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Llama Trekking on the Great Northern Inca Trail

Walk & Trek
Guided Group
MODERATE MODERATE

Follow Ancient Forgotten Roads of the Incas on a High-Altitude Llama Trek Through Remote Peru

Trip Code: GIT
Holiday Grades
          

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

 1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

For anyone who enjoys exploring on foot rather than always in a vehicle. A mixture of sightseeing and easier walking of around 2-5hrs a day. Walking paths could be around sites, through cities or on well marked trails and at lower altitudes (under 2500m). Regions are rarely flat so some ascent or descents could be expected but rarely above around 300 – 400m per day.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as regular walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

Suitable for fit weekend walkers. Consecutive walking days, of around 4-8 hours on generally good paths. Ascents and descents will increase and could be 1000m+ but often less. Some walking may be at higher altitude (3000m – 4500m) with the occasional higher pass and you may have some walking on snow. There may be occasions where you have to carry overnight kit on one or two days.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

Previous trekking experience and a good level of fitness is required for these trips as there will be consecutive days of longer trekking in more remote areas with rougher paths. Days will be around 5-9 hours often with some steep ascents and descents. Some ice/snow trekking is possible with the use of crampons and/ice axe. You may be required to carry a heavier backpack with overnight essentials or equipment for some days and sleeping at higher altitudes (generally up to 5000m).

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Llama Trekking on the Great Northern Inca Trail

Highlights
  • Walk in the footsteps of the Inca, as you traverse a well-preserved portion of the Great Inca Trail that connected Cusco, Peru with Cuenca, Ecuador.

  • Two days acclimatisation hikes to the high alpine lakes in the Ancash region near Huaraz.

  • Immerse yourself in amazing Andean landscapes bordered by snowy peaks, deep canyons, and stupendous panoramic views

  • Explore the archaeological site of Chavín and its mysterious temple, one of the most ancient ceremonial sites on Earth!

  • Ascend the Inca staircase that takes you to the Continental Divide, separating the Amazon and the Pacific Ocean side of magnificent Peru.


Accommodation & Meals
Overview

Embark on a journey through time as you explore one of the best-preserved portions of the Great Inca trail that connected Cusco, the ancient ceremonial capital of the Inca Empire, with Tomebamba, her northern sister city that is modern-day Cuenca, Ecuador. Explore over 70 km. of the main artery of the greatest road network in Pre-Columbian Latin America, speckled with archaeological sites in the remote landscapes of Northern Peru’s Central Andes. We’ll begin with a visit to Chavín de Huantar, a mysterious temple where ancient religious ceremonies took place over 3,000 years ago. We will immerse in diverse natural landscapes, crossing the Continental Divide and trek across two regions: Ancash and Huánuco, experiencing amazing vistas along the journey. On our last day we’ll arrive at Huánuco Pampa, the largest Inca administrative centre outside the department of Cusco where the engineering feats achieved by a civilization whose abilities with stonecutting and placement remain unmatched to this day. This amazing trek will challenge, delight, and inspire you.

Is this holiday for you?

This is a classic trekking holiday on which we will encounter a variety of underfoot conditions. While the trails are non-technical, they include steep ascents and descents, long stretches of stone-paved Inca roads, mountain passes, and uneven, at times remote, terrain.

You should have a good level of fitness and be comfortable with walking up to 8 hours each day. The route includes several days of trekking at high altitude, often above 4,000 metres. To help you acclimatise and enjoy your trekking holiday, we have allowed three nights at around 3000 metres, and two acclimatisation walks, before we start trekking.

This is a fully supported trek and you will only be required to carry your day-pack each day. Our friendly camp crew will take care of all the camp chores, so when in camp you can relax, rest and enjoy the views.

Why KE?

Why KE text goes here.....

Itinerary

Download Trip Notes

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional and qualified English speaking Tour Leader

  • Lima Airport transfers as described in the itinerary

  • Accommodation as described

  • Meals as described in the meal plan

  • All land transport involved in the itinerary

  • Full service camping including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)

  • Waterproof Duffel Bag whilst trekking

  • Inflatable sleeping mat whilst camping

  • Travel insurance

  • Some meals as described in the meal plan

  • Tips for porters and other trek staff

  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.

