From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with the Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise 2025 - 20 Day River Cruise Lima to Quito

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From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with the Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise 2025

20 Day River Cruise Lima to Quito



Tour Description:

Experience the fascinating Nazca Lines, archaeological treasures, and gastronomic delights of Peru, with the untamed rainforest of the Amazon, on this thrilling river cruise adventure that offers a little something for everyone!

Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Lima with a guided sightseeing tour, a visit to the Larco Herrera Museum, and a special welcome dinner in an ornate family-owned mansion. Fly to Cusco and descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas for guided tours of the ceremonial site of Kenko, where ancient rituals were performed, and the Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Of course, no vacation to Peru is complete without visiting astonishing Machu Picchu, built around 1450, and sitting majestically above the Sacred Valley. Stand in awe as you witness one of the most majestic images in South America, if not the entire world! Next, you’ll embark on a journey to one of the world’s vastly unexplored regions where biodiversity is at its greatest—the mighty Amazon. Board one of the world’s most luxurious small ships, the Delfin III, and enjoy fine wine, famous Peruvian cuisine, and all-inclusive comfort while venturing deep into the Amazon jungle in search of elusive wildlife. Take naturalist-guided panga rides through the river tributaries, swim with pink dolphins, and visit native communities—all while returning to your plush five-star yacht.

Your unforgettable trip to Peru is not complete without seeing the Nazca Lines. When seen from the air, the lines form precise geometric shapes that number in the hundreds, as well as 70 figures, which include a monkey, whale, hummingbird, shark, spiders, and plants. Archaeologists remain puzzled about why the ancient Nazca people, who thrived here from 200 BC to 500 AD, created illustrations that could only be seen from far above the earth.

Before this cruise adventure is complete, you’ll get a chance to explore the beautiful Galápagos Islands onboard the 16-passenger Treasure of Galápagos! Have your camera ready as your Naturalist points out colonies of sea lions, pelicans, albatross, marine iguanas, flamingos, blue-footed boobies, short-eared owls, and other birds. You’ll also have a chance to snorkel in the tropical waters and perhaps get a look at sea turtles, sharks, and rays. A perfect ending to this trip of a lifetime!

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Dates & Pricing

Thursday 11 Sep 25 — Wednesday 01 Oct 25Starting at $11,549Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Thursday 09 Oct 25 — Wednesday 29 Oct 25Starting at $11,549Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Thursday 23 Oct 25 — Wednesday 12 Nov 25Starting at $11,549Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Thursday 06 Nov 25 — Wednesday 26 Nov 25Starting at $11,379Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Check Mark Icon Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.


