History & Nature Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Peru and Ecuador with this carefully curated 15-day tour. Begin in Lima, exploring its rich history and vibrant culinary scene, before venturing to the Sacred Valley and the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Discover the cultural and culinary delights of the Andean region, including traditional Inca meals and exclusive experiences. 

Continue your adventure with a visit to the colorful 7 Color Mountain and the historic city of Cusco. Then, fly to Ecuador’s coastal city of Guayaquil, before exploring the world-renowned Galapagos Islands, where you'll encounter extraordinary wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. This luxury multi country tour blends history, culture, adventure, and relaxation in some of South America's most iconic destinations.

  • Day 1: Arrival to Lima and Free day

  • Day 2: City Tour & Flavors

  • Day 3: Sacred Valley

  • Day 4: Andean Culinary experience and Panoramic train to Machu Picchu town

  • Day 5: Machu Picchu Tour

  • Day 6: Cusco full exploration

  • Day 7: Colored Andean Mountain

  • Day 8: Next adventure

  • Day 9: Arival to Enchanted Islands

  • Day 10: Wildlife Exploration

  • Day 11: Extensive Geological Past

  • Day 12: Incredible Marine life

  • Day 13: Quito Arrival

  • Day 14: Middle of the World

  • Day 15: Adiós! Till our next trip!

Tour Itinerary
Day 01

Day 01: Arrival to Lima and Free day


Lima Peru | Andean Travel Experience
Explore Lima

Upon your arrival at Lima Airport, be transferred to your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure.
Explore the historic center of Lima, which is full of Spanish architecture. Visit Larco Museum, which is renowned for its extensive pre-Columbian art collection and is considered one of the top museums in South America. Continue to enjoy the unique flavors that Lima has to offer.Peru is regarded as the culinary capital of America and has been recognized as the world's leading culinary destination.
 

Day 02

Day 02: City Tour & Flavors


Lima Peru Tour | Andean Travel Experience
Explore Lima City

Take a stroll through colonial and Republican history of Peru, and enjoy up to 15 Peruvian dishes and drinks at Barranco. Lima is a top-rated culinary destination in Latin America as well as worldwide, and the only city to have two restaurants ranking in the top 10 of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Central and Maido.

The city is built on a cliff above sea level, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the beaches below. Barranco, one of Lima's most appealing areas, which is characterized by its artistic and bohemian charm, with colorful houses and murals lining its streets, is home to many local artists, designers, photographers, and musicians.

The rich cultural heritage of Lima allows travelers to enjoy a spectacular variety of historic and architectural monuments, great examples of unique mixture of Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical styles that are noteworthy.

Learn about the colonial and Republican periods of Peru. Enjoy taking pictures of the main buildings of Lima to finally get to descend into the foundations of a church. Here, visit the largest catacombs in Lima, where over 25,000 people were buried in the catacombs up until 1808.

In the afternoon, you´ll discover the unique and fascinating flavors that Lima has to offer! Flavor up to 15 Peruvian dishes and drinks at Barranco. This is not just a tasting tour but a cultural experience, interacting with our local hosts to learn the story behind these delicious treats. Witness the preparation of the famous ceviche, pisco sour and Lomo saltado. You'll be able to connect with passionate local food entrepreneurs while visiting a variety of huariques (small restaurants filled with locals). This tour can cater for people with any allergy, including but not limited to gluten, lactose, and soy, and can be adjusted for people on a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Day 03

Day 03: Sacred Valley


Sacred valley of the Incas Cusco Peru Tours | Andean Travel Experience
Discover the Sacred valley of the Incas

Spend pleasant moments in a farm full of Camelids as Llamas and Alpacas, learn the techniques of ancient weaving process, , enjoy impressive views of The Sacred Valley from a privileged and strategic point, and explore enormous inca terraces. Board a flight to Cusco, upon your arrival, travel to The Sacred Valley of The Incas. The average elevation here is 9416 ft, which is lower than Cusco (11,000 ft). Amazing Andean landscapes, nature, picturesque landscapes, and great archaeological sites from the Inca empire are abundant in this place.