The group will meet at the hotel in Lima. A single timed group transfer from the airport to the hotel in Lima is included.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All breakfasts, 9 lunches and 5 dinners are included in the holiday price. For the 5 nights in in Lima and Huaraz, evening meals have not been included as there is a wide choice of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. While trekking a full trek service including all meals is provided.

Drinking Water

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

Food in Peru

On trek the food provided will be a mixture of local and worldwide favourites, with all ingredients purchased in Peru and cooked for us by highly trained staff cooks.  The food our cooks are able to produce on trek will be a taste sensation! Lunch is usually a picnic - fresh fruit, salad and bread, cheeses, cold meats, avocado and plenty to drink. Dinners will be three courses and the menus will be flavoursome and varied. There will be no problem catering for vegetarians.

In Lima and Huaraz there is a wide range of restaurants cafes and bars serving excellent and varied cuisine! Meals, apart from breakfast, are not included here so you are free to make your own choice of restaurant and menu. If you are looking to sample some traditional Peruvian fare we can recommend trying Ceviche, a dish of raw fished marinated in citrus juice (the acid in the citrus juice effectively ‘cooks’ the fish), which is the unofficial national dish of Peru! The name Ceviche actually comes from the Quechua word ‘siwichi’, meaning fresh fish. Guinea Pig or ‘Cuy’ is also a common delicacy in the Andes and has been eaten at special occasions since the time of the Incas! Usually served roasted or barbequed, Guinea Pig meat has a gamey taste. It is very high in protein and low in cholesterol. A particular speciality in Huaraz is the Picante de Cuy Estilo Huarancino (Guinea Pig Hot Stew Huaraz Style!).

When it comes to drinks, before and during your trek we can recommend drinking Mate de Coca. It takes a little time to acclimatise to Huaraz’s 3000m elevation and one of the things that is said to help acclimatisation is supping this mildly stimulating, greenish and unusual tasting ‘tea’ made by steeping fresh coca leaves in boiling water. Those looking to celebrate the end of their holiday with an alcoholic beverage (best saved till post trek when you are fully acclimatised!) should seek out a ‘Pisco Sour’. This classic South American cocktail, made by mixing the Peruvian liquor Pisco with lime juice, egg white and bitters, is incredibly moreish!

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide for special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your meals with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

During the holiday you will spend 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Lima on arrival and 4 nights in a simple, centrally located hotel in the mountain town of Huaraz (3 nights before the main trek and 1 night post trek).

Whilst trekking there will be a total of 5 nights camping where your will receive a full service from our friendly camp crew. You will sleep in roomy 2 man dome tents, with a porch, and inflatable camping mattresses are provided. All the camp equipment and luggage will be transported between camps by Llamas, so you need only carry your day pack each day. Our camp crew will erect and dismantle the tents for you, cook, and take care of all the camp chores. The crew will de-camp each morning and it is usual for them to overtake the group during the day and have the next camp established and the kettle on by the time you arrive! In camp, as well as the tents used for sleeping, there will also be a mess tent, with chairs and tables, where the group will dine (and socialise into the evening) and a toilet tent. Hot water for washing will also be provided to you in the mornings and when you arrive at the camp each day.

All accommodation is allocated on a twin-sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. It is possible to hire a single tent while on trek for an additional cost. This must be arranged ahead of departure and is subject to availability (please note that single tent hire does not include single rooms in hotels).

Depending on availability, it may also be possible to pre-book single hotel rooms. For additional hotel prices and single supplement costs please refer to the dates and prices page of the trip on our website.

The group will be led by a professional and qualified tour leader. Whilst on trek the group will be supported by a full trek crew including camp assistants and cook. The baggage on the trek is transported between the camps by Llamas and their handlers. Llamas are a traditional method of transporting goods, and more recently baggage, as they are light on their feet and do not damage the ancient Inca stone pathways and steps.