Destination & Sightseeing

Day 1 Arrive Lima, Peru: Welcome to Lima
Day 2 Lima–Paracas: Flight over the Nazca Lines with guaranteed window seat.
Day 3 Paracas–Lima: Cruise to the Ballestas Islands; Return to Lima.
Day 4 Lima: Walking tour, visit San Francisco Monastery and Larco Herrera Museum; welcome dinner at Casa Garcia Alvarado.
Day 5 Lima–Cusco–Sacred Valley: Visit the ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Kenko, visit Awanakancha to see various camelids from the region, and explore Pisac Market.
Day 6 Sacred Valley–Machu Picchu: Visit the Ollantaytambo ruins; take the 360°Train to Machu Picchu; walking tour of Machu Picchu.
Day 7 Machu Picchu–Cusco: Enjoy a second included entrance to Machu Picchu; return on the 360°Train to the Sacred Valley and continue to Cusco.
Day 8 Cusco: Walking tour of Cusco, visit Santo Domingo Monastery and the Cathedral.
Day 9 Cusco–Lima–Iquitos–Nauta (Embarkation)–Cruising Peruvian Amazon: Fly to Iquitos via Lima; board the Delfin III; onboard welcome reception; wildlife viewing excursions during the afternoon and evening
Day 10 Cruising Peruvian Amazon: Wildlife viewing excursions during the morning and afternoon; cooking demonstration and Pisco Sour-making lesson
Day 11 Cruising Peruvian Amazon: Wildlife viewing excursions during the morning, afternoon, and evening; visit Pacaya Samiria National Reserve; endemic fruit presentation; kayaking; piranha fishing; special farewell dinner
Day 12 Cruising Peruvian Amazon–Nauta (Disembarkation)–Iquitos–Lima: Disembark the Delfin III; visit the Manatee Rescue Center; fly to Lima
Day 13 Lima–Quito: Welcome to Quito
Day 14 Quito: Birdwatching in the Alambi Reserve, walking tour of Quito to visit San Francisco Monastery, La Compania Church, La Ronda Street, a Chocolate factory, and the Equatorial Monument; welcome dinner
Day 15 Quito–Baltra–Galápagos Islands (Embarkation)–Santa Cruz Island: Fly to the Galápagos Islands; embark Treasure of Galápagos; visit Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island
Day 16 Galápagos Islands Cruising: Santiago & Bartolomé Islands: Naturalist-guided walks on each island; snorkeling
Day 17 Galápagos Islands Cruising: North Seymour Island & Mosquera Islet: Naturalist-guided walks on each island; snorkeling
Day 18 Galápagos Islands Cruising: South Plaza & San Cristobal Islands: Naturalist-guided walks on each island; snorkeling
Day 19 Galápagos Islands (Disembarkation)–San Cristobal Island–Quito: Disembark Treasure of Galápagos; visit San Cristobal Interpretation Center; fly to Quito
Day 20 Quito: Your vacation ends this morning
Notes:
Maximum enjoyment of this vacation requires walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. Maximum elevation on this tour is 12,200 ft. In the Galápagos, there will be “wet landings” meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. Terrain is rocky and uneven. Itinerary in the Galápagos are subject to change.

For Nazca Lines flights, any guest who weighs more than 220 pounds will need to buy an additional ticket (est. $275 USD) at the time of the flight.

ITINERARY

Day 1
ARRIVE IN LIMA, PERU Arrive in Lima where you will be met by your Local Guide. LIMA-SAN-FRANCISCO-MONASTERY.jpg

