Peru & Galapagos: A Luxury Adventure

Your adventure begins by flying straight into Peru’s heart, Lima, and staying the night in the arty Second Home Boutique Hotel, a trendy getaway in the buzzing capital. With its own art collection, as well as being surrounded by quirky attractions, such as the museum of electricity, and food markets, you’ll be able to dive into Peru’s fantastic culture immediately. The hotel is nestled in the coastal district Barranco, considered the city’s most romantic and bohemian, so make sure to catch a glimpse of the purple blossoming trees and the brightly painted Art-Deco houses before you are whisked away to the Sacred Valley.

The next leg of your journey takes you to Peru’s stunning Andean highlands, where you’ll be transferred to the Sacred Valley. Make the charming Relais & Chateaux hotel, Sol & Luna, your home for the two nights as you learn about the ancient art of Inca textile weaving or visit the Incan fortress and citadel of Ollantaytambo and the Inca dwellings, temples and terraces of Pisac. Tuck into Peruvian dishes such as empandas at a local restaurant, buy colourful souvenirs at the local market and watch a Paso horse demonstration, accompanied by traditional music.

Next you’ll take the scenic Vistadome train to Machu Picchu, which needs no introduction- this Inca settlement, dramatically perched on a mountaintop, is a major draw for travellers to Peru, and with good reason. You’ll have lots of time to explore this extraordinary landmark both on a guided tour and at leisure, without a guide. Your base will be the luxurious cosy El Mapi, with its terracotta floors, delicious Peruvian specialities and amazing panoramic views – get up early to watch the sun rise over Machu Picchu, the absolute best way to start the day!

After your introduction into Machu Picchu’s fascinating history and culture, you’ll then board the Vistadome and descending into Cusco, the historic capital of the ancient Inca Empire. Two nights here is just the right amount of time to balance some well-earned relaxation with some sightseeing, as you can stroll around the cobblestone streets and romantic squares, stopping to enjoy the cooler evenings and traditional bars with a Pisco Sour in hand. If your legs need a bit of a rest after all that walking, the hotel Aranwa Cusco has a stunning candle-lit courtyard that is the perfect antidote, where you can dine on tapas dishes and chilled local wines.

Leaving Peru behind, you’ll be transferred to Quito, one of the highest capitals in South America. Staying in the oldest part of the city, your hotel La Casona de la Ronda has a fabulous location for those wanting to explore Ecuador’s wonderful setting. Flanked by towering volcanoes and dotted with colonial architecture, weave between the numerous museums, monasteries and temples as you make the most of Quito’s eclectic centre before jetting off to the Galapagos.

Fly to the Galapagos and join luxurious Galapagos Sea Star Travel for a five-day cruise around its beautiful islands. Meet some of its unique inhabitants, such as giant tortoises and penguins, explore the rocky volcanic landscapes, bask on the sweeping sandy beaches with the laidback sea lions, and swim and snorkel with sea turtles, penguins and reef sharks. Aboard the Sea Star, you’re guaranteed a smooth sailing thanks to its spacious and air-conditioned suites, cosy dining room, shaded terrace areas and two Jacuzzis. At the end of your trip, you’ll be taken to the airport for your return flight.