Easter Island, Machu Picchu & Galapagos

Welcome to Santiago, a regional economic powerhouse and one of South America’s most advanced urban centers. Nestled in the Santiago Basin within the country’s central valley, the city is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, with the Andes dominating the horizon behind it. Founded in 1541 by the Spanish conqueror Pedro de Valdivia, Santiago has served as the capital since the colonial period and today boasts a population of 4.6 million, with 7 million inhabitants in the wider mainland region.

The historic heart of the city, Plaza de Armas, is largely made up of 19th-century architecture and winding streets, featuring smatterings of Art Deco, Neo-Gothic, and Spanish colonial buildings. In contrast, the skyline of Providencia is dotted with towering skyscrapers and vast green spaces like Parque Forestal. A true melting pot of culture and trade, the city serves as a gateway to explore Maipo Valley vineyards or the panoramic views from Cerro San Cristobal, cementing its status as a thriving, modern metropolis.

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Meals (x)

Welcome to Easter Island, a remote volcanic island in Polynesia and a distinct territory of Chile. Known natively as Rapa Nui, this isolated outcrop is famed for its archaeological sites, specifically the nearly 900 monumental statues called moai created by inhabitants during the 13th–16th centuries. Situated far from the continental coast, it remains a place of profound historical significance and mystery within the Pacific.

The island’s landscape is largely made up of rugged volcanic terrain dotted with these carved human figures with oversize heads, often resting on massive stone pedestals called ahus. Ahu Tongariki features the largest group of upright moai, standing as a testament to the island’s engineering past. A destination known for its ancient culture and isolation, the island offers a unique glimpse into a civilization entirely distinct from the South American mainland.

At the scheduled hour, you will transfer to the airport for your flight. Upon arrival at Hanga Roa, a representative will be waiting to greet you and transport you to your hotel, leaving the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Meals (B, D)

Situated along the dramatic southern coastline, this excursion offers total immersion into the island’s volcanic landscapes and the ancient Moai community. Departing from Hanga Roa, the route provides stunning views over Poike, an extinct volcano that characterizes the region with remains of black volcanic rock. The journey continues along the ‘Camino de los Moais,’ stopping at the ruins of Vaihu Temple, a site that—like many others on the island—reflects the deep historical roots of the Rapa Nui civilization.

The heart of the tour is Rano Raraku, the iconic quarry where over 300 statues sit in various stages of production, surrounded by the silence of the crater’s lagoon. Known for its archaeological importance, this site reveals the colossal effort behind the Moai. The day winds down at Ovahe, a small bay with pale pink sand, and finally Anakena Beach, a pristine spot famous for its warm Pacific waters and white sands, offering a relaxing conclusion to the historical exploration.

On this program, you will have an excursion menu to choose your daily activities, though we highly suggest this comprehensive journey before returning to your hotel.

Meals (B, L, D)

Situated amongst the enchanting hills and volcanic craters, this day explores the diverse ceremonial history of Rapa Nui. The morning highlights Ahu Akivi, a site known for its seven colossal moai—the only ones on the island positioned to look out towards the ocean—and the red scoria quarry of Puna Pau. In contrast, the afternoon is dedicated to the dramatic stone village of Orongo. Perched on the rim of the Rano Kau crater, this site is famous for the historic ‘Birdman’ competition, where social status was earned through a perilous swim to the offshore islet of Motu Nui.

The tour begins with a drive to the ceremonial complex of Tahai and the lava-tube caves of Ana Te Pahu, before proceeding to the imposing statues of Ahu Akivi. Later, the journey ascends to Orongo to view the ancient petroglyphs and rock carvings that detail the island’s legends. These sites, rich in archaeological significance, offer a profound understanding of the shift from ancestor worship to the Birdman cult.

On this program, you will have an excursion menu to choose your daily activities, though we suggest this immersion into the island’s legends before returning to Hanga Roa.

Meals (B, L, D)

Situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the island offers a profound sense of tranquility that is best experienced at a slower pace. Known for its mysterious energy and remote beauty, Rapa Nui is the perfect setting to unwind or explore independently. This day provides an opportunity to absorb the island’s atmosphere beyond the archaeological sites, allowing for a more personal connection with the landscape and its people.

The town of Hanga Roa is largely made up of vibrant local markets and inviting coastal paths, offering a contrast to the remote silence of the moai platforms. Whether you choose to revisit a favorite viewpoint, engage with local artisans, or simply relax by the ocean, the island’s unique environment ensures a memorable experience regardless of how you spend your time.

On this program, you will have an excursion menu to choose your daily activities, or you may simply opt for a day at leisure to enjoy the island at your own rhythm.

