Manta, Ecuador

Uncover the enigma and grandeur of Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas, where awe-inspiring mountain vistas and extraordinary archaeological marvels converge in one truly unforgettable experience. Perched majestically above the clouds amid a verdant tropical mountain forest, this iconic UNESCO World Heritage sanctuary unveils the remarkable brilliance of the Inca Empire through its sacred temples, intricately carved terraces, and ancient ceremonial plazas, each a testament to centuries of ingenuity, artistry, and enduring wonder. Enriched by the timeless splendor of Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca world, and crowned by an New Year's Eve dinner, this remarkable journey offers a rare and exceptional way to experience Peru's most extraordinary treasure.

Special Note: This is an active program at high altitude, and guests are strongly advised to consult their physician regarding their ability to participate prior to booking. Guests traveling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should review the airline regulations below regarding carriage of this equipment on tour.

DAY 1 – December 30, 2026

Disembark the cruise after clearance and continue to Hacienda La Prosperina for an immersive coffee experience set within a picturesque rural landscape surrounded by tropical dry forest. Discover the full journey of coffee production, from cultivation and harvesting to roasting and brewing, while enjoying authentic local flavors and the tranquil beauty of the region, before continuing to Guayaquil airport for your international flight to Lima.

Jipijapa has long been recognized for its coffee production, which in the 1960s and 1970s stood as one of Ecuador’s key economic pillars. Thanks to its favorable climate and privileged location, the region has seen a strong revival in organic coffee cultivation in recent years. A leading example is Hacienda La Prosperina, a 100-hectare, 247-acre estate located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Jipijapa, dedicated to sustainable organic coffee production while actively preserving the surrounding tropical dry forest and its rich flora and fauna.

Coffee is grown within a carefully managed agroforestry system that supports biodiversity and environmental balance. Local women carefully hand-select only the ripest cherries, following strict quality and sustainability standards to ensure excellence from plantation to cup.

Beyond its coffee production, Hacienda La Prosperina is committed to social impact through Fundación La Prosperina. It supports initiatives such as Villas Noemí, which provides care and temporary shelter for pregnant adolescents affected by family violence, along with medical, psychological, legal, and emotional support. The foundation is also currently developing a Medical Center that will provide surrounding communities with essential healthcare services, including general medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, nutrition, and dental care.

During the visit, you will stroll through the coffee plantations and gain firsthand insight into each stage of production, from harvesting and washing to drying and roasting. Along the way, you will observe traditional techniques and learn how each step contributes to the quality and character of the final product.

The experience concludes with a guided tasting of freshly brewed coffee, complemented by local snacks and a traditional regional lunch, offering a rich and authentic immersion into the flavors and culture of the area.

End the day with a scenic drive to Guayaquil for your international flight to Lima.

Late dinner at Hotel.

Overnight at the Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Airport Hotel or similar hotel.

DAY 2 – December 31, 2026

After breakfast, brief walk to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, set out on a city tour of this storied Andean capital, where layers of Inca heritage and Spanish grandeur reveal themselves at every turn.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, visit the magnificent Baroque-style Cusco Cathedral, built in the mid-1500s on the foundations of an Inca palace. Many of the stones used in its construction were taken from the nearby Sacsayhuaman fortress, creating a powerful symbol of the city’s intertwined histories. Continue to the sacred site of Koricancha, where the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo rises above the foundations of the Temple of the Sun, once the most sumptuous sanctuary in the Inca Empire. At the church’s western end, admire the remarkable curved wall of mortar-less stonework, one of the finest surviving examples of Inca masonry.

Then visit the imposing Sacsayhuaman fortress, strategically set on a hill overlooking Cusco. Like many Inca structures, it was built without mortar, yet the immense stones of the remaining walls, some weighing as much as 200 tons, fit together with astonishing precision, showcasing the extraordinary skill and sophistication of Inca engineering.

After your visits, check in to the Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, for your overnight stay.

This evening, celebrate New Year’s Eve with dinner at your hotel.

Please note: All rooms at the Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel feature an oxygen-enriched system to help you acclimate to the altitude.

Overnight at Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel or similar.

DAY 3 – January 1, 2027

After breakfast, you drive to the train station and board the train for Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, you continue to the ruins of Machu Picchu to explore this legendary “Lost City of the Incas.” Constructed in the 1400s as a royal retreat for the Inca emperor Pachacuti, Machu Picchu was abandoned less than a century later, its population likely devastated by smallpox. Because the Spanish conquistadors never discovered this hidden citadel, Bingham found it largely intact.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant.

