AVALON 2025: From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with Galapagos Cruise (WAME)
18 Day River Cruise Lima to Quito
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 Galapagos 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 Galapagos Islands onboard the 16-passenger Treasure of Galapagos! 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!
Call (847) 455-8897 for more information or to book today! Mention code 17493626
- Tour Operator
- Globus
- Duration
- 18 Days
- Escorted
- Escorted - Yes
| Day | Destination | Description |
| Day 1 | Lima | Welcome to Lima-Cosmopolitan, Colonial, and Pre-Columbian Culture |
| Day 2 | Lima | Peruvian Treasures, Presidential Palaces, and Pizarro's ConquestsCLASSIC 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 famous catacombs followed by the Larco Herrera Museum-with the world's largest private collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art.DISCOVERY Later, enjoy a Culinary Experience with an authentic Peruvian welcome dinner in the exquisite, historic mansion-Casa Garcia Alvarado.(B,D) |
| Day 3 | Sacred Valley | Alpacas, Llamas, and Ancient Rituals of the AndesCLASSIC 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 stonework of this 15th-century fortress that was once the site of the largest battle between the Incas and the Spanish. The Spanish were ultimately victorious in 1536, disassembling part of the site to build homes in Cusco and leaving behind the ruins we find today. You will also see the Inca military post of Puca Pucara and visit the ceremonial site of Kenko where ancient Peruvian rituals and sacrifices were performed.DISCOVERY Take a Guided Tour of Awanakancha to encounter llamas, alpacas, vicunas, and guanacos and learn about their vital role in Peruvian culture. Continue to the old mountain village of Pisac. Take time to shop in Pisac's large Indian market for treasures such as alpaca sweaters, woven blankets, and handmade jewelry.This evening, enjoy dinner featuring Andean and Western dishes with wine.(B,L,D) |
| Day 4 | Sacred Valley | Stone Temples and Formidable FortressesCLASSIC 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 fountain.DISCOVERY Join an Escorted Visit to a native Incan home to experience the way of life that has endured since the 13th century.MACHU PICCHU Andean Heights and Hidden Secrets of the Inca's Lost City CLASSIC Join a Guided Excursion aboard the 360 Machu Picchu Train boasting spectacular panoramic views of the lush countryside of Urubamba Valley from its panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage. Travel by rail to Aguas Calientes to take the winding road to legendary Machu Picchu.ACTIVE Take a Guided Walk to explore the 'Lost City of the Incas' high atop the Andes once overlaid with dense forest. Learn about the lives and mysteries still hidden in this ancient citadel and the amazing structures built by the pre-Columbian masters of this sacred land.DISCOVERY Enjoy your overnight stay at the foot of the mountain where Machu Picchu is found with a gourmet Peruvian dinner.(B,D) |
| 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 ancient entrance to the Sanctuary.After lunch, return to the Sacred Valley by train and then continue on to Cusco. (B,L) |
| 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 called Koricancha and built by the Incas as a Temple of the Sun with extraordinary engineering and masonry design. Continue to the Plaza de Armas to visit the Cusco Cathedral.Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore Cusco's colorful culture. DISCOVERY Tonight, an elegant dinner includes wine and a menu inspired by Peru's eclectic mix of cultures.(B,D) |
| Day 7 | PERUVIAN AMAZON RIVER | 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 meeting your onboard Naturalist and Cruise Director.DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Welcome Reception to gain an overview of your upcoming Amazon experience. Your Naturalist Guide will offer information about the animal species of the Amazon ecosystem, the native villagers you'll meet, and the spectacular plant life that thrives in this astonishing environment. See the two powerful Amazon tributaries-the Ucayali and Maranon Rivers-which converge to create the mighty Peruvian Amazon.Later, on board, enjoy an unforgettable dinner featuring Peruvian cuisine with the freshest local ingredients. (B,L,D) |
| 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 tributaries in search of the incredible wildlife. Your Naturalist Guide helps to spot capuchin, howler, tamarin, and spider monkeys, as well as iguanas, sloths, freshwater pink dolphins, and a stunning array of birdlife. Watch for the extraordinary giant Amazonian water lily. CLASSIC This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve allows you to witness the activity of exotic birds, including trogons, macaws, parrots, falcons, and jacamars.ACTIVE Take a refreshing Swim in this unique area of the Amazon-with the chance to encounter the Amazon's amazing pink dolphins.DISCOVERY Join in an onboard Cooking Class to learn about native fruits, vegetables, and fish. You'll learn about local ingredients for delicious recipes. In the evening, enjoy a Mixology Lesson to create Peru's famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour.(B,L,D) |
| Day 9 | Peruvian Amazon | Exotic Birds, Night Creatures, and Natural RemediesACTIVE 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 Presentation about indigenous and medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetation used in the Amazonian culture for centuries.CLASSIC This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to the Amazon community of San Francisco introduces you to local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations.ACTIVE Join a Night Safari Excursion to spot nocturnal creatures, including caiman, frogs, bats, and boa constrictors. You will also have the chance to try fishing for piranhas! DISCOVERY Later tonight, enjoy Live Entertainment by the Delfin III crew of local performers to celebrate your Amazon adventure with music and dance.(B,L,D) |
| Day 10 | Iquitos | A Manatee Introduction and an Amazon FarewellDISCOVERY 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.(B) |
| Day 11 | Quito | Fly from Lima to Quito. Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galapagos 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. (B) |
| Day 12 | Quito | A Gold Altar, Artistic Avenues, and Two Hemispheres in One DayCLASSIC 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'll also see Independence Plaza and visit the 16th-century San Francisco Monastery, and La Compania Church-the exquisite Jesuit cathedral with its spectacular Spanish baroque architecture-more than 160 years in the making. DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk down Calle La Ronda-one of Quito's oldest streets-with a wealth of artist's workshops and galleries where you'll meet local artists and learn about their original works. Later, visit a local chocolate factory for a tour and a tasting to discover why Ecuador is one of the world's finest chocolate producers.CLASSIC Your day in Quito ends with a Guided Excursion to the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo-a monument to the Equator-the 'middle of the world.' Stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time at the exact location of the Earth's Equator. Observe the equatorial effects of the dual-spiraling directions of water and balancing eggs on end.This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with delicious regional cuisine. (B,D) |
