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Machu Picchu to the Galapagos 2026

April 14 - 29, 2026
Length: 16 days
Region(s): 
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They rank as two of South America’s greatest treasures, and a small group tour is the natural selection for both: the enigmatic ruins at Machu Picchu, where we overnight at an intimate on-site hotel; and the fascinating Galapagos Islands, Darwin’s “living laboratory,” for a four-night island-based adventure.

Operated by Odysseys Unlimited

Tour Highlights

  • Take a guided tour of colonial Lima and the Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI), a prominent art museum covering 3,000 years of Peruvian history.
  • Explore the beautiful Sacred Valley, a region of Inca sites and indigenous villages, and attend a native “Offering to the Earth” ceremony.
  • Visit Ollantaytambo and Chinchero, a center of traditional Peruvian weaving.
  • Travel by train to the UNESCO site of Machu Picchu.
  • Discover the stunning “Lost City of the Incas” during two guided visits to the breathtaking ruins.
  • Tour Cuzco – the archaeological hub of the Americas, the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city, and a UNESCO site.
  • In Quito, another UNESCO site, tour its well-preserved historic center – considered Latin America’s finest – and visit the Middle of the World Monument.
  • Fly to the Galapagos Islands and stay for four nights at the beautiful Royal Palm Hotel set in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island.
  • Embark on privately chartered day cruises to North Seymour and South Plaza Islands – rich in flora and fauna – accompanied by an expert naturalist guide.
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Fausto Llerena Tortoise Center to learn about the iconic Galapagos tortoises.
  • Enjoy opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and nature walks.
  • Observe the Galapagos’ fascinating residents: Sally Lightfoot crabs, iguanas, sea lions, and abundant birdlife, including blue-footed boobies.
  • Explore Santa Cruz Island, where you encounter the giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat, and see the huge craters of Los Gemelos and secluded white-sand Garrapatero beach.
  • With a final day in Quito, tour the colorful Botanical Gardens and lively Iñaquito Market.
  • Join an optional pre-tour excursion to the Amazon rainforest to discover its flora and fauna for 4 days/4 nights.

If you would like to receive a PDF copy of this trip’s brochure, please click on “Brochure Request Form” under Additional Resources on this webpage.


* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

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