Majestic Peru & Galapagos Cruise (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Duration

20 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Comfortable

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Take a journey from the coastal plains and ancient cities of Peru to the waters of Galapagos on this 20-day adventure.

Highlights

See the famed Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World – high in the Andes on a mountaintop, surrounded by mountain rainforest – and discover the secrets and history of this iconic Inca ruin.
Spend a full day exploring the floating islands of Uros (made entirely of reeds) on Lake Titicaca and make the most of the chance to meet the local Uru people who live here.
Witness the giant desert inscriptions of the Nazca Lines – one of Peru's greatest unsolved mysteries – from the viewing tower. Then, head to a local’s home in the middle of the desert for a traditional pachamanca dinner.
Visit the scenic Sacred Valley, where you’ll stop for lunch in the Huilloq community and participate in their ceremony blessing Pachamama. Listen to their life stories of the Andean highlands and learn more about their fascinating culture through a textile demonstration.
Explore the Galapagos Islands from on deck, on foot and in the water. Sea lions and iguanas await you at Plaza Sur and Santa Fe, whilst in San Cristobal you meet the grand-daddy of the Galapagos – the giant tortoise.

Trip Details

Duration

20 days

Transportation

Plane,Train,Private vehicle,Public bus,Boat

Tour Type

Group Tour

Guide Language

English

Starts

Lima, Ecuador

Finishes

Quito, Ecuador

Accommodations

Comfortable

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Lima

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru. Kick off your adventure in the coastal capital of Lima with a welcome meeting at 2 pm, where you'll meet your leader and fellow travellers. After, head out on a walking tour of the vibrant Miraflores area with your leader. Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace, then perhaps meet back up with the group for an optional dinner. Whether you dine with the group or sample the city's renowned food scene on your own, don't miss the chance to try Peru's national dish – ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice, often served with hot peppers). If you're not a fan of seafood, there are plenty of other excellent options on offer – ask your leader for tips on the best local eats.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Lima - Leader-led Miraflores walking tour

Optional Activities:

Lima - Coast Biking Urban Adventure (minimum 2 participants) (65 USD)
Lima - Bohemian Barranco (Based on 4 participants) (75 USD)
Lima - Lima Discovery Urban Adventures (minimum 2 participants) (39 USD)
Lima - Private: Home Cooked Tour Ceviche experience Urban Adventure (Based on 2 Participants) (85 USD)
Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants) (40 USD)
Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants) (35 USD)
Lima - Lima Eat Street (Based on 4 participants) (75 USD)
Lima - Private Larco Museum (Based on 4 participants) (50 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Paracas

Today, start with a guided walking tour of Lima's historic centre. Stroll atmospheric streets flanked with ornate mansions, palaces and Spanish colonial churches, taking in Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral of Lima, the San Francisco Monastery and the central market. Your leader will guide you through the market, where you'll find vendors selling a variety of fresh produce and regional specialties like cuy (better known as guinea pig) – a Peruvian delicacy! Head away from the tourist trail and visit Alameda de Chabuca Granda. This pedestrian strip is where Limenos (locals from Lima) go for street food and entertainment. Later, travel by minivan to beautiful Paracas.

Included Activities:

Lima - Guided tour, including San Francisco Monastery, the Catacombs and Central Market

Optional Activities:

Lima - Cathedral of Lima (entrance fee) (12 PEN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Nazca

Today, take a 2-hour boat tour to Islas Ballestas – home to abundant wildlife, including pelicans, red-footed boobies, flamingos, sea lions and penguins. After some awesome wildlife viewing, hop in a private van to one of the world's most mysterious archaeological sites – the Nazca Lines, stopping off at the oasis town of Huacachina to grab some lunch. Nazca’s origins date back to the 2nd century BC, and thanks to the dry desert conditions, mummies, textiles, ceramics and other relics have been remarkably well-preserved, providing archaeologists with clear snapshots of the highly developed, pre-Inca civilisation. Head to the viewing tower, or maybe take an optional flight over the lines for even better views! Leave Nazca at sunset, then drive south to a local’s traditional mud house in the middle of the desert. Among paintings of local flora, you’ll have a homemade pachamanca dinner (in the Quechua language, pacha means earth and manka means pot) – a traditional Peruvian dish of potatoes, meat and herbs baked with hot stones. Eat with your hosts after a brief ceremony thanking Pachamama (with chicha, otherwise known as corn beer).