Meals (B, L, D)

Situated in the vast expanse of the Pacific, the departure from Easter Island offers a final moment to reflect on the enigmatic moai and the island’s volcanic beauty. Known for its remoteness, the flight back to the continent bridges the gap between the ancient Polynesian culture and the modern world. As the coastline fades, the journey returns you to the bustle of mainland Chile, leaving behind the silent majesty of the Rapa Nui landscape.

Santiago serves as the primary gateway for the country, and for this final stage, convenience is paramount. The airport area is designed for efficiency, contrasting with the winding streets of the historic center described upon your first arrival. The Holiday Inn Santiago Airport is unique in its proximity, offering a calm respite right at the terminal’s doorstep, ensuring maximum comfort for those in transit without the need to navigate city traffic.

At the scheduled hour, a shared transfer will take you to the airport for your flight back to Santiago. Upon arrival, you will simply make your own way to the hotel, located just a 5-minute walk from the main exit.

Meals (B)

Situated at the foot of the Andes, Santiago serves as the final departure point from Chile before venturing into the heart of the Inca Empire. The flight to Cusco marks a dramatic shift in landscape and culture, transitioning from the modern Chilean metropolis to the ancient heights of the Peruvian Andes. Known for its historical significance, this leg of the journey brings you to a region famous for its archaeological wonders and vibrant indigenous heritage.

The Sacred Valley, or Valle Sagrado, is nestled between high peaks and is largely made up of lush agricultural terraces and traditional villages along the Urubamba River. Unlike the bustling streets of Santiago, the Valley is known for its tranquility and lower altitude compared to Cusco, making it the ideal location to acclimatize. The area is dotted with colonial towns and Inca ruins, offering a serene introduction to the rich tapestry of Andean life.

At the scheduled hour, you will make your own way to the airport gate to connect with your next destination. Upon arrival in Cusco, a private transfer will be waiting to transport you to your accommodation in the Sacred Valley.

Meals (B)

Situated high in the Sacred Valley, the enchanting village of Chinchero is known to the Incas as the birthplace of the rainbow. The village is largely made up of traditional adobe architecture and winding streets, with the sweeping vistas of the Cordillera Vilcabamba and snow-capped Salkantay dominating the horizon. Famous for its authentic Sunday market—less tourist-oriented than Pisac—it offers a chance to explore colorful stalls brimming with textiles and produce. The historic heart of the village features an early 17th-century colonial church built atop Inca foundations, standing as a testament to the layering of history that defines the region.

The journey continues to the archaeological wonder of Moray and the salt pans of Maras. Moray is known for its enigmatic circular depressions that resemble terraced amphitheaters, believed to be an ancient agricultural experimentation center. In contrast, the hillside of Maras is dotted with thousands of “Salineras,” or salt pans, ingeniously set into overhanging cliffs. These glistening pools have been harvested since pre-Inca times and provide a captivating vista against the backdrop of the Urubamba River, showcasing the remarkable engineering and resourcefulness of the Andean civilizations.

Embark on a journey to explore these cultural and natural highlights, witnessing the vibrant tapestry of traditions and history before returning to your hotel.

Meals (B, L)

You will be transferred to Ollantaytambo station to board the Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes.

The citadel of Machu Picchu stands as the crowning jewel of the Sacred Valley and undeniably Peru’s most cherished attraction. Situated majestically above the profound Urubamba River canyon, it is celebrated as one of the planet’s most extraordinary feats of landscape architecture. Unveiled to the world in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham, this ancient fortress served as a celestial palace in an era where the Inca were revered as descendants of gods, remaining a sanctuary reserved solely for the chosen few.

The site is largely made up of polished dry-stone walls and agricultural terraces that cling seamlessly to the steep mountain face. Access to this mystical realm begins in Aguas Calientes, followed by a short bus ride up to the sanctuary. Under the guidance of an expert, you will explore the awe-inspiring architectural brilliance of the complex, known for its astronomical alignments and spiritual energy, before descending back to the town at the mountain’s base to conclude a day steeped in history.

Upon your return to Ollantaytambo, a private transfer will be waiting to transport you to your accommodation in Cusco.

Meals (B, L)

Situated in the heart of the Andes, Cusco is a city where colonial grandeur sits atop ancient Inca foundations. The expedition commences at the Colonial Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece known as one of the Americas’ finest examples of colonial craftsmanship. A short distance away lies the revered Koricancha, or “Golden Courtyard.” Once the most important temple in the Inca Empire dedicated to the Sun God Inti, historical chronicles describe it as having walls entirely adorned with gold, though today it stands as a striking fusion of Incan masonry and Spanish Dominican architecture.

