From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with Galápagos Cruise

18 days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
Additional images not provided by operator
Video not provided by operator
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
97%
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
River Cruise
Experience the archaeological treasures and scenic beauty of Peru with the fascinating untamed rainforest of the Amazon and the stunning marine life and tropical waters of the Galápagos Islands. This amazing river cruise vacation offers a little something for everyone! Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Lima with a guided sightseeing tour, a visit to the Larc...
21%
$13,067
From$10,359
See departure dates

Overview

Trip type
River Cruise
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Highlights

    • Welcome to Lima
    • Walking tour, visit San Francisco Monastery and Larco Herrera Museum; welcome dinner at Casa Garcia Alvarado
    • Visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Kenko, visit Awanakancha to see various camelids from the region, and explore Pisac Market
    • Visit the Ollantaytambo ruins; take the 360°Train to Machu Picchu; walking tour of Machu Picchu
    • Enjoy a second included entrance to Machu Picchu; return on the 360°Train to the Sacred Valley and continue to Cusco
    • Walking tour of Cusco, visit Santo Domingo Monastery and the Cathedral
    • Fly to Iquitos via Lima; board the Delfin III; onboard welcome reception; wildlife viewing excursions during the afternoon and evening
    • Wildlife viewing excursions during the morning and afternoon; cooking demonstration and Pisco Sour-making lesson
    • Wildlife viewing excursions during the morning, afternoon, and evening; visit Pacaya Samiria National Reserve; endemic fruit presentation; kayaking; piranha fishing; special farewell dinner
    • Disembark the Delfin III; visit the Manatee Rescue Center; fly to Lima

What's this trip about?

    Experience the archaeological treasures and scenic beauty of Peru with the fascinating untamed rainforest of the Amazon and the stunning marine life and tropical waters of the Galápagos Islands. This amazing river cruise vacation offers a little something for everyone! Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Lima with a guided sightseeing tour, a visit to the Larco Herrera Museum, and a special welcome dinner in an ornate family-owned mansion. Fly to Cusco and descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas for guided tours of the ceremonial site of Kenko, where ancient rituals were performed, and the Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Of course, no vacation to Peru is complete without visiting astonishing Machu Picchu, built around 1450, and sitting majestically above the Sacred Valley. Stand in awe as you witness one of the most majestic images in South America, if not the entire world! Next, you’ll embark on a journey to one of the world’s vastly unexplored regions where biodiversity is at its greatest—the mighty Amazon. Board one of the world’s most luxurious small ships, the Delfin III, and enjoy fine wine, famous Peruvian cuisine, and all-inclusive comfort while venturing deep into the Amazon jungle in search of elusive wildlife. Take naturalist-guided panga rides through the river tributaries, swim with pink dolphins, and visit native communities—all while returning to your plush five-star yacht. Before this cruise adventure is complete, you’ll get a chance to explore the beautiful Galápagos Islands onboard the 16-passenger Treasure of Galápagos! Have your camera ready as your Naturalist points out colonies of sea lions, pelicans, albatross, marine iguanas, flamingos, blue-footed boobies, short-eared owls, and other birds. You’ll also have a chance to snorkel in the tropical waters and perhaps get a look at sea turtles, sharks, and rays. A perfect ending to this trip of a lifetime!

Compare to similar trips

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityLIMA, PERU
End CityQUITO

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural
  • Small Ship Cruise

Destinations

  • South America
  • Ecuador
  • Peru

Attractions

  • Amazon River
  • Cusco
  • Galapagos Islands
  • Iquitos
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Quito
  • Sacred Valley
  • Santa Cruz Island

Activities

  • Culture
  • River cruise

View Similar Trips

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1: LIMA, PERU

Welcome to Lima—Cosmopolitan, Colonial, and Pre-Columbian Culture

LIMA-SAN-FRANCISCO-MONASTERY.jpg

Day 2: LIMA

Peruvian Treasures, Presidential Palaces, and Pizarro’s Conquests

CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Lima to see the colonial Old Quarter, Plaza de Armas, the presidential Government Palace, and the Lima Cathedral. Visit San Francisco Monastery to see the f...

Day 3: SACRED VALLEY

Alpacas, Llamas, and Ancient Rituals of the Andes

CLASSIC Fly to Cusco, the ancient Andean city and former capital of the Inca Empire. A Guided Excursion into the Sacred Valley reveals the hillside Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Marvel at the remarkable Inca stonewor...

Day 4: SACRED VALLEY

Stone Temples and Formidable Fortresses

CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the adobe village of Ollantaytambo this morning to visit the ruins of an Inca fortress. See the massive stones and amazing engineering design, including the Sun Temple and Princess Baths fou...