Among the site’s architectural highlights are the Temple of the Sun, designed in a style similar to its counterpart in Cusco, several additional ceremonial structures, hundreds of terraces, and a mysterious carved stone set on a raised platform above the plaza. It may have been used for astronomical observation, although its true purpose remains uncertain. As the Inca left no written language, no definitive record explains Machu Picchu’s ultimate function, and scholars continue to search for clues to its enduring mysteries. After your visit to Machu Picchu, you board the train for the return journey to Ollantaytambo. On arrival at the station, you are transferred back to your hotel in Cusco for dinner and your overnight stay.

Overnight at Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel or similar.

DAY 4 – January 2, 2027

After breakfast, you visit an Andean highland community, where Quechua-speaking farmers and weavers welcome you into a world shaped by enduring traditions and daily life in the mountains. This intimate encounter offers a meaningful glimpse into the rhythms of the Andean countryside, where heritage is not preserved for display, but lived each day. As you explore what the locals call the village of beautiful flowers, you step into family kitchens to discover an array of native ingredients being prepared and cooked over wood-fired mud-brick stoves. The experience is both vivid and heartfelt, revealing the flavors, warmth, and hospitality at the center of village life. Your hosts then share one of Peru’s most treasured artistic traditions: textile weaving. Through a demonstration of ancestral techniques and design, they introduce you to an art form that has shaped Peruvian identity for millennia. As they unveil the symbolic meanings woven into their cloth and traditional dress, you gain a deeper appreciation for the stories, beliefs, and cultural memory carried in every thread.

Accompanied by the sounds of flutes and drums, you take a short walk with your village hosts into the heart of the Andean agricultural cycle. Here, amid landscapes still worked much as they were in Inca times, you see how the soil is turned by hand on the mountainsides and are invited to take part in a moving blessing of the earth, the animals, and the newly plowed land. It is a rare and privileged immersion in traditions that remains as vital today as they were centuries ago.

You then continue to a local restaurant for lunch.

After lunch, you transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival, you are transferred to the port, where you re-board the ship.

Land Program Step by Step

The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1 – December 30, 2026

Please note: Timings may vary depending on actual flight times

Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest

9:00am Depart Manta port and transfer to a local hacienda

10:30am Welcome briefing with typical snacks

11:00am Walk through the coffee plantation including harvesting, washing, drying and roasting areas

12:15pm Freshly brewed coffee tasting

12:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant

2:00pm Drive to Guayaquil airport

5:15pm Approximate arrival time at the airport and check-in for flight to Lima Airport

8:40pm Flight from Guayaquil to Lima (flight details TBA and subject to change)

10:35pm Arrive at Lima Airport

11:35pm Walk to your hotel

Overnight at Lions River Lodge Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Airport Hotel or similar

DAY 2 – December 31, 2026

Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest

AM Breakfast at your hotel

7:10am Walk to Lima airport

8:10am Arrival at the airport and check-in for your flight

10:10am Flight from Lima to Cusco

(Airline and flight number TBC and subject to change)

11:35am Arrival in Cusco

12:00pm Transfer to the local restaurant for lunch

2:30pm Walk the Main Square

2:45pm Photo stop opportunity at the Main Square and visit Cusco Cathedral

3:30pm Transfer to Koricancha Temple

3:45pm Visit Koricancha Temple

4:30pm Transfer to Sacsayhuaman Fortress

4:45pm Visit Sacsayhuaman Fortress

5:30pm Transfer to the hotel

TBC New Year’s Eve Dinner at your hotel

Overnight Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3 – January 1, 2027

Please note: Timings may vary depending on actual flight times

Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest

6:00am Wakeup call

6:30am Buffet breakfast at hotel

7:00am Transfer to the train station

9:00am Board the train

9:15am Train to Aguas Calientes

10:52am Walk to the bus station

11:15am Bus to the citadel

12:00pm Lunch at a local restaurant

1:00pm Guided visit of Machu Picchu

3:30pm Bus to Aguas Calientes

4:00pm Walk to the train station

4:30pm Board the train

4:43pm Train to Ollantaytambo

6:40pm Transfer to your hotel

8:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at Lions River Lodge Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel or similar

DAY 4 – January 2, 2027

Please note: Timings may vary depending on actual flight times

Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest

AM Breakfast at your hotel

9:00am Transfer to the Andean community

10:15am Visit the Andean community

12:15am Transfer to a local restaurant

1:30pm Lunch at local restaurant

3:00pm Transfer to the airport

3:30pm Approximate arrival time at the airport and check-in for flight to Lima Airport

5:30pm Flight from Cusco to Lima (flight details TBA and subject to change)

7:10pm Arrive at Lima Airport

7:40pm Transfer to Callao port

8:10pm Arrival in Callao port

General Information

Electricity:

The current is 220 volts AC. In most hotel bathrooms, there is an electrical outlet with 110 volts for electric shavers, but this should not be used for travel irons or hair dryers. Most hotel rooms are equipped with hairdryers and adaptors however we recommend bringing your own universal travel adaptor.

