Delve into Peru and Ecuador's rich heritage as you explore some of their most beautiful cities and UNESCO-listed historic sites.
In Peru, marvel at the colonial architecture of Lima as you stroll through landmarks such as the San Francisco Monastery and the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum. The highlight of your time in Peru is visiting the world-famous ruins of Machu Picchu on a guided private tour. You’ll also have the chance to spend a second day exploring this fabulous ancient city at leisure.
After savouring the assorted charms of Peru, it's time to fly to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Quito and capital of Ecuador. Admire the city's architectural landmarks and visit the Equatorial Line Monument, where you can straddle the equatorial line and be ‘in two hemispheres at once’.
One of this holiday's popular customisations is adding the famed Galapagos Islands to your itinerary. This marvellous archipelago is renowned for its fabulous biodiversity, unspoiled landscapes and distinct wildlife.

Trip Highlights
- Enjoy a private guided tour of the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu
- Explore the colonial heritage of the UNESCO-listed cities of Lima and Quito
- Go back in time at the ancient sites of Cuzco and Sacsayhuaman
- Visit both Hemispheres simultaneously at the Equatorial Line Monument
Start your Journey
Lima
Arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, where you will be received by an English-speaking representative.
You will be taken to your hotel, where you can check in and relax for the rest of the day. We recommend a leisurely exploration of Lima’s Old Town, which has some beautiful colonial-era buildings.
Lima
Start out in the morning to explore the capital city of Lima on a sightseeing tour. Marvel at beautiful landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, the Palace of the Archbishop and the city cathedral.
Tour the stunning San Francisco Monastery before heading for the more modern areas of San Isidro and Miraflores. You will also get to enjoy some lovely views of the ocean while walking along the coastline.
Next, enjoy a private guided tour of Lima’s most renowned museum, the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum. It is home to the world’s biggest collection of private Peruvian pre-Columbian artworks and is a delightful place for art lovers.
After your tour, you can spend the rest of the day as you please. You can consider visiting Parque de la Exposicion, one of the biggest city waterparks in the world if you feel like doing something exciting.
Lima – Cuzco - Yucay
Leave for Lima’s airport to catch your flight to Cuzco. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel within the Urubamba Valley, also known as Sacred Valley. After settling in, enjoy gazing at the Urubamba River that flows through the area.
On the way to the Sacred Valley, you will get to stop at the Cochahuasi wildlife sanctuary, where you can observe native animals such as pumas, condors and aras.
Yucay
While in Yucay, you will get to visit the ‘Mercado de Urubamba’ (market). Enjoy the lively atmosphere, and test your own skills to get some good bargains. Next, travel to Ollantaytambo, a local Inca community town.
You can spend the rest of the day at leisure. We recommend an easy trek to the nearby terraces of Yucay. It is about an hour's walk, and offers you the chance to admire the beautiful scenery around you.
Yucay – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
On day five, hop on the bus to reach Ollantaytambo train station. You will be travelling through the scenic Urubamba Valley to reach the little town of Aguas Calientes.
From Aguas Calientes, another bus will wind its way through the mountains to reach the famous Machu Picchu complex. The ‘Lost City of the Incas’ is one of the most impressive ancient stone cities in the world, and seeing it s truly a magnificent experience.
Explore the sacred stone site with its impeccably crafted stone formations that are incredibly well preserved. Your knowledgeable guide tell you about the region's history.
Afterwards, head back to Aguas Calientes by shuttle bus.
Aguas Calientes – Cuzco
Today morning is yours to spend as you please. Many take the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu once again, this time without a guide. A second trip offers the chance to explore this amazing site at your own pace, and often provides a completely different experience compared to the previous day.
In the afternoon, back to Ollantaytambo by train before heading onwards to Cuzco.
Cuzco
A half-day tour of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cuzco is on the cards for day five. Discover the centre of the ancient Incan Empire and the fascinating Plaza de Arms. There is a cathedral here that stands on the remnants of the Inca Palace of the Uros Indians.
Next, travel to Sacsayhuaman, another ancient complex that is only three kilometres from the city centre of Cuzco. Here you can enjoy sprawling vistas of Cuzco City and explore the site’s ruins. The rest of the afternoon can be spent at leisure.
Cuzco - Lima
Today, you will be transferred to Cuzco airport to catch your flight to Lima. Upon arrival, you will be driven to your hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day can be spent relaxing or doing some light exploring.
You could go on a culinary tour of the area to sample some of the local delicacies. Try the fresh fruit from the city markets and traditional Peruvian fare at a neighbourhood restaurant.
Alternatively, you could go on a tour of Barranco, which is known as the bohemian district of Lima. This is where many of Peru’s renowned artists live and work. As you stroll about, admire the lovely Bridge of Sighs, the old houses and the sparkling coastline.
Lima to Quito
In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to the Ecuadorian capital of Quito. Upon arrival, you will be driven to your hotel.
Quito
Spend the day on a sightseeing tour of Quito. Learn about the city's history as you explore its historic centre. Marvel at the La Compania Church, which has a beautifully intricate frontage and interior. Next, visit Independence Square, which is home to the Government Palace and the city Cathedral.
You will also get to 'be in two places at once' at the Equatorial Line Monument, where you will get to straddle the line for the iconic picture.
Quito
You can explore more of Quito today at leisure.
Recommended excursions include spending a full day at the buzzing Otavalo Indian Market or hiking though the scenic Mino Cloud Forest to spot some colourful birds.
Quito or on to the Galapagos
You will be driven to Quito airport for your flight back home.
We recommend customising this tour to visit the nearby Galapagos Islands. This region is renowned for its amazing landscapes and incredible wildlife. Speak to our travel experts about incorporating Galapagos in your itinerary.
Plan Your Dream Trip
What To Expect
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Includes
- Cost of accommodation (double room based on two people sharing) for a total of 11 nights (alternative but similar accommodation may be used at certain times of the year)
- Meals included as detailed. Breakfast is usually a Western style buffet in your hotel, while most other meals are taken in local restaurants.
- 1 bottle of mineral water per person per day
- Private/small group (air-conditioned) transport / transfers
- Assistance and porterage: meeting and assistance on arrival/departure at airports and hotels
- English-speaking local guides for all private guided excursions as illustrated in the itinerary
- Entrance fees (excluding video camera fee) for monuments and palaces and entertainment, and park fees for all private guided excursions as illustrated in the itinerary
- Taxes
Excludes
- International flights and airfare taxes
- Visa arrangements and fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses, such as alcoholic beverages, telephone calls, laundry, camera fees, spa and business facilities in the hotel
- Video and professional still camera fees during excursions
- Gratuities for drivers, tour directors, local guides, naturalists and hotel staff
- Meals (unless specified)
- Optional attractions and excursions (unless specified)
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