Essential Ecuador And Peru

Essential Ecuador And Peru

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11 Days From

$2887

Essential Ecuador And Peru

11 Days Starting in Quito, Ecuador and ending in Cusco, Peru

Visiting: Quito, Santa Cruz, Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 22

Physical rating:

Intermediate

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2887

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Essential Ecuador and Peru" tour, where you'll explore the natural wonders and cultural treasures of two captivating countries. Begin your adventure in the Galapagos Islands, where you'll encounter giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island, snorkel with sea turtles and sea lions at La Loberia Island, and hike to the Tunel del Amor. Continue to Peru, where you'll discover the colonial charm of Lima, traverse the Sacred Valley, and marvel at the ancient Incan sites of Cusco. The highlight of your trip will be a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the Modern World. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transportation throughout this 11-day expedition.

Highlights

  • Explore Santa Cruz Island where you will see Giant Tortoises in the Galapagos

  • Enjoy scenic boat excursions between the breathtaking islands of the Galapagos

  • Discover the colonial sites and famous attractions of Lima, the City of Kings in Peru

  • Travel through the Sacred Valley of Peru and see the ancient Incan sites of Cusco

  • Take a trip to Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the Modern World

  • Snorkel amongst sea turtles and sea lions at La Loberia Island

  • Visit the Maras salt mines and the Misminay community in the Sacred Valley

  • Hike to the Tunel del Amor and watch marine iguanas at Punta Estrada

Places You'll See

Lima

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Quito(Arrival)

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: hotel

Today, make your own way to your chosen airport to board your international flight to Quito. Upon arrival at Quito International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.




Overnight in Quito

Day 2: Quito – Baltra (By Flight) — Santa Cruz (B/L/-)

Location: Santa Cruz

Accommodation Name: Puerto Ayora

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

You will be transferred back to Quito International Airport to check-in for your domestic flight to Baltra Island. This tiny island served as a military base during the Second World War and hosts the Islands principal airport. The airport was built using the most advanced environmental techniques to reduce emissions and energy use, some of which you will notice as you travel through the facility. It was the first ecological airport in the world. 



Upon arrival, you will be picked up by your guide, and start your visit to the highlands, You will visit the shelters for giant tortoises, lava tunnels and the twins that are geological formations, formed by the collapse over time. You will also get a chance to visit a private farm that provides the opportunity to marvel at the celebrated Giant Galapagos Tortoise roaming in its natural habitat. You will have the option of visiting geological formations like a natural lava tunnel or the twin pit craters “The Gemelos” or both, depending on your energy level! The Twin Pit Craters, located in the Scalezia zone of the island, are a great place for bird watching. Look out for Darwin Finches, Galapagos Doves and Cattle egret.




Overnight in Puerto Ayora

Day 3: Loberia Islands – Punta Estrada – Puerto Ayora (B/-/-)

Location: Puerto Ayora

Accommodation Name: Puerto Ayora

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning you will explore Puerto Ayoras Bay. From the main dock, you will travel by boat to La Loberia Island, named after a sea lion colony that has made its home here. This small island is a great place to snorkel amongst sea turtles, a great variety of colorful fish, and friendly and inquisitive sea lions. For your next stop, you will hike to the Tunel del Amor with a great viewpoint from where, if lucky, you can watch the resting white-tip sharks. On the way back we will visit Punta Estradas dock, where we will head on a walk to watch marine iguanas. 


Overnight in Puerto Ayora

Day 4: Galapagos (B/L/-)

Location: Galapagos

Accommodation Name: Puerto Ayora

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today you will travel by motor yacht to spend the day exploring the remote islands of North Seymour and Bachas with lunch served on board. 


Overnight in Puerto Ayora



*Note: Due to inclement weather conditions, todays activity may be changed without prior notice

Day 5: Galapagos – Baltra – Lima (By Flight) (B/-/-)

Location: Lima

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Prepare to be transferred back to Baltras airport for your flight to Lima the capital of Peru, via Guayaquil or Quito. Upon arrival at Lima International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. 


Overnight in Lima

Day 6: Lima (B/-/-)

Location: Lima

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will head on a half-day tour to explore the modern and colonial parts of Lima, the \"City of Kings\". Start your tour in the districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. En route, you will see a Huaca or sacred pre-Inca site. There will be a stop at the Parque del Amor (Lovers Park) in Miraflores to see the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. Discover the Historic Centre based on the Main Square, where the Presidential Palace, the Archbishops Palace, the Municipality of Lima, and the Cathedral are located, and head on a visit to one of the largest colonial-era convents. After your tour, you will have free time to explore the city at your own pace.