Expected Weather:

December / January is normally rainy in the highlands. Average temperature in the highlands is 65ºF max /43ºF min while in Lima it is 80ºF max/68ºF min.

November through April is considered the rainy season in the highlands so be prepared for various weather conditions, which often change suddenly because of the high altitude. Dressing in layers with rain gear is recommended.

What to Bring:

•Light luggage (carry-on) is recommended for this short overland trip

•Comfortable, casual clothing in natural breathable fabrics. Temperatures will change as altitudes and the time of day change, so it’s best to bring shorts as well as long trousers and clothing that can be layered. Cathedrals, churches, and other religious sites require conservative dress. Both males and females should cover their arms, legs and shoulders.

•Local standards dictate a neat, clean outfit for dining in restaurants and touring urban areas. For men: long trousers and a shirt with a collar. For ladies: trousers or a knee-length or longer skirt with a modest top. Formal clothing is not necessary.

•A sweater or lightweight jacket for the cooler evening temperatures common in highland regions.

•A lightweight preferably non-plastic raincoat or poncho and an umbrella.

•Comfortable walking shoes with low or no heels. Sandals may not be comfortable for sightseeing.

•Sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen, a sunhat and insect repellent.

•Walking sticks are prohibited in Machu Picchu unless they are needed by guests with mobility problems.

Currency:

Peru’s currency is the Sol (S/.). The exchange rate fluctuates, so check the current rate before exchanging money. As of recent trends, 1 USD is approximately 3.5 to 4 soles, but this may vary. Some venues accept U.S. dollars.

ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas and dispense soles or U.S. dollars.

Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, though cash is preferred in rural areas or smaller establishments.

Luggage:

For domestic flights in Peru, it is permitted to check one piece of 23Kg (50 pounds) per person and 1 carry-on of 10Kg (22 pounds) per person. Excess luggage will be subject to fees imposed by the airline and will be the responsibility of each guest, payable to the airline when checking in for your flights.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)

1.Guests must obtain a doctor’s certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2.The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications, especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type).

3.These documents must be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4.Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator can be responsible for.

Please note: Some airlines may impose restrictions or specific requirements when transporting wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or other assistive devices. We recommend checking directly with your airline or the Cruise Line prior to departure to ensure compliance with their policies.

Documents & Visa Requirements:

Foreign passengers entering Peru must have a passport valid at least 6 months past the day of arrival and should have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigration stamps. No visa is necessary to enter to Peru, but there are some exceptions. Guests must bring their passports with them.

Passport details will be required to be provided to the cruise line approximately 100 days before departure so that tickets can be purchased for entry to Machu Picchu. Please contact OCI Reservations to ensure we have your most up to date passport details.

Vaccination & Health Regulations:

Guests are responsible for confirming up-to-date vaccination requirements directly with their local embassy or health authority. Please note that visa and vaccination costs are not included in the price of this program.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTATION NOTICE:

To ensure successful flight arrangements for this program, the name on your cruise booking, passport, and any required visas must match exactly. This includes first, middle, and last names, with identical spelling across all documents. Discrepancies may result in denial of boarding by the airline.

Cruise line-generated manifests must align precisely with your official travel documents.

Failure to present the correct documentation or inconsistencies in guests names may lead to denied travel or the need to re-purchase tickets at your own expense. Guests will be responsible for any additional costs incurred due to these discrepancies.

Hotel Address & Contact:

Hotel Address & Contact:

Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Airport Hotel

Av. Morales Duárez S/N, Callao 15018, Peru

Phone: +51 1 6806505

Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Santo Domingo 259, Cusco 08002, Peru

Phone: +51 84 231961

Please Note: In the event of unforeseen circumstances, an alternative hotel may be arranged. Any substitute accommodation will match the original in both rating and quality. You will be informed of any changes prior to your departure. If no such notification is provided, your stay will proceed at the hotel specified in this program.

Program Includes:

•1 night in Callao at Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Airport Hotel (Superior Room)

•2 nights in Cusco at Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel (an oxygen-enriched One Bedroom Suite), with breakfast

?Entrance fees to the Cathedral, Koricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Machu Picchu, and the Village of Flowers

•Scenic roundtrip train journey through the Sacred Valley

•3 lunches and 2 dinners at local restaurants or hotels, including 2 glasses of local wine or beer, 1 water or soft drink, and 1 hot beverage per person

•New Year’s Eve Dinner at Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, featuring a set menu with an amuse-bouche, starter, and main course, together with one glass of sparkling wine and water, live entertainment during dinner, New Year’s party favors at the table, a traditional street parade with a Banda de Caperos at the conclusion of dinner, the traditional grape-eating ritual, and the twelve midnight chimes to welcome the New Year

•Ground transfers

•Economy-class flights per the itinerary. Direct flights not guaranteed

Program Excludes:

•Drinks and meals not mentioned above

•Personal expenses and hotel incidentals such as laundry, phone calls, and minibar

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Excess or overweight luggage fees

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

New Year’s Eve Dinner:

•The New Year’s Eve Dinner includes an amuse-bouche, starter, and main course menu, together with one glass of sparkling wine and water. Live entertainment will be featured during dinner. After dinner, guests may enjoy a traditional street parade, followed by the traditional grape ritual and the 12 midnight chimes to welcome the New Year.

•The culinary concept is generally based on international cuisine, and the dress code is expected to be formal, smart casual.

Hints & Restrictions:

•This program is subject to flight confirmations, which are beyond our control. Direct flights are never guaranteed.

•All program details, including timings and any flights indicated, are approximate, provided for general reference purposes only, and subject to change. As such, the itinerary may be modified in terms of times, duration, and the inclusion and/or substitution of the visits offered.

•Laundry service is available at most hotels and dry cleaning is available in larger cities. Check costs and return times before using these services.

•As this is an active program taking place at high altitudes, guests are strongly advised to consult with their physician regarding their ability to participate prior to booking. While all necessary support and assistance will be provided in the event of an unexpected medical situation, Akorn Destination Management cannot be held liable for any related illness or injury. Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance prior to travel, including coverage for cancellation, curtailment, medical expenses, evacuation / repatriation, baggage, personal items, personal liability, death and permanent disability, and travel documents. This program takes place at high altitude, and guests with mobility or stamina concerns are encouraged to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities before booking.

•Although every effort will be made by Akorn Destination Management to adhere to the booked itinerary, including all scheduled Machu Picchu flights and train arrangements, the company reserves the right to amend the itinerary or offer alternative train services of the best available category if required due to circumstances beyond its control, with immediate notification to the client. In the event of unscheduled flight changes or Force Majeure situations, Akorn Destination Management cannot be held financially liable, although assistance will be offered to help reclaim monies where possible. Any recovery is subject to negotiation with airlines and relevant suppliers, handled on a case-by-case basis, and cannot be guaranteed.

•Guests traveling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should refer to the airline stipulations noted above regarding the carriage of this equipment on tour. The master template language requires advance documentation and cautions that airline restrictions may apply.

•This program is not recommended for guests traveling with a wheelchair or with walking difficulties due to the amount of walking, steps, uneven ground, and active touring involved.

Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. This program is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. Guests who choose to use independent transportation or wheelchair services provided by third-party companies may do so at their own risk and responsibility. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Booking, Pricing & Cancelation:

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. No refunds or partial refunds will be issued for any unused portion of the program. This includes, but is not limited to, missed transfers, accommodations, guided tours, meals, or activities. All venues, hotel stays, tour guides, and logistical services are secured and pre-paid well in advance to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.

Guayaquil is Ecuador’s principal harbor and largest city, with about 3 million inhabitants. Guayaquil’s strong culture and traditions stand in amazing contrast to the modernity of its new constructions. Guayaquil’s harbor, “Puerto Maritimo”, is the main seaport of the country and is where 80% of the country’s imports and more than 50% of its exports are handled.

Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most remarkable destinations: an open-air wildlife museum that stirs the explorer within everyone. The archipelago, located about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, is home to an astonishing variety of endemic species — enough to inspire a theory that would change the world — and proves an irresistible destination for adventurers and nature-lovers to this day.

Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. This is not a wheelchair accessible program and is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program.

DAY 1

This morning, you will be picked up from the port of Manta and begin your journey to Guayaquil, a scenic drive that takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.

You’ll arrive in Guayaquil in time to enjoy a traditional lunch at a charming local restaurant.

Next, enjoy a city tour of Guayaquil. You are welcome to immerse yourself in the locals’ culture, atmosphere, and daily life in Guayaquil. First enjoy a breathtaking adventure as you embark on a tour of Guayaquil's iconic Aerovía, offering panoramic views of the city's stunning landscape and vibrant urban life.