This holiday involves going to very high altitude. During the course of your trip you will be spending at least one night above 4000 metres and/or trekking to 5000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude. Unless you have previous experience of trekking above 4000 metres you should consult one of our trekking experts before embarking on this holiday. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies.

We estimate that $400 (or equivalent in €/$) will be sufficient to cover your requirements including the non-included meals and incidental expenses such as tips for drivers, trek crew and local guides. There are a total of 5 dinners which you will need to pay for directly and we recommend you budget $10 - $25 dollars per meal. There is no need to purchase local currency (Peruvian Soles) prior to travelling. It is possible to withdraw your money in local currency from ATMs in Huaraz. If you are bringing your travel money with you we recommend you bring it in the form of US dollars in cash as this provides for the easiest exchange. Please note that it is more difficult to change money in Huaraz. Credit cards can be used to purchase goods and to pay for meals in Lima.

Tipping is common in Peru, however you must remember that it is voluntary, and how much you give depends on how you feel about the service you have received. Airport baggage carriers are the only exception and tipping is compulsory. These people are unwaged and make a living by carrying your luggage. The general rule is 1 or 2 soles per bag. For hotel staff, tipping is not expected, but is welcome. For hotel porters 1 or 2 soles per bag is reasonable. Drivers of standard taxis do not usually expect a tip. As with most countries, it is usual to tip in restaurants and 10% is expected for good service.

For the support crew on trek (guides, cooks, porters etc.), it is recommended that each client contributes around £65 to a group tipping pool.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft duffel bag such and a daypack. Your bag on trek will be carried by porters or pack animals and should not weigh more than 15kg. It is possible to leave extra baggage at the hotel in Huaraz. For international flights please check your baggage allowance with your airline.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders.

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

For other nationalities, please refer to your own Government website for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents including vaccinations and health certificates (see Health & Vaccinations below), and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check the FCDO for the latest advice for each country visited before travel.

Visa Peru

UK and USA passport holders do not require a visa for short stays. When passing through immigration you will need to request a copy of your TAM Migration form. You will need to retain this document and keep it safe, as you will be asked to produce it before you depart Peru. Please note that a paper copy of travel insurance is required for people travelling to Huaraz and the Huayhuash region.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH THE USA

You will require an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any US-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is currently US$21, increasing to US$40 from 30 September 2025. You should apply for it at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. With the ESTA complete, the majority of British Citizen passport holders can enter the US under the Visa Waiver Programme, VWP. You will be required to have a passport with an integrated chip. Note that if you have travelled to Cuba, Iran, Syria or North Korea since March 2011* you will have to apply for a visa rather than the Visa Waiver Programme (* a full and up to date list of countries can be found on the US government website here.)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH CANADA

All citizens (except for USA citizens) will require an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any Canada-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is CAD$7 and you should apply for it at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta-start.asp

 

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. In addition you should check whether any specific vaccinations are needed to the regions that you are travelling to. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

Malaria

Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Zika Virus

Zika virus has been confirmed as active in this country. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that transmit ZIKV are unlikely to be found above 2,000m altitude. For more information, visit the website of the National Travel Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk.

Severe Allergies

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. You should be aerobically fit and comfortable with walking for 6 - 8 hours for consecutive days. Hill walking, with a good amount of ascent and descent, is the best training, and we would suggest that you try to fit in a number of long weekend walks before you depart. Running, cycling and swimming are also good for developing cardio vascular fitness and stamina.

There is little you can do to prepare for the altitude but if you have an excellent level of fitness this can help.

The Southern Hemisphere winter season of April through to October is the optimum period for trekking in this part of Peru. We can expect the days to be warm and generally sunny, with temperatures between 12 and 20°C above c. 3500 metres. during this season, the night-time temperatures will fall below freezing. At our highest camps we might experience night-time temperatures as low as -5°C. Even though this is winter, Lima is only 12 degrees south of the equator, and the daytime temperatures in the capital will be 20 to 25°C, with quite cool nights.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Trekking and Climbing in the Andes. Kate Harper and Val Pitkethly.

