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 656 feet (200 meters) ascent, 656 feet (200 meters) descent

Day 6

Free morning in Cusco, fly to Lima

Cusco is the archaeological capital of the Americas and it’s a fabulous place to wander around and get a taste of an ancient city arriving in the 21st century! Walk along Cusco’s central streets, lined with massive Inca-built stone walls that form the foundation of the city and blend into the colonial and modern architecture that has been added over the years. You can take some time this morning to explore Cusco’s most popular temples, museums, churches, and fortresses. There’s no shortage of great food and entertainment in Cusco, with restaurants to suit any taste, cafés for coffee in the Plaza de Armas and great bars with local music.

This evening we will make our way to Lima.
Accommodation: Hotel Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport, Lima
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

The 6-day Classic Machu Picchu Adventure trip ends today in Cusco.

Day 7

Fly to Quito

This morning you’ll part ways with your Peruvian guide, take a flight from Lima up to Ecuador’s capital, where you’ll meet our local representative. After transferring to Hacienda Jimenita you will have time to relax and enjoy the many amenities the hotel has to offer including a spa, gardens, and more. Then in the evening, we’ll chat with our local representative about the Galapagos journey that lies ahead.
Accommodation: Hacienda Jimenita, Quito
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The 7-day Classic Galapagos Islands Adventure trip starts today in Quito

Day 8

Fly to the Galapagos Islands

We’ll hop back on the plane to Santa Cruz Island, in the heart of the Galapagos Archipelago. Once there, we head to the highlands to visit a private giant tortoise reserve. Here, you’ll witness these enormous creatures in their natural habitat, whether cooling off in a watering hole or feasting on lush greenery.

You’ll also have the opportunity to explore nearby lava tunnels, gaining a deeper understanding of the geological forces that shaped these unique islands.
Accommodation: Hotel Ikala, Santa Cruz Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Kayaking Tortuga Bay, Boat to Isabela Island

This morning we’ll hike to Tortuga Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in the Galapagos. Tortuga Bay is accessible only by foot and is home to hundreds of prehistoric-looking marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and pelicans. Paddle through its calm, turquoise waters by kayak, spotting marine life along the way.

This afternoon, we’ll head to Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galapagos.
Accommodation: Hotel Albemarle, Isabela Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 4 miles (6.5 kilometers), 1-2 hours

Kayaking: 1-2 hours

Day 10

Snorkeling at Los Túneles and Wetlands Walk to Breeding Center

Take a boat trip to Los Túneles, one of the archipelago’s most iconic snorkeling sites, known for lava arches, sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks, and take some time to explore this underwater world. In the afternoon, enjoy a walk through the wetlands to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, spotting flamingos and marine iguanas along the way.
Accommodation: Hotel Albemarle, Isabela Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Hiking: 1-2 miles (1.6-3.2 kilometers)

Day 11

Sierra Negra Volcano, Bike to Loberia Beach

Our hike today will take us towards the summit of Sierra Negra Volcano, rising nearly a mile above the ocean. This is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, and one of the most active. As we hike, we might be lucky enough to see Galapagos hawks, short-eared owls, finches, and flycatchers that inhabit this region.

After lunch, we'll fly to San Cristobal Island. Together we'll enjoy a relaxed bike ride to La Lobería beach, stopping at viewpoints along the way. You will have the amazing opportunity to swim or snorkel with playful sea lions and you may even see marine iguanas here too!
Accommodation: Hotel Seaside, San Cristobal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Hiking: 5 miles (8 kilometers), 2-3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 213 feet (65 meters) ascent, 213 feet (65 meters) descent

Biking: 3 miles (5 kilometers),1 hour, flat

Day 12

Snorkel or dive at Kicker Rock, visit Interpretation Center

Today we’ll cruise to Kicker Rock off the coast of San Cristobal, where we’ll don wet suits, snorkels, and masks (and tanks for the divers diving option extra fees apply) and explore around the remains of an underwater volcano with a rock face rising 500 feet (150 meters) above the surface of the water. Your trip leader will give you a full briefing and then we’ll take to the water to explore the walls of the volcano. There will be chances to see beautiful tropical fish, turtles and sharks as they skirt the edges of Kicker Rock!

Afterward, visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre to learn about the history and mystery of the archipelago, from its discovery and what makes it so special, to Charles Darwin’s visit and the present-day efforts to protect this amazing World Heritage Site.
Accommodation: Hotel Seaside, San Cristobal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Snorkel Kicker Rock: 30-45 minutes

Optional Kicker Rock diving experience (additional cost applies): You can opt to swap the snorkel for a dive if you wish. This option must be selected at the time of booking. 2 dives, 30-45 minutes each

Day 13

Fly to Quito, Depart

Enjoy a peaceful final morning with time to relax, explore the town, or take a last walk along the beach before our flight back to Quito on the mainland, and departure for home. We’ll make sure you return home relaxed and refreshed from all the great activities, fine food, and friendly people you’ll have met while traveling with us in the Galapagos Islands.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Experience Peru: Sacred Valley Hiking, Inca Ruins, and Machu Picchu

Follow your route through the Andes as you explore our detailed map. This leg is a Peru adventure vacation which begins in Cusco and unfolds along timeworn paths once walked by the Incas. As you trace the line toward Machu Picchu, picture yourself hiking classic sections of the Inca Trails, moving through high valleys, quiet ruins, and welcoming mountain communities.

