Machu Picchu & Galapagos

Lima is a bustling, busy city and one of the most important in South America. Any trip to Peru will likely begin and end in the capital and visitors take advantage of the fact that Lima is widely regarded to be the culinary capital of the continent and home to many of the best restaurants in South America. Home of the ceviche and the Pisco Sour it is a city where the past and present mix beautifully, from the colonial center to modern Miraflores, through to the ancient Incan and pre-Incan culture which can be seen in Lima’s various museums.

A city of almost 11 million people, it is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountains. This unique location means it enjoys a microclimate of zero rainfall and is spread along the coast atop cliffs that offer beautiful sunset views and peaceful “malecóns”, even a short trip is guaranteed to be richly rewarding and a perfect introduction to Peru and its culture.

To ensure a seamless start to your visit, a representative will welcome you upon arrival and oversee your private transfer from the airport to your hotel

Meals: (x)

Your journey into the Andes begins with a smooth transfer to the Lima airport for your flight to Cusco.

Upon arrival, you will immerse yourself in the rich traditions and history of the Sacred Valley, discovering the traces left by its ancient inhabitants and the vibrant culture of its modern towns. Your exploration starts at the Taray viewpoint, situated 3,200 meters above sea level, where you will be treated to a stunning panoramic view of the valley unfolding below.

From there, you will ascend the Apu Inti Huatana hill to the archaeological complex of Pisac. This site features dazzling stone terraces and offers a privileged view of the traditional town bearing the same name. As you wander through its ancient structures, you will appreciate why this was a pivotal center for the Incas, noting its advanced urban planning and distinct sectors dedicated to religious ceremonies, temples, and residential life. You will also visit the town of Pisac itself, famous for its quiet streets and a colorful market that proudly displays a millenary heritage through fine textile art, ceramics, and jewelry.

After a delicious typical lunch at a local restaurant, you will continue to Ollantaytambo, an ancient military, religious, and agricultural hub. Strategically located on a mountainside, its imposing fortress stands as a testament to Inca power. You will explore the main temple, terraces, and fountains while enjoying an unbeatable view of the town—the only one in Peru that still preserves its original Inca urban design. Here, wandering the stone streets, you can truly breathe in the spirit of the Andes.

Meals: (B, L)

Today is dedicated to exploring three jewels of the Sacred Valley, showcasing the incredible ingenuity of the Incas as both architects and farmers: Maras, Moray, and Chinchero.

From the heights, you will witness a majestic view of the ancient Maras salt mines, source of the coveted Maras salt—one of the world’s finest. You will overlook nearly 3,000 pools that served as a vital economic hub in Inca times and continue to support hundreds of local families today. With stunning panoramic views of this glistening mosaic of terraces and ponds, Maras offers the perfect setting for photography enthusiasts.

Next, you will arrive at the Moray archaeological site, which visually resembles a vast natural amphitheater. Studies suggest that during the Tahuantinsuyo, this site functioned as an agricultural research laboratory. Its enormous concentric terraces created specific microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with and cultivate a diverse range of crops.

After enjoying a delicious lunch featuring local products, you will visit the Chinchero archaeological complex. Once a major agricultural and livestock center during the Tahuantinsuyo, it remains one of the most impressive sites in the area, boasting extensive terraces and aqueducts. Nearby, you will admire the exterior of the Church of Nuestra Señora de Monserrat. Built in 1607 atop a former Inca palace, it stands as a striking example of the fusion between Andean and Spanish culture during the Viceroyalty, particularly evident in its artistic decoration.

Meals: (B, L)

At the scheduled time, a representative will escort you from your hotel to Ollanta Train Station. Please note: Due to strict train regulations, your main luggage will be transferred separately to your next hotel. We recommend you keep any valuables, fragile items, or necessary medications in your carry-on bag during this transit.

From here, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks awaits you: Machu Picchu! Your adventure begins aboard the train to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), a picturesque town nestled at the foot of the emblematic Inca citadel. During the ride, you can sit back and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, taking in impressive views of majestic mountains, the Vilcanota River, and small Andean villages—a visual feast that will fill you with anticipation for the wonder ahead.

After a short bus ride from Aguas Calientes, you will find yourself standing before one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World—an unforgettable sight! You will explore the ancient ruins, discovering the history and mysteries held by this mystical and impressive place. Surrounded by incomparable landscapes, you will find no shortage of spectacular photo opportunities.

Once you have recharged with the magical energy of Machu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch and explore the streets before boarding your return train. Upon arrival in Cusco, a driver will be waiting to transfer you comfortably to your hotel.

Meals: (B, L)

Today, you will explore the city of Cusco, famously known as the “Imperial City” and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your tour begins at the Koricancha Temple, an ancient Inca palace and center of worship for the Sun God. Here, you will witness a fascinating blend of eras, where the Dominican order constructed their church directly atop the ancient Inca foundations that remain standing to this day.

Next, you will proceed to the Plaza de Armas to visit the Cathedral, the most significant religious monument in the city. From there, you will ascend to the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a colossal and impressive example of Inca military architecture that overlooks the city.

Afterwards, you will visit Kenko, a unique archaeological site where the Incas are believed to have worshipped the Sun, Moon, and Stars. Your journey continues to Puca-Pucara, a site that historically served as a “tambo”—a strategic resting place and lodging for the Inca and his entourage. To conclude your tour, you will be transferred comfortably back to your hotel.

Meals: (B)

After breakfast, at the scheduled time, you will be picked up from your hotel and privately transferred to Cusco Airport, ready to board your departure flight to Quito, Ecuador.

Once in Quito, trasnfer to your hotel. Then, you can take the rest of the day to rejuvenate and re-charge.

Meals: (B)

AM: After breakfast, at the scheduled time, you will be picked up from your hotel and privately transferred to Quito airport, ready to board your departure flight to the Galapagos Islands! You will arrive at Baltra Island in the morning. After passing through immigration and baggage claim, you will be met by a Sea Star 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: Situated on Santa Cruz Island, Dragon Hill is one of the newest visitor sites accessible to tourists in the Galapagos Islands. One of the lengthier Galapagos walking trails will lead visitors along a beach and up a trail to the lagoon lookout where bright flamingos, pintail ducks, and land iguanas can be spotted.

AM: After breakfast, visit Black Turtle Cove in the northern part of Santa Cruz. This inlet is surrounded by mangroves and is only accessible by dinghy. The shallow cove is a haven for young marine life. Black-tip and white-tip reef sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of rays are often spotted here.

PM: In the afternoon, go to a small islet located near the southeast coast of Santiago Island. Its name comes from the distinct shape of the islet’s summit. Chinese Islet is a great location to view many geological formations such as lava tunnels and lava flows. Some of the lava flows were formed underwater and subsequently raised above sea level. The presence of coral heads on the lava flow indicates this phenomenon.

AM: This morning, visit 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.

PM: After lunch, go to 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.

AM: Today, 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! A beautiful beach surrounded by the only vegetation is perfect for snorkeling where you may even see and swim with Galapagos penguins.

PM: In the afternoon, you will visit Sullivan Bay located on the southeast part of Santiago. This place is interesting for its geology because the area is covered by lava flows. This place has elevations in the form of small volcanoes formed by the lava flows.

AM: 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.

After this final visit, you will be transferred to the Baltra airport in time for your flight back to the mainland to connect with your flight back home or onwards to your next destination.