Read a sampling of what our
clients said about their trips
I would like to say thank you for a wonderful trip to Chile. My daughter, Alex, and I have returned yesterday, and we are amazed with this country and its people. We wish you a very Happy New Year! And we'll keep in touch.
Olga Galperin
Lodging and Meals: This tour includes accommodations for 15 nights (2 nights in Quito, 7 nights on the Ship, 2 nights in Lima, 3 nights in Cusco, and 1 night in Machu Picchu) and 19 meals (15 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 7 dinners).
Elevations: Quito is 9,350 feet above sea level, Cusco is 10,912 feet, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is 8,944 feet, and Machu Picchu is 7,900 feet.
IGTOA's Traveler Funding Program
South American Vacations is an active member of IGTOA (International Galapagos Tour Operators Association). In support of IGTOA's Traveler Funding Program, we contribute $50 for each passenger that we send to the Galapagos Islands. You'll travel knowing that you support the lasting protection of Galapagos Islands.
Sixty percent of the funding of this program goes directly to the Charles Darwin Foundation for science, conservation, and education. Their work, carried out through the Charles Darwin Research Station and Galapagos National Park, is vital to the preservation of the islands. You can visit their web site to learn more http://www.darwinfoundation.org. The remainder goes toward IGTOA's mission of creating a model of responsible and sustainable tourism.
Galapagos and Machu Picchu Including Eight Day Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty Cruise
Galapagos and Machu Picchu are two of the most popular destinations in South America. Your tour begins in Quito, which has a well-preserved colonial center and spectacular views of the Andes and nearby volcanoes. You will then travel to the Galapagos Islands for an eight day cruise aboard the Eric, Flamingo I, or Letty, where you will enjoy plant and animal species that are found nowhere else on Earth. The final part of your tour will take you to Peru to see Machu Picchu, the spectacular mountain top citadel known as the 'Lost city of the Incas'.
Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty are three identical yachts custom-designed for Galapagos cruising. They feature three decks and accommodate no more than 20 guests in ten outside-facing cabins with polished teak interiors, lower beds, a/c, and private bathrooms. Social areas include a dining room, well-stocked bar, conference room with a flat screen TV and panoramic picture windows, and a sun deck. Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and clear bottom kayaks is complimentary. (Note that these ships are sold together, and passengers will be assigned to one of the ships at the sole discretion of the operator of the ship.)
Activities: Cultural/historical sightseeing, wildlife viewing, hiking, snorkeling, and sea kayaking. Scuba diving can be arranged for an additional charge.
Note: The route and program may vary according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety reasons and wildlife encounters.
Dry Landing: Guests step from the dinghy directly onto rocks or a dock. Wet Landing: As the dinghy edges onto a sandy beach, guests step into knee-deep water and wade ashore.
Day 1: Quito
Depart to Quito. After passing through immigration and customs, proceed to the reception area, where our representative will be holding a sign with your name on it. You will be greeted and then transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Quito.
Day 2: City Tour of Quito/Middle of the World Monument
In the morning, you will have a city tour of Quito. You will explore the bustling streets and squares of the largest historical centre in the Americas, and visit some of its most important churches such as the majestic La Compania and iconic San Francisco, guardians of a stunning multi-ethnic artistic and cultural heritage. You will drive through the traditional neighborhood of San Juan and finish the morning at the Panecillo hillside, with its breathtaking views of the old and modern parts of the city.