The Sacred Valley is one of the few places where you can see authentic and native camelids. Visit a llama and alpaca Farm, including some vicunas and guanacos, meet and feed gentle animals that enjoy human company, look closely at these unique animals. Continuing with a textile interpretation, observe the types of looms, the ancient and natural techniques of dyeing, using dyeing plants, minerals, and tools. You can find ponchos, runners, chullos, blankets, capes, quilts, etc. You’ll be able to support the improvement of the living conditions of local families that welcomed you here.

Then, from a well-located viewpoint, enjoy the unique and surrealistic beautiful landscapes that The Sacred Valley offers, the Vilcanota river with cultivation areas next to, small towns with beautiful andean style houses, and the emblematic Wakaywillque peak in the background, take stunning and memorable photos.

Afterwards, visit the largest fortress city of the Sacred Valley and one of the largest of ancient America, explore ancient Inca burial grounds, irrigation systems, and astronomy centers, all of them well defended by walls, gates and towers. Continue to a textile market, full of a wide assortment of colors, styles, and designs for gifts and souvenirs to take home with you.

Finally, enjoy the tranquility of The Sacred Valley, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, and mountains.

Day 04

Day 04: Andean Culinary experience and Panoramic train to Machu Picchu town


Sacred valley of the Incas Cusco Machu Picchu Tours | Andean Travel Experience
Luxury Train to Machu Picchu

Today, discover Ollantaytambo town and savor a traditional Inca meal prepared on hot rocks and using organic products. Ollantaytambo is a place with a lot of history. In January 1537, the Spanish suffered their only major defeat in the battle of Ollantaytambo. Manco Inca used the topography of the Sacred Valley, Spanish horses that had been stolen, a dawn attack, and his own ingenuity to completely defeat the Spanish forces. The Spanish may have never seen Machu Picchu because of Manco Inca's victory at Ollantaytambo.

More over Ollantaytambo is the scene of one of the most traditional and emotional legends of Peru, the forbidden romance of General Ollantay and Kusi Qoyllur, General Ollantay -a warrior of commoner origin- was recognized for his great performance as a general of the Inca army, which earned him an important tribute, during the ceremony he was impressed with Kusi Qoyllur, daughter of the Inca Pachacútec. This secret romance between the two was not possible due to the Empire's laws, which only permitted the union of individuals with Inca lineage.

Ollantaytambo hasn't experienced any major changes since Inca times. Discover the impressive Inca stonework at the nearby archaeological sites. A great place to explore for souvenirs and local crafts can be found just a few steps away. Take beautiful pictures with calm and no hurriedness. Afterwards, walk to a perfect location, surrounded by mountains, and beautiful gardens, located at just 15 minutes from the center of the town. Here, you'll taste the Pachamanca which translates to "earth oven".

This traditional Inca meal is cooked on hot rocks, and includes "grilled" chicken, pork, and lamb, andean potatoes, organic vegetables, a house-made salad, traditional sauces and chicha morada. Additionally, there will be a sugar cane distillery and coffee roasting facility to visit. Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

After this unique culinary experience, embark on an exclusive train that surrounds you with the magical landscape thanks to its panoramic windows and the Observatory Car, living an unforgettable journey and enjoying our authentic culture through the music and the typical Saqra dance presentation. Along the route, be able to move between the panoramic car and the elegant observatory car, enjoying the experience on board.

Day 05

Day 05: Machu Picchu Tour


Machu Picchu Inca Ruins Tour | Andean Travel Experience
Explore Machu Picchu

Today, explore the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu which covers an area of 325 km2, and has been restored brilliantly, and is truly impressive.

Machu Picchu is an authentic proof of the Inca's advanced engineering and architectural skills. Discover the captivating ancient culture of the Incas and their astonishing engineering projects, which were exceptionally advanced for their time. The use of deep building foundations and crushed rock for drainage was the method used for 60% of the construction at Machu Picchu, as per engineer Kenneth Wright.

An enchanting, mysterious, and magical essence permeates everything on the site.

A longstanding harmonious and charming relationship between culture and nature is exemplified by the exceptional scenery and beauty of the mountain landscape.

The structures' orientation was greatly influenced by the location of nearby holy mountains.

