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Peregrine Travel Centre

Galápagos Islands – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery Plus Machu Picchu

Galápagos Islands – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery Plus Machu Picchu

From AUD $10,917

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Description

South America land adventure
The first part of our adventure takes place on land. Setting off from Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, we’ll fly to Cusco, the ancient centre of the Inca empire, and discover its many cultural and architectural wonders. Next, we travel up the Sacred Valley on a luxury train to the incredible mountain citadel of Machu Picchu before heading back to Cusco and then flying to charming Quito – the ‘City of Eternal Spring’.

Darwin’s islands of evolution
After exploring Quito´s historic centre and visiting the Equator, we’ll head to the Galápagos Islands for an unforgettable sea adventure. Your expedition cruise begins after a flight from Quito to Baltra Island in Galápagos for an incredible sea adventure. In the Galápagos Islands, you’ll visit the isles of Isabela, Floreana, Fernandina and Santa Cruz islands, each a unique illustration of evolution in action. Experience an array of ecosystems within picturesque landscapes, and see famed wildlife such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, Nazca Boobies and Darwin’s iconic finches. Your ship, MS Santa Cruz II, is one of the few vessels operating in Galápagos that comes equipped with a full range of exploration tools, including panga boats, kayaks, snorkelling gear, stand-up paddleboards and even a glass-bottom boat.

Trip Name
Galápagos Islands – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery Plus Machu Picchu
Days
9
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Vessel Length: 71.8 meters Passenger Capacity: 90 Built / Refurbished: 2002 / 2015 / 2018 / 2021 When you are exploring the Galápagos islands with us onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You´ll easily feel at home on board. Gastronomic delights Mouthwatering meals and creative cocktails await you aboard MS Santa Cruz II. With creativity and dedication, our cheerful staff draw inspiration from everything from the weather to the region’s flavours and local ingredients. Beagle Restaurant - Incredible Dining Experience The MS Santa Cruz II has a team of trained staff members that utilize locally-sourced organic food to prepare every dish. This ship provides a Le Cordon Bleu (a trained Gastronomy Director) and a wide variety of culinary experiences that encompass all diets and preferences. Each and every meal served onboard is exquisite. Panorama bar & lounge This large and well-lit area is not only the main bar, but also the place where most ship events will take place (welcome and farewell cocktail), and doubles as an ideal place for lectures. It’s the ideal site to chill and relax with Wi-Fi hot spot and direct access to our al fresco terrace. Luxury living Your ship gives you everything you could wish for in a home away from home: places for stimulation, relaxation, and meetings with your fellow guests. With a Scandinavian-inspired décor and all modern conveniences, MS Santa Cruz II does it in comfort and style. Expedition lounge & bar with Science Corner and library Facing the front of the ship, the Expedition Lounge – complete with a refreshment station and library – is a fantastic place to admire the beauty of the Galápagos’ Islands from inside. The Science Corner includes a glass cabinet, a microscope and a whale vertebrae clone, a perfect learning zone about our science activities. Sky deck The Sky deck offers spaces where guests can relax and enjoy their Galápagos expeditions basking in the sun at the very top of the ship. The sun deck and fitness room are located here. Wellness and workouts Whenever you feel the need to get your body moving, exercise facilities are on hand to get your pulse up. And whether you’re relaxing after a day of fascinating lectures, or a long hike, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to relax your body and mind. Fitness Room Our fitness center is equipped with yoga mats, set of weights, 2 treadmills, 2 stationary bikes, and an elliptical trainer for those guests who do not want to let their routine slide. Hot Tub For a nice relaxing time our two hot tubs with capacity for 5 guests each. Located on the Expedition deck are ideal.