Aerovia is a public transportation system, an environmentally friendly project that seeks to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the air that provides an alternative mode of transportation for residents and tourists alike.

This mass air-suspended public transport system consists of 154 cabins, a cable car whose infrastructure gives a lot of visibility which allows us to enjoy the Guayaquil landscape, such as the hills of Guayaquil, the Ferris wheel of the Malecon 2000, the giant artistic paintings painted by local artists, and the Guayas River watching the boats that cross it.

After the aerial gondolas ride, you will disembark and take a short walk through the Panama street, a historical street in the downtown to reach the Cacao Museum. Stride into the museum and delve into the origins of cacao, a sacred plant revered by ancient civilizations such as the Maya and Aztecs. Learn about the cultural significance of cacao in indigenous communities and its transformation from a revered beverage to the indulgent chocolate we know today. Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of cacao through exhibits that highlight its role in Ecuadorian traditions, festivals, and cuisine. Gain insight into the socioeconomic impact of cacao cultivation on local communities and its significance as a source of livelihood for generations of farmers.

Afterwards, embark on the coach and continue discovering Guayaquil, pass by Malecon 2000 -the iconic waterfront promenade, La Rotonda -a historical monument commemorating the meeting of South American liberators Simon Bolivar and Jose de San Martin, Las Peñas -one of Guayaquil's oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods and Seminario Park -a lush green oasis in the heart of downtown Guayaquil with its most famous residents – the iguanas – as they bask in the sun and roam freely among the trees and pathways.

Finally, drive to the hotel to check in.

Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Overnight at HILTON COLON Guayaquil Hotel or similar

DAY 2

After breakfast, meet your guide to transfer to Guayaquil airport to board a domestic flight to Galapagos Islands.

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, a Galapagos Naturalist Guide will welcome us and help with luggage and guidance towards the public bus that heads towards the Itabaca Channel which separates Baltra Island from Santa Cruz Island. A public ferry crosses the azure waters of the channel towards Santa Cruz, which will take approximately 5 minutes. On Santa Cruz, board a private vehicle to transfer to Puerto Ayora on the other side of the island. Driving through the rural areas of the island, travelers can experience the agriculture of the archipelago as well as the diversity of its flora. Surrounded by wild landscapes and different species, keep a lookout for the finches that are famous for being the basis of Darwin´s theory of evolution.

Lunch will be served at a local venue in the highlands.

During our first visit, to the Santa Cruz Highlands, watch the famous Galapagos land tortoises in their natural environment and learn how the private ranches aid to protect these special animals. One can hear their sounds while they are trying to eat the leaves of the trees or crash through the undergrowth. Tortoises of all different ages and sizes gather here: Small young ones with shining carapaces, and older ones which are a little bit more laggard and cracks in their shells showing evidence of a long life. While seeking the giant tortoises, the local guide will share the story of the origin of the lava tunnels located at this area. Formed by the lava floods of the volcanoes, they range from the highlands down to the sea level.

Continue to the hotel for check-in. Dinner is served at the hotel after an exciting and memorable day.

Overnight at IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar

DAY 3

GALAPAGOS

Today we take a full day boat tour to one of the following nearby Islands: (Island Subject to confirmation)

BARTOLOME: Prepare for an early start - 6 AM. The bus departs from the hotel to take us to the Itabaca Channel, where the yacht awaits, ready to depart. Experience a day in paradise with beautiful white beaches, outer space ambient, clear water, and observe as many native animals start their day.

On the two-hour boat trip breakfast is served while watching the sunrise at sea. There may be an opportunity to observe dolphins and other marine residents very close to the boat in the early hours.

Landing in Bartolome, approximately 300 steps lead up through the moon-like landscape to the highest point of the island. The reward is an amazing view over the islands Santiago, North Seymour, Baltra, Santa Cruz and Rabida. Also in view is Chinese Hat Island, as well as the well-known Pinnacle Rock, which is all that remains of an ancient volcano. The rock is home to a large quantity of sea birds and is the most photographed landscape in the Galapagos Islands.

After changing clothes for the beach visit, board the dinghy ride for a short ride to Sullivan Bay for snorkeling. Those who don't wish to snorkel may stay on the dinghy to go search among the rocks for the diminutive Galapagos Penguin. Look for one standing on the cliff or shooting like a bullet through the clear waters. Back at the beach after snorkeling or the dinghy ride, enjoy some time to relax or swim. The shallow sea invites us to go swimming and snorkeling while we search for Galapagos penguins, sharks, starfish, rays, sea turtles and other exotic and colorful fish. Enjoy the diversity of native residents such as marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, and more.