Included Activities:

Islas Ballestas - Guided tour
Nazca Lines - Viewing tower
Nazca - Pachamanca dinner

Optional Activities:

Nazca - Scenic flight over the Nazca Lines (excluding 77 PEN Taxes at Nazca Airport) (100 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Arequipa

Leave Nazca behind this morning and travel to Arequipa by private vehicle. Standing at the foot of El Misti Volcano and boasting beautiful baroque buildings, Arequipa vies with Cusco for the title of Peru's most attractive city. Built out of a pale volcanic rock called sillar, the old buildings dazzle in the sun, giving the city its nickname – the 'White City'. The main plaza, with its cafes and nearby cathedral, is lovely to wander and stretch your legs after a long driving day.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Arequipa

Get to know this beautiful city with the help of a local guide. Visit the main plaza, Santa Catalina Monastery and San Ignacio Chapel on a walking tour. After, head for lunch with your group at a picanteria for some classic Arequipa favourites like rocoto, relleno, solterito and queso helado. Practice your Spanish with the locals and then you're free to explore Arequipa at your own pace. Maybe return to the main square to take a closer look at the cathedral, cafes and eateries or explore the suburb of Yanahuara. You may also like to visit the Juanita Museum, which houses Peru’s famous ‘Ice Maiden’, the Inca mummy of a girl who died in the 1440s. Ask your tour leader for other tips on how to make the most of your free afternoon.

Included Activities:

Arequipa - Walking tour
Arequipa - San Ignacio Chapel
Arequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery Admission Fee
Arequipa - Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

Optional Activities:

Arequipa - Juanita Museum Admission Fee (20 PEN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Puno

This morning you’ll travel by minivan to Puno – a town located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. It's a long drive, but the dramatic views of Peru’s highlands, the Altiplano, make it an exceptionally scenic one. As you approach Puno, stop to pay a visit to the ruins of Sillustani. Tucked between small villages on a beautiful peninsula near Lake Umaya, the pre-Inca ruins comprise circular towers called chullpas that served as burial sites for noblemen. Continue to Puno, a melting pot of Aymara and Quechuan Indigenous culture. Traditional Andean customs are still strongly represented here, earning the town the title of Folklore Capital of Peru.

Included Activities:

Puno - Sillustani archaeological site

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Puno / Lake Titicaca

Start the day with a tour of Lake Titicaca. It is 3820 m above sea level and holds the title of the highest navigable lake in the world. While cruising across its waters, hop in a motorboat and learn about the lake’s spiritual significance for the Quechua. Stop off at Uros Titinos – floating islands made entirely from layers of totora reeds. As you'll find out, the islands are constantly under construction – as the reeds closest to the water begin to rot, more layers are added. Reeds are used for making everything on the island, including the boats used to travel to the mainland, which can last up to 12 months. Continue to Taquile Island, where the locals make their livelihood out of textiles. Here, knitting is strictly a male domain, while women do the spinning. To reach the main part of the island, there is a one-hour uphill walk on a paved path with great views of the lake. Sit down to an optional set lunch consisting of a local staple, quinoa soup, washed down with a cup of muna tea (Andean mint tea). After a brief stay, a descent of about 500 steps brings you back to the boat, which will take you back to Puno.

Included Activities:

Puno - Lake Titicaca day tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Cusco

Take a scenic bus ride across the Altiplano towards Cusco. You’ll be travelling by public tourist bus, and while there’s a rest stop along the way, it’s best to stock up on snacks before your journey. Cusco is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city, and colonial buildings are built upon foundations that remain from Inca times. Set out to discover some of Cusco's lesser-known sights on a guided walking tour – visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. Tonight, ask your leader for great restaurant recommendations for dinner.

Included Activities:

Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Cusco

Enjoy a free day in Cusco, the heart and soul of Peru. You may like to visit the city’s many museums and archaeological sites with your included boleto turistico (tourism ticket). This includes the Contemporary Art Museum, Regional History Museum, Qosqo Native Art Museum and the Inca ruins of Q'enqo, Pica Pakara, and Pisac. The most easily accessible among these sites is Qoricancha, which was once the Incan empire's richest temple until the Spanish built a Dominican church on top of it.