Following the city tour, you will be driven to the "Middle of the World City" complex, which is located 11 miles north of Quito. Here, you will see the monument of the equatorial line, a 98 ft high stone trapezoidal monument with a brass globe on top. The monument forms the focal point of a park and leisure area with gift shops and restaurants. Overnight in Quito. (B)
Day 3: Quito/San Cristobal Airport/La Galapaguera Cerro Colorado
Transfer to the airport in Quito for the flight to Galapagos. Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL, our crew is waiting at the airport to escort you by bus to the dock and then by Zodiac to your yacht anchored in the bay. After the welcome briefing and safety drill, a delicious buffet lunch is served. We travel by bus to the highlands to visit Centro de Crianza Jacinto Gordillo aka La Galapaguera Cerro Colorado where the National Park has established a breeding program for the giant land tortoises that you will encounter in their natural habitat. Learn about their origin, evolution and threats by introduced animals at the information center for visitors. Along the trail, we find the San Cristobal (Chatham) mockingbird and Calandrinia plant, both endemic to this island. Join your fellow yacht mates this evening for your first briefing followed by our Captain's welcome cocktail party and dinner prepared by our well-trained chefs. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 4: Darwin Bay/Prince Philip's Steps (Tower)
We spend the entire day on TOWER (Genovesa), considered to be one of the most spectacular Islands in Galapagos for bird species. We have a wet-landing on Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where Swallow-tailed and Lava gulls gather near the tide pools. Enter a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of Great Frigate birds nest. The males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead. The trail leads through a rich inter tidal zone where we find a wide diversity of wildlife.
After lunch, we have a dry landing at Prince Philip's Steps. Red-footed boobies nest here in Palo Santo trees and Nazca Boobies nest near the trail. In an open lava field, we find Storm Petrels in large numbers. If you are lucky, we will see the elusive Short-eared owl. Chose to have a picnic lunch on deck or dine inside. Look for the beautiful Red-billed Tropic bird found in the crevices along the cliff by kayak or Zodiac. You can choose to swim or snorkel from the beach with sea lions in these northern warmer waters or for those with experience, we offer snorkeling in deeper water. Return to the yacht for briefing and dinner before we cross the equator. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 5: Las Bachas/Black Turtle Cove/Cerro Dragon (Santa Cruz)
Today we visit Las Bachas, which is the Spanish translation for "barges". There is a long stretch of a soft white sand beach and interior lagoons where we find the Greater Flamingo. There is also a wonderful chance to snorkel here from the beach. At Black Turtle Cove aka Caleta Tortuga Negra we have a zodiac ride through a series of coves and inlets surrounded by mangroves. Here you can view pairs of mating sea turtles (Sep-Feb), white-tipped reef sharks, and golden cow-nosed rays.
Located on the northern tip of Santa Cruz is Cerro Dragon aka Dragon Hill. Along the trail, we find Darwin Finches, Galapagos Flycatchers, Yellow Warblers, Audubon Shearwater and the endemic land iguanas, orange-yellow in color with large spines along their backs, were once part of the Darwin Station's breeding program. We find pink flamingos feeding in the salt-water lagoon as well as other lagoon birds; stilts, pintail ducks, sandpipers and more. From the top of the hill, we enjoy a majestic view of the bay island covered in Opuntia cactus, Palo Santo and Cordia Lutea (muyuyu). After the briefing and dinner, we sail toward the western islands and cross the equator line for the second time. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Punta Espinoza (Fernandina)/Urbina Bay/Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela)
We have a semi-wet landing at Punta Espinoza, FERNANDINA, the youngest and most pristine Island in Galapagos with no introduced mammals. Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast. Hundreds of Marine Iguanas, the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory. Flightless Cormorants build their nest on the point and Galapagos Hawks fly overhead. There is a chance to snorkel here with sea turtles.
After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Chanel where we often spot whales and dolphins riding the bow wave. We disembark at Urbina Bay, ISABELA, where we find four miles of its coastal seabed, with marine life exposed due to a dramatic uplift in 1954 when the volcano erupted. The marine remnants of coral skeletons, some of them waist-high, are visited after a wet landing on the beach. Urbina is home to the very large and colorful Galapagos land iguanas, occasionally giant tortoises, Darwin Finches. Brown Pelicans and Flightless Cormorants also nest here. Giant Marine Iguanas are seen along the coast. You may encounter penguins while snorkeling here. At Punta Vicente Roca, a Zodiac ride offers an incredible view of the tuff walls, we can enter the wave-sculpted cave and find sea turtle who frequent this area. You may spot the dorsal fin of a Mola Mola, an odd looking giant sun fish. Return to the yacht for briefing and dinner. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Elizabeth Bay/Tagus Cove (Isabela)
We visit Elizabeth Bay, ISABELA by zodiac starting with a visit to a secluded cove, lined with large red mangrove trees. Here, turtles, rays, and shore birds can be seen. We motor to the rocky islets known as "Las Marielas", where a colony of nesting Penguins, Flightless Cormorants and giant Marine Iguanas are found. Isabela was created when six volcanoes flowed together and formed the largest Island in Galapagos.