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 Your land adventure begins
Start your adventure in ancient and modern Lima Welcome to Peru, one of the most fascinating countries in South America! If you have time after your arrival in Lima before settling in at your hotel for an overnight stay, we suggest you wander historical centre, which is packed with elegant Spanish colonial architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or why not walk along the oceanfront boardwalk in the upmarket Miraflores district. Here, you’ll find many restaurants and cafés, as well as shops if you need to purchase anything ahead of your adventure. Lima is considered the food capital of Latin America, so be sure to try local dishes like ceviche, which is raw fish marinated in lime juice with onion and chilli.
Day 2 - DAY 2 City of the Incas and a cultural gem
Explore the ancient seat of the Inca Empire In the morning, you’ll take a flight to Cusco, the ancient seat of the Inca Empire. A local guide will take you to check in at your hotel, before inviting you on a guided tour of this enigmatic city.   You’ll see impressive Inca structures contrasted with ornate buildings from Spanish colonial times. Visit the 15th century ceremonial compound of Sacsayhuaman, or admire the architecture of the Spanish Santo Domingo church, a convent built on the ruins of Koricancha, the Inca Sun Temple. After your tour of the highlights of this cultural and architectural gem, we’ll return to the hotel for dinner.
Day 3 - DAY 3 Back in time to a lost world
Discover the lost city of the Incas An early morning transfer will take you to Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley, from where you’ll catch a train along the narrow-gauge line to Machu Picchu, passing through stunning highland scenery along the way. After around two hours, we’ll stop at the small town of Aguas Calientes and take the short bus ride to Machu Picchu – the so-called Lost City of the Incas. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of this once-hidden settlement, marvelling at the stonewalls, terraces and ramps that are carved into the mountain. You’ll love the peaceful atmosphere of Machu Picchu as you gaze at the lowland jungle from this city in the clouds. After lunch, we’ll return to Cusco where you’ll enjoy your final night at the hotel.
Day 4 - DAY 4 Quito – city of eternal spring
Discover the vibrant city of QuitoThe day begins with breakfast at your hotel. We’ll then drive to the airport in Cusco for the morning flight via Lima to Ecuador. You´ll arrive in Quito in the afternoon. Your journey begins on the Equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s packed with well-preserved colonial architecture as evidenced in colourful plazas, magnificent churches and handsome monuments. Settle into your hotel, then head out to explore.
Day 5 - DAY 5 Visit historic Quito
Straddle the Equator at the Middle of the World City Today you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Quito’s remarkable Old Town – one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture – and sample some delicious chocolate made from finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way. Next, you’ll head to the iconic ‘Middle of the World City’, located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, you’ll visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line of the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
Day 6 - DAY 6 Your cruise begins
Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos Islands After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island in the spectacular Galápagos archipelago. A transfer brings you straight to the port where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits. In the afternoon we’ll begin our exploration of the Galápagos Islands following the north shore of Santa Cruz towards the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragón – Dragon Hill – where we’ll land. The first part of the walk here passes by a brackish lagoon that’s frequented by shorebirds and American Flamingos. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as a chance to get a first look at some land iguanas.
Day 7 - DAY 7 Wildlife-rich Isabela and Fernandina
Scan the coastline and seas for iconic species You’ll start your day at Punta Vicente Roca, on the north-western tip of Isabela Island. After breakfast, we’ll explore the coast by panga boat, learning about the dramatic geology of the area from your naturalist guides. This site is a nesting place for several bird species, so look out for Flightless Cormorants, Galápagos Penguins, and boobies. Weather permitting, you’ll get to snorkel alongside the cliffs, where you might find green sea turtles, oceanic sun fish, and fur seals. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Fernandina, an island with a unique ecology and a big population of marine iguanas. Scan the coast for sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, hawks and penguins.
Day 8 - DAY 8 Darwin’s Santa Cruz
Meet the famous giant tortoises of Galápagos Today, you’ll explore Santa Cruz Island. In the morning, we’ll disembark at Puerto Ayora to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. A giant tortoise breeding centre, here you can see recently hatched tortoises and Darwin’s famous finches – the birds he used as a basis for his theory of evolution by natural selection. There’s also an impressive forest of prickly pear cacti that’s home to many land birds. Enjoy a cooler climate over lunch in the lush highlands, where giant tortoises shuffle about munching on grass and wallowing in pools. You'll have time for another activity, including mountain biking or visiting a sugar plantation.
