Hurtigruten Expeditions Galapagos Islands In Darwin's Footsteps - Plus Machu Picchu (Eastern Route)

13-day itinerary

Day 1: Your Land Adventure Begins

Lima – Intriguing blend of ancient and modern

Welcome to your unique expedition discovering the wonders of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. At the beginning of your journey, you’ll be visiting Peru’s fascinating capital, Lima.

If you have extra time after your arrival in Lima, why not discover more of what this vibrant city has to offer. Be sure to walk along the oceanfront boardwalk in the upmarket Miraflores district. Here, you’ll find many restaurants and cafés, as well as shops if you need to purchase anything ahead of your adventure.

Day 2: Discover the city of Lima

With its historical centre listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site, the city of Lima is considered to be a jewel of Spanish-era architecture. From colonial churches and monasteries to elegant mansions, you can also go even further back in time to gain insights into the pre-Hispanic heritage at the ruins of the pyramid Huaca Pucllana.

Recognised by many as being the food capital of South America, Lima has everything from gourmet restaurants to tasty street food. Be sure to indulge in the wonderful cuisines on offer at this stage in you journey.

Day 3: Imperial Cusco

After exploring the wondrous city of Lima, you will then be transferring to Lima airport to catch your flight to Cusco. Known as being the Imperial City and archaeological capital of South America, as well as the ‘navel of the universe’ by the Incas, Cusco’s ancient cultural influences are still plain to see to this day.

Home to some of the best examples of Inca history like the Santo Domingo church, built on the Inca temple of Koricancha, Cusco is a must-see destination on your expedition cruise. You will also be able to witness the Sacsayhuamán fortress, a 15th century ceremonial compound that boasts panoramic views of the city. Other highlights include a visit to the Sulca Textiles museum, along with the city’s main square where travellers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the remarkable Cathedral, dating back to Spanish colonial times.

Day 4: Marvelous Macha Picchu

You’ll commence your tenth day of expedition with a transfer to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. After this, you will then board the Hiram Bingham train to Macha Picchu, immersing yourself in the breathtaking Andean scenery as you journey past.

Located in Peru’s Cusco region and dating back to the 15^th century, Macha Picchu is considered to be one of planet Earth’s most fascinating attractions. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ‘The Lost City of The Incas’, was only rediscovered back in 1911 after being abandoned following the Spanish conquest, with great mystery and intrigue still surrounding the majestic stronghold. Experience the trails around the ruins, admire the precise Inca stonework and even potentially meet some of the indigenous local llamas in the region.

Day 5: Bustling Quito

Following your exhilarating adventure in Macha Picchu, you’ll then be driving to the airport in Cusco for the morning flight via Lima to Ecuador, arriving in Quito in the afternoon.

Standing at 9,350 ft, Quito is officially the second-highest capital city in the world, with its remarkable Old Town being a significant tourist attraction in the region. Founded on an ancient Inca settlement, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with outstanding colonial-era architecture, along with eye-catching churches and monuments. Take time to settle into your hotel and nearby surroundings, then head out to explore what this vibrant city had to offer.

Day 6: Quito’s Old Town

As previously mentioned, the Old Town in Ecuador’s capital is a huge attraction for many tourists on an annual basis. One of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America, the Old Town is home to many unmissable sights including stunning architecture and historic monuments. While here, also be sure to indulge in some of the finest chocolate made from the best Ecuadorian cacao.

After having visited Quito, you’ll then be heading to the iconic ‘Middle of the World City’, which is located around 16 miles north of Ecuador’s capital. After lunch, visit the iconic monument which outlines the imaginary line of the equator, and why not capture the unique moment where you will able to stand with a foot in each hemisphere.

Day 7: Beginning of your cruise

Following your exploration of Ecuador’s vibrant capital, a short flight will then take you to Baltra Island, located in the breathtaking Galapagos archipelago. A bus transfer will then transport you to the port, where the state-of-the-art MS Santa Cuz II will be waiting for you.

Catch a glimpse of the rich array of wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies on the archipelago. The onboard Expedition Team will be happy to take you ashore on small panga boats, so that you can experience the abundant wildlife first hand.

While ashore, stroll across the flat and sandy dunes and scan for different variations of crabs, whilst learning about the stunning marine life and rich ecosystems from your naturalist guides.

Day 8: San Cristóbal’s tortoises

The first stop on your eighth expedition day is the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding centre for the heavily endangered giant tortoise. Being arguably the most iconic of all Galapagos wildlife, the giant tortoises of San Cristobal thrive while in this environment which is similar to their natural habitat, with their lifespan staggeringly being over 100 years. San Cristóbal also boasts many other unique species including the San Cristobal Mockingbird and lava lizard.

Located on the island’s west coast, Cerro Brujo, with its pristine, white beaches will be a destination on this cruise up until August 2024. The famous naturist, Darwin, visited this region back in 1835, therefore meaning that passengers will be following in Darwin’s footsteps. After August 2024, the itinerary changes slightly and you will instead likely be exploring Punta Pitt in small panga boats. While here, enjoy a nature walk, explore the coastline by boat, or snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water, whilst also scanning for the region’s iconic birdlife circulating the area.