Overnight in Lima

Day 7: Lima – Cusco (By Flight) (B/-/-)

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

You will be transferred to the Lima International Airport in time for your domestic flight to Cusco. Enjoy a full day at leisure for a unique experience filled with beautiful scenery, spectacular views, small communities, and opportunities to see wildlife. Adventures await! Dont miss the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Palccoyo, or Humantay Lagoon which can be explored with one of the optional tours. 
Overnight in Cusco

Day 8: Cusco — Sacred Valley (B/L/-)

Location: Sacred Valley

Accommodation Name: Sacred Valley

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Explore the best of the Sacred Valley of the Incas through this route. You will visit the Maras salt mines, an amazing place where the finest salt in the world is extracted: Maras salt.  On the way, you will make a stop at the Raqchi viewpoint, from where you will have an impressive view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Then, you will visit the Misminay community. Upon arrival, the villagers will give you a warm welcome with music and typical dances. There, you will be able to learn about the Andean families' lifestyle, by sharing some of their daily activities with them. Then, you will enjoy a delicious and traditional lunch prepared with local products. You will continue with a visit to Moray, a fascinating archeological site with huge concentric terraces, which the Incas used as a botanical laboratory.


Overnight in Sacred Valley.

Day 9: Sacred Valley — Machu Picchu — Cusco (B/L/-)

Location: Machu Picchu

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In time you will transfer to Ollantaytambo and board the train to Machu Picchu. Today you will visit one of the most important energy centers in the world: Machu Picchu. You will drive to the archeological site for an unforgettable experience seeing the ancient ruins with a professional tour guide who will share all the history that surrounds this mysterious and enchanting place. Once the guided tour is over, you will have some free time to explore the site on your own, relax, or meditate. At the agreed-upon hour, you will descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch and board the train later in the afternoon for your return trip. Once you have arrived at either the Ollantaytambo or Poroy Station, you will be driven to your hotel.


Overnight in Cusco

Day 10: Cusco (B/-/-)

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a full day at leisure for a unique experience filled with beautiful scenery, spectacular views, small communities, and opportunities to see wildlife. Adventures await! Dont miss the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Palccoyo, or Humantay Lagoon which can be explored with one of the optional tours. 


Overnight in Cusco

Day 11: Cusco (Departure) – Lima - (B/-/-)

Location: Cusco

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred back to Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport to check-in for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    10 Nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar.

  • Meals

    Daily buffet breakfast and 4 special lunches at local restaurants.

  • Transfers

    All arrival and departure airport transfers.

  • Transportation

    All transportation in air-conditioned modern vehicles.

  • Guided Tours

    Services of English-speaking guide during the tours.

  • Sightseeing

    All sightseeing as per the detailed itinerary.

  • Entrance Fees

    All entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary.

  • Ferry/Boat Tickets

    Ferry/boat tickets within the Galapagos Islands.

  • Train Tickets

    Return train ticket to Machu Picchu.

  • Domestic Airfare in Ecuador

    Domestic airfare in Ecuador (Quito–Baltra).

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What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees, if applicable.

  • Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee

    Galapagos National Park entrance fee (USD 200 per adult/100 per child under 12).

  • Tourist Transit Card

    Tourist transit card (Ingala) (USD 20 per person).

  • Unlisted Items

    Items not mentioned as included.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in air-conditioned modern vehicles, including arrival and departure airport transfers, ferry/boat tickets within the Galapagos Islands, and return train tickets to Machu Picchu.

Accommodation

Enjoy 10 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

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Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    All transportation is provided in air-conditioned modern vehicles, including arrival and departure airport transfers, ferry/boat tickets within the Galapagos Islands, and return train tickets to Machu Picchu.

  • What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 10 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, daily buffet breakfast and 4 special lunches at local restaurants are included in the tour package.

  • Will there be a guide during the tours?

    Yes, the services of an English-speaking guide are provided during the tours.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included?

    Yes, all entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary are included.

  • Is airfare included in the tour package?

    Yes, domestic airfare in Ecuador (Quito–Baltra), regional airfare (Baltra–Lima), and domestic airfare in Peru (Lima–Cusco–Lima) are included.

  • What activities are available on Santa Cruz Island?

    On Santa Cruz Island, you will visit shelters for giant tortoises, lava tunnels, and the twin pit craters 'The Gemelos'. You will also have the opportunity to visit a private farm to see the celebrated Giant Galapagos Tortoise in its natural habitat.

  • What can I expect during the visit to La Loberia Island?

    At La Loberia Island, you can snorkel amongst sea turtles, a variety of colorful fish, and friendly sea lions. You will also hike to the Tunel del Amor and visit Punta Estradas dock to watch marine iguanas.

  • What will I see during the tour of Lima?

    In Lima, you will explore the modern and colonial parts of the city, including the districts of Miraflores and San Isidro, the Parque del Amor, the Historic Centre, and one of the largest colonial-era convents.

  • What is included in the Sacred Valley tour?

    In the Sacred Valley, you will visit the Maras salt mines, the Misminay community, and the Moray archeological site. You will also enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with local products.

  • What will I experience at Machu Picchu?

    At Machu Picchu, you will have a guided tour of the ancient ruins, followed by free time to explore the site on your own. You will also have lunch in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco.

  • Are there any optional tours available in Cusco?

    Yes, during your leisure time in Cusco, you can explore the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Palccoyo, or Humantay Lagoon with one of the optional tours.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Feb 04, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025
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Prices last published on 20-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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