Majestic Peru & Southern Galapagos Cruise (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Explore Peru and the Galapagos on this epic adventure from Lima to Quito. In the ancient land of the Incas, you’ll uncover historic architecture, vast Andean landscapes, ancient ruins, busy markets and welcoming locals. Visit the famed Machu Picchu – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and maybe opt to take the One Day Inca Trail trek to see the citadel from two angles. Share two pachamanca meals with locals– one in the middle of the desert near the Nazca Lines and one in the Andean community of Huilloq. Then, fly to Quito for your week-long sailing voyage through the incredibly scenic southern isles of the Galapagos. Watch as sea lions, iguanas, giant tortoises and exotic birds go about their daily business. Go snorkelling near mighty manta rays, turtles and tropical fish and soak up the natural, rugged landscapes of the area, seeing what Charles Darwin saw more than 180 years ago. This trip visits places that are at high altitude, where it’s common for travellers to experience altitude sickness. Regardless of your age, gender and fitness, please see the ‘Medical and Health Information’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail., Visitors are not permitted to explore Machu Picchu without a Machu Picchu guide (this doesn’t include your trip leader) and must follow set routes within the site. This trip includes one guided visit of Machu Picchu (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours). Your leader will provide more information to ensure you get the most out of your visit to this incredible site., This trip involves lots of active adventure and we ask that you read through the itinerary carefully to ensure that this trip is right for you. You’ll need to feel comfortable with the included activities and with moving about the boat. The cabins and communal areas of the boat are spread over three decks and the steps between the decks are steep., You will be entering and exiting a Zodiac boat (panga) during wet and dry landings and when returning from snorkelling. Although the waters we sail are usually calm, there are times when the sea can get rough and choppy. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) are needed when walking around the boat during bad weather. Rain or shine, your trusty crew will always be on hand to assist you., While at sea and when exploring the islands, you may be exposed to the sun for large parts of the day. It’s important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water., According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors to Machu Picchu must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. We will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same route, but be aware that it is possible that members of the same group might be visiting Machu Picchu on a different circuit and not be together during this visit. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.