This Machu Picchu hike brings history to life with every step. You’ll walk some of the most memorable hiking trails of Peru, surrounded by big skies and stone terraces that seem to rise straight from the mountains. Traveling with a small group, the journey feels shared, supported, and deeply rewarding. Let the map guide your imagination as your Peru hiking trip comes into focus.

Experience Galápagos Islands: Wildlife, Kayaking, Snorkeling, and Volcano Walks

Take a look at the islands spread across the map and imagine stepping into a living nature documentary. This is hiking in Galápagos, where short trails lead across lava fields, along wild coastlines, and into close encounters with fearless wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.

As you explore the route, picture days filled with active discovery. Walk beside giant tortoises, snorkel in clear waters, and follow coastal paths where sea lions nap in the sun. Our adventure tour of the Galápagos Islands balance gentle hikes with unforgettable wildlife moments. Each island marked on the map holds a new experience, inviting you to slow down, look closer, and connect with one of the planet’s most extraordinary places.

This trip includes:

12 nights’ accommodation
12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 10 dinners
You’re supported from start to finish by our highly experienced guides and leaders
Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
All activities outlined in the itinerary
Delicious and nutritious snacks to keep you fueled
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Comfortable boat transfer between the islands of Galapagos
Scenic Train journey through the Sacred Valley
International flight from Lima, Peru to Quito, Ecuador
Domestic flight from Cuzco to Lima
Return flights between Quito and the Galapagos Islands
Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
“My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure
*Please note an additional USD$220pp is required for the Galapagos Park Entrance fee and the Transit Control fee, and this is not included in the tour price

FAQs

Find answers to more questions you may have about your epic adventure in Peru and the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador.

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Cusco airport (CUZ) (if your flight arrives by 11am) or Casa Andina Premium at 12pm. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Cusco, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times. Please come prepared with light clothing, an extra layer, trail shoes/or boots, and your daypack ready for your first hike

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a flight back to Quito Airport (UIO), in time for flights below. If you have left any luggage at Hacienda Jimenita, we can arrange for this to be transported to Quito Airport to meet us on arrival. If you're staying on in Quito, you'll need to arrange your own transport.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Cusco a couple of days before your trip begins to get accustomed to the 3,300 metres (10,000 feet) elevation. If this isn't possible that' s okay - your trip is designed to begin very gently and ease you into being active at altitude! If you're flying in on the first day of the trip, we recommend arriving in Cusco by 10.30am.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Quito after 8pm for domestic and 9pm for international. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

The Galapagos Islands are located in a unique and remote part of the world, and to maintain an eco-friendly relationship with the environment, large modern hotels aren’t built. We prefer to stay in locally owned accommodation, which can be fairly rustic, to give you a better opportunity to meet the locals and gain a real understanding of life in the islands. We’re also lucky to be able to stay on land every night of the trip where as some operators aren’t permitted to do this.

We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry once during your trip and the best time will be during our two night stay in Cusco (during the free day).

Will my accommodations be exactly the same as those featured?

Occasionally, your accommodations may differ from those featured, but they’ll always be hand-picked by our expert team with care. We’ll send your final accommodation list a month before your trip begins, so you’ll know exactly where you’re staying before you set off.

Is This Machu Picchu & Galápagos Tour Right for You?

This trip is made for curious travelers who want more than a quick look at the highlights. You’ll hike ancient Inca trails, explore quiet corners of the Sacred Valley, and experience Machu Picchu with the stories and context that bring it to life. Then, in the Galápagos, you’ll slow down and look closer, watching giant tortoises move through the highlands, snorkeling beside sea turtles, and paddling through calm turquoise water at Tortuga Bay. You'll stay each night on land, enjoying the local culture, and then spend time on (and in!) the water exploring the islands by day.

With expert local guides, thoughtful logistics, and an average group size of 12, you can simply settle into the adventure and enjoy each day as it unfolds.

If you have these iconic destinations on your bucket list, and you'd like to experience them with all the logistics handled so you can soak up every moment, then you will love the Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galápagos Islands Adventure.

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Machu Picchu & Galápagos Islands Adventure guests on the Peru trails with their guide Zac and a friendly local

Is this a guided Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour?

Yes. This is a fully guided small-group adventure, with local guides helping bring Peru, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands to life.

How active is this Machu Picchu Galapagos tour?

This is a Level 2 trip, designed for travelers who enjoy walking, hiking, biking, kayaking, and snorkeling at an easy-to-moderate pace.

Do you visit both Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands?

Yes. The itinerary begins in Cusco and Peru’s Sacred Valley, includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu, then continues to Quito and the Galapagos Islands.

What wildlife might I see in the Galapagos?

The itinerary includes opportunities to see giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, flamingos, and birdlife across Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal.

What Our Guests Say

Photos From the Ultimate Machu Picchu & Galápagos Islands Adventure

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance, you can find details here.

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Why Travel With Us

A love of adventure, born in New Zealand

Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.

Life-changing, rewarding experiences in breathtaking places

We believe the best journeys don’t just take you places, they inspire you and ignite your spirit. Our unique and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure you'll experience the very best of each destination.

Expert guides, deep local connections

Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.

Flexible, personalized experiences

We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility. No matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.

We welcome all adventurers

Traveling solo, as a pair, or as part of a group? No worries, you'll be comfortable on our trips. Every trip is personalized with care by our team so everyone feels supported and free to enjoy their unforgettable adventure.

All-inclusive

Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.