Bienvenidos! Welcome to Lima, Peru’s capital and one of South America’s most beautiful cities. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2 pm, where you’ll meet your fellow travellers and tour leader. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where it will take place. After the meeting, stroll the streets of downtown Lima and check out some of its main attractions on a leader-led walking tour. Enjoy free time before an optional group dinner this evening. The unofficial food capital of South America, there’s no better place to sample Peru’s national dish, ceviche, than at one of Lima’s excellent restaurants. As there's little time spent in Lima, you may like to arrive a few days early to see the sights, including the chic suburb of Miraflores, Central Park, Lovers' Park and the National Museum.

Special Information:

• This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the ‘Medical and Health Information’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

Catch an early flight to Cusco. Spend a little time acclimatising to the high altitude (3450 metres/11,320 feet) and then get acquainted with this charming town on a walking tour with your leader. Check out Cusco’s vibrant main square (Plaza de Armas). Witness the flurry of activity that characterises San Pedro market. Stroll past the slew of quaint restaurants and artisans found in San Blas Square. See Qoricancha (an Inca Sun Temple) and the famous 12 Angle Stone, then end your tour at the chocolate museum, where you’ll get a chance to sample hot chocolate made from local cacao beans. This might be a good opportunity to purchase some gifts or souvenirs. There’s a small store where you’ll find various handicrafts and a variety of artisanal chocolate products.

Included Activities:

• Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk
  
• Cusco - Chocolate Museum Visit & Hot Chocolate

Special Information:

• To catch the early flight we will be leaving the hotel at 5.30 am, as such the hotel can only provide a basic breakfast of bread, butter, jam and coffee.

Travel by private bus through the Sacred Valley (approximately 2 hours) on the outskirts of Cusco. This lush valley was known as Wilcamayo to the Incas and has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls. You will visit a community in the valley to learn about local lifestyle and activities. If your visit coincides with market day you can browse the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos, and perhaps practice your newfound language, Quechua.

Later in the afternoon, board a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, which is nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu. This extra journey ensures that we can travel to Machu Picchu as early as possible tomorrow morning.

Included Activities:

• Sacred Valley - Community visit & lunch

Take a bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu (approximately 30 minutes). This is your chance to decide for yourself whether Machu Picchu was built around 1440 as a country retreat for Incan nobility or is an ancient astronomical observatory. Enjoy a guided visit of the incredible site (1.5–2 hours) with plenty of free time afterwards to wander around the many temples, palaces and living quarters. After taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, return to Cusco.

Note: Due to Intrepid's internal safety policy, our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking climbs of Wayna Picchu.

Visiting Machu Picchu:
According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only and once the guided visit commences exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.

Included Activities:

• Machu Picchu - Entrance and guided tour

Special Information:

• Sunrise at Machu Picchu: The first bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu departs at 5.30 am. The estimated arrival time is between 6-6.30 am The sun rises at Machu Picchu at approximately 5.30 am, therefore it's not possible to be there in time for sunrise.

Enjoy free time to relax, shop and explore more of Cusco's sights, or simply rest your legs at a cafe on Plaza de Armas. For those who can't get enough active adventure, a mountain bike adventure into the surrounding hills is recommended.

Special Information:

• RAINBOW MOUNTAIN: Before you trip comes to an end, why not pay a visit to Instagram’s most popular mountain - Rainbow mountain (or Vinicunca in Quechua, the local language). This activity involves climbing up to more than 5000 meters above sea level in one day, which can lead to life threatening altitude sickness. As such, our tour leaders are only able to assist you booking this activity at the end of your stay in Cusco (when you will be better acclimatised) and on our own operated departures where we have full control over the safety aspects of this activity (such as transport, oxygen, emergency horses, adequate first aid kits and experienced guides). The price indicated for is indicative only and the final price will depend on the total number of travellers taking this activity. Ultimately the price can range from as little as $56 (with 16 travellers) to $216 for 2 travellers. A minimum of 2 travellers is required to operate this activity. Your tour leader can assist with booking this on the ground.