We have a dry landing at Tagus Cove, located on the western Island of ISABELA and a favorite anchorage for pirates and whalers over the centuries. Old graffiti dating back to the 1800's is written on the rocky cliffs. Explore the Coves by Zodiac or kayak to find Galapagos Penguins, Boobies, Pelicans and other seabirds. An uphill hike brings us to a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields and volcanic formations. You can snorkel from the zodiac or take out a Kayak and explore the shoreline. After dinner, a sky full of stars beckons to go on deck and observe the galaxy while crossing the equator for the last time. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Puerto Egas (Santiago)/Rabida
We stroll along the shoreline at Puerto Egas, SANTIAGO (James) looking for octopus, starfish and other sea life caught in the tide pools. At low tide, catch a glimpse of marine iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for great blue herons, lava herons, American oystercatchers and yellow-crowned night herons. Our walk ends at the grottos, deep pools of clear water where we encounter fur sea lions once on the verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, there is a snorkeling opportunity.
After lunch, take a seat on deck to view the dramatic landscape and dolphins that are often spotted here. We disembark on RABIDA (Jervis), located near James Island. Rabida is considered the geographic center of Galapagos because this island sports the most diversified volcanic rocks. The dark red sand beach originated from the high content of iron in the volcanic stones. While strolling along the trail, you may find marine iguanas, mocking birds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin Finches leading to a salt water lagoon where Greater Flamingos migrate. After the walk, there is not-to-miss snorkeling option with a large colony of sea lions. We return to the yacht for the Captain's Farwell cocktail party and dinner as well as a special slide show presentation by your guides. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 9: Highlands of Santa Cruz/Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz)
We travel by bus to the highlands of SANTA CRUZ Island. The scenery gradually changes as we wind our way through all seven vegetation zones found in Galapagos. Here, we visit the tortoise reserve at "Las Primicias" one of the private farms in the highlands where we encounter giant tortoises in their natural habitat. We stop at "the tunnels", the largest lava tubes found in Galapagos. Look out for the bright red male vermilion flycatcher.
After lunch, we will have our last briefing. In the afternoon, we visit the Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena aka Charles Darwin Research Station. See all three tortoise corals and the breeding center with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated. Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology. We stop at Van Straelen Hall where there are exhibits and a short video presentation. Visitors can see the tortoise and land iguana corrals. Puerto Ayora is the social heart of the islands with the largest population of 24,000 inhabitants. This evening you have the option to return to your yacht for a buffet dinner or remain in town on your own account. Those who return to the yacht will be provided zodiacs to return to town to shop for souvenirs or stop at an internet café. Zodiacs will be provided for your return to the yachts. Overnight aboard the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 10: Interpretation Center/San Cristobal Airport/Quito/Lima
We visit the Interpretation Center opened on San Cristobal Island in 1999 by bus. Here we gain a more complete understanding of the natural and human history of the Islands. Afterwards, we spend some time in port before heading to the airport for our flight back to Quito, and then Lima, Peru.
After passing through immigration and customs, proceed to the reception area, where our inbound services representative will be holding a sign with your name on it. You will be greeted and then transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Lima. (B)
Day 11: Lima/City Tour
In the afternoon, you will have a city tour of Lima. You will visit downtown Lima and see several examples of the Spanish architecture of the colonial period including the Plaza de Armas, the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, and the Church of San Francisco and Catacombs. After that, you will see Huaca Huallamarca, a restored adobe pyramid dating from the pre-Inca period located in San Isidro. You will tour the upscale residential and commercial district of Miraflores and see the Parque del Amor, a seaside park with a huge statue of a kissing couple, before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Lima. (B)
Day 12: Lima/Cusco/City Tour
Early morning transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Because of the high altitude (10,912 feet above sea level), we recommend that you rest for a short period. In the afternoon, you will have a city tour that includes a walk through of the Cathedral, the Koricancha ('site of gold'), typical streets, and the four ruins that surround the city: the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Kenko, Puca Pucara, and Tampumachay. Overnight in Cusco. (B)
Day 13: Cusco/Sacred Valley of the Incas
Full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including the Indian artisan market in Pisac and the fortress of Ollantaytambo. Overnight in Cusco. (B,L)
Note: The Indian market opens only Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from October to March, and daily from April to September.
