Best of Peru & the Galapagos

(14 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Quito, Galapagos Islands

This tour is the perfect combination of two of South America’s iconic travel destinations: Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands.

Begin in Lima, a cosmopolitan city with Peru’s best museums, shopping and restaurants. Time permitting, enjoy introductory private touring, such as an insider tour of the old colonial quarter.

Next, fly to Cusco, where your guide will lead you through the narrow cobblestone streets as you learn about the fascinating Inca and Spanish history in the city. During your tour, also visit Inca ruins, markets, galleries, boutiques and the best artisan workshops. One night, enjoy a Peruvian dance performance. Take a private excursion to Sacred Valley of the Incas (Urubamba Valley) for a private tour of the best of the local culture during visits to indigenous markets and villages, and gentle hikes to important Inca and pre-Inca sites.

Board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu and spend one night near the incredible Inca ruins. Your private guide will teach you about the fascinating history of the site and ensure that you have the opportunity to explore the grounds after most tourists have left. Spend the following day exploring the ruins with the option to hike trails to stunning viewpoints before returning to Cusco by luxury train.

Next, fly to Quito, Ecuador, which is set in a verdant valley in the Andes mountains. With your private local guide, tour the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s filled with Spanish colonial-era architecture. Explore the most interesting back streets, hidden courtyard gardens and historic churches with spectacular interiors. Visit a workshop where the next generation of artisans trains in woodcarving, ironwork, gilding and other traditional crafts. Perhaps shop for a high-quality Panama hat—an Ecuador original—in the best local boutique.

Spend five days exploring the Galapagos Islands—a dream destination for nature lovers—on one of our preferred expedition cruises. Each day, tour different islands with an expert naturalist, and get close to giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and other iconic Galapagos wildlife. See the cycle of life up close, which depending on the season, might include mating rituals, newborns feeding, territorial squabbles, and more. Snorkel among sea turtles, playful sea lions and schools of brightly colored fish. Upon request, we arrange private yacht charters, SCUBA diving and other options in the Galapagos.

Return to Quito for a final night before your return or onward flight.

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.
Call us at (800) 214-8144 for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.