  • Flight of the Condor. Michael Andrews.

  • The Conquest of the Incas. John Hemming (MacMillan)

  • Peru - the Rough Guide. Dilwyn Jenkins.

  • The Andes - Time Life Books.

  • The Andes are Prickly. Martin Slessor.

  • The Trekkers Handbook. Tom Gilchrist.

  • Latin America Spanish Phrasebook. Lonely Planet.

Make this KE Adventure holiday your own!
  • Do our normal group departure dates not fit? 

  • Would you prefer to travel with just friends and/or family? 

  • Are you looking to organise a trip for your local walking, biking or mountaineering club?

It's really easy to make a trip your own. Simply select from our full range of adventure holidays and choose the dates that work for you and your group. 

We are experts in creating holidays for groups of friends, families, charities and clubs.  Our personal service means you’ll be fully involved as we make the arrangements for your perfect adventure holiday.

Independence with Security

Travelling as a KE Private Group allows you more flexibility and choice, but still with the peace of mind that everything is pre-planned and arranged for your group by a reputable adventure travel company.

To take your first step to an amazing adventure with your friends and family complete the private group enquiry form, or call our Sales Experts on: 017687 73966

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.  The packed weight of your kit bag whilst trekking should be no more than 15 kgs.

You must bring the following items:

  • Hiking boots

  • Socks

  • Trekking trousers

  • Waterproof over-trousers

  • Underwear

  • Baselayer shirts (2 short sleeve, 2 long sleeve)

  • Casual shirts and/or T-shirts

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Warm jacket (down)

  • Sunhat

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Lightweight thermal gloves

  • Warmer gloves or mittens

  • Sleeping bag (comfort rated -20°C) (Sleeping mattresses are provided locally)

  • Daypack 30 - 40 litres

  • Headtorch and spare batteries

  • Basic First Aid Kit including: Antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), Diamox, painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).

  • Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)

  • Water bottles 1 Litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets
  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Antibacterial handwash

  • Travel towel

  • Selection of dry bags (to keep kit bag contents dry)

  • Small padlock

The following items are optional:

  • Trainers or similar for travelling and camp use

  • Spare laces

  • Gaiters

  • Shorts

  • Thermal baselayer - leggings

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Travel clothes

  • Trekking poles

  • Insect repellant (DEET) - highly recommended

  • Pen-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)

  • Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)

  • Camera

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes

An inflatable camping mattress (thermarest) will be provided.

Extensions

Extension Details

Machu Picchu and Cusco Extension

4 Days

The ruins of Machu Picchu, rediscovered in 1911, after 500 years under dense vegetation, are one of the man-made wonders of the world. This itinerary also includes time for sightseeing in and around this former Inca capital of Cusco, which is renowned for the wealth of its Inca stonework and for its extravagant Spanish Colonial architecture. We then take the scenic train to Machu Picchu for a full day guided sightseeing tour of this incredible Inca city before returning to Cusco for a final evening.

Extension Code: MPCU

Extension Itinerary

Arrival and overnight in Cusco.

Morning sightseeing tour of Cusco and the main ruin sites. In the afternoon we'll drive to Urubamba in the Sacred Valley of Incas .

Meals

B

Take the tourist train to Aguas Calientes, your guide will be waiting for you on arrival at the station and you will then the bus up to visit Machu Picchu. You will complete one of the circuits around the site guided by a private tour guide. Mid to late afternoon return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer by private vehicle to your hotel in Cusco.