In all the sites, there are expressions of the Inca's cosmological vision of existence, which includes myths, legends, and everything considered sacred.

This day is the highlight of your classic Peru tour!

Day 06

Day 06: Cusco full exploration


Cusco Tours | Andean Travel Experience
Explore Cusco

Explore the cobblestone streets of Cusco or relax at your hotel and recover from the day before, in the afternoon you’ll visit the main highlights of this ancient and historical city. Cusco is the most ancient continuously-inhabited city in the Americas. For 3,000 years now, people have been living in Cusco! The Inca Empire's capital was Cusco from the 13th to 16th century. This was until 1533 when Spaniard Francisco Pizarro took over.

Nowadays it’s a wonderful blend of the ancient past and the more recent colonial period where one can admire ancient Inca temples and monuments, colonial architecture and modern buildings.

San Blas neighborhood is very picturesque and it’s located in the heart of the ancient capital of the Incas, the combination of indigenous and colonial influences is captivating. Artists and craftspeople find sanctuary in this place, where talented musicians' sweet melodies fill the air, and the smell of freshly painted canvases remains. Find bursts of color, local shops and restaurants.

In the afternoon, get to know Cusco on a guided tour through the city. Check several paintings from the Escuela Cuzquena (Cusco School), created during the 17th and 18th centuries, from here continue to explore the most important temple to the Incas, whose walls were said to be plated with gold. Then head to the top of Cusco, where you’ll walk through a 15th-century dry-stone complex sitting on a steep hill, and visit important religious and sacred sites around.

Day 07

Day 07: Colored Andean Mountain


7 color mountain Cusco Tours | Andean Travel Experience
7 Color mountain

You’ll start early today, set off to the south of Cusco on a 3.5-hours drive till the starting point of a still considered off -the-beaten path trek. This 60-minute hike will take you through andean landscapes via a short, relatively flat path and gentle trek, where you’ll see local people in daily activities and animals like alpacas, llamas and sheeps grazing. The summit lies at about 16,000ft. Upon reaching the colored mountains take unique pictures, there’s not over-tourism here. Finally, embark on the 3.5-hour drive back to Cusco.

Day 08

Day 08: Next adventure


Guayaquil Ecuador Tours | Andean Travel Experience
Explore Guayaquil Ecuador

At the set time, a private transfer will take you to the airport in Cusco. Here board your flight to Lima and connect to your international flight to Guayaquil.

In the afternoon, explore Guayaquil´s main highlights. Visit the local and iconic cathedral, see an amazing park with iguanas basking in the sun, a sample of blending nature and urban life.

Experience the main highlights of this coastal city by walking along a promenade that provides beautiful views, especially at sunset. At the end, you can go to a viewpoint that can be reached by climbing 444 stairs. Here, get stunning views of the city.

Day 09

Day 09: Arival to Enchanted Islands


Galapagos Islands Ecuador Tours | Andean Travel Experience
Relax in Galapagos Islands

Have amazing sights of nature and wildlife from a great viewpoint and discover an aquatic world you’ll love. Board a flight to San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos Islands, considered the most amazing place on Earth.

Hike through stunning lava and cactus terrain and watch for turtles and sea lions floating in the sea; feel the unique traquility of this place, which is also visited by frigate birds and some blue-footed boobies, making it a must-visit destination for bird lovers.

Later, immerse yourself in a captivating underwater world and see playful sea lions eager to interact with you, alongside the green sea turtles that are a common sight in this bay.

Finally, relax at the beach surrounded by many colonies of sea lions.

Day 10

Day 10: Wildlife Exploration


Galapagos Islands Travel Destination | Andean Travel Experience
Explore underwater life in Galapagos Islands

Embark on an exciting boat trip to an non-inhabited island, home to vibrant bird colonies, and enjoy snorkeling with endemic species.

Set off on an exciting boat trip to a stunning, deserted island, a haven for seabirds where abundant bird colonies await your discovery. Immerse yourself in the excitement of snorkelling as you round the island; swim alongside with playful sea lion and unique endemic species in glistening, crystal-clear waters.

After a great lunch on board, spend some time relaxing on a breathtaking beach and soaking in the beauty around you.

