8-Day Machu Picchu & Galapagos Superior: Ultimate Bucket List Experience

Embarking on the 8-Day Machu Picchu & Galapagos Superior tour is a chance to cross off a dream destination from one’s bucket list. This unique adventure blends the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu with the diverse wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, offering an unparalleled experience for the discerning traveler. From exploring Cusco’s colonial charm to immersing oneself in the Sacred Valley‘s vibrant culture, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave a lasting impression. But the true wonder lies in what awaits on the Galapagos, where one can witness the endemic species that inspired Darwin’s groundbreaking theories.

Key Points

• An 8-day tour that combines the iconic Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands, offering an immersive experience in history, culture, and nature.
• Explore the ancient Inca citadel, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley, with opportunities to interact with indigenous communities.
• Observe endemic species and unique wildlife in the Galapagos Islands, while practicing responsible tourism in a small group.
• Comprehensive inclusions, such as transportation, accommodation, train tickets, and guided tours, ensure a seamless and personalized experience.
• Comprehensive travel and medical insurance required, and caution advised for travelers with medical conditions or restricted mobility.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The 8-day tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the iconic Machu Picchu in Peru and the remarkable Galapagos Islands.

Guests will discover the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New7Wonders of the World, as well as the vibrant city of Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

In the Galapagos, they’ll have the chance to observe the islands’ endemic species and unique wildlife.

With a small group size, the tour provides personalized attention and allows participants to enjoy the history, culture, and natural wonders of these two extraordinary destinations.

Inclusions

This tour package includes 7 nights of accommodation, with options for single, double, or triple occupancy. Airport pickups and drop-offs, as well as transportation between the Galapagos Islands and Baltra Airport, are provided. Travelers will receive return train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and an entrance fee to Machu Picchu with a guided tour. Snorkeling equipment, including a mask, snorkel, fins, and life vest, is included for the Galapagos portion. Meals include 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner, with 24/7 assistance available in English, Dutch, and Spanish.

Inclusions	Details
Accommodation	7 nights (single, double, or triple)
Transportation	Airport pickups/drop-offs, Galapagos to Baltra Airport
Train Tickets	Return from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu	Entrance fee and guided tour
Snorkeling Gear	Mask, snorkel, fins, life vest
Meals	7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner
Assistance	24/7 in English, Dutch, and Spanish

Exclusions

While the tour package includes a variety of services, there are several exclusions travelers should be aware of.

International and domestic flights aren’t covered, nor are meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary.

Visitors must also pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee and the Migratory Control Card fee of $20 per person in cash.

Plus, water taxi rides at $1 per person and optional wetsuit rentals during certain months are additional costs.

Finally, tips for guides aren’t included in the tour price.

Travelers should budget accordingly and review the exclusions to ensure they’re prepared for the full cost of the experience.

Travel Considerations

Typically, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and is generally not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions. Guests are advised to pack light, as small baggage is recommended for the public transportation used in the Galapagos Islands. It is crucial to avoid drinking tap water and instead opt for bottled or purified water to prevent potential illnesses. On top of that, following food safety guidelines is essential to steer clear of food poisoning.

Consideration	Recommendation
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Medical Conditions	Not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions
Baggage	Small baggage recommended for Galapagos public transportation
Water	Avoid drinking tap water; bottled or purified water advised
Food Safety	Follow food safety guidelines to prevent food poisoning

Exploring Cusco and Sacred Valley

Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, and the Sacred Valley beckon travelers with their rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.

In Cusco, visitors can marvel at the impressive Inca stonework, explore colonial plazas and churches, and enjoy the local markets.

The Sacred Valley, nestled in the Andes, offers a glimpse into the Inca way of life, with ancient ruins, traditional weaving demonstrations, and opportunities to interact with indigenous communities.

Travelers will have the chance to hike through the valley, visit the iconic Pisac market, and discover the engineering marvels of the Inca, such as the fortress of Ollantaytambo.

Discovering Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel nestled high in the Andes, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the ancient civilization.

Visitors are awed by the remarkably intact ruins, which include:

1. The main plaza, surrounded by impressive stone structures and terraces.
2. The Intihuatana, a ritual stone believed to have served as a solar calendar.
3. The Temple of the Sun, a masterfully constructed religious site.

Guided tours offer insights into the site’s history, cultural significance, and the Inca’s advanced understanding of astronomy and agriculture.

Trekking through the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu completes this unforgettable experience.

Exploring the Galapagos Islands

Amidst the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands stand as a natural wonder, teeming with an astounding array of endemic species that have captivated explorers and scientists alike.

This tour offers a chance to discover these legendary islands, home to iconic creatures like the Galapagos tortoise, marine iguana, and the flightless cormorant.

Guests will have the opportunity to snorkel alongside vibrant schools of fish, observe the playful antics of sea lions, and witness the unique adaptations of Darwin’s finches.

With a focus on responsible tourism and small group sizes, the tour ensures an immersive and educational experience in this living laboratory of evolution.

Additional Information

With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, the Machu Picchu and Galapagos Experience provides a personalized and intimate journey.

The itinerary is subject to change due to factors like weather, availability, or regulations. Travelers should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Some additional considerations:

1. Small baggage is recommended for public transportation in the Galapagos.
2. Drinking tap water isn’t advised; bottled or purified water is recommended.
3. Following proper food safety guidelines is crucial to prevent food poisoning.

Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is required for participation.

This 8-day tour is priced from $3,401.00, with the final cost varying based on group size.

Recap

The 8-Day Machu Picchu & Galapagos Superior tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating landscapes, rich history, and remarkable wildlife of Peru and Ecuador. From the ancient grandeur of Machu Picchu to the diverse ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands, this comprehensive journey promises an unforgettable bucket list experience for the adventurous traveler seeking a truly personalized and exclusive exploration.