Travel by local bus across the spectacular Altiplano to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca (approximately 7 hours). Mingle with the locals in this melting pot of Aymara and Quechuan cultures and see how traditional Andean customs are still strongly represented here. If you're lucky your visit might coincide with one of the colourful evening parades, which see the streets fill with costumed dancers and musicians.

Take a tour of the lake by slow motor boat, stopping off to visit the Uros floating islands. Using the versatile totora reeds found in the shallows of the lake, the Uros originally built their islands to isolate themselves from rival tribes. To get a closer look at daily life in the Lake Titicaca region, you'll be welcomed into the home of a local community and stay the night. Make the most of your visit by helping your host family with their daily activities, communicating to them in Quechua or perhaps trying your luck with them at soccer.

Included Activities:

• Lake Titicaca - Boat tour & Homestay

Depart your homestay this morning and take a bus to Juliaca airport (approximately 2 hours). In the afternoon take an included flight flight back to Lima (approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes). Enjoy a last night out with your fellow travellers in Lima.

Today, transfer to the airport and board an included flight from Lima to Ecuador’s capital, Quito. Once arrived, there are no activities planned until another group meeting held at 2 pm, where you’ll be briefed on the next stage of your South American adventure. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where it will take place. Quito is one of the most attractive cities in South America, sitting at an altitude of 2850 metres with a view of Volcan Pichincha on the horizon. Later on, you’ll have a city tour to show the beautiful Colonial style buildings and help you explore the nooks and crannies of cosy Old Town. We’ll be back in Quito at the end of the trip, giving you a chance to further experience the city.

There are a lot of optional activities that, if you have time, you may like to book into either today or at the end of your adventure. They include:

Cotopaxi Volcano: For something more active, head out to the 5897-metre-high Cotopaxi Volcano – drop by the National Park museum, then hike for around 2 hours and visit the picturesque Limpiopungo Lagoon.

Quilotoa Lagoon: if you’re into lagoons, maybe take a full day trip to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon. Early in the morning, drive 3 hours south through the local communities and Andes views of the Avenue of Volcanoes. Then hike (2 hours return) to the beautiful Quilotoa volcano crater lagoon, before returning to Quito. Something more chill is a full day at the Papallacta Hot Springs – take a scenic drive, reaching heights of 4150 metres, and then relax in springs with views to the towering Antisana Volcano.

Papallacta: Something more chill is a full day at the Papallacta Hot Springs – take a scenic drive, reaching heights of 4150 metres, and then relax in springs with views to the towering Antisana Volcano.

Special Information:

• As this is a combination trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today. There will be a welcome meeting today to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and meet travellers joining you. It’s important that you attend the meeting as your new leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
• We recommend not partaking in any strenuous activity until you have time to gauge your reaction to the city’s high altitude, as some people experience mild symptoms of attitude sickness such as dizziness, shortness of breath and sleeplessness. Please see the 'Health' section in the Essential Trip Information for more details.

Catch an early morning transfer to Quito airport (approximately 45 minutes - 1 hour) for your flight to San Cristobal Island, Galapagos. The flight will take approximately 3.5 hrs including a stop in Guayaquil to pick up additional passengers (you will not need to disembark the plane). The departure time will be between 8.20 am and 10.30 am depending on flight schedules.

Once you have passed through all the checks and formalities have been completed, transfer from the airport to the hotel (approximately 15 minutes). Soon after, travel to La Loberia where you'll put on snorkelling gear for the first time and go for a swim with sea lions, and maybe even some sea turtles! After an entertaining afternoon, continue back to town, where tonight you may wish to head out with your travel friends and enjoy some of the fresh seafood available.

