Galápagos by Catamaran, Machu Picchu and Peru's Land of the Inca

Arrive in Ecuador, either in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city in the Andes, or in the coastal city of Guayaquil, for an included transfer to your convenient hotel overnight. Both cities are well-served by international carriers, and Galápagos flights start and end in Quito with a stop in Guayaquil. You may opt for a pre-voyage extension to Mashpi Reserve in the tropical Andes. Or arrive just one day early to join the See Quito Pre-Voyage Extension.

Arrival Time: Anytime.  
Arrival City: Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador 

Fly to the Galápagos and embark National Geographic Delfina, a stable and stylish catamaran accommodating 16 guests, available as a private charter. Explore the islands and their remarkable wildlife.

The second major jumping off point for the Galapagos Islands after Quito, this is a little city with a big heart. A sea port first and foremost, the city’s personality has been founded on that, and all the better it is for it too. Almost Caribbean in feeling, the clement climate coupled with the intermingling rhythms floating from the windows and abundance of fresh seafood make this a very tropical destination. Once not even considered by the travel books as a potential destination in its own right, the city has undergone something of a resurgence in the past few years. Proud Guayaquileños will not hestitate to point out the Malecón or the exciting new riverfront promenade, once a no-go area after dark, now happily (and hippily) lined with museums, restaurants, shops, and ongoing entertainment. The new airport and urban transportation network are also lauded to the happy tourists who find themselves here. As the largest and most populous city in Ecuador as well as being the commercial centre, it would only be natural that the city would have some kind of modern architecture, but it is the colourful favelas, or to use their real name guasmos, that cling to the side of the hillside like limpets that really catch your eye. A blend of old and new, the first inhabitants can be traced back to 1948 when the government cleared the area for affordable housing, these shanty towns are witness to the social and political particularities that Guayaquil has faced in the past.

Galápagos Islands are a group of volcanic islands located in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador. They are famous for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. The islands played a key role in the development of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. With diverse ecosystems and protected national parks, they are considered one of the world’s most important natural reserves. Today, the Galápagos Islands attract visitors and scientists interested in biodiversity and conservation.

The second major jumping off point for the Galapagos Islands after Quito, this is a little city with a big heart. A sea port first and foremost, the city’s personality has been founded on that, and all the better it is for it too. Almost Caribbean in feeling, the clement climate coupled with the intermingling rhythms floating from the windows and abundance of fresh seafood make this a very tropical destination. Once not even considered by the travel books as a potential destination in its own right, the city has undergone something of a resurgence in the past few years. Proud Guayaquileños will not hestitate to point out the Malecón or the exciting new riverfront promenade, once a no-go area after dark, now happily (and hippily) lined with museums, restaurants, shops, and ongoing entertainment. The new airport and urban transportation network are also lauded to the happy tourists who find themselves here. As the largest and most populous city in Ecuador as well as being the commercial centre, it would only be natural that the city would have some kind of modern architecture, but it is the colourful favelas, or to use their real name guasmos, that cling to the side of the hillside like limpets that really catch your eye. A blend of old and new, the first inhabitants can be traced back to 1948 when the government cleared the area for affordable housing, these shanty towns are witness to the social and political particularities that Guayaquil has faced in the past.

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores' upscale vibe to Barranco's bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima's bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Cusco is a historic city located in the Andes Mountains of southeastern Peru. It was once the capital of the Inca Empire and remains an important cultural center today. The city is known for its unique blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. Cusco serves as the main gateway to the famous archaeological site of Machu Picchu. With its rich history, vibrant traditions, and scenic mountain setting, it is one of the most visited destinations in South America.

Spend the day exploring the archaeological sites and culture of the Sacred Valley in the company of National Geographic expert Peter Frost (or a colleague), who has lived and worked in Peru for decades. He or a colleague joins you for a talk at your hotel and a visit to the massive Inca stone fortress of Ollantaytambo, set above a thriving Inca community. Lunch is at a working, family-owned hacienda, where you'll be treated to a show of Peruvian Paso horses, and National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa, founder of El Centro de Textiles Tradicionales de Cusco, demonstrates Inca weaving traditions. Don't forget to pack your duffel bag for your 2-day trip to Machu Picchu.

Awaken this morning and return to Machu Picchu, where your local and veteran guides share their intimate understanding of this site, focusing on the history and far-reaching cultural influence. After lunch, return by train and bus to Cusco—the center of the Inca universe, a burgeoning cultural capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check into the Belmond Hotel Monasterio on Plaza Nazarenas in the heart of Cusco for two nights. Occupying a monastery founded in 1592, the hotel—like much of colonial Cusco—is built atop Inca stones.

Cusco is a historic city located in the Andes Mountains of southeastern Peru. It was once the capital of the Inca Empire and remains an important cultural center today. The city is known for its unique blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. Cusco serves as the main gateway to the famous archaeological site of Machu Picchu. With its rich history, vibrant traditions, and scenic mountain setting, it is one of the most visited destinations in South America.

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores' upscale vibe to Barranco's bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima's bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.