galapagos and machu picchu

Explore the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu on a luxurious yacht, blending coziness, history, and nature on an adventure that combines comfort and natural beauty. Glide over the fantastic Galapagos Islands Tours. Each moment is a mix of adventure and fun. Imagine the excitement of swimming with playful sea lions and capturing memories that reflect the wild essence of the islands.

Similarly, we enjoy a passion for history as we investigate the historic marvels of Machu Picchu, a testament to the remarkable Inca architecture hidden within the stunning Peruvian surroundings. As you meander through the exquisite stone structures, each relating tales of years gone by, you can feel the tangible connection to the past.

The Galapagos & Machu Picchu tour that Machu Travel Peru offers will undoubtedly dazzle you.

Come with me to discover this incredible journey.

Visit Machu Picchu & Galapagos Islands?

galapagos island

Planning a trip to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands is a guaranteed adventure. Understanding that life is brief allows us to take advantage of it to the maximum, with the most crowded destinations of South America.

Ecuador and Peru are complementary opposites. They are close to each other, making it easy to enjoy many activities while traveling. Also, despite being different climatologically, their complementarity will enable you to offer an itinerary that is unique and incredible, where your adventure will begin with a warm tropical welcome owned by the Galapagos Islands and also lead you to explore the treasure hidden in the Andes, with the fascinating Inca empire of Machu Picchu.

machu picchu

Many ways exist to combine these two unique places. However, I recommend a minimum of 10 days to experience travel to the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. Imagine spending five days on a yacht exploring the Galapagos cruises and five days exploring Inca culture; you will be fascinated. You can arrange an itinerary with a base of more than ten days; this depends on your interests and the activities you want to carry out.

The best time to travel to Peru & Galapagos Islands

snorkeling galapagos

Weather plays a crucial role in discovering destinations like the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu, so it’s essential to consider general weather facts to choose the best option for your interests.

The Galapagos Islands have a tropical climate with the Fresh and Dry Season (June to December) and the Warm and Wet Season (December to May). The Fresh season features occasional fogs, rain, and calm waters, with maximum daily temperatures around 23°C (74°F). The Warm and Wet Season offers sunny weather, frequent rainfall, and abundant vegetation. The best time to visit is between December and May, as it allows for air activities like snorkeling and diving.

Machu Picchu, located 2,430 meters above sea level, has a subtropical mountain climate with average temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. The dry season, from April to October, is the most preferred due to its drier and more predictable climate, with the highest rainfall from December to March.

Itinerary of a Combined Tour

activities machu picchu

Machu Picchu and the Islands of the Galapagos offer a unique experience. At Machu Travel Peru, we manage an optimal itinerary for adventurers of natural biodiversity and the Andes. We are responsible for offering the best experience accompanied by vibrant emotions, unforgettable memories, and a passion for travel. In this sense, we will explain our itinerary and the most outstanding activities you will undertake each day in this adventure of a wide variety.

bird watching
Day 1You arrive in Ecuador to begin your adventure
Day 2You can visit Quito, the charming capital of Ecuador
Day 3Enjoy giant turtles on Baltra Island
Day 4Explore deserts, mangroves, and bays on Isabela Island
Day 5Enjoy submarines in Bahia Urbana
Day 6Discover the islands of Isabela and Fernandina through wildlife and marine life
Day 7Get to know Puerto Egas and the Pirate Cave in Buccanneer Cove
Day 8You can recognize a unique species on Dragon Hill
Day 9Arriving in Lima to rest in your hotel you will recover energy on a city tour
Day 10Arrival in Cusco with the welcome of Andean camelids
Day 11You can explore the Sacred Valley, the fortress of Ollantaytambo, Maras, and the circular terraces of Moray
Day 12Get to know the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu and all the beauty
Day 13Enjoy the city of Cusco and learn about Inca culture
Day 14Say goodbye to Peru in the best way accompanied by Machu Travel

Machu Travel offers 14-day combined tour naturalist guides to the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. The first eight days are in Ecuador, and the next six are in Peru.

It is noteworthy that Machu Picchu and the Galapagos are two completely different destinations, but they are complementary, as previously described. Therefore, having two adventures and one trip is a unique and unforgettable experience. Combining the Galapagos Islands’ natural and animal beauty with the indigenous culture is a heart-pounding gamble that promises rewards.