Return to the base and enjoy a free afternoon. Unwind and enjoy a magnificent sunset along the promenade. This day promises to be both thrilling and calm.

BOAT: 2 hours. SNORKELING: 2 hours.  
INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11

Day 11: Extensive Geological Past


Galapagos Islands Travel Destination | Andean Travel Experience
Explore Galapagos Islands

See a famous conservation center to find out about initiatives to preserve rare species; see the Lonesome George. Search for giant tortoises in their natural habitat while exploring the highlands in the afternoon, which include stunning geological formations and a large lava tunnel.

Start your day with a speedboat ride to an inhabited island. Here, visit a renowned conservation center and learn about the efforts to protect unique wildlife, including giant tortoises. Get to know the Lonesome George, who is the last individual of its species and unfortunately died in 2012.

In the afternoon, explore the highlands of the place. Explore impressive geological features that are the result of volcanic activity. The unique landscapes provide a glimpse into the island's geological history. From here, walk through a lava tunnel and wonder with this passage formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

BOAT: 2 hours. WALK: 3 hours. CAR: 2 hours  

Day 12

Day 12: Incredible Marine life


Galapagos Islands Ecuador Tours | Andean Travel Experience
Discover Marine Life Tours

Immerse yourself in breathtaking views and unique fauna, and enjoy snorkeling.

Start your day with a yacht excursion followed by a bus ride that will take you to a  unique place where you can enjoy spectacular views of dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation while spotting marine iguanas and seabirds, coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Begin your day with a yacht excursion, followed by a bus ride through the stunning scenery and landscapes. Enjoy breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, spot marine iguanas and seabirds, and see a variety of marine life.  Explore the highlights of this perfect place, accompannied by a naturalist guide that will share insights about the area's ecology and history,

Then, snorkel in crystalline water where you´ll find  colorful fish and playful sea creatures. As a perfect complement, enjoy a delicious lunch on board surrounded by the incredible environment.

Day 13

Day 13: Quito Arrival


Quito City Ecuador Tours | Andean Travel Experience
Explore Quito

At the scheduled time, be transferred to the airport on Baltra Island for your trip to Quito.

Quito is located at an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet), and is the world's highest capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
 

Day 14

Day 14: Middle of the World


Ecuador middle of the world | Andean Travel Experience
Middle of the World Ecuador

Immerse yourself in a vibrant culture that combines indigenous traditions with colonial influences.  Stroll through beautiful streets, admire gold-decorated churches, and enjoy lively squares filled with local spirit.

Today, discover "The Monastery of America”, a city where history and culture blend perfectly, filled with ancient architecture from centuries ago that lines the beautiful streets, gold-decorated churches, and monasteries that invite you to exploration.

In the afternoon, visit a museum where you'll see unique phenomena occurring at the equator, such as how water drains differently on either side of the equator. Then, stand on the equatorial line and take images of the northern and southern hemispheres.

Day 15

Day 15: Adiós! Till our next trip!

At the set time, a private transfer will take you to the airport of Qutio. Here, board your international flight back home.
 

Price

All our tours are based on private luxury service and can be fully customized to satisfy your personal needs and preferences. Please do not hesitate to contact us at sales@andeantravelexperience.com and receive full assistance planning your customized private tour in Peru.

Our prices often vary based on the requirements of your trip, and will depend on number of travelers, length of time, type of accommodation, etc.

 

What Included?

  • Hotel accommodations for 14 nights with breakfast (Hotels are subject to availability, in case
    there is no availability for the hotel mentioned, we will book other hotels of the same
    category).
    ● Private transportation hotel / airport/train station in every destination.
    ● All admission fees.
    ● Excursions as described in the itinerary:
    ● Meals as described in the itinerary.
    ● Domestic flights: Lima - Cusco, Guayaquil - Isla San Cristobal, Isla Baltra - Quito.
    ● 24 - hour support from our locally based team

What is not Included?

  • International airfare.
  • Cusco - Guayaquil Flight.
  • Entrance fee to the galapagos.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Items of personal nature such as gratuities, internet charges, excess baggage charges,
    laundry, beverages and meals not described in the itinerary.

 

Hotels