Included Activities:

• Isla San Cristobal- Snorkeling in La Loberia (1.5 Hours)

Special Information:

• Please note that the Galapagos National Institute has introduced a Transit Control Card. This card has a cost of USD 20 and it must be purchased by every person travelling to the Galapagos Islands. You will need to purchase this card upon arrival to the domestic airport, prior to checking in to your Galapagos flight. Upon arrival you’ll need to go through immigration and pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee of USD 100 in cash, preferably in small bills.

Today begins with a 45-minute boat ride to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock). On the way we might be able to spot nesting frigates and blue-footed boobies. There is also potential to swim among playful young sea lions. At Leon Dormido you can snorkel and look for sea turtles, manta rays and maybe the odd harmless Galapagos shark. Currents can be quite strong so it's important you are a confident swimmer to participate in this activity.

If you have any concerns, please ensure you speak with your leader. Eat lunch on the boat then head to the Interpretation Center. Learn about the history of the 'Enchanted Islands' and the conservation projects which seek to preserve them. Continue to Frigatebird Hill (Cerro Tijeretas), which is located two kilometres from the Interpretation Center. It's quite a climb to the top, but well worth the amazing views of the bay. Return to town in the late afternoon or early evening.

Included Activities:

• San Cristobal - Excursion to Leon Dormido or Lobos Islands
• Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center (45 minutes)
• Isla San Cristobal - Cerro Tijeretas View Point (1 Hour)

Special Information:

• If we are unable to visit Leon Dormido, alternative plans will be made to visit Isla Lobos, where sea lions, marine birds and marine iguanas are plentiful.

Take an early morning boat ride towards Isla Floreana, which should take about 2.5 hours. Along the way keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as dolphins and whales. On arrival to the island, snorkel in the clear blue waters and then break for lunch. Afterwards venture to a black-sand beach which belongs to the Witmers, decedents of some of the first settlers on the Galapagos. The town here, Puerto Velasco Ibarra, has about 150 residents and an intriguing history involving deaths, disappearances and murders. Later in the afternoon, wave goodbye to Floreana and continue to Isla Isabela (approximately 2 hours). From Isabela Port it's a short transfer to the hotel where we will spend the night (approximately 15 minutes).

Included Activities:
Floreana - Snorkeling

Special Information:
Please note when you arrive at Isla Isabela, you'll need to pay a port fee of USD 10.

Start your second day on Isla Isabela with a short bus ride (approximately 15 minutes) to the Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center where you'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development. The centre has almost a thousand giant tortoises preparing for life on their own. Afterwards, head to a brackish lagoon to observe flamingos. In the afternoon, board a small Zodiac (panga) and cruise to Las Tintoreras (Shark Alley), looking out en roue for blue-footed boobies and the famous Galapagos penguin. On arrival, take a short walk on this isolated islet and popular iguana nesting site. Snorkel in a calm inlet with colourful fish and winding underground lava tubes. This area is frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom.

In the late afternoon return to town in search of your own sandy resting spot and enjoy your first Isabela sunset, arguably the most beautiful of all the islands.

Included Activities:

• Isla Isabela -Tintoreras or Shark Alley (2.5 Hours)
• Isla Isabela - Flamingo lagoon visit (30 Minutes)
• Isla Isabela - Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre (1 Hour)

Start your last day on Isla Isabela by heading towards the Sierra Negra Volcano (approximately 45 minutes by bus), one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos and the second-largest crater in the world. Weather permitting, take a challenging hike of around 17 kilometres up the rocky mountain, which takes 5—6 hours. After the hike, make your way back to town for some free time to curl up with a book or venture down to the water for a relaxing swim before dinner.

Included Activities:

• Isla Isabela- Sierra Negra Volcano Hike (5-6 Hours)

Special Information:

• Unfortunately, recycling isn't available on Isabela, so please take your plastic rubbish with you.
• Please ensure you wear comfortable walking shoes that offer good support for the hike today. During the rainy season it can get quite muddy. There's an option to hire gumboots locally, should you wish to do so. During the hike it can get quite hot and there isn't much shade along the way so be sure to come prepared with your hat, sunscreen and plenty of water (we recommend 2 litres per person).

