You will be accompanied by various multi-lingual local guides during the tour, who will be responsible for guiding you through the various cities and attractions that you will be visiting. In each new city that you visit, you will likely be introduced to a new local guide who is an expert in that region. Depending on the itinerary chosen and your group size, your local guide may provide commentary in multiple languages.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Small group tour, up to 20 guests only
✓ Incredible sightseeing including guided city tours in Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Lima, and Cusco, a Tango dinner show in Buenos Aires, plus tour Iguazu Falls, the Inca treasures of the Sacred Valley, and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
✓ Ride the iconic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes in 360° “sky dome” carriages
✓ Explore Santa Cruz, San Cristobel and other outer uninhabited islands of the Galapagos
✓ Swim and snorkel in Kicker Rock, easily the most renowned destination for marine wildlife in the Galapagos
✓ 24 nights in central handpicked 3 & 4 star accommodation
✓ Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 3 dinners with paired wines
✓ Fully escorted by an expert, English-speaking guide in each country (excluding internal flights)
✓ All internal domestic flights included
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
🛏️ Shared room available for solo passengers. This tour offers solo passengers the option to share a room with a fellow passenger of the same gender and avoid the Single Traveller supplement.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Santiago!
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore this cosmopolitan city.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
After breakfast, meet your local tour leader who will brief you about the upcoming activities. Begin a captivating full-day walking tour of Santiago, exploring the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Our first stop is Santa Lucia Hill, where Conquistador Pedro de Valdivia founded the city on February 12, 1541.
Next, we stroll through the bustling "Paseo Ahumada," Santiago's main shopping and commercial district, and visit iconic landmarks such as the "La Moneda" government palace and the Stock Exchange. Continue to Plaza de Armas, home to Santiago’s majestic Cathedral, before transferring to the other side of the city for a visit to the stunning Parque Bicentenario. Nestled on the slopes of Cerro San Cristobal, this 27-hectare park is home to over 4,000 trees, including 1,300 native species protected by the Chilean Ministry of the Environment.
Relax by the North Lagoon, where you'll have the opportunity to spot black-necked swans, flamingos, coots, and herons. In the afternoon, return to your hotel, with the remainder of the day at your leisure.
This evening, enjoy an Inspiring Taste with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant paired with some of the finest Chilean wines found in the local area.
Inspiring Highlights
Today will be an early start, as you are transferred to the airport to board your flight to Mendoza, one of the most picturesque cities in Argentina and one of the largest wine producing areas in Latin America.
As such, Mendoza is one of the nine Great Wine Capitals, and the city is an emerging enotourism destination and base for exploring the region's hundreds of wineries located along the Argentina Wine Route.
Upon your arrival at Mendoza airport, you will be met by your local driver and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, meet your tour leader for an orientation walk around the city.
Tonight the evening will be free at your leisure to further get to know the city.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Today is free for you to explore the beautiful wine country on your own.
Alternatively, you may wish to join the optional tour below.
This evening enjoy an included dinner at a unique location, where regional cuisine is still valued, accompanied by the best wines.
Today you will enjoy tasting various varieties of wines and lunch in a place surrounded by vineyards. Enjoy a fully guided tour of two of the region’s favourite wineries. Learn of the different varieties and methods used at each winery, tour the vineyard and cellars and enjoy a tasting of their varieties. At the end of the tour, in the last winery, a first-class lunch with matching wines will be served.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Transfers, wine tasting, lunch and guide
Start Time: 09:30am
End Time: 5:30pm
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Buenos Aires where, at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of the downtown district.
Born on the banks of Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires is a city of contrasts. Avenues which display sensational European buildings and architectural pieces of work and neighbourhoods oozing with intense cultural, artistic and gastronomic surprises around each corner.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
On your departure from Mendoza you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Buenos Aires, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
After breakfast, meet your local guide and fellow travellers to discover Buenos Aires through the eyes of a local on a half day city tour covering all the main sites. Start off by visiting Plaza de Mayo, the heart of Buenos Aires and the place where the city was founded. Then, head to Puerto Madero, known as the gateway of the founders of Argentina. There you will appreciate the transformation of one of the most modern neighbourhoods in the city. Continue to La Boca and Caminito, where you will feel Argentinians’ passion for football. Pass by the Bombonera Stadium and the Riachuelo River, populated by Italian immigrants.
Next, a visit to San Telmo, the place where the elegant and sensual dance of tango, originated. Finally visit Palermo and Recoleta to learn more about Porteños’ customs, habits and behaviours, also pass by the Recoleta Cemetery (entrance ticket is not included) and the beautiful Floralis Generica.