Beyond the city center, the surrounding hills are largely made up of monumental archaeological sites. Sacsayhuaman, the Royal House of the Sun, dominates the landscape with its colossal stone walls and is known for its megalithic engineering. The tour continues to the enigmatic Qenqo Amphitheater, a site for spiritual ceremonies, and Puka Pukara, the “Reddish Fortress” that likely served as a military checkpoint. Finally, you will visit Tambomachay, a sanctuary dedicated to the element of water, historically reserved for Inca royalty as a resting place.

Meals (B)

At the arranged hour, you will transfer to the Cusco airport for your flight to Quito. Upon arrival, you will be greeted for a short, scenic shared drive to your accommodation.

Welcome to Ecuador, a country renowned for its immense natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Situated high in the Andean foothills, the capital city of Quito is surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks that dominate the horizon. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and status as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city serves as the perfect gateway for the adventures ahead, offering a blend of colonial history and modern vitality.

The airport district is largely made up of modern infrastructure designed for convenience and comfort. In contrast to the bustling historic center, this area offers a sleek environment to unwind after your international travel. Whether you choose the comfortable Holiday Inn or the modern Wyndham Hotel, the accommodations provide a relaxing setting to refresh, ensuring a smooth transition from the Peruvian Andes to the Ecuadorian landscape.

Meals (B)

AM: After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, the day is yours to absorb the last moments of the atmosphere. A shared transfer will be arranged according to your schedule to transport you comfortably to the airport for your departure flight.

You will arrive at Baltra Island and after passing through immigration and baggage claim, you will be met by a Horizon staff member and transferred to the yacht. You will be shown to your cabin where you will have some time to settle in before lunch and a welcome briefing.

PM: You will head to Bartholomew Island where the famous Pinnacle Rock is found. Bartholomew consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. We will take a trail of stairs to the summit of the volcano (about 30 or 40 minutes) where you will enjoy one of the best views of the islands! You will also visit a small, beautiful beach surrounded by the only vegetation found on this barren island. The beach is perfect for snorkeling where you may even see and swim with Galapagos penguins.

Meals (B, L, D)

AM: You will visit Rabida Island (or Jervis) which is one of the most colorful and volcanically varied islands in the archipelago as well as a great snorkeling site. We will start on Rabida’s famous maroon/red sand beach, and after an easy hike, you will arrive to a stunning lookout to enjoy the amazing landscapes. The island is a birdwatcher’s delight. Some species are abundant such as a few varieties of finches, Galapagos vermilion flycatchers, Galapagos hawks and brown pelicans.

PM: Egas Port, also known as James Bay, on Santiago Island is home to the curious Galapagos hawks and quick-footed Galapagos lava lizards. The trail leads to the coastline with gorgeous tide pools and grottos full of fauna. Here the Galapagos furseals bathe in the sun. This is also a great snorkeling site.

Meals (B, L, D)

AM: Visit the white-sand coral beach of Darwin Bay which includes a half mile trail (0,75km) that winds through mangroves filled with land birds. Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls, which can easily be spotted here. Further down the path we’ll find tidal pools where sea lions swim playfully. At the end is a spectacular view of a cliff.

PM: El Barranco, also known as Prince Phillip’s Steps, is a steep, rocky path that leads up a high cliff rock face. A marvelous view can be appreciated from here. This site is also home to Palo Santo vegetation as well as red-footed boobies, short-eared owls, Galapagos storm petrels, and Galapagos doves.

Meals (B, L, D)

AM: Mosquera Islet is located between the islands of Baltra and North Seymour. This reef of rocks and coral (the result of an uprising) is only 160 meters across at its narrowest width. This island has one of the largest populations of sea lions and is home to many shorebirds. There have been occasional reports at this site of orcas feeding on sea lions.

PM: Accessible by bus from Puerto Ayora, the highlands of Santa Cruz are a deep green which contrast beautifully with the dry, lower part of the islands. The predominant vegetation in the highlands are Scalesia trees which create a lush green forest. The lava tunnels, over half a mile long, are underground and walking through them is a unique, surreal experience. At this place you’ll have lunch.

You will visit “Fausto Llerena” Tortoise Breeding Center in Puerto Ayora, where giant tortoises are bred in captivity. This is home to tortoises ranging from 3-inches (new hatchlings) to 4-feet long adults. Subspecies of the giant tortoises interact with one another, and many of the older tortoises are accustomed to humans stretching out their heads for a photo opportunity. The babies are kept until they are about four years-old and strong enough to survive on their own.

Meals (B, L, D)

AM: In North Seymour you may see Galapagos sea lions, blue-footed boobies, and magnificent frigate birds which are abundant on this island. North Seymour was formed by a series of submarine lava flows containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity. The island is characterized by its arid vegetation zone.

After this final visit, you will be transferred to the Baltra airport in time for your flight back to the mainland.

Meals (B)