Day 5: MACHU PICCHU

A Miraculous Sanctuary in a Tropical Mountain Cloud Forest

CLASSIC Take a second included Guided Excursion to Machu Picchu. Set out early to see the sunrise over the ruins, explore the terraces or perhaps venture up to see the Sun Gate, once used as the ancie...

Day 6: CUSCO

Conquistadors, Churches, and the Colorful Culture of Peru

CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Cusco and learn about the Inca culture and the Spanish invasion that threatened their way of life and very existence. Visit Santo Domingo Monastery, originally cal...

Day 7: CUSCO–LIMA–IQUITOS–NAUTA–PERUVIAN AMAZON RIVER (EMBARKATION)

CLASSIC Today, you’ll travel by air to Lima and then on to Iquitos to begin your Amazon journey. Travel to Nauta and embark the luxurious vessel, the Delfin III, to cruise the Peruvian Amazon in comfort and convenience. Settle in to your spacious suite before meeti...

Day 8: PERUVIAN AMAZON

Spider Monkeys, Pink Dolphins, and Peru’s Favorite Cocktail

CLASSIC Rise early this morning for your first glimpse of the majestic Amazon at sunrise to experience the sights and sounds. After breakfast, take a Guided Panga Ride down one of the Amazon’s tribut...

Day 9: PERUVIAN AMAZON

Exotic Birds, Night Creatures, and Natural Remedies

ACTIVE Join a morning Naturalist Guided Walk to explore tropical flora, including epiphytes, orchids, and indigenous jungle vegetation below the rainforest’s canopy. DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Nature Pre...

Day 10: IQUITOS (DISEMBARKATION)

A Manatee Introduction and an Amazon Farewell

DISCOVERY This morning, disembark and bid your ship’s crew farewell. On the way to Iquitos, join an Escorted Visit to the Manatee Rescue Center to learn about these endangered Amazon species and the conservation efforts to save these gentle giants before flying to Lima. (Breakfast)

IQUITOS-MANATEE.jpg

Day 11: LIMA–QUITO

Fly from Lima to Quito. Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galápagos adventure, or walk through the historic city to sample ceviche or helado (Latin-American ice cream). Dine out tonight or ask about the best clubs for music and dancing.

(Breakfast)

QUITO-CITY-VIEW.jpg

Day 12: QUITO

A Gold Altar, Artistic Avenues, and Two Hemispheres in One Day CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Quito that showcases the colonial city’s historic sites, including the impressive Legislative Palace with its enormous sculpted mural of Ecuadorean history. You’...

Day 13: BALTRA–GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (EMBARKATION)–SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

The Theory of Evolution—and Giant Babies

This morning, take a flight to the Galápagos island of Baltra where you’ll embark on your five-day cruise aboard the Treasure of Galápagos.

DISCOVERY Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion to Santa Cruz Island...

Day 14: SANTIAGO ISLAND

Volcanos, Marine Life, and Lunar Landscapes

DISCOVERY This morning, you will find yourself anchored in the western-central part of the archipelago where volcanoes are still active, attributing to the dramatic scenery. Take a Naturalist Led Excursion of Sulliva...

Day 15: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND

Masterful Marine Iguanas and Birds of a Different Color

CLASSIC Take a Naturalist Led Excursion to see colonies of remarkable bird species, including blue-footed boobies, great frigate birds and magnificent frigate birds—with its inflated red chest and nearly 7...

Day 16: SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND

Tracing Darwin’s Footsteps and Audubon’s Muses

DISCOVERY This morning, take a Naturalist-Led Excursion to South Plaza Island to observe wildlife, including sea lions, land iguanas, marine iguanas, and hybrid iguanas (only found on this island and a result of a ...

Day 17: GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (DISEMBARKATION)–SAN CRISTOBAL–QUITO

The Geological Genesis of a Magical Archipelago

DISCOVERY This morning, cruise to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a Naturalist Guided Tour of the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. You’ll learn about the Galápagos’ fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, ...

Day 18: QUITO

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

(Breakfast)

QUITO-BASILICA.jpg

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip

Dates & Availability

Price From $10,359
Price per day$576
Last Updated: 3/13/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Availability
14 Apr 2024
01 May 2024
$10,359
Sold Out
12 May 2024
29 May 2024
$10,359
Sold Out
26 May 2024
12 Jun 2024
$10,359
Please Call
09 Jun 2024
26 Jun 2024
$10,359
Please Call
07 Jul 2024
24 Jul 2024
$10,359
Please Call
15 Sep 2024
02 Oct 2024
$10,359
Sold Out
29 Sep 2024
16 Oct 2024
$10,359
Available
13 Oct 2024
30 Oct 2024
$10,359
Sold Out
27 Oct 2024
13 Nov 2024
$10,359
Available
10 Nov 2024
27 Nov 2024
$10,359
Available

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Avalon Waterways.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Avalon Waterways Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
Excellent
1,450
Great
134
Average
45
Disappointing
15
Terrible
41
Write a Review

Other Avalon Waterways Reviews

D

DEBBIE

Dec 2023

Written on

From favorite cruise line to Never Again!!!