Tonight, enjoy an Inspiring Site with a special Tango-show and dinner at one of the city’s premier theatres. You will be escorted from your hotel to the historic venue showcasing the authentic representation of Buenos Aires culture through the ages. With an array of artists on stage you will experience tango orchestras, a collection of folk music, dancers and singers all while feasting on international and local Argentinian dishes and a selection of Argentine wine.
Following the show, you will be transferred back to your hotel for the evening.
Inspiring Highlights
Today is free for you to explore Buenos Aires on your own.
Transfer to the airport today for your included flight to Puerto Iguazu where on arrival you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.
Welcome to Iguazu Falls - one of the most famous world-wide attractions! Made up of 275 individual waterfalls, they are divided between Argentina and Brazil and provide vastly different views and experiences depending on which side they are viewed from. In the "Land of the Falls," you can revel in the splendour of the natural forests, rivers and lakes.
The flight to Puerto Iguazu is approximately 1.5 hours long. On arrival you will be transferred across to the Brazil side of the falls for your accommodation.
The Iguazu Falls are located where the Iguazu River cascades over the edge of the Paraná Plateau, created by an enormous volcanic eruption more than 130 million years ago. Straddling the Argentine-Brazil border, the falls are made up of up to 275 individual waterfalls, lining a 2.7 km-wide horseshoe-shaped gorge. It’s a truly breathtaking sight to see the unyielding force of nature in such a magnificent setting.
After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble-free.
If you require a Brazil visa, please ensure it allows for multiple entry as you will cross the border twice during your time in Iguazu.
On your departure from Buenos Aires, you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Iguazu, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town, and be reachable to assist you as needed. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
These spectacular falls can be viewed from both sides; the Brazilian side offers a broader, panoramic view, and the Argentinian side offers a series of catwalks that allow you to experience the Falls up close.
This morning after breakfast you’ll explore Iguazu Falls from the Argentinian side. Beginning at the visitor’s center, you’ll take a ride on the Rainforest Ecological Train before exploring the upper and lower circuit footbridges. These footbridges, raised off the jungle floor, provide panoramic views from above and below the falls.
A visit to the monumental, roaring Devil’s Throat – arguably the most spectacular of the falls – is one of the day’s highlights. It’s the heart of the falls and the highest, at about 80 meters. The noise as these mighty falls plunge to the bottom of the narrow canyon is almost deafening. There’s the chance of getting under the falls, with an optional ride on the Gran Aventura.
You’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon.
Inspiring Highlights
Today, you’ll tour the relatively dry Brazilian side of the falls, with breathtaking panoramic views at every turn. Uninterrupted vistas of the Floriana Falls, the Devil’s Gorge Canyon and the Iguazu River are spectacular and guaranteed to impress.
To enhance your tour, you may wish to see the falls from another perspective with an optional Helicopter ride.
Following your morning tour you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Rio de Janeiro.
Bem vindo ao Rio - Welcome to Rio! On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel located just steps from the city’s dazzling iconic shoreline.
Nicknamed a cidade maravilhosa (the marvelous city), Rio de Janeiro is world-renowned for its dazzling landscapes and location, nestled between steep, green mountains and crystal-clear seas. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for not only its ‘staggeringly beautiful location’, but its cultural landscape. The city is full of energy. Cariocas, the locals of Rio, are known for their carefree spirit and charm.
Tonight will be an evening at leisure to explore this wonderful city.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
On your departure from Iguazu you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a tour guide in Rio de Janeiro, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.
This morning, you’ll meet your local guide and embark on a full-day tour of Rio de Janeiro to see the city’s famous landmarks, Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
We’ll take a scenic drive from Copacabana Beach, continuing along Botafogo Beach and passing the imposing Guanabara Palace on the way to Corcovado Hill. At the top we’ll find the greatest national icon, Christ the Redeemer, standing tall over the city with arms outstretched. This giant Art Deco statue was recently named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The panoramic views of the city are lovely from up here, 709 metres at the summit.
We’ll then continue on to the district of Urca and the world-famous rocky peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, where you’ll board the first cable car to the top of Urca Hill, enjoying spectacular views of Guanabara Bay. A second cable car takes you on to Sugarloaf, with 360-degree views of the city and surrounding areas. Sugarloaf Mountain towers over the harbour, 400 metres above the mouth of Guanabara Bay.
Afterwards, we’ll pass through the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema en route to a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local churrascaria, an all-you-can-eat barbeque.
