Arrive in Peru’s captivating capital. A guided tour will help capture the imagination and immerse yourself in Peruvian culture, both modern and historic akin. Explore the traditional district of Pueblo Libra, where the Larco Museum is the renowned highlight; appreciate the grandiose architecture of Lima’s main square and visit the imposing 16th-century cathedral, amongst many other sites.

Fly to Cusco and transfer to the wonderful region of the Sacred Valley. The valley is widely believed to have been the agricultural heart of the Incan Empire and the next couple of days are spent discovering the secrets of this ancient and fascinating civilisation.

Visit the town of Chinchero where the local inhabitants preserve Incan artisan traditions through their dress and customs; observe demonstrations of craftwork at the Living Museum of Yucay and visit Ollantaytambo, the valley’s only town that has been continuously occupied since the Inca era. 

After transferring to Ollanta Station, board a train to Aguas Calientes for a scenic train ride through the dramatic Andean landscapes in the direction of Peru’s most iconic destination – Machu Picchu! The image of the ancient citadel will be familiar to all but it is difficult to comprehend its beauty and spiritual ambience until you stand before it in person. Your guide will be able to demystify some of the secrets of Machu Picchu and present most of its prominent landmarks such as the Main Square, the Royal Quarters, the Sacred Sun Dial and the Temple of the Three Windows. 

After a leisurely morning with further opportunity to explore Machu Picchu, head to Cusco, a charming city and former capital of the Inca Empire. Its cobbled streets are a gold mine for architecturally spectacular landmarks and a guided tour will showcase the most prominent sites. Explore the Renaissance-baroque complex of the Santo Domingo Convent and the imposing cathedral of the historic main square and then head to the hills to visit the remains of the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, its beauty elevated by its accompanying panoramic views of the city. 

Return to Lima for a final night in the capital.

Fly to Quito, the Ecuadorian capital and your springboard to the Galapagos. Spend the night in Quito before your morning flight the next day. 

After a short flight from the mainland, arrive at the Galápagos National Park and board the comfortable catamaran of the Archipel I (other vessels available on request).

Over the next four days, embark on a wonderful exploration of the wildlife-rich archipelago, island hopping and coming into close contact with some of the mesmerising species that the islands are world-renowned for. As well as plenty of opportunities to observe the wildlife, a range of activities will also be available to enhance your experiences such as hiking, snorkelling and sea-kayaking. 

Fly back to the Ecuadorian mainland where the rest of the day is free to do some final sightseeing.

On the following day, transfer to Quito airport for your onward flight, arriving back in the UK on day 14.