My first Avalon cruise/land tour to Vietnam/Cambodia was the best experience of my 80 plus cruises. We recently took the Avalon Egypt/Jordan cruise/land tour and it ...

c

customer

Dec 2023

Written on

Avalon waterways went out of their way to accommodate our early morning arrival.

We booked an Egyptian cruise with Avalon months ago that included airport transfers, but we did not book our flights through them. Ten days before departure we had ...

R

Robert

Nov 2023

Written on

It was the Paris to Normandy then to…

It was the Paris to Normandy then to Marseille 14 day cruise. The whole cruise was terrible, ports were bypassed, crew was very inexperienced, the restaurant was uno...

Write a Review

Travelers also viewed

Tour Operator

Avalon Waterways

none
View Profile

CRUISING ELEVATED.
Innovative, transformative, original. Avalon Waterways has redefined cruising by going against the current and
away from the ordinary. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts you in the captain’s seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you cruise down the world’s most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. One step aboard our modern, luxurious Suite Ships with the grandest views in cruising and you’ll see how the tides they are a-changin’. 

Welcome to a new wave in cruising. Welcome aboard Avalon Waterways.

IT DOESN’T GET ANY SUITER.
Enjoy the perfect blend of elegance and ease – where little touches are bold, gestures are grand and the views even grander. There’s a reason our ships are the critics’ darlings and favorites among our most discerning guests. Our boutique-hotel-inspired Panorama Suites feature the industry’s only Open-Air Balconies with the widest-opening windows in cruising and decadent Comfort Collection beds that face the ever-changing scenery.

PACK YOUR PASSIONS.
As you set sail down the world’s most legendary waters, we’ve curated a collection of the most intriguing experiences to immerse yourself in – both on board and off.

SEE MORE THAN THE SEA/
On a typical cruise, you see waves, water and more water. On an Avalon cruise, legendary landmarks and postcard-perfect landscapes are always in view. Dock to discovery takes mere minutes. 

LET’S DISH.
While we naturally present the signature delicacies of the regions you visit, we enrich the gastronomic journey by offering multiple dining venues, bringing unexpected culinary experiences to the table.

What they’re known for
River cruises to classic and exotic destinations with a luxury flair and personalization options.

Associations

Why Travelstride

Find your perfect trip

An epic selection of pre-planned trips on every continent, for every style. Thousands of itineraries from over 1,000 trusted travel companies.

Save time

Use simple search and comparison tools to easily find the best trip. Don't sweat the logistics — travel providers plan for you.

Save money

Book directly with the operator. See inclusive packages for the best values, and get access to amazing deals.

Travel confidently

Read unbiased user reviews, pick the operator that suits your needs, and connect with them directly.

Logistics

Accommodation

Casa Andina Premium MirafloresWith its stylish contemporary design, cutting-edge technology and ideal location, the flagship Casa Andina Premium Collection Miraflores hotel is the top of its class in every aspect. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, beauty salon, spa, pool, gym, business center, gift shops, and laundry service. LimaPeruAve la Paz 463Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel and VillasThe Casa Andina Premium Collection hotel in the Sacred Valley is a luxurious and satisfying retreat. Combining fine food, comfortable rooms, and personalized attention, it is the Valley's most complete hotel. In addition to a spa, a fitness center, and romantic dining, this hotel is best known for providing panoramic views of the Andes in every room. This charming mountain chalet-style hotel adds style and comfort to the already stunning atmosphere of Peru's Sacred Valley.Urubamba ValleyPeru5to Paradero YanahuaraSumaq Machu Picchu HotelThe Sumaq Hotel is located at the foot of the Machu Picchu ruins and boasts an Andean health spa, bar, restaurant, gift shop, and business center.Machu PicchuPeruAv Hermanos Ayar Mz 1 Lote 3Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection HotelThe Palacio del Inka is located opposite the Temple of the Sun. Enjoy excellent local and international cuisine in the Inti Raymi restaurant while watching spectacular Andean dances.CuscoPeruPlaza Santo Domingo 259SwissotelThis contemporary hotel is located in the commercial district of Quito, minutes away from historical Old Town. The hotel offers a wide variety of dining with six restaurants and two bars. Other features include a luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, tennis and racquetball courts, beauty salon, gift shop, and business center. QuitoEcuador12 de Octubre 1820 y Luis Cordero,

Transportation & Flights

Participation in this tour requires a purchase of additional local flights. ,
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Trip ID
AVALON-WAME

Become a member

(it's free)
  • Save up to $700 per person
  • Access members-only specials
  • Personalize trip recommendations
Sign up and save
Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >