Compare Amazonian Immersion by Pachamama Journeys vs Best of Peru & Galapagos by Intrepid Travel
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4.5 | Great
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| Duration | 13 days | 18 days |
| Price From | $ 3,495 | $ 7,190 |
| Price Per Day | $ 269 | $ 399 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Basic | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
This special journey to Ecuador features a visit to the Sarayaku-Kichwa who are boldly standing with awe-inspiring commitment to protect their culture and forest. We then head further into the rainforest to engage deeply with our founding warrior partners – the Achuar – in their communities, Ti’inkias lodge and world-renown, Kapawi Lodge, experiencing their ancient culture, pristine land, and unwavering stand for life. |
Visit Peru's incredible natural and historical highlights on this awesome adventure. Retrace the steps of the Incas to Machu Picchu, admire colonial cities, explore vibrant markets and meet the locals in this South American country with a difference. Return home with incredible memories of the panoramas and people of Peru. Amazing wildlife, both on land and underwater, is the drawcard of the remote Galapagos Islands. Tour the Galapagos' outstanding natural beauty and interesting history by foot, boat and bike on this active adventure. Trace Darwin's theory of evolution, spot colourful, bizarre and beautiful creatures and have an experience that is completely out of this world as you discover the incredible Galapagos Islands. |
Day 1:
Arrival in Quito. Group stays at the charming hotel, Café Cultura.
Day 2:
After breakfast and an orientation meeting at Café Cultura, we’ll head north to the scenic Andean region of Otavalo where we’ll explore the open-aired indigenous artisan market displaying the crafts and culture of the Otavalan Quichua people. Next, we’ll visit with a Quichua elder shaman for a healing and purification ceremony, before arriving at San Clemente, an indigenous-owned community-based project situated on the flanks of the sacred Imbabura volcano. Dinner and accommodations with our gracious host families.
Day 3:
Join your family in making fresh corn tortillas over a fire and enjoy other locally-grown foods for breakfast. We’ll learn about the background and history of the Karanqui people and the project of San Clemente, including the Andean calendar and cosmo-vision. Then we’ll spend time on the land with the community doing agricultural activities (oxen plow, planting/harvesting crops, grinding corn, etc.). Lunch will be a traditional feast with local foods grown in the community. We’ll be guided on a walk to learn about native medicinal plants used by the community. Dinner with families.
Day 4:
After breakfast with families, we’ll set out on long hike up the sacred Imbabura volcano, sharing a picnic lunch at the high altitude with sweeping views. We’ll rest upon return and have dinner with families followed by cultural sharing and celebration, including traditional Andean music.
Day 5:
After breakfast and farewells with our indigenous families, we’ll embark on a beautiful drive, visiting the center of the world (equator) along the way – descending the Andes through the avenue of the volcanoes and the mysterious cloud forests until we reach the gateway to the Amazon rainforest. Dinner and evening discussion about entering the rainforest and the Achuar territory at our verdant and relaxing hotel, El Jardin, located on the outskirts of Puyo. Special visit and conversation with a well-known enthnobotanist who has deep knowledge about the traditions and shamanic practices of the rainforest.
Day 6:
Head to the nearby town of Shell where we’ll take a 45-minute flight deep into the Amazon rainforest to the Achuar village of Sharamentsa. Here we will stay for 5 nights in the newly completed community lodge constructed in traditional Achuar design and situated idyllically on the banks of the Pastaza river. After a community welcome with the fermented manioc staple beverage, chicha, we’ll have introductions with community members and be shown around this progressive community that is
integrating practical outside tools to improve their quality of life while fiercely protecting their ancient traditions and culture. In the afternoon, we’ll set out on a hike into the lush forest with our Achuar guides who will show us how the Achuar live in an interconnected way with their environment, using plants, palms and foods collected from the forest.
Day 7:
We’ll be invited to partake in an early morning dream sharing ritual, one the Achuar perform each day over gourds of energy-enhancing guayusa green-tea, to purify and gain essential insight and guidance on how to live and what to do each day. After breakfast, e’ll head back into the forest to learn about medicinal plants and the Achuar’s unique cosmo-vision and spiritual practices, visiting a sacred waterfall where we’ll participate in a purification ceremony and have some quiet, contemplative time in the forest. In the evening, we’ll be invited by an Achuar elder to participate in a shamanic ceremony.
Day 8:
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll have a debrief conversation with the shaman followed by considerable free time for rest and reflection to journal, relax in a hammock, practice yoga or whatever you’re called to do. In the afternoon, we’ll go out onto the Pastaza river to float on balsa rafts, taking in the magnificence of the rainforest from the water. Evening group conversation by the fire about the ceremony and other shared experiences.
Day 9:
Early morning dream sharing ritual for those who wish to participate. Cultural activities with our hosts where they’ll teach us how to make ceramic bowls, weave baskets, hammocks and headbands, carve darts and shoot a blowgun. In the afternoon, we’ll visit an Achuar garden to learn about the plants and food they cultivate, and the women may try preparing chicha. We’ll then go visit a massive Kapok tree, the largest species in the forest, and sacred to the Achuar people. Here we will spend some meditative time in silence. A shamanic ceremony will be offered in the evening.
Day 10:
In the morning, we’ll have time to share with the community and one another about our experiences. Then we’ll have some free time to rest, reflect, journal or simply take in the vitality of the forest. In the afternoon, there will be the option to join our hosts for games with children and adults (they enjoy soccer, volleyball and frisbee) followed by a group gathering and celebration with the community where they will share cultural traditions including dances, chants and songs along with an impressive collection of handmade artisan items (available for purchase in support of the community and culture). We’ll be invited to share, too – please bring small instruments, songs, dances, etc. for sharing. The finale will be a traditional Achuar feast with locally grown and collected foods.
Day 11:
Early morning dream sharing ritual for those who wish to participate. After breakfast, we’ll express our appreciation to the community and say our farewells. Then we’ll fly back over the rainforest to the small town of Shell where our bus will take us back to the nearby El Jardin hotel. Situated on the edge of the rainforest, with gourmet food and wood barrel hot tubs, it is the perfect place to relax and integrate our rainforest immersion.
Day 12:
A day of completion, commitments and celebration. Morning circle to share experiences, learnings and commitments for returning home. Drive back through the Avenue of the Volcanoes to the rural hotel an hour south of Quito, Sierra Alisos, for our farewell dinner and lodging.
Day 13:
Departures for home or next destinations
Day 1 Lima
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru. Your adventure begins in the capital city of Lima, one of South America’s most beautiful cities, with a welcome meeting at 2 pm. You’ll meet your fellow travellers and trip leader and then head out for a stroll of the streets of downtown to check out some of the main attractions on a walking tour. Enjoy some free time before an optional group dinner this evening. The unofficial food capital of South America, there’s no better place to sample Peru’s national dish, ceviche, than at one of Lima’s excellent restaurants. As there's little time spent in Lima, it’s recommended that you arrive a few days early to see the sights, including the chic suburb of Miraflores, as well as Central Park, Lovers' Park and the National Museum.
Day 2 Cusco
This morning after breakfast, you’ll catch an early flight to Cusco. Spend a little time acclimatising to the high altitude (3450 m). Then, get acquainted with this charming city and its intriguing blend of cultures on a leader-led walking tour. Check out some of Cusco's main attractions, as well as its lesser-known sights, such as the Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. Tonight is free to explore at your own pace or find the perfect dinner spot with your group and try some local Peruvian favourites.
Day 3 Aguas Calientes
Travel by private bus through the Sacred Valley on the outskirts of Cusco today. This lush valley, known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces that are carved high into the valley walls. You’ll visit a community in the valley to learn about local lifestyles and activities. If your visit coincides with market day, you can browse the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos. Visit the AMA Restaurant in Urubamba for afternoon tea – this café is dedicated to working with single mothers throughout the Sacred Valley, where there are few opportunities for childcare and employment. As all the ingredients used here are grown and purchased locally, the establishment also prides itself on its organic and locally focused practices. Enjoy a coffee, tea or juice with a slice of vegan beet cake or a homemade cookie and then board a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes – nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu.
Day 4 Cusco
This morning, you’ll take an early bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu. Welcome to one of the famed Seven Wonders of the World! This is your chance to decide for yourself whether Machu Picchu was built around 1440 as a country retreat for the Incan nobility or as an ancient astronomical observatory. Enjoy a guided visit of the incredible site, giving you ample time to take in the many temples, palaces and living quarters. After taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, you’ll return to Cusco.
Day 5 Cusco
Today after breakfast, you can enjoy free time to relax, shop and explore Cusco's many sights. Maybe rest your weary legs at a cafe on Plaza de Armas or head to the San Pedro Market, where you can find vegetables, meats, local cheeses, chocolates, herbal medicines and many local handicrafts. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or ingredients for a picnic. The market is also where many locals (and daring travellers) go to eat ‘mystery soups.’ Some may be just chicken – however, the most popular among the locals usually contain frogs or offal. For those looking for something active, why not try mountain biking in the hills surrounding Cusco?
Day 6 Puno
This morning after breakfast, you’ll travel through the dramatic scenery of the high Altiplano to Puno – located on the shores of serene Lake Titicaca. At an altitude of 3800 m, Lake Titicaca is the world's highest navigable lake. Today includes a bit of a long drive, but it’s worth the first glimpse of immense Lake Titicaca, whose seemingly endless waters stretch into the horizon. Puno is a melting pot of Indigenous Aymara and Quechuan culture and traditional Andean customs, and it wears its traditions on its sleeve. If you're lucky, your trip will coincide with one of the many cultural festivals here. Ask your leader where you can get the best grilled trout tonight – a true local specialty perfect for dinner.
Day 7 Puno
This morning, you’ll take a tour of the immense lake by motorboat, stopping at the floating Uros Islands that look like they could come from a Pixar or Studio Ghibli movie. Built by the Uros people to protect themselves from encroaching Inca forces hundreds of years ago, the islands are constructed from many layers of totora reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake. Get a closer look at contemporary life on the shores of the lake with a homestay in a local community. Help your host family with their daily activities, try out a few words in the Quechua language and maybe even join a local soccer game to make some friends on the makeshift pitch. Tonight, sit down and swap stories with your hosts, who will cook you a feast full of traditional Peruvian favourites.
Day 8 Lima
This morning after breakfast at your homestay, take a bus to Juliaca airport. Then, you’ll take an included flight back to Lima, where you’ll have a free night. Enjoy your last night of the trip with your fellow travellers and maybe head out to a final celebratory dinner.
Day 9 Quito
Today, transfer to the airport and board an included flight from Lima to Ecuador’s capital, Quito. Once you arrive, there are no activities planned until another group meeting held at 2 pm, where you’ll be briefed on the next stage of your South American adventure. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where it will take place. Quito is one of the most attractive cities in South America, sitting at an altitude of 2850 metres with a view of Volcan Pichincha on the horizon. After the welcome meeting, join your local leader for a tour of Quito's historic center. Catch the Matro to the Parque de la Alameda and visit sites such as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a famous neo-Gothic church known for the details of its façade that represent Galápagos tortoises, Andean condors, and Amazon alligators. You’ll also visit La Compania de Jesus, considered by many to be the most beautiful church in the Americas. It's claimed that seven tons of gold leaf cover the interior whilst the exterior is decorated with statues, busts, sculpted heads, and a jungle of carved leaves. The tour will finish at San Francisco Square, where you’ll have the option to return to the hotel, or why not get to know your new travelling companions and dine in Quito’s Old Town – your leader will have plenty of recommendations!
Day 10 Isla San Cristobal, Galapagos
Welcome to San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands! As you start this trip on the Galapagos Islands you have two options for joining the group, as outlined in Special Information below. After joining up with your fellow travellers and your local naturalist guide, head to La Loberia where you'll put on snorkelling gear for the first time and go for a swim among sea lions, perhaps spotting sea turtles too. Return to town for a free evening. Perhaps head out with the group and enjoy some of the fresh seafood available.
Day 11 Isla San Cristobal
Today begins with a 45-minute boat ride to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock). On the way we might be able to spot nesting frigates and blue-footed boobies. There is also potential to swim among playful young sea lions. At Leon Dormido you can snorkel and look for sea turtles, manta rays and maybe the odd harmless Galapagos shark. Currents can be quite strong so it's important you are a confident swimmer to participate in this activity. If you have any concerns, please ensure you speak with your leader. Eat lunch on the boat then head to the Interpretation Center. Learn about the history of the 'Enchanted Islands' and the conservation projects which seek to preserve them. Continue to Frigatebird Hill (Cerro Tijeretas), which is located two kilometres from the Interpretation Center. It's quite a climb to the top, but well worth the amazing views of the bay. Return to town in the late afternoon or early evening.
Day 12 Isla Floreana/ Isla Isabela
Take an early morning boat ride towards Isla Floreana, which should take about 2.5 hours. Along the way keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as dolphins and whales. On arrival to the island, snorkel in the clear blue waters and then break for lunch. Afterwards venture to a black-sand beach which belongs to the Witmers, decedents of some of the first settlers on the Galapagos. The town here, Puerto Velasco Ibarra, has about 150 residents and an intriguing history involving deaths, disappearances and murders. Later in the afternoon, wave goodbye to Floreana and continue to Isla Isabela (approximately 2 hours). From Isabela Port it's a short transfer to the hotel where we will spend the night (approximately 15 minutes).
Day 13 Isla Isabela
This morning, you’ll hop on a small Zodiac boat and cruise to Las Tintoreras (Shark Alley), looking out for blue-footed boobies and the famous Galapagos penguin. Take a short walk on this isolated islet and popular iguana nesting site, then snorkel in a calm inlet with colourful fish and winding underground lava tubes. This area is also frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom. Return to Isla Isabela and visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center, where you'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development. After learning about the thousand turtles that are preparing for life here, you’ll head to a brackish lagoon to observe flamingos. Later today, take a kayak around the island before finding your sandy resting spot and soaking in your first Isabela sunset – arguably the most beautiful of all the islands!
Day 14 Isla Isabela
Start your last day on Isla Isabela by heading towards the Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos and the second-largest crater in the world. Weather permitting, take a challenging hike of around 17 km up the rocky mountain, which takes about half a day. After the hike, make your way back to town for some free time to curl up with a book or venture down to the water for a relaxing swim before dinner.
Day 15 Isla Isabela / Isla Santa Cruz
Jump aboard a private speedboat this morning and head to Isla Santa Cruz. When you arrive, leave your bags at the hotel and head to the Santa Cruz Highlands. Your first stop is a local farm, where giant tortoises roam the grounds. Here, you’ll have a cooking class with an expert chef who will teach you how to make the famed encebollado – a local soup considered one of the best in the world! This hearty dish uses slow-cooked albacore tuna and a savoury broth made of onions, cilantro and spices. The dish is traditionally served with yuca (a starchy root vegetable) and garnished with lime and green onions. Enjoy the fruits (or soups) of your labour for lunch, then spend some time wandering the grounds with the slow-paced residents. After lunch, you’ll visit an organic sugar cane farm run by a local family for a trapiche tour (a sugar cane mill used in artisanal sugar production). See how the family harvests and processes sugar cane as well as cacao and how it really is a community effort.
Day 16 Isla Santa Cruz
Take a morning walk in Tortuga Bay after breakfast. Along the way, keep an eye out for eagle rays, sea turtles and blue-footed boobies. After returning to town for lunch, you’ll pass through a local fish market on the way to The Galapagos Conservancy. Here, they help protect the Galapagos' unique biodiversity. Learn how The Intrepid Foundation supports the Galapagos Conservancy Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, which provides critical capital for sustainability initiatives and builds the entrepreneurial capacity of Galapagos women. After, head to the Charles Darwin Research Station – an international non-profit organisation that’s dedicated to the scientific research and conservation of the archipelago’s environment and biodiversity.
Day 17 Quito
We say goodbye to the Galapagos today and take a flight back to Quito (Please note the flight will make a stop in Guayaquil). You'll arrive back to Quito later afternoon. Perhaps head out for a final group dinner with your travel pals to celebrate your South American adventure.
Day 18 Quito
This morning your adventure comes to an end in Quito. As there are no activities planned for the final day, you can depart the accommodation at any time. Because there is little time spent in Quito on this trip, we recommend staying a few extra days to see more of Ecuador. If you choose to stay on, we’d be happy to assist you with booking accommodation (subject to availability). Ecuador has some of the most beautiful churches in the Americas, including the lavish La Compania de Jesus, which is decorated with seven tonnes of gold. Not far from the capital, there are volcanoes, hot springs and Incan ruins to explore. Consider doing one of our one-day sightseeing tours of Quito, which can include the Old Town, markets and the city's culinary delights (see urbanadventures.com).