| Day 13 | Santa Cruz Island | The Theory of Evolution-and Giant BabiesThis morning, take a flight to the Galapagos island of Baltra where you'll embark on your five-day cruise aboard the Treasure of Galapagos. DISCOVERY Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion to Santa Cruz Island to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station- established to help conserve the Galapagos' natural habitat and protect the famous giant tortoises. While here, learn about the tortoise-rearing program and see many of the various islands' tortoises.Later on board your ship, join in a briefing of the next day's adventures, and enjoy a Captain's welcome with cocktails and dinner.Note: The ship's itinerary may vary according to Galapagos National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, and seasonal changes to create the perfect cross-section of sites visited.(B,L,D) |
| 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 Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island where you will walk on newly-formed (less than 100 years ago) lava flows reminiscent of the lunar landscape. You can catch sight of lava lizards, marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and even the Galapagos penguin.This afternoon, cruise to Bartolome Island.BARTOLOME ISLANDHike the Summit, Snorkel, and Swim ACTIVE Take a Guided Hike to Bartolome's 114-meter summit for spectacular panoramic views of the region with two beautiful bays and fascinating formations of lava flows and spatter cones, including the iconic Pinnacle Rock. Later, take a snorkel and swim off the beach here-home to playful sea lions, Pacific green turtles, white tip reef sharks, and Galapagos penguins.(B,L,D) |
| Day 15 | North Seymour Island | Masterful Marine Iguanas and Birds of a Different ColorCLASSIC 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-foot wingspread, and gulls and herons of all assortments.ACTIVE Take a Guided Snorkeling Excursion in the aqua blue waters just off North Seymour Island's shore-teeming with sea lions and amphibious marine iguanas-found only in the Galapagos.This afternoon, cruise for the sandy island of Mosquera Islet.MOSQUERA ISLETA Sea Lion Haven of White Coral Sand DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk on the white coral beaches to the islands' largest congregation of Galapagos sea lions. You'll see a wide variety of shore birds reflecting the island's amazing biodiversity-from the deep-gray lava gull to the yellow-crowned night heron.(B,L,D) |
| Day 16 | SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND | Tracing Darwin's Footsteps and Audubon's MusesDISCOVERY 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 cross between land and marine iguanas). You will see blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigate birds, swallow-tailed gulls, Audubon's shearwaters, and many other species.This afternoon, cruise to Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island. SAN CRISTOBAL ISLANDBlue Herons, Blue Lagoons, and a Sleeping LionACTIVE Take a Guided Walk at the site where Charles Darwin first visited the Galapagos. See the volcanic remains of magnificent Kicker Rock-also called Leon Dormido (Sleeping Lion). Walk beside one of the island's blue lagoons to see a number of migratory birds, including pelicans and great blue herons.(B,L,D) |
| Day 17 | 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 Galapagos' fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, climate, and the arrival of diverse species that inspire both imagination and science.This afternoon, you'll say farewell to the magical islands of Galapagos and fly to Quito. This evening, spend free time relaxing or enjoy one of Quito's many fine restaurants. (B) |
| Day 18 | Quito | Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B) |
- Dates/Pricing
- Disclaimer
- US$ Price Details
Land/Cruise price does not include the Galapagos National Park entrance fee and transit card ($120 value) but are additional and mandatory. These fees will be added to your Vacation Estimate.Price is per person based on double room occupancy. Gratuities to Local Guides & drivers are included. Call for single accommodation details and prices. Triple rooms are not available.
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The purchase of any travel services offered by Avalon Waterways, constitutes a contractual arrangement between you (the Traveler) and Avalon Waterways, and represents your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand the Terms & Conditions prior to booking. These Terms & Conditions cover Deposit & Final Payment information, Air-Inclusive Deposits & Final Payment, Revisions & Revision Fees, Air Arrangements, Participation, Travelers Who Need Special Assistance, Young Travelers, Smoking, Price Policy, Visas and Passports, Hotels & Accommodations, Baggage Allowance, Travel Documents, Not Included in the Land Price, Refunds, Service Inquires After the Vacation, Holidays, Safety, Photos & Pictures, Optional Excursions, and Responsibility.
Important Notes- Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
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- The following charges are not included in the land/cruise vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; intra-vacation air, unless specified in the itinerary; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee up to $11.20 per person, passenger facility charges up to $18 per person, Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $4.10 per segment, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted Avalon menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature.
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Our volume buying power saves you money. We may be able to provide you with flight arrangements from your gateway city. Avalon Waterways offers 2 air options: Flex Air and Instant Purchase Air. Early Airfare Price Guarantee locks in a price that is guaranteed not to increase. Air pricing and schedules are available approximately 330 days prior to last travel date in the itinerary. At that time the best air price will be utilized and a new invoice with the air cost and confirmed schedule will be sent. The identity of the carrier, which may include the carrier's codeshare partner, will be assigned and disclosed at this time. If the guaranteed price is the lowest, the schedule with the lowest fare per contracted classes of service will be booked. Any voluntary change to the confirmed flights negates the guaranteed price and is subject to air pricing at the time of the change.
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The 'Starting at' or 'From' listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on double occupancy and any applicable non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes limited-time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.