Meals

B

Transfer to the airport.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • English speaking guide
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation in a centrally located hotel in Cusco
  • 1 night hotel in Ollantaytambo
  • Meals specified in the itinerary
  • Guided sightseeing tours in Cusco the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
  • All permits and entrance fees
  • transfers on arrival/departure from Cusco
  • All land transport required by the itinerary.
What's Not Included
  • Flights to/from Cusco
  • Tips to local staff
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Drinks
  • Souvenirs etc.
Extension Details

Galapagos Islands Cruise

7 Days

Create the perfect holiday-of-a-lifetime by adding an exploratory cruise of the stunning and unique Galapagos Islands

Needing little in the way of introduction, the Galapagos Islands are one of the most pristine natural environments left on Earth. Over 600 miles separate them from mainland Ecuador, meaning they have enjoyed splendid isolation and provide a habitat for a bewildering array of birds, reptiles, mammals and sea life you simply won't find anywhere else.

We have a variety of ships and itineraries and you can choose from two levels of service - Standard and Upgraded, many of which are more affordable than you may have thought. Itineraries are typically between 7 and 10 days which is the optimum length for visiting this natural paradise. During your cruise you will visit a number of the islands, each distinct and renowned in their own right. Sometimes these will be `dry` landings where you step onto a pier and at others you will make `wet` landings where you reach the island by small inflatable boats and step directly onto the beach. Every boat has a slightly different itinerary but all are focused on seeing as much of the amazing Galapagos wildlife as possible. There is also plenty of time for relaxation and for swimming and snorkelling from the boats. All of our itineraries begin and end in Quito and include the flight out to the islands.

Please contact us for details on availability, itinerary options and pricing. (Sample itinerary detailed below)

You might also want to consider our 10 day Galapagos Islands Adventure, for a more active and immersive experience of these diverse islands. This shore based trip stays in cosy small hotels and guesthouses, allowing us to experience the beaches and wildlife in the early mornings and evenings when the main tourists have disappeared on their boats. Alternatively, if you are looking for something a more luxurious why not spoil yourself on one of our Galapagos Cruises aboard the luxury Monserrat Motor Yacht.

Book this trip as a stand alone tour or in addition to any of our Latin America holidays.

Extension Code: GALP
Sharing Price from
US$3,505

Extension Itinerary

Arrive in Quito any time.

We take an early flight to San Cristobal Island, stopping off for refuelling at Guayaquil. In the afternoon, we board our boat, the Monserrat, and visit Isla Lobos, to be greeted by sea lions frolicking in the waves. We will explore this island on foot and perhaps by panga to view the sea and shore birds nesting and feeding. There will be an opportunity to snorkel in the waters of Isla Lobos too.

Meals

B L D

We visit Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island. Here we can observe sea lions, marine iguanas and seabirds. In the afternoon we visit the giant tortoise breeding area in the highlands. Later we set sail for Bahia Gardner, a sheltered cove off Espanola Island.

Meals

B L D

Today we visit the magnificent, white sandy beach of Gardner Bay, home to colonies of sea lions and birds. There will be a chance to snorkel the turquoise waters and spot large schools of tropical fish, including yellow-tailed surgeonfish, king angelfish and bump-headed parrot fish. We may even be lucky enough to spot white-tipped reef sharks, napping on the bottom! We then visit Punta Suarez, one of the most wildlife-rich landing spots in the Galapagos. Here we can observe many nesting birds including the waved albatross.

Meals

B L D

Upon landing at Punta Cormorant and Floreana Island, we visit the amazing multi-coloured beaches. We observe flamingoes and other shore birds feeding in the lagoon. Penguins and marine iguanas can also be spotted on the water's edge. We then move on to Champion Islet where we have another chance to snorkel with sea lions and, if we're lucky, turtles and rays. Afterwards, we visit Post Office Bay where we learn all about its unique history. English whaling vessels placed a barrel here in the 18th centuary where it functioned as a rather unusual post office!

Meals

B L D

We disembark at Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here we can observe many species of tortoise and land iguanas at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre. We learn about the conservation work and scientific research that is undertaken on this remote archipelago. We than catch our flight back to the mainland, and Quito.