After lunch, we’ll visit the Maracanã Stadium, home of Bellini’s statue and the Hall of Fame. Brazilians also love their football (soccer) and this is their biggest stadium. Entrance to the stadium is not included. And there will be a stop at the Sambadrome, the stadium for the city’s main Carnival parade.
As we pass through the city’s historic centre, you’ll have a chance to see the Lapa Arches. Built in the middle of the 18th century, this aqueduct is an impressive example of colonial architecture and engineering. We’ll also make a quick stop to see the colourful Selaron Stairs, an amazing urban work of art by the late Jorge Selaron. These steps are decorated with more than 2,000 brightly coloured tiles and mirrors.
We’ll return to the hotel along Aterro de Flamengo (Flamengo Park), passing by the Monument to the Dead of World War II and the beaches of Flamengo and Botafogo.
Inspiring Highlights
Today will be an early start, as you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Lima.
Welcome to Lima, the "City of Kings". Upon arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel where the rest of today is at leisure.
Later today, meet your local guide for a welcome briefing and some tips during your stay in Lima.
This evening will be free to explore Lima and get to know the city.
Special Information
Depending on the day of departure, some flights arrive into Lima late in the evening. In this instance you will meet your local guide and conduct your welcome briefing the following morning.
On your departure from Rio de Janeiro you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Lima, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Enjoy breakfast before heading out for a half day morning tour of the fascinating city of Lima. You start your tour with a panoramic view of Huaca Pucllana, a magnificent clay platform pyramid located in the center of the city. This ceremonial and archeological centre was built in the 4th century A.D. and is considered a sacred village by the Incas.
Then, you’ll visit the colonial side of the city where you'll see attractions like the Cathedral, the Viceroyalty of Peru, the main places of Lima's Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the Government Palace, the City Hall, and other important monuments. Later, you’ll visit the Convent of San Francisco, a seventeenth-century architectural complex that includes a church, a convent and a square. The facade of the church, which has an image of the Immaculate Conception painted on it, was carved in stone, and is characterised by its Corinthian columns. You will also see the catacombs, a dark chamber found under the church. After visiting the centre of Lima you’ll head to the modern section of this great metropolis and will visit the district of Miraflores with its spectacular clifftop walking path overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the “Parque del amor” (Love Park).
Following your tour, return to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
In the morning, after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to take your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival you’ll be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to allow you time to acclimatise to the altitude change in preparation for our visit to Machu Picchu.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.
On your departure from Lima you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a tour leader in Cusco, who will meet and greet you, and travel onwards in Peru with you.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Today, we enjoy a full day exploration of the incredible Sacred Valley of the Incas including lunch.
Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the lush, fertile valley has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls. You will head to a community in the Valley to learn about local lifestyle and activities and if our visit coincides with market day you can spend time browsing the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos and maybe practising some of the local language, Quechua.
Enjoy a regional lunch with the community and later continue the tour visiting the ancient salt ponds near the village of Maras, where salty springs emerge from the hillside and the Incas built terraces to capture the flows and harvest salt. Continue the excursion to Moray, where huge circular agricultural terraces were built by the Incas on limestone sinks to plant various crops. It is said to have a cosmological significance, however, the Incas used the terraces as an agricultural laboratory to determine the optimum conditions for each species in varying altitudes.
Return to your hotel late this afternoon where the evening is at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, we'll drive for 20 mins to the train station in Ollantaytambo to board the train towards Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, a modern little town close to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Included is a ride aboard "The 360°" carriages from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This incredible journey allows you to explore the Andean landscape in “sky dome” carriages offering wider panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage. The train is the only one in Peru with an on-board app that will allow you to learn more about the train ride and the Inca civilization.
After passing through the Sacred Valley of the Incas the train starts to descend gradually along the edge of the Urubamba River, till you finally reach the cloud forest. After arriving in Aguas Calientes we'll take a short bus ride up the steep, zigzagging road to the impressive Lost City of the Incas. This is one of those genuinely magical places, and your first glimpse of these ruins in the mist is something to remember. The site is perched high in the Andes, surrounded by verdant cloud forest, with the river Urubamba running through the gorge far below. Hidden away on a ridge, Machu Picchu is invisible from below, so it's no surprise it remained a secret until 1911.
Explore the upper terrace with your guide first, making sure to get that great portrait! You will then take a guided tour of the ruins, learning more about these 200 or so houses and temples. It's fascinating to be able to gaze down on the city from above and imagine how it would have looked during the height of the Inca empire.