Day 2
LIMA–PISCO–PARACAS & NAZCA LINES Drive south along the scenic Pan-American Highway to Pisco, the wine capital of Peru, and take a guided two-hour flight over the Nazca Lines—a series of drawings of animals and geometric figures etched into the parched soil—some up to 1,000 feet long—believed by some to be the astronomical calendar of the ancient Peruvians. NAZCA-LINES.jpg
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Day 3
PARACAS–BALLESTAS ISLAND CRUISE–LIMA This morning, head to the Bay of Paracas and take a cruise to the Ballestas Islands—home to a wide variety of sea mammals and exotic birds. See the huge Candelabro, a candelabra-shaped etching on the Paracas cliffside. Later, return to Lima where you will have free time to explore the fascinating Peruvian capital – where high-rises tower above ancient temples and colorful colonial architecture. BALLESTAS-ISLANDS.jpg
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Day 4
LIMA Peruvian Treasures, Presidential Palaces, and Pizarro’s Conquests CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Lima to see the colonial Old Quarter, Plaza de Armas, the presidential Government Palace, and the Lima Cathedral. Visit San Francisco Monastery to see the famous catacombs followed by the Larco Herrera Museum—with the world’s largest private collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art. DISCOVERY Later, enjoy a Culinary Experience with an authentic Peruvian welcome dinner in the exquisite, historic mansion—Casa Garcia Alvarado. LIMA-PLAZA-DE-ARMAS.jpg
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Day 5
SACRED VALLEY Alpacas, Llamas, and Ancient Rituals of the Andes CLASSIC Fly to Cusco, the ancient Andean city and former capital of the Inca Empire. A Guided Excursion into the Sacred Valley reveals the hillside Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Marvel at the remarkable Inca stonework of this 15th-century fortress that was once the site of the largest battle between the Incas and the Spanish. The Spanish were ultimately victorious in 1536, disassembling part of the site to build homes in Cusco and leaving behind the ruins we find today. You will also see the Inca military post of Puca Pucara and visit the ceremonial site of Kenko where ancient Peruvian rituals and sacrifices were performed. DISCOVERY Take a Guided Tour of Awanakancha to encounter llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos and learn about their vital role in Peruvian culture. Continue to the old mountain village of Pisac. Take time to shop in Pisac’s large Indian market for treasures such as alpaca sweaters, woven blankets, and handmade jewelry. This evening, enjoy dinner featuring Andean and Western dishes with wine. SACRED-VALLEY-LLAMA.jpg
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Day 6
SACRED VALLEY Stone Temples and Formidable Fortresses CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the adobe village of Ollantaytambo this morning to visit the ruins of an Inca fortress. See the massive stones and amazing engineering design, including the Sun Temple and Princess Baths fountain. DISCOVERY Join an Escorted Visit to a native Incan home to experience the way of life that has endured since the 13th century. MACHU PICCHU Andean Heights and Hidden Secrets of the Inca’s Lost City CLASSIC Join a Guided Excursion aboard the 360° Machu Picchu Train boasting spectacular panoramic views of the lush countryside of Urubamba Valley from its panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage. Travel by rail to Aguas Calientes to take the winding road to legendary Machu Picchu. ACTIVE Take a Guided Walk to explore the “Lost City of the Incas” high atop the Andes once overlaid with dense forest. Learn about the lives and mysteries still hidden in this ancient citadel and the amazing structures built by the pre-Columbian masters of this sacred land. DISCOVERY Enjoy your overnight stay at the foot of the mountain where Machu Picchu is found with a gourmet Peruvian dinner. SACRED-VALLEY-OLLANTAYTAMBO.jpg
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Day 7
MACHU PICCHU A Miraculous Sanctuary in a Tropical Mountain Cloud Forest CLASSIC Take a second included Guided Excursion to Machu Picchu. Set out early to see the sunrise over the ruins, explore the terraces or perhaps venture up to see the Sun Gate, once used as the ancient entrance to the Sanctuary. After lunch, return to the Sacred Valley by train and then continue on to Cusco. MACHU-PICCHU.jpg
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Day 8
CUSCO Conquistadors, Churches, and the Colorful Culture of Peru CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Cusco and learn about the Inca culture and the Spanish invasion that threatened their way of life and very existence. Visit Santo Domingo Monastery, originally called Koricancha and built by the Incas as a Temple of the Sun with extraordinary engineering and masonry design. Continue to the Plaza de Armas to visit the Cusco Cathedral. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore Cusco’s colorful culture. DISCOVERY Tonight, an elegant dinner includes wine and a menu inspired by Peru’s eclectic mix of cultures. CUSCO-PLAZA-DE-ARMAS.jpg
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Day 9
CUSCO–LIMA–IQUITOS–NAUTA–PERUVIAN AMAZON RIVER (EMBARKATION) CLASSIC Today, you’ll travel by air to Lima and then on to Iquitos to begin your Amazon journey. Travel to Nauta and embark the luxurious vessel, the Delfin III, to cruise the Peruvian Amazon in comfort and convenience. Settle in to your spacious suite before meeting your onboard Naturalist and Cruise Director. DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Welcome Reception to gain an overview of your upcoming Amazon experience. Your Naturalist Guide will offer information about the animal species of the Amazon ecosystem, the native villagers you’ll meet, and the spectacular plant life that thrives in this astonishing environment. See the two powerful Amazon tributaries—the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers—which converge to create the mighty Peruvian Amazon. Later, on board, enjoy an unforgettable dinner featuring Peruvian cuisine with the freshest local ingredients. PERUVIAN-AMAZON-RIVER-MACAWS.jpg