After this amazing adventure, lunch is served on the boat.

SEYMOUR AND BACHAS: Starting at 8 AM, this tour offers the golden chance to get to know Seymour Island and Bachas beach. First transfer to the yacht at the Itabaca Channel. During the 1-hour navigation to Seymour Island, observe the slow awakening of the archipelago as the day begins.

Disembark via dinghy onto the rocky coast near a small forest consisting of gray and silver Palo Santo (Holy Stick) trees, which are without leaves for most of the year. Seymour is famous for its large colonies of birds. The unique male frigate birds with their inflated red pouches attract females during breeding season, and the famous Galapagos blue-footed boobies can be observed as well. These seabirds have a wedge-shaped tail, long pointed wings and for courtship, the males lift first one, then the other blue foot into the air and dance to impress the female. Other highlights of this excursion are a beach with small cliffs, seagulls, many sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans, mostly an arm's length away.

The freshly cooked lunch consists of two courses and is served on the yacht. During siesta time, the yacht navigates to Bachas beach along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Take a short hike to the flamingo pond just behind the beach and afterwards refresh yourself by swimming and snorkeling at this isolated paradise beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Sea lions, rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish may join in our underwater experience!

PLAZAS AND PUNTA CARRION: Depart at 8 AM from the hotel for the Itabaca channel, where we board the yacht to cruise South Plaza Island. The island welcomes travelers with a bright colorful red and green carpet of sesuvio, an endemic plant, spread over the Island, as well as the loud, friendly barking of several sea lion families which have settled down on the shore of the channel between North and South Plaza Islands where the yacht anchors. The turquoise water of the ocean juxtaposes perfectly with the white shining beaches and the black lava rocks of the coast.

The hike is easy and goes alongside relaxing sea lions and land iguanas which can be found on most parts of the island. The trail leads to the highest cliff where swallow-tailed gulls cross the air screaming. Here lie the sea lions which could not persist against their competitors climbing up the almost vertical wall. At the same time, tropical birds, blue-footed boobies, and other marine frigate birds glide gently in the wind. We suggest bringing along binoculars to get an extraordinarily close view of these animals, as well as the other marine life. The view from the highest point over the ocean and the powerful waves breaking at the cliffs is an experience that visitors will not forget.

Afterwards, the trip continues to Punta Carrion, where lunch is served on board the ship. This is a great spot to snorkel and swim among rays, sharks, and hundreds of colorful tropic fish.

SANTA FE: Formed by uplifting, rather than by a volcano, Santa Fe is known for having one of the most beautiful coves in all the Galapagos. Some of the island’s endemic species include the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snake, land iguanas, various types of finches, and the Galapagos mockingbird. The visit includes a hike on a trail past salt bushes where Galapagos hawks as well as the Santa Fe land iguanas tend to roam. Playful sea lions will usually accompany swimmers and snorkelers during beach time.

FLOREANA: This morning, navigate to the small town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra located on the Floreana Island (approximately 2.5 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, take local transportation known as “Chiva” to start a 30-minute ride up to the highlands of Floreana Island. The chiva will ascend a dirt road surrounded by typical dry vegetation transform into a lush, green vegetation as we gain elevation. In this area, we also find some farms with bananas, coffee, cacao, and other tropical plantations. Our short drive will end at the “pampada” from where we start a beautiful walk which permits us to observe the typical flora of the area. On our way, we will also encounter some giant Galapagos tortoises. Continue to the place known as “Asilo de la Paz” (Peace Asylum), a historical place where the German Wittmer family settled down when they arrived to Floreana in 1932. Observe the caves used as their home before moving to the place which is now known as Puerto Velasco Ibarra. Back in town, enjoy lunch prepared in a small, local restaurant.

Next, we walk to “La Loberia”, a beautiful bay. The main attraction is the presence of a small colony of sea lions. There is also a great chance to observe marine iguanas resting on the rocks, and in the waters of the bay we may be able to see marine turtles.

ISABELA: This morning, sail to the town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island (approximately 3 hours from Santa Cruz). Upon arrival, visit the Isabela Tortoise Breading and Interpretation Center where our guide will explain the different activities developed by the National Park to protect the fragile environment. Here, we also find Giant Galapagos Tortoises of different species and sizes.

Afterwards, we start our walk to the place known as “Humedales” (Wetlands). The walk follows a well-maintained path from which we can observe this beautiful place composed of lagoons and rocks and surrounded by 4 species of mangroves and typical trees of the area. In the lagoons we can observe flamingos and migratory birds.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit "Las Tintoreras”, a scenic area where we find colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and many sharks known as Tintoreras (White-tipped sharks) resting in the channels formed by lava flows. Later, we can do some snorkeling, perhaps in the company of sea lions, penguins and marine turtles.