Start the day with a kayak around Isabela before transferring by private speedboat to Isla Santa Cruz. Once you arrive on Santa Cruz head to a restaurant that offers a typical Eduadorian lunch package, simply referred to as ‘Menu’. This usually this consists of a fresh juice, a basic entree (usually a soup) and a main meal. These lunch deals are very popular throughout Ecuador so it’s a great way to eat like a local. In the afternoon enjoy free time to further explore the town or go on an optional excursion to the Charles Darwin Research Centre.

Included Activities:

• Kayaking - Isla Isabela

In the afternoon visit the highland of Isla Santa Cruz to observe the giant tortoise roaming the wild. Afterwards visit a locally owned sugar cane farm. Here the farmers will show us the ways sugar cane is processed and turned into alcohol. Along the way, keep an eye out for eagle rays, sea turtles and blue-footed boobies. Later, head back to Puerto Ayora.

Included Activities:

• Santa Cruz Highlands Visit (3 Hours)
• Isla Santa Cruz - Tortuga Bay walk

We say goodbye to the Galapagos today and take a flight back to Quito (Please note the flight will make a stop in Guayaquil). You'll arrive back to Quito later afternoon. Perhaps head out for a final group dinner with your travel pals to celebrate your South American adventure.

At the appropriate time, make your way to Quito airoport in time to connect with your ongoing flight to Santiago. Your Tour Leader will be able to assist you make transport arrangements on the ground. 

Once in Santiago, you will be collected from Santiago airport and transfered to your centally located hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to start exploring Santiago, a city which is full of life, art, and food. The centre is quite compact and easy to get around. The city's centre is roughly triangular in shape with the Plaza de Armas – at the centre. Perhaps head out to Barrio Bella Vista, Santiago's 'Paris Quarter', and take a cable car up to Cerro San Cristobal. If the weather’s fine, you’ll have lovely views over the city and the Andes.

This morning you’ll be collected from your hotel for a city tour of the city. Explore the city, which was founded in 1541 by the Spaniard Pedro de Valdivia, and has experienced a turbulent history that has included native wars, floods and earthquakes. Head to the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city and home to the cathedral. The cathedral has recently undergone renovations, so now is the ideal time to visit. The square is also home to the Royal Court Palace, Natural History Museum and Central Post Office. Continue on to Cerro Santa Lucia, the hill where de Valdivia began the settlement. Today it’s a park of fountains and a fort that offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. Return to your accommodation and enjoy the rest of the day to explore if you wish. Your hotel is centrally located and vibrant cafes and restaurants are all within walking distance.

This morning you will be collected from your hotel and travel west towards the Pacific Ocean and Valparaiso (approximately 2 hours). On your way, wind through the Casablanca Valley, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Chilean wine and have a premium tasting at world class winery. Vines have been grown in the valley since the mid-1980s. and the cool climate is ideal for whites like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, plus a drop of Pinot Noir, and you’ll be tasting some of them today. Continue on to the historic port town of Valparaiso, a vibrant maze of hills where the residents have done their best to fit the colourful houses and buildings on whatever patch of land possible. It’s a cultural capital of Chile with festival throughout the year and on some of the world’s best street art hidden in the labyrinth of laneways and corners. You’ll get a perfect view of the hills and the city from the coast, then take a walk around town, where the historic quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the funicular lifts are an historical treasure. Discover the hidden art galleries, small cafes and breweries and then get suggestions from your guide for your lunch. After filling up on the food and culture of Valparaiso return to Santiago and your hotel, with time to relax and explore the city one final time.

As they say, all good things must come to an end. Today marks the end of your incredible tour through South America. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight home.

Check out:  Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or alternatively please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time.