Day 9 - DAY 9 Picturesque Floreana
Discover Galápagos history and underwater wildlife After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a panga boat ride among the channels on Floreana’s north shore, before taking in the incredible views of the island from Baroness Cove. Later on, we’ll land at Post Office Bay to visit the historic barrel that has served as a post office in the archipelago for over two centuries. After lunch, you’ll explore the wonders around Champion Islet in a panga boat or aboard our glass-bottom boat. Here, you can snorkel in one of the best spots in the archipelago. From there, it’s onwards to Cormorant Point, where we’ll take a walk from an olivine-crystal beach to a brackish lagoon, where you can commonly see American Flamingos, Pintail Ducks and more.
Day 10 - DAY 10 Back to Baltra
Your adventure comes to an end As your expedition cruise comes to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to the wildlife and scenery of one of the world’s most incredible nature destinations. We’ll also say farewell to our wonderful crew and naturalist guides as we disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito to connect to your international flight, or if you prefer, continue to Guayaquil for another adventure. To explore more of Ecuador, why not extend your stay and join one of our optional Post-Programmes.
Day 11 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
15-02-202523-02-2025AUD $10,917Explorer Cabin - Horizon Deck
15-02-202523-02-2025AUD $11,230Explorer Cabin - Expedition Deck
15-02-202523-02-2025AUD $11,542Explorer Family Cabin - Horizon Deck
15-02-202523-02-2025AUD $11,542Explorer Cabin - Panorama Deck
15-02-202523-02-2025AUD $12,882Darwin Suite - Panorama Deck
01-03-202509-03-2025AUD $10,917Explorer Cabin - Horizon Deck
01-03-202509-03-2025AUD $11,230Explorer Cabin - Expedition Deck
01-03-202509-03-2025AUD $11,542Explorer Cabin - Panorama Deck
01-03-202509-03-2025AUD $11,542Explorer Family Cabin - Horizon Deck
01-03-202509-03-2025AUD $12,882Darwin Suite - Panorama Deck
15-03-202523-03-2025AUD $10,917Explorer Cabin - Horizon Deck
15-03-202523-03-2025AUD $11,230Explorer Cabin - Expedition Deck
15-03-202523-03-2025AUD $11,542Explorer Cabin - Panorama Deck
15-03-202523-03-2025AUD $11,542Explorer Family Cabin - Horizon Deck
15-03-202523-03-2025AUD $12,882Darwin Suite - Panorama Deck
26-03-202603-04-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
26-03-202603-04-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
09-04-202617-04-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
09-04-202617-04-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
23-04-202601-05-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
23-04-202601-05-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
07-05-202615-05-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
07-05-202615-05-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
21-05-202629-05-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
21-05-202629-05-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
04-06-202612-06-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
04-06-202612-06-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
18-06-202626-06-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
18-06-202626-06-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
02-07-202610-07-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
02-07-202610-07-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
16-07-202624-07-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
16-07-202624-07-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
30-07-202607-08-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
30-07-202607-08-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
13-08-202621-08-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
13-08-202621-08-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
27-08-202604-09-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
27-08-202604-09-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
10-09-202618-09-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
10-09-202618-09-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
24-09-202602-10-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
24-09-202602-10-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
08-10-202616-10-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
08-10-202616-10-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
22-10-202630-10-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
22-10-202630-10-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
05-11-202613-11-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
05-11-202613-11-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
19-11-202627-11-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
19-11-202627-11-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
03-12-202611-12-2026AUD $17,370Explorer Cabin
03-12-202611-12-2026AUD $21,134Darwin Suite
17-12-202625-12-2026AUD $18,286Explorer Cabin
17-12-202625-12-2026AUD $22,454Darwin Suite

Inclusions

    • Experience magnificent Machu Picchu and the incredible natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands on this land and sea adventure combination
    • See the unique wildlife of Galápagos, such as giant tortoises and marine iguanas, as you visit the islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina and Floreana
    • Learn about these incredible islands and Charles Darwin’s research from your expert Expedition Team, comprised of local naturalist guides
    • Explore the Galápagos Islands by kayak, glass-bottom boat and stand-up paddleboard, and enjoy nature walks, hikes, snorkelling and swimming

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