Difficulty level: Moderate

The day trip ends with a late afternoon return and dinner at the hotel.

Overnight at IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar

DAY 4

After breakfast, we are going to visit Charles Darwin Research Station and its famous residents within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest. These are the headquarters of scientific research, conservation, and the National Park administration in the islands. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers, and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Charles Darwin Research Station is also part of the "Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena" which is the breeding center for tortoises. Tortoises are raised here in the care of researchers and then when ready re-introduced into their natural environment.

The next stop is Galapagos airport for our flight to Guayaquil.

Once in Guayaquil, a representative will drive us to have a late lunch at a local hotel. After lunch, transfer back to the airport and check in at the airline’s desk for the international flight to Lima.

Upon arrival in Lima, a representative will meet us to transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at Country Club Lima Hotel or similar

DAY5

This morning our representative will meet us in the hotel lobby to transfer to Callao Port approximately 40 minutes away to embark on the vessel.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

(Listed timings are approximate)

8:45am Disembarkation at Manta’s Port

9:00am Transfer to Guayaquil city

12:30pm Arrival to Guayaquil city

12:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant

2:00pm City tour of Guayaquil

4:30pm Drive to the hotel and check in

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the HILTON COLON Guayaquil or similar hotel

DAY 2

7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:00am Transfer to Guayaquil´s Airport, check in procedures

10:10am Flight to Baltra Island (suggested flight LA1413 – Subject to change)

11:07am Arrival to Baltra Airport and transfer to Santa Cruz Island

12:15pm Lunch and visit to the Highlands of Santa Cruz

3:15pm Transfer to the hotel &check in

7:30pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 3

7:00am Breakfast at the hotel or onboard the boat (depending on the navigable tour)

7:30am Transfer to the dock

8:30pm Navigable tour (island subject to confirmation)

1:00pm Lunch onboard or in a seated venue (depending on the island visited)

3:00pm Navigate back to the dock and transfer to the hotel.

5:30pm Leisurely time (depending on the island visited)

7:00pm Dinner at the hotel

Overnight at the IKALA Galapagos Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 4

7:15am Breakfast at your hotel

7:45am Transfer Charles Darwin Station

8:00am Visit Charles Darwin Station

10:00am Arrival at Baltra Airport - check in procedures

12:30pm Flight to Guayaquil (suggested flight LA1414 – Subject to change)

3:24pm Arrival to Guayaquil Airport

4:00pm Transfer at local restaurant

4:20pm Late Lunch at local restaurant

5:30pm Transfer to airport to board flight to Lima

8:40pm Flight to Lima (suggested flight LA 1437 - Subject to change)

10:35pm Arrival to Lima

11:20pm Transfer to the Hotel

11:40pm Check in at the hotel and Box Dinner

Overnight at the Country Club Lima Hotel or similar hotel

DAY5

8:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:30am Hotel check out

9:45am Transfer to Callao Port

10:30am Approximate arrival at the ship for embarkation.

General Information

Expected Weather:

Overall, December in Guayaquil is characterized by warm temperatures, increased rainfall, and high humidity, with ample daylight hours and a high UV index. Average High: Approximately 32.5°C (90.5°F) Average Low: Around 22.4°C (72.3°F) Mean Temperature: About 27.1°C (80.8°F).

The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt Current and the warm El Nino current. The weather varies during the year. From December until May temperatures range from the low 80°s (26 C°) to the high 90°s (32°) (with possibilities of rain). From June to September temperatures vary from the low 60°s (15 C°) to the high 70°s (21°). This is the garua season (mist in the mornings). From October until December temperatures range from the 70°s (15 C°) to the 80°s (26 C°) (dry season).

What to Bring:

It is not necessary to carry much to the Galapagos, pack light and pack smart. Lightweight, fast drying materials are recommended (many synthetics; merino wool – consult your local outdoor gear shop)

•Must carry their passports.

•Cotton pants

•Shorts

•T-shirts

•Long sleeved shirt

•A windbreaker or light sweater for the evening or early morning

•Hat: preferably that cover the ears

•Lots of sunscreen lotion

•Shoes: you will have dry landings (step directly from the dinghy onto dry land) and wet landings (wade to shore from the dinghy through shallow water). You can either bring one pair of “hybrid” shoes that are good for walking and getting wet (Keens are great; Chacos and Tevas work as well), or one set of footwear for getting wet (sandals or water shoes) and one pair to bring ashore in a backpack for hiking (light hikers or sneakers)

•Sunglasses (with strap)

•An extra pair of prescription glasses (if needed)

•Small backpack to carry on land visits for your camera and water)

•Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry.