(The trip to Punta Pitt will be subject to local authority restrictions)

Day 9: Santa Fe and South Plaza 

You’ll commence day nine with a serene stroll on the idyllic beaches of Santa Fe. Home to a large colony of sealions and land iguanas, Santa Fe offers travellers plenty to explore. You can swim or snorkel from our small panga boats, take a kayak for a paddle around the island, or join a trip in our glass-bottomed boat to observe the marine life below.

You will then be heading to the South Plaza Island following an exquisite lunch, prepared by the excellent onboard chefs. While here, make sure you keep an eye for the abundant birdlife in the area, including frigatebirds, Swallow-tailed Gulls and Galapagos Shearwaters which patrol the skies above.

Day 10: Darwin’s Santa Cruz 

Santa Cruz Island, Home to Charles Darwin’s Research Station, will be the next destination on your journey. Now a giant tortoise breeding centre, travellers will be able to witness newly hatched tortoises, as well as Darwin’s iconic finches, which were the species of bird used as basis for his theory of evolution by natural selection. The abundant forest of prickly pear cacti also provides an excellent environment for many variations of land birds.

Over lunch, enjoy the respite of a cooler climate in the lush highlands, where a great amount of giant tortoises can be seen shuffling around the landscape. There will also be enough time for an additional activity, and this may either be mountain biking or a visit to a sugar plantation.

Day 11: Dramatic Española

Espanola, the archipelago’s most southerly island, is a remarkable hive of activity, with a rich variety of extraordinary birdlife. Look out for Nazca Boobies, Blue-footed Boobies and Swallow-tailed Gulls, and the mighty Waved Albatross on cruises April through December.

As well as this, travellers will also have the opportunity to scan for red lava lizards and marine iguanas, while the famous blowhole, El Soplador, blasts water a staggering 75 feet into the air. After indulging in another outstanding lunch onboard the ship, passengers will then be visiting the scenic coral beach of Gardner Bay and the nearby Osborn Islet. While here, look out for sea lions, mockingbirds and finches, whilst also taking part in snorkelling and kayaking activities.

Day 12: Reef life on Eden Islet 

Upon reaching Eden Islet, prepare to immerse yourself in more of the abundant wildlife the region has to offer. Be on the lookout for Galapagos green turtles, rays, reef sharks, along with the distinctive frigatebirds while ashore.

Travellers will have the option of either swimming and snorkelling to explore the fascinating reefs, or simply relax and witness the reefs from the glass-bottomed boat. Following on from this, the MS Santa Cruz II will be sailing to North Seymour, with the island providing another ideal habitat for sealions and marine iguanas who are attracted to the island’s bountiful waters.

Day 13: End of your expedition 

Your expedition unfortunately has to come to its conclusion at some stage, and as you disembark at Baltra Island, this will symbolise the end of your cruise journey. You will then either be boarding a flight to Guayaquil, or continuing to Quito to explore more of Ecuador’s lively capital.

Fancy exploring more of Ecuador? Optional post-programme packages are available for you to experience this historic country in greater depth.

Flights

• Flights in economy class from Lima to Cusco, and from Cusco to Quito (via Lima), including all taxes
• Flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, and Baltra and Guayaquil, including all taxes

Hotel

• Two nights in Lima, two nights in Cusco, and two nights in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast. Dinner on Day 3-6.

Transfers

• Transfer from the airport to the hotel, and the hotel to the airport, in Quito before the expedition cruise
• Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra

Excursions

• Lima City Tour, including lunch, before the expedition cruise
• Tour package: Cusco and Machu Picchu as described, including excursions with lunch, train tickets, entrance fees, transfers from the hotel to the airport in Lima and within Cusco, before the expedition cruise
• Full-day excursion: Historic Quito & Middle of the World, including lunch, before the expedition cruise

Extras

• Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
• Transit control card for the Galápagos Islands
• Access to the airport lounge at the Guayaquil (or Quito) airport upon return from the Galápagos Islands for guests flying internationally on the day of disembarkation

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• House wine and beer served with lunch and dinner. From 1 October 2024 departures, wine, beer and spirits (excluding premium alcoholic drinks) available from the bar at any time (subject to Ecuadorean licensing laws)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A backpack or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of hot tubs, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Corner
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted and guided landings with small panga boats
• Loan of all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Your flight from Baltra will be to Guayaquil. If you wish to end your expedition in Quito, please advise your booking agent
• The land programme in Peru and Quito, Ecuador takes place at high altitudes. At 11,100 ft and 9,350 ft above sea level, respectively, you might experience mild altitude sickness.
• The land-based tour in Peru involves long stretches of active travel and walking over uneven terrain. Be prepared for a climate that varies from high altitude to tropical weather.
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)

What’s not included

• International flights
• Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling

MS Santa Cruz II