Included Activities:

Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included)

Optional Activities:

Cusco - Humantay Lake Hike (Based on 4 participants) (130 USD)
Cusco - Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 paticipants) (100 USD)
Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class (70 USD)
Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure (35 USD)
Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) (85 USD)
Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) (105 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Sacred Valley - Ollantaytambo

Today, you’ll hop on a bus and drive through the Sacred Valley. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the valley has been a source of livelihood for the locals for hundreds of years. You’ll see maize crops covering the terraced valley walls and the sacred river beneath. Just outside Cusco, stop off for a guided tour of the Inca fortress, Sacsayhuaman. Overlooking the city from its hilltop position, the fortress is built out of massive stone blocks and is the ultimate example of the Inca's military strength. Visit the AMA Restaurant in Urubamba – this cafe provides employment opportunities and job training for single mothers throughout the Sacred Valley. Enjoy a snack and learn how this inclusive enterprise focuses on economic growth, gender equality and the support of vulnerable communities. Travel further into the Sacred Valley to visit the Huilloq community, where tourists are an uncommon sight. Be welcomed with an offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and learn about the community’s ancestral textile techniques. Sit down for a guinea-pig lunch (vegetarian option available upon request) and then drive onwards to the day’s final destination – Ollantaytambo. Here, you’ll take a guided tour of the town’s archaeological site, including remnants of an Inca city and soaring views over the present-day settlement.

Included Activities:

Sacred Valley - Community visit
Sacred Valley - Coffee & cake

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Aguas Calientes

This morning, catch a train through the winding Urubamba Valley, climbing to Aguas Calientes – this seriously scenic journey will surely give your camera a good workout. If you’d like to give your legs a workout too, your leader can recommend some beautiful walks around Aguas Calientes. The city is nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu, so it’s the perfect place to kick back and take in your peaceful surroundings. One Day Inca Trail If you're the active type, you can choose to trek the One Day Inca Trail today (11 km or 7 miles). Keep in mind that you must pre-book this option at least 30 days before departure. If you choose this option, the day begins bright and early with a 6:30 am train ride to the starting point. With a local guide leading the way, the trail will lead uphill and downhill, passing a few archaeological sites. See Chachabamba and Winay Wayna (2680 m altitude), also known as 'Forever Young'. This impressive complex is considered by many to be the most impressive site on the whole Inca Trail and is made up of a terraced agricultural centre, religious sector and urban sector. From here, it's about a 1.5-hour trek to Intipunku (the Sun Gate), where (weather permitting) you'll enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu. Depending on how long the trek takes, you'll have time to snap some pics and look around before taking a short bus ride down to Aguas Calientes, where you'll re-join the group and spend the night at a hotel.

Optional Activities:

1 Day Inca Trail guided hike (465 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Machu Picchu - Cusco

Take an early bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu at 5.30 am. The city was built around 1440 AD as a country retreat for the Incan nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Incan site for much longer. Another school of thought is that this was an astronomical observatory. Take a guided tour around the awe-inspiring ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters and decide for yourself. After your tour, catch the bus back to Aguas Calientes, followed by a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo and finally a drive to Cusco, where you’ll spend the night.

Included Activities:

Machu Picchu - Entrance and guided tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Cusco

Enjoy free time to delve deeper into all Cusco has to offer. You may like to use your boleto turistico to check out any sites you missed last time you were here or simply grab a coffee from a cafe at Plaza de Armas and do some people-watching. For those still seeking an active adventure, the hills that surround Cusco are well-suited for some mountain biking. Ask your tour leader for advice on optional activities and how to make the most of your free day.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Lima

Take a short flight from Cusco to Lima. You will be unescorted on your flight today. When you arrive in Lima, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and met by a local leader who can assist with any optional activities or final arrangements. When you arrive in Lima, the day is free to spend how you wish. Visit some of the sites you missed at the beginning of the trip, or maybe do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Why not gather the group for one final night out on the town.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Lima - Quito

This morning, you’ll take a transfer to the Lima Airport for your flight to Quito – sitting at a high altitude under the towering Pichincha volcano, this is a beautiful city, stretching along the valley and surrounded by the Andes. When you arrive, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free until your next welcome meeting at 5 pm. After, head out with your new leader and fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional flavours and get to know your group.

Accommodation:

M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Quito - Isla San Cristobal

This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Please note the pick-up time will usually be as early as 4:30 am (a boxed breakfast will be provided), as the airport is a one-hour drive away and you must allow for delays and check-in times. (Your tour leader will confirm this time with you at the Welcome Meeting on Day 1). The flight to the Galapagos will make one stop in Guayaquil to pick up other passengers. (Total flight time is about 3.5 hours). You will be met in the arrival hall of the airport by the National Park Guide, and transferred to your catamaran ‘M/Y Queen Beatriz’. This afternoon you will travel into the interior of the island to visit the highlands site of ‘Galapaguera of Cerro Colorado’ (Red Hill) where the national park has established a breeding program and information centre for tortoises. Here, we will be able to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat and learn all about their origin, evolution and their threatened future. Estimated travel time/distance: Puerto Baquerizo (Isla San Cristobal) to Bartolome: 8 hours (70 nautical miles)