•Snorkeling gear (not essential)

•Wetsuit (not essential – maybe provided by boat or can be rented in the islands)

•Rash guard

•In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.

•Medications (anything you might be using while your cruise)

•Trasderm scoop or tablets (if you are prone to sea sickness)

•Binoculars

•If you wear glasses, it is a good idea to bring contact lenses for diving and snorkeling.

•Insect repellent

•On board the boats snorkeling gear will be available for all passengers. If you use a fin size smaller than 6-7 or bigger than 10-11, please inquire with us.

Local Currency:

Ecuador’s local currency is the US Dollar

Peru’s currency is the Nuevo Sol (S/.) - some venues accepted U.S. dollars.

Electricity

Ecuador: uses 110-volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US. Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. In case needed, hotels can provide adapters.

Peru: The current is 220 volts AC. In most hotel bathrooms, there is an electrical outlet with 110 volts for electric shavers, but this should not be used for travel irons or hair dryers. Most hotel rooms are equipped with hairdryers and adapters.

Luggage information

The luggage allowance for all flights on this program are as follows:

One piece of luggage per person is permitted free of charge. Maximum weight 50 pounds (23 kg) and one carry-on bag with a maximum of 15pounds (17 kg).

Should guests have excess or overweight luggage, any fees will be paid by each guest at the various airports upon check in. Prices are set by the airline and are subject to change.

Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)

1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.

2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)

3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).

4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator be responsible for.

5. Guests should bring with them on the flight any paperwork from their doctor and /or specific details that explain the type of device they are bringing on board. Each brand should have a website with paperwork that can be printed for flights.

Documents and Visa Requirements:

Please note that passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry. Please note also that passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after completion of your journey and should also have enough blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. Oceania Cruises wont be held responsible should you be denied entry to a country due to non-compliance with these requirements. Should you require specific information ahead of travel, please consult the travel advice produced by the government of your home jurisdiction, as well as that of the government who issued the passport and/or visa you intend to travel under.

VERY IMPORTANT

The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name.Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.

Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.

The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.

If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.

Aircraft type (subject to change):

Flight GYE-GPS-GYE Airbus A319

Flight GYE-LIM Airbus A319

Please Note:

Boat tours may be shared with independent guests if we do not reach 16 guests (incl. ship escort).

Boat sailing during the navigable day tour is usually rough and due to sea conditions, it may take longer than 2 hours.

This itinerary may change without prior notice due to National Park dispositions or due to force majeure. The islands to be visited are determined at the sole discretion of the Galapagos National Park.

Hotel Addresses:

HILTON COLON Guayaquil Hotel

Av. Francisco de Orellana Mz. 111, Guayaquil 090512

+593 4 5010000

IKALA Galapagos Hotel

Tomás de Berlanga 110 & Moisés Brito, Puerto Ayora - Galápagos, Ecuador

+593 52526133

Country Club Lima Hotel

Av. Los Eucaliptos 590, San Isidro – Lima, Perú

+511 6119000

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•Transfers

•English-speaking guides

•Porterage at hotels & airports (based on 1 piece of luggage per person)

•Airport assistance in Guayaquil and Lima

•Galapagos Naturalist Guide (provided by the Galapagos National Park) to accompany and guide the guests in the Galapagos Islands

•Snorkeling equipment

•1 full daily boat tour with lunch

•Entrance fees to the cable car, Cacao Museum

•1 night at the Hilton Colon Guayaquil Hotel (Deluxe room) on a bed & breakfast basis

•2 nights at the Ikala Galapagos Hotel or similar (Suite) on a full board basis (from dinner on the first day in the Galapagos until breakfast on the last day in the Galapagos)

•1 Night at Country Club Lima Hotel or similar (Standard) on a bed & breakfast basis

•2 glasses of local wine or beer with lunches and dinners(excepting boxed meals)

•Meals as described in the itinerary

•Box Dinner in Lima

•All activities mentioned in the itinerary

•Economy class flights per itinerary (direct flights are not guaranteed)

•Galapagos National Park taxes and entrance fees

Program Excludes for guests:

•Any meals not listed in the itinerary

•All other accommodations •All items of a personal nature, such as telephone calls, laundry & curio shop purchases

•Any other services not mentioned above.

•Alcoholic beverages and extra soft drinks

•Gratuities for drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service.

•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion.

This is not a wheelchair accessible program and is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.