Catch the bus back into town and enjoy some spare time to have lunch and a look around. In the afternoon, then take the tourist train in “The Voyager” carriage back to Ollantaytambo and make the rest of the journey to Cusco by vehicle.
On arrival in Cusco, check into your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a predetermined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only and once the guided visit commences, exiting and reentering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.
In the morning, set out to discover some of Cusco's lesser-known sights on a guided walking tour. Visit the Cusco Cathedral and the Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square.
Then, you will visit the ruins near the city of Cusco, beginning the visit to the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, continuing to the Temple of Quenqo, and Puca Pucara and ending with the impressive temple of Tambomachay where you will be able to observe a series of water fountains, this place was dedicated to the worship of water.
This evening will be at your leisure to enjoy Cusco.
Inspiring Highlights
Today will be an early start, as you will be transferred to Cusco airport for your included flight via Lima to Guayaquil in Ecuador, your gateway to the Galapagos.
On arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of the city.
This afternoon, your local guide will take you on a walking tour of Guayaquil. You will visit Seminario Park, famously known as Iguana Park for its resident Green Iguanas. Next, explore The Integration Plaza at Guayaquil City Hall and Vulcano Forge, showcasing sculptures that unravel the Independent secret plan of the Patriots. Then, venture to the Malecon 2000 with its plazas, monuments, and gardens before delving into the historic Las Penias Neighborhood, marked by its ancient fort and wooden houses recounting tales of past pirate attacks.
This evening will be spent at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Estimate time of the walking tour: 2 hours
The Guayaquil city tour will be available if flights arrive before 3.00pm.
On your departure from Peru you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Guayaquil, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands (flight tickets and departure time will be advised locally on your arrival in Guayaquil).
Your guide will pick you up from the airport and continue on to visit the Highlands of the Island where you can observe the giant tortoise roaming in a natural habitat. Make the most of great picture opportunities with this endangered species, endemic to the Galapagos before continuing to your hotel in Puerto Ayora.
Later, head to the Charles Darwin Research Station, located in Puerto Ayora. The research station plays a crucial role in the conservation and preservation of the Galápagos Islands' delicate ecosystem. Here, you'll learn about ongoing research projects, breeding programs for endangered species, and the conservation efforts to protect the islands' biodiversity. One of the main highlights of the Charles Darwin Research Station is the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. You'll have the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close and learn about the conservation efforts to protect and reintroduce them to their natural habitats.
In the afternoon you will arrive back at your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour guide.
On your departure from Guayaquil you will say goodbye to your local guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in the Galapagos Island, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in the islands and be reachable to assist you as needed.
Please note a US$20 per person transit card is payable on departure at Guayaquil Airport. Galapagos National Park entry fee of US$200 is payable on arrival on the islands. Both payments are made in USD cash.
It's important to note that, given the remote and isolated nature of the Galapagos, there are fewer options for accommodation, and it can be challenging to provide all creature comforts. Sometimes, there may be hot water outages, and occasional blackouts can occur. While it may be less comfortable than what you might experience on the mainland of South America, the opportunity to explore this extraordinary destination makes it well worth the experience.
After breakfast, you will embark on a full day tour to one of the beautiful uninhabited islands of Santa Fe, South Plaza, North Seymour or Bartolomé (subject to scheduling). Your excursion will travel by speed boat - the trip takes approximately 2 hours each way.
Your expert naturalist guide will introduce you to the island's unique wildlife which may include endemic species such as Galapagos penguins, land iguanas, Darwin's finches, blue-footed Boobies and many more.
You will have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, discover marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
You’ll then return to Puerto Ayora by late afternoon to spend the evening relaxing.
Special Information
Your touring today may be shared with other non Inspiring Vacations guests.
After breakfast, visit Tortuga Bay. You will take a guided walk (45 minutes each way) to take in the scenery and wildlife. Visitors can often encounter marine iguanas, Galápagos crabs, sea lions, and a variety of bird species such as pelicans and finches.
Once you reach Playa Brava, please be aware that swimming is not allowed here due to the presence of hazardous currents. For those wishing to swim, continue walking along the beach until you discover a trail leading through the mangrove forest. This path will take you to Playa Mansa, a sheltered bay where you can safely swim and relish the cool shade provided by the mangroves.
This afternoon, transfer to the pier and board a public speed-boat to San Cristobal Island (approximately 2.5 hours ride). Upon arrival, you will enjoy a walking tour in the beautiful Puerto Baquerizo to enjoy the local life.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours on a public speed-boat service.