Meals

B

Depart anytime.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Return internal flights from Quito to Baltra and associated airport transfers in the Galapagos Islands

  • Double or twin berth cabin on full board basis (according to itinerary)

  • Cruise on a Tourist Class boat (according to itinerary)

  • Galapagos guide

What's Not Included
  • Galapagos National Park entrance $200 per person payable locally in cash

  • Transit control card $20 per person (must be paid locally in cash)

  • Tips of local staff

  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc

Extension Details

Peru Rainforest Extension

4 Days

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Tambopata National Reserve, a vast, untouched expanse of Amazonian wilderness covering 2.5 million acres.

Our Rainforest Extension is four days / three nights and allows for two full days of immersive jungle walks and scenic river excursions. A short flight to Puerto Maldonado followed by a motorized canoe ride will transport you deep into the heart of the Amazon.

In Tambopata, we’ve carefully selected two exceptional lodges, each offering prime access to breath-taking wildlife viewing opportunities. From the vibrant macaw clay lick to playful otters, curious monkeys, and a dazzling array of colourful birds, every moment in this ecosystem is a chance to witness nature at its finest. This pristine habitat is also home to the Amazon’s five top predators: the elusive jaguar, the playful giant otter, the stealthy black caiman, the majestic harpy eagle, and the formidable anaconda.

We offer a choice of a standard or luxury lodge package. Please contact us to check availability and to get a quote. The itinerary shown is an example and will differ depending on which lodge you stay at. All lodge bookings are subject to availability.

The extension starts and ends in Puerto Maldonado, with most flights connecting from Cusco. Flights are also available from Lima. We’re happy to assist with internal flights and additional accommodations in Cusco or Lima to enhance your journey.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Amazon—adventure awaits!

Extension Code: RAIN
Sharing Price from
US$1,275
Single Traveller Price from
US$1,275
Single Room Supplement from
US$305

Extension Itinerary

Upon arrival at Puerto Maldonado airport*, you will be met by your guide and transferred to the boat dock on the Tambopata River (approx 45 min transfer). Here you will continue your journey by boat along the Madre de Dios (Winding River) to reach your jungle lodge. On route you will likely spot a variety of wildlife including Caiman, River Turtles and a wide variety of bird life. Depending on your arrival time at the lodge your guide will take you on a guided walk of the area surrounding the lodge before dinner.

Please note that you will need to arrive at the airport no later than 3pm to allow enough time to transfer to your lodge.

Meals

L D

Over the next two days, immerse yourself in the extraordinary biodiversity of the Tambopata Reserve. Accompanied by expert local guides, you'll explore the surrounding rainforest, rivers, and oxbow lakes on foot and by both motorized and paddle canoe.

While much of the Amazon's wildlife remains hidden in the thick jungle, patient observation often reveals a remarkable array of species. Keep your eyes open for colourful macaws, herons, egrets, jacanas, and the distinctive, prehistoric-looking hoatzin. The forests are also home to several monkey species, a variety of reptiles and insects, and—if luck is on our side—the elusive and endangered Giant River Otter, which inhabits the waterways of the Amazon Basin.

Each journey into the forest reveals something new, whether it’s the eerie call of a distant howler monkey, the sudden flash of iridescent wings, or the silent glide of a canoe beneath the canopy. It’s a true immersion into one of the most vibrant and vital ecosystems on Earth.

Meals

B L D

A second day of exploration of the Tambopata Reserve on foot and by canoe. Our day begins with another early wake up call to watch the sunrise before breakfast.

A full and detailed itinerary for each day will be provided with your confirmation.

Meals

B L D

After breakfast our Amazon adventure ends with the return journey to Puerto Maldonado by boat, followed by a transfer to the airport. If booking your own flights you should ensure that they depart from Puerto Maldonado no earlier than 11am.

*Please note that itineraries may vary slightly to maximize wildlife viewing, depending on the reports of our local researchers and experienced naturalist guides.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Associated transfers
  • All transport required by the itinerary
  • 3 nights accommodation at a jungle lodge
  • Full programme of guided walks and activities
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary
What's Not Included
  • Internal fights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Drinks
  • Souvenirs etc.
DATES & PRICES
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