Galápagos with National Geographic + Peru's Land of the Inca

Upon arrival in Guayaquil, transfer to the Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil. Ask your Expedition Specialist about extra nights

This morning, fly to the Galápagos Islands and board National Geographic Endeavour II. After lunch, we begin our exploration of the islands and their remarkable wildlife. (B,L,D)

Listed below is a sample of islands we may visit during our expedition. All ship itineraries are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations. (B,L,D Daily) North Seymour: Follow coastal trails past playful Galápagos sea lions on this wildlife-rich central island. Continue inland through a silvery forest of endemic palo santo trees, where frigatebirds nest, blue-footed boobies dance, and where we may also encounter prehistoric-looking land iguanas feeding on cactus. Isabela: Cross the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye open for whales and dolphins, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish. Over two days, land in the footsteps of Darwin and Melville, and look for wildlife along the wildly eroded volcanic shore. Fernandina: One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine island in Galápagos— and home to the strange flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguins and the largest marine iguanas. Hikes ashore lead across impressive recent lava flows. Española: See swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, Nazca boobies and, seasonally, the world’s only population of waved albatross at this birdy paradise, also home to vividly colored marine iguanas. Watch sea lions on the wide sand beach, and snorkel offshore, at Gardner Bay. Floreana: Follow a trail past a rose pink-tinted lagoon frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the famous barrel at Post Office Bay. Santa Cruz: Visit Puerto Ayora, the largest town and headquarters of both the Galápagos National Park and Charles Darwin Research Station. See the monument to Lonesome George, and tour the giant tortoise breeding corrals. See the giant tortoises roaming in the wild in the lush, green highlands. Bartolomé: Climb the steps to the summit of this 300-foot volcanic wonderland for stunning views. Explore, swim and snorkel from the beach. You might even see Galápagos penguins, one of world’s rarest. Santiago: Explore tide pools and look for fur seals sheltered in quiet grottos of black basalt. Swim, snorkel, kayak and paddleboard along Santiago’s spectacular coast, and explore an enchanting coastal forest where Charles Darwin once walked. Genovesa: Sail across the Equator to the remote northern realm of the Galápagos, surrounded by warmer tropical waters. San Cristobal: Search for red-footed boobies and the endemic mockingbird and lava lizard—found only on this easternmost island, and dig your toes into the powdery white sand at a gorgeous beach fronted by iconic Kicker Rock. Explore Baquerizo Moreno, where sea lions thrive in the middle of to

Depart Galápagos this morning and fly to Lima, Peru. Check-in at Belmond Miraflores Park, where we spend two nights (new for 2022). Set on a green promenade overlooking the Pacific in fashionable Miraflores, this much-loved hotel is the perfect base to explore. (B,L)

Explore World Heritage-designated colonial Lima this morning, where we stroll the Plaza Mayor and delight in a private welcome lunch with a special musical presentation at Casa Aliaga, one of the oldest houses in Lima. Then visit the extraordinary Larco Museum dedicated to pre-Columbian art. Return to our hotel with dinner on your own to sample local fare. (B,L)

Board a short scenic flight to Cusco this morning, and continue to Moray—a visually stunning Inca site with dramatic agricultural terraces in the heart of the fabled and fertile Urubamba Valley. After lunch and an opportunity to experience a local market, check-in at Belmond Rio Sagrado, set in verdant gardens with views over the valley. (B,L,D)

Spend the day exploring the archaeological sites and culture of the Sacred Valley in the company of National Geographic expert Peter Frost (or a colleague), who has lived and worked in Peru for decades. He or a colleague joins us for a talk at our hotel and a visit to the massive Inca stone fortress of Ollantaytambo, set above a thriving Inca community. Lunch is at a working, family- owned hacienda, where we are treated to a show of Peruvian Paso horses, and National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa, founder of El Centro de Textiles Tradicionales de Cusco, demonstrates Inca weaving traditions. (B,L,D)

Marvel at the dramatic scenery and life along the river en route this morning by train to Machu Picchu, the Inca royal retreat famously introduced to the world by Hiram Bingham in the April 1913 issue of National Geographic magazine. Check-in at the historic 31-room Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, adjacent to the World Heritage site, with the leisure to explore over two days in the company of our hand-picked tour director and local guides. Lunch and dinner at the hotel. (B,L,D)