Day 14: Cusco/Machu Picchu
Morning transfer to the train station for the ride to Machu Picchu, 'the Lost City of the Incas' (7,900 ft.). This mountaintop citadel, which served as both a center of worship and an astronomic observatory, is located in the middle of the cloud forest overlooking the Urubamba River. There are both agricultural and urban areas constructed with the precision stonework that the Incas are known for. The agricultural area consists of terraces and food storehouses, and the urban area contains temples, squares, and royal tombs. Guided tour followed by lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge. Free afternoon. Overnight in Aguas Calientes. (B,L)
Day 15: Machu Picchu/Cusco
This is a free day to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You may want to hike Huayna Picchu, visit the nearby hot springs of Aguas Calientes, or enjoy another activity. Mid-afternoon, you will depart from Machu Picchu by train to Poroy Station in the Sacred Valley, and then be transported to your hotel in Cusco. Overnight in Cusco. (B)
Day 16: Cusco/Lima
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima and your final destination. Depending upon the time of your departure flight from Lima, you can choose to leave Cusco on a mid-afternoon flight to Lima and stay at the airport until your flight departs, or leave Cusco on a morning flight to Lima, pay for a day use hotel (from $30) and transfers to and from the airport ($25 each way) to rest before your flight and enjoy your last day in Lima. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Galapagos and Machu Picchu Including Eight Day Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty Cruise
Save $390 per Couple on Early Bookings (Six Months in Advance) for Select 2014 Departures. Call to Request a Quote.
Single
Double
Triple
3 Star
$7,969
$5,309
$5,119
4 Star
$8,299
$5,829
$5,479
5 Star
$9,569
$6,539
$6,049
Deluxe
$11,719
$7,619
$7,389
All prices are in U.S. Dollars. Click here to see our prices in your currency.
NOTES:
The above prices are valid until December 10, 2013.
The above prices are based on an Iguana Deck Cabin during the cruise.
Singles willing to share a cabin during the cruise may receive a substantial discount on the Single price shown above.
Room/cabin upgrades and additional nights in each destination are available upon request.
Machu Picchu Pueblo, Hatuchay Tower, and Sanctuary Lodge accommodations include breakfast and dinner.
Upgrade to the Hiram Bingham train, which operates every day except Sunday, is available for $450 per person.
Oxygenated rooms are available at the Monasterio in Cusco for an additional $50 per room per day.
Christmas Season and High Season (from June to August) surcharges may apply.
Galapagos and Machu Picchu Including Eight Day Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty Cruise
The Price of This Tour Includes
South American Vacations' expert pre-departure planning services and documentation.
Airport/hotel transfers including baggage handling.
Transfers in the islands between the airport and the dock.
Hotel accommodations including service fees and taxes.
Accommodations on board the M/Y Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty.
All meals and snacks scheduled during the cruise, and others as indicated on the itinerary.
Purified water and house wine and local beer with dinner during the cruise.
Excursion to Machu Picchu via Vistadome train and all other excursions as indicated on the itinerary including all applicable entrance fees.
Two daily excursions to the islands conducted by bi-lingual naturalist guides.
Evening briefings and lectures.
Use of snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, and sea kayaks.
The Price of This Tour Does Not Include
International airfare.
Airfare from Quito to Galapagos to Quito.
Domestic airfare within Peru.
Ecuadorian international departure tax (Quito $40.80).
Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($100).
Transit control card ($10).
Meals not indicated on the itinerary.
Gratuities to ship crew and guides.
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Gifts and personal items.
Travel insurance.
We will be happy to quote the cost of international and domestic airfare, and travel insurance, and to make these arrangements for you.
Galapagos and Machu Picchu Including Eight Day Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty Cruise
Galapagos and Machu Picchu Including Eight Day Eric, Flamingo I, and Letty Cruise