Included Activities:

Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
Isla San Cristobal - Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

Accommodation:

M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Isla Bartolome - Bahia Sullivan

Bartolome is one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes in the Galapagos, full of parasitic spatter cones, lava flows, Galapagos penguins and lava lizards. It is a relatively new island in the archipelago and traces of its volcanic past can be seen everywhere, as evidenced by the amazing lunar-like landscape. The Pinnacle Rock is one of the most photographed sites in the Galapagos – an abrupt jag of rock protruding from the earth like a tooth, while nearby two golden bays back onto each other. You can hike to the top of a once-active volcano here (360 wooden steps), and enjoy superb views across to Sullivan Bay, on nearby Isla Santiago. If you are in luck you might catch a glance of the Galapagos Hawk here. You also have the opportunity to go snorkelling with plenty of tropical fish, starfish, white-tipped reef sharks, rays and hopefully penguins. On Santiago's eastern coast sits Bahia Sullivan. Here you walk on Pahoe-Hoe lava, from an eruption that occurred in 1897, and witness the colonisation of plant species since the last eruption. Hopefully see some marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, sea lions, finches, turtles, sharks and penguins. On a walk, your guide will explain the geological history of the islands. Estimated travel time/distance: Bartolome to Isla Santiago (Bahia Sullivan): 0.5 hours (1 nautical mile) Isla Santiago (Bahia Sullivan) to Espumilla Beach: 3 hours (25 nautical miles)

Included Activities:

Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
Isla Bartolome - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
Isla Bartolome - Snorkelling (1.5 hours)
Isla Bartolome - Panga ride (30 mins)

Accommodation:

M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Isla Santiago - Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove - Puerto Egas

Today you will visit some wonderful places. Espumilla Beach, on the northern coast of Santiago Island in James Bay, is one of the most idyllic locations in the Galapagos Islands and is an important nesting site for marine turtles. With large waves, it is also often a favourite amongst beach lovers. Potentially we will see Galapagos hawks up close, ghost crabs, blue-footed boobies (often plunging for fish) and brown pelicans. It is also well known for its palo santo forest and some extraordinary lava formations. You will also visit Caleta Bucanero (Buccaneer Cove), a natural monument of rocks caused by sea erosion. This cove was used by pirates to careen their ships. It is a place of local legends and stories! It is also where Darwin camped for nine days while making his study of the islands and their wildlife. If conditions are favourable, you can enjoy some further snorkelling. Puerto Egas is a black sand beach located on the west side of James Bay and northwest of Santiago Island. South of the beach is Sugarloaf Volcano, which has deposits of volcanic tuff. This site is named Puerto Egas, after Hector Egas who last attempted to mine salt here. The walk along the beach offers hundreds of marine iguanas and Galapagos sea lions. You will also see amazing tidal pools formed from ancient lava flow and home to sponges, snails, hermit crabs, barnacles and fish. Snorkelling with the seals always offers the possibility of thrilling encounters. Estimated travel time/distance: Espumilla Beach to Bucaneer Cove: 0.5 hours (1 nautical mile) Bucaneer Cove to Puerto Egas: 0.5 hours (1 nautical mile) Puerto Egas to Puerto Ayora: 7 hours (60 nautical miles)

Included Activities:

Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Walk (1.45 hours) - Wet Landing
Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Snorkelling (1 hour)
Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Panga ride or Snorkelling (45 mins)
Isla Sanitago - Buccaneer's Cove - Panga Ride (45 mins)

Accommodation:

M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Isla Santa Cruz - Quito

Flights to mainland Ecuador from the Galapagos Islands depart mid-morning, so an early start is necessary to make the most of today’s visit to the small town of Puerto Ayora is the economic centre of the archipelago, and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. As well as undertaking vital conservation work, the station also makes for interesting exploration and offers the best opportunities for close encounters with giant tortoises. You may also see baby tortoises and land iguanas. This will be your final excursion before you head to the airport. Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, enjoy an included transfer to your hotel. Choose whether to join your fellow travellers for an optional dinner this evening.

Included Activities:

Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) - Dry Landing

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Quito

Your Galapagos adventure will come to an end today after breakfast. There are no activities planned for the final day so you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. There are many fascinating things to do in and around Quito, so please speak to our customer service representative about any optional activities that might be of interest. They can also assist you in booking a departure transfer to the airport.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $12,475

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 20 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Average

Take a journey from the coastal plains and ancient cities of Peru to the waters of Galapagos on this 20-day adventure.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 11 Oct 2025

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Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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