Awaken this morning at Machu Picchu, where options include an early hike to the Sun Gate, the ancient final checkpoint to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail. After lunch, return by train and bus to Cusco—the center of the Inca universe and a burgeoning cultural capital. Check-in at the Belmond Hotel Monasterio on Plaza Nazarenas in the heart of Cusco for two nights. Occupying a monastery founded in 1592, our hotel—like much of colonial Cusco—is built atop Inca stones.(B,L,D)

Explore the magnificently ornate 17th-century cathedral, sacred Inca Temple of the Sun, and other treasures of Cusco. Visit nearby Sacsayhuamán, where a series of imposing terrace walls, the most impressive yet, command views over the city. Relax, shop, or visit one of Cusco’s many churches and museums this afternoon. Dinner is on your own tonight. (B,L)

After breakfast and a final morning at leisure, say goodbye to the Land of the Inca and fly from Cusco back to Lima. (B,L)

Itineraries are subject to change.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 73 metres

Passenger Capacity: 96 guests (in 53 outside cabins)

Built: 2005; Newly Launched: 2016

Purpose-built for expedition travel, National Geographic Endeavour II is a nimble and elegant vessel, perfectly suited for exploring the Galápagos Islands. Accommodating just 96 guests, she offers a relaxed yet immersive experience, with spacious public areas, large windows throughout, and an expansive open-air observation deck ideal for wildlife spotting and stargazing. Her shallow draught allows close access to remote coastlines, creating extraordinary opportunities for up-close discovery.

Aboard Endeavour II, guests enjoy a blend of comfort and adventure. The ship carries a fleet of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, Zodiacs, and a glass-bottom boat, along with exploration tools like underwater cameras and a video microscope. Public spaces include a lounge and bar for evening Recaps, a library, and an “open bridge” where visitors can observe navigation and chat with the crew. Dining is sociable and unpretentious, with Ecuadorian flavours and options to eat outdoors when weather permits. Whether travelling solo, with family, or as a group, Endeavour II offers an unforgettable basecamp in the enchanted isles.

Vessel Type: Small Ship

Passenger Capacity: 48

National Geographic Gemini is the newest addition to the Lindblad Expeditions Galápagos fleet, designed to offer an immersive and authentic small-ship experience. Built with a shallow draught and exceptional manoeuvrability, she is purpose-designed for navigating the remote shores and vibrant marine life of the Galápagos Islands. With space for only 48 guests in 28 well-appointed cabins—including balcony suites, doubles, triples, and solo options—Gemini blends intimacy with comfort, and benefits from decades of Lindblad’s deep connections with local conservationists and communities.

Life on board Gemini is designed to maximise exploration and engagement. She carries a full complement of adventure gear, including fast-deploying Mark VI Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards, a glass-bottom boat, and snorkelling equipment with shortie wetsuits. Guests can unwind on the Upper Deck with a hot tub and a windowed fitness centre and spa, or enjoy dining in the outdoor café or Marina Deck restaurant, both featuring open seating. Presentations and Recaps take place in the panoramic lounge, which also houses a bar, reception area, and well-stocked library—providing the perfect setting to reflect on each day’s discoveries.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 49 metres

Passenger Capacity: 48 guests (in 26 cabins)

Sleek, elegant, and purpose-built for exploration, National Geographic Islander II redefines expedition travel in the Galápagos Islands. With space for just 48 guests in 26 beautifully appointed cabins and suites, this refined vessel offers the atmosphere of a private yacht paired with the immersive spirit of an expedition. A 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures personalised service, while amenities such as teak decks, a climate-controlled marina, a dedicated Science Hub, and expansive observation areas provide comfort and connection to the surroundings at every turn.

Sailing year-round in the Galápagos, Islander II features a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards, and a glass-bottom boat, alongside full snorkelling gear and scientific equipment including a video microscope. Ecuadorian staff, regionally inspired cuisine, and artisan spa elements ensure an authentic and culturally rich onboard experience. Public spaces like The Cove lounge, the Global Gallery, a plunge pool, and indoor-outdoor dining areas further enhance life at sea. Whether relaxing on the teak viewing deck or learning from naturalists during Recap, guests are immersed in the unique landscapes, wildlife, and culture of Ecuador’s enchanted isles.