This morning after breakfast you will visit one of the most iconic sites in the Galapagos Islands: Kicker Rock or “Leon Dormido”, an amazing rock formation just 90 minutes from San Cristobal Island. This incredible landmark is a remnant of a vertical tuff cone formation with an altitude of 500 feet from the Pacific Ocean, it is considered as one of the best snorkelling sites in the Archipelago.
Erosion has given the formation its characteristic shape of a shoe (hence the name Kicker Rock) and others see a sleeping lion from above, the reason why in Spanish it is called “Leon Dormido”.
Snorkelling in the vicinity of the rock is truly an unforgettable experience! You will be able to spot marine iguanas, sea turtles, rays, Galapagos sharks, schools of colourful fish and, with some luck, hammerhead sharks. Also in the crevasses of the rock, you can encounter blue-footed boobies, masked-boobies and frigate birds.
Return to San Cristobal and your hotel for a well-deserved short resting time. In the afternoon, visit La Loberia beach, a scenic beach filled with large colonies of curious sea-lions, marine iguanas, frigate birds and more.
Spend the evening relaxing after a packed day.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Your touring today may be shared with other non Inspiring Vacations guests.
Often there can be instances where visits to Kicker Rock will be restricted. For groups not able to visit Kicker Rock, a visit to Isla Lobos will be provided as an alternative. Isla Lobos is named after the numerous sea lions (lobos marinos in Spanish) that inhabit the island. You'll also have opportunities to observe a variety of bird species, including blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and brown pelicans. Once you arrive at Isla Lobos, your naturalist guide will lead you on guided walks through the island's unique vegetation and provide opportunities for close encounters with the wildlife. You will have time to do snorkelling with unique species and then sail to an isolated beach, to relax on its sand, or swim or do some more snorkelling. We guarantee that this experience is an incredible alternative to Kicker Rock.
This morning visit to the Interpretation Centre, which takes you through the history and settlement of the islands. Visitors can enjoy expositions on natural history, human history and conservation. The natural history explains the different natural facts, such as the volcanic origin of the islands, the distance between the mainland, its currents, the special climate, the arrival of different species, etc. The exposition room of Human History gives a chronological overview of the discovery and colonisation of the Galapagos.
The second section describes the reality of today's Galapagos: the problems and the struggle of several institutions and individuals to conserve Galapagos. The Center also has an outdoor theatre and a cinema.
At the appropriate time you will be picked up and transferred to the airport in time to board your flight to the capital of Ecuador, Quito. Upon arrival, your guide will welcome you and drive to your cosy centrally located hotel.
The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the surroundings.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 15kg (33 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Your flight documentation will be given to you on tour by your tour guide.
On your departure from the Galapagos Island you will say goodbye to your local guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Quito, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in the islands and be reachable to assist you as needed.
Today you are at leisure to enjoy the quaint city at your own pace. The Ecuadorian capital is constructed on the foundations of an ancient Incan city and is known for its well-preserved colonial centre, rich with 16th- and 17th-century churches and other structures blending European, Moorish and indigenous styles.
Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional full day tour of this fascinating city.
Your tour comes to an end today after breakfast. At the appropriate time, make your own way to the airport.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”3”
Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
No strenuous or fast-paced walks are required to complete this itinerary. However, you must be able to walk for approximately 2 to 3 kilometres in (at times) hot and humid conditions, or muddy and slippery paths. You also need to be able to get on and off small boats in the Amazon Jungle – though assistance is always provided.
Travelling at altitude Cusco sits at 3,399 metres above sea level where it’s common for travellers to experience some adverse health effects due to altitude – regardless of age, gender and fitness. It's important that you discuss this itinerary and your travel plans with your doctor beforehand. Prescription medication to prevent altitude sickness is available. If left untreated, altitude sickness can lead to serious health complications or even be fatal. While on tour, safety is paramount and it’s important that you discuss any altitude sickness symptoms with your local guide, so that appropriate medical attention can be provided. Follow this link for more helpful information on altitude sickness.
Yellow fever According to the World Health Organisation, yellow fever is present in some destinations on this itinerary (Iguazu Falls, Rio de Janeiro & the Amazon Jungle in Peru). The best prevention of mosquito bites is to simply wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) long-sleeved, breatheable garments and to use mosquito repellent.
Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets
In order to secure entrance tickets into Machu Picchu, it is essential we receive your passport details no later than 70 days prior to your trip commencement. Please ensure you have added your passport details to your booking via the Traveller Hub. Failure to do so may result in inability to obtain the best possible route for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,795.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this tour to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Minimum of 4 and Maximum of 20 people
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
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