Day 10
PERUVIAN AMAZON Spider Monkeys, Pink Dolphins, and Peru’s Favorite Cocktail CLASSIC Rise early this morning for your first glimpse of the majestic Amazon at sunrise to experience the sights and sounds. After breakfast, take a Guided Panga Ride down one of the Amazon’s tributaries in search of the incredible wildlife. Your Naturalist Guide helps to spot capuchin, howler, tamarin, and spider monkeys, as well as iguanas, sloths, freshwater pink dolphins, and a stunning array of birdlife. Watch for the extraordinary giant Amazonian water lily. CLASSIC This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve allows you to witness the activity of exotic birds, including trogons, macaws, parrots, falcons, and jacamars. ACTIVE Take a refreshing Swim in this unique area of the Amazon—with the chance to encounter the Amazon’s amazing pink dolphins. DISCOVERY Join in an onboard Cooking Class to learn about native fruits, vegetables, and fish. You’ll learn about local ingredients for delicious recipes. In the evening, enjoy a Mixology Lesson to create Peru’s famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour. PERUVAIN-AMAZON-PINK-DOLPHINS.jpg
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Day 11
PERUVIAN AMAZON Exotic Birds, Night Creatures, and Natural Remedies ACTIVE Join a morning Naturalist Guided Walk to explore tropical flora, including epiphytes, orchids, and indigenous jungle vegetation below the rainforest’s canopy. DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Nature Presentation about indigenous and medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetation used in the Amazonian culture for centuries. CLASSIC This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to the Amazon community of San Francisco introduces you to local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations. ACTIVE Join a Night Safari Excursion to spot nocturnal creatures, including caiman, frogs, bats, and boa constrictors. You will also have the chance to try fishing for piranhas! DISCOVERY Later tonight, enjoy Live Entertainment by the Delfin III crew of local performers to celebrate your Amazon adventure with music and dance. PERUVIAN-AMAZON-MONKEY.jpg
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Day 12
IQUITOS (DISEMBARKATION) A Manatee Introduction and an Amazon Farewell DISCOVERY This morning, disembark and bid your ship’s crew farewell. On the way to Iquitos, join an Escorted Visit to the Manatee Rescue Center to learn about these endangered Amazon species and the conservation efforts to save these gentle giants before flying to Lima. IQUITOS-MANATEE.jpg

Day 13
LIMA–QUITO Fly from Lima to Quito. Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galápagos adventure, or walk through the historic city to sample ceviche or helado (Latin-American ice cream). Dine out tonight or ask about the best clubs for music and dancing. QUITO-CITY-VIEW.jpg
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Day 14
QUITO A Gold Altar, Artistic Avenues, and Two Hemispheres in One Day DISCOVERY Travel through the Tandayapa Valley to the Andean Chocó cloud forest and nature reserve. The Alambi Reserve, renowned for bird watching, is home to more than 250 species of birds, including 30 different hummingbirds. While here, visit the hummingbird garden to observe these characteristic birds in their natural habitat. CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Quito that showcases the colonial city’s historic sites, including the impressive Legislative Palace with its enormous, sculpted mural of Ecuadorean history. You’ll also see Independence Plaza and visit the 16th-century San Francisco Monastery, and La Compañía Church—the exquisite Jesuit cathedral with its spectacular Spanish baroque architecture—more than 160 years in the making. DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk down Calle La Ronda—one of Quito’s oldest streets—with a wealth of artist’s workshops and galleries where you’ll meet local artists and learn about their original works. Later, visit a local chocolate factory for a tour and a tasting to discover why Ecuador is one of the world’s finest chocolate producers. CLASSIC Your day in Quito ends with a Guided Excursion to the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo—a monument to the Equator—the “middle of the world.” Stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time at the exact location of the Earth’s Equator. Observe the equatorial effects of the dual-spiraling directions of water and balancing eggs on end. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a famed local restaurant with delicious regional cuisine. CIUDAD-MITAD-DEL-MUNDO.jpg
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Day 15
BALTRA–GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (EMBARKATION)–SANTA CRUZ ISLAND The Theory of Evolution—and Giant Babies This morning, take a flight to the Galápagos Island of Baltra where you’ll embark on your five-day cruise aboard the Treasure of Galápagos. DISCOVERY Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion to Santa Cruz Island to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station— established to help conserve the Galápagos’ natural habitat and protect the famous giant tortoises. While here, learn about the tortoise-rearing program and see many of the various islands’ tortoises. Later on board your ship, join in a briefing of the next day’s adventures, and enjoy a Captain’s welcome with cocktails and dinner. NOTE: The ship’s itinerary may vary according to Galápagos National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, and seasonal changes to create the perfect cross-section of sites visited. SANTA-CRUZ-ISLAND-TORTOISE.jpg