Activities and excursions

trail machu picchu

Tourism in Peru offers many activities, and excursions to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands are astounding. Machu Travel restricts some activities in the Galapagos and Machu Picchu Tour to ensure an excellent experience for all travelers. The tours are tailored to suit individuals and offer diverse emotions and adventures, such as cruise ships.

Activities on the Galapagos Islands

turtles galapagos

  • Observation of wildlife
  • Pay a visit to the giant tortoises at the conservation centers
  • Observing various aves, such as piqueros, cormoranes, albatros, blue footed boobies and fragatas
  • Snorkeling and swimming with animals, such as marine iguanas and lions
  • Go to the islands and the beaches as well
  • Paddleboarding and kayaking in Coastal Lagoons

Things to do in Machu Picchu

architecture inca

  • Tour of Machu Picchu Archaeological Centre
  • Walk to the Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku)
  • Visit the Temple of the Moon and its structures
  • Visit the thermal baths of Machu Picchu
  • Explore the butterfly farm of Machu Picchu 
  • Visit Machu Picchu mountain and Huchuy Picchu Mountain

Frequently questions

excursions in galapagos

What the Galapagos has to offer?

The Galapagos Islands offer a unique experience with untouched beaches, cloud forests, and lava tunnels. Visitors can interact with diverse wildlife, snorkel in pristine waters, and explore the island’s history and conservation efforts.

Do I need a permit to visit the Galapagos National Park?

Yes, it would be best to have a permit to enter the Galapagos National Park. There is an entrance fee, which you pay at the airport upon arrival. In addition, you must follow the rules and regulations established to protect the environment.

Can you go to the Galapagos & Machu Picchu together?

Yes, it is possible to visit on a single trip.

Is Machu Picchu near to Ecuador?

Ecuador is not very close to Machu Picchu. Ecuador is north of Peru, and Machu Picchu lies in Peru. The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is located a considerable distance from Cusco, the closest large city to Machu Picchu. To go to Machu Picchu, one often needs to take a plane from Ecuador to Peru and then take an additional mode of transportation, like a bus or train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu.

What is the best month to visit the Galapagos & Machu Picchu?

South America’s diverse climate makes the Galapagos & Machu Picchu ideal travel destinations. August and September are the best months to visit these locations, as they offer beautiful weather and marine life in Galagos and dry seasons in Machu Picchu, allowing visitors to enjoy the region without clouds or rain.

How many days are the Galapagos & Machu Picchu trip?

To complete the crossing of both destinations, we recommend a trip of at least 10 days. However, there are versions of 12 and 15 days.

How many islands do the Galapagos Islands have?

The Galápagos Islands, an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, consist of 13 main islands, six smaller islands, and several islets. Some main islands include Española, Floreana,San Cristóbal, Genovesa and Santa Cruz island. The exact number can vary depending on how “islands” are defined and whether islets and rocks are included.

What is the relationship between Charles Darwin and the Galapagos Islands?

Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835, and his observations of the diversity of species there, such as finches, helped develop his theory of evolution by natural selection, which was published in ‘The Origin of Species’ in 1859. In commemoration of his research, the Charles Darwin Research Station was founded, a place where you can learn about giant tortoises, conservation of marine species, and more. 

How long does it take to hike the Inca Trail?

Nowadays, nobody asks what is Machu Picchu, as its status as a natural wonder reaffirms it. However, no one knows that you can walk to Machu Picchu through the famous Inca Trail. You can choose the classic trek on the Inca Trail. It takes about four days and covers around 43 kilometers. Shorter and longer options are available.

Are there observatories or sights of the city in Cusco?

Yes, in Cusco, there are several observatories and viewpoints from which you can enjoy stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Some recommended places include:

  • Sacsayhuaman: This archaeological site offers panoramic views of Cusco and the opportunity to explore ancient Inca ruins.
  • Mirador de San Cristobal is a popular location that offers breathtaking panoramic views and magical moments of the city.
  • Mirador de San Blas: The San Blas neighborhood features a viewpoint that provides a unique view of the city, with its characteristic rooftops and alleyways.

Is Peru a natural, biodiverse country?

Yes, natural biodiversity in Peru is celebrated for its extensive variety of countries and landscapes, spanning from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes Mountains and the Pacific coast, which foster an extraordinary array of plant and animal species.

“Traveling is a life-changing experience; enjoy the journey”

Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour that Machu Travel Peru offers an incomparable journey, seamlessly merging the best of two worlds. Sometimes, opposites attract, and unequivocally in this case, these two incredible destinations epitomize the perfect harmony for any traveler and life enthusiast

Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one!