Day 16
SANTIAGO ISLAND Volcanos, Marine Life, and Lunar Landscapes DISCOVERY This morning, you will find yourself anchored in the western-central part of the archipelago where volcanoes are still active, attributing to the dramatic scenery. Take a Naturalist Led Excursion of Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island where you will walk on newly formed (less than 100 years ago) lava flows reminiscent of the lunar landscape. You can catch sight of lava lizards, marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and even the Galápagos penguin. This afternoon, cruise to Bartolomé Island. BARTOLOMÉ ISLAND Hike the Summit, Snorkel, and Swim ACTIVE Take a Guided Hike to Bartolome’s 114-meter summit for spectacular panoramic views of the region with two beautiful bays and fascinating formations of lava flows and spatter cones, including the iconic Pinnacle Rock. Later, take a snorkel and swim off the beach here—home to playful sea lions, Pacific green turtles, white tip reef sharks, and Galápagos penguins. BARTOLOME-ISLAND-SNORKEL.jpg
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Day 17
NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND Masterful Marine Iguanas and Birds of a Different Color CLASSIC Take a Naturalist Led Excursion to see colonies of remarkable bird species, including blue-footed boobies, great frigate birds and magnificent frigate birds—with its inflated red chest and nearly 7-foot wingspread, and gulls and herons of all assortments. ACTIVE Take a Guided Snorkeling Excursion in the aqua blue waters just off North Seymour Island’s shore—teeming with sea lions and amphibious marine iguanas—found only in the Galápagos. This afternoon, cruise for the sandy island of Mosquera Islet. MOSQUERA ISLET A Sea Lion Haven of White Coral Sand DISCOVERY Take a Guided Walk on the white coral beaches to the islands’ largest congregation of Galápagos sea lions. You’ll see a wide variety of shore birds reflecting the island’s amazing biodiversity—from the deep-gray lava gull to the yellow-crowned night heron. NORTH-SEYMOUR-ISLAND-BLUE-FOOTED-BOOBY.jpg
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Day 18
SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND Tracing Darwin’s Footsteps and Audubon’s Muses DISCOVERY This morning, take a Naturalist-Led Excursion to South Plaza Island to observe wildlife, including sea lions, land iguanas, marine iguanas, and hybrid iguanas (only found on this island and a result of a cross between land and marine iguanas). You will see blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigate birds, swallow-tailed gulls, Audubon’s shearwaters, and many other species. This afternoon, cruise to Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island. SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND Blue Herons, Blue Lagoons, and a Sleeping Lion ACTIVE Take a Guided Walk at the site where Charles Darwin first visited the Galápagos. See the volcanic remains of magnificent Kicker Rock—also called León Dormido (Sleeping Lion). Walk beside one of the island’s blue lagoons to see a number of migratory birds, including pelicans and great blue herons. SOUTH-PLAZA-ISLAND.jpg
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Day 19
GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (DISEMBARKATION)–SAN CRISTOBAL–QUITO The Geological Genesis of a Magical Archipelago DISCOVERY This morning, cruise to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a Naturalist Guided Tour of the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. You’ll learn about the Galápagos’ fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, climate, and the arrival of diverse species that inspire both imagination and science. This afternoon, you’ll say farewell to the magical islands of Galápagos and fly to Quito. This evening, spend free time relaxing or enjoy one of Quito’s many fine restaurants. SAN-CRISTOBAL-SEA-LIONS.jpg

Day 20
QUITO Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. QUITO-BASILICA.jpg
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Accommodations

LimaParacasSacred ValleyMachu PicchuCuscoQuito
Hilton Lima Miraflores
Moderate Deluxe



Avenida La Paz 1099 Lima Peru

Hilton Lima Miraflores features a rooftop terrace and puts you within a 10-minute walk of Larcomar Shopping Center. The outdoor pool is a great spot to take a dip, and guests can grab a bite to eat at Social, which serves Fusion cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A poolside bar, a 24-hour fitness center, are other highlights at this luxurious hotel.
Check Mark Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.

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