RACV Logo
Holidays
Things to do
Getting around
Holiday planning
Conference & events
Members save more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide
Unlock savings
Unlock member discounts
Unlock exclusive discounts and inclusions
Members only pricing
Bonus hand-picked inclusions
Find my member number
Continue as guest
Your member number is located on your membership card, membership renewal notice, club account statement or payment advice.

Majestic Peru & Southern Galapagos Cruise (Grand Queen Beatriz) Standard Twin

package saved
click to save
Operated by Intrepid Travel
Tripcode: GMQPC
Overview
Destination:
Ecuador, 
Peru, 
Duration:20 days
Type:Group tour (max 16)
Style:
Adventure,
Adventure Cruising,
Explorer,
River/Small ship/Barge,
Wildlife,
Travel Period
February 2027 - December 2028

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This trip is a combination trip made up of the "Majestic Peru" trip and the "Galapagos Encounter: Southern Islands" trip which is onboard the Grand Queen Beatriz boat.

1. The maximum group size of the Majestic Peru is 12, with a minimum age of 15 years and the Galapagos Islands cruise has a group size of 16 with a minimum age of 12 years.
2. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
3. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
4. This trip starts in Lima on Day 1 at 2pm. This allows time after the welcome meeting to explore Miraflores with your leader.
5. This trip includes domestic flights. The luggage allowance is 23kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on.
6. Full passport details are required at the time of booking. These details are used to obtain entrance and transport tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.
7. This trip includes taking the train to Machu Picchu. You can choose to hike the 1-Day Inca Trail for an additional cost. Please see Day 11 of the Itinerary and contact your booking agent if you’re interested in this activity.
8. Should you choose not to hike at all, please inform in writing at the time of booking so alternative arrangements can be made. Without this prior warning, local fees may apply.
9. There is a US$20 Galapagos Islands transit card fee that needs to be paid at the airport in Quito prior to departure to the islands.
10. All clients must pay the Galapagos National Park fee of US $200 upon arrival at the airport in the Galapagos. These fees are to be paid in cash. This applies to everyone aged 13 years and above. For children aged 12 the fee will be USD100.
11. Dietary requirements need to be advised at the time of booking so that any included meals can be properly catered for.
12. According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors to Machu Picchu must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. We will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same circuit. Regardless of the circuit you will enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the site.

Highlights:
  • This trip is a combination trip made up of the "Majestic Peru" trip and the "Galapagos Encounter: Southern Islands" trip which is onboard the Grand Queen Beatriz boat. 1. The maximum group size of the Majestic Peru is 12, with a minimum age of 15 years and the Galapagos Islands cruise has a group size of 16 with a minimum age of 12 years. 2. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 3. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 4. This trip starts in Lima on Day 1 at 2pm. This allows time after the welcome meeting to explore Miraflores with your leader. 5. This trip includes domestic flights. The luggage allowance is 23kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on. 6. Full passport details are required at the time of booking. These details are used to obtain entrance and transport tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets. 7. This trip includes taking the train to Machu Picchu. You can choose to hike the 1-Day Inca Trail for an additional cost. Please see Day 11 of the Itinerary and contact your booking agent if you’re interested in this activity. 8. Should you choose not to hike at all, please inform in writing at the time of booking so alternative arrangements can be made. Without this prior warning, local fees may apply. 9. There is a US$20 Galapagos Islands transit card fee that needs to be paid at the airport in Quito prior to departure to the islands. 10. All clients must pay the Galapagos National Park fee of US $200 upon arrival at the airport in the Galapagos. These fees are to be paid in cash. This applies to everyone aged 13 years and above. For children aged 12 the fee will be USD100. 11. Dietary requirements need to be advised at the time of booking so that any included meals can be properly catered for. 12. According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors to Machu Picchu must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. We will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same circuit. Regardless of the circuit you will enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the site.
Standard inclusions
  • Accommodation: Hotel.
  • Complimentary arrival transfer.
  • Lima - Leader-led Miraflores walking tour.
  • Lima - Guided tour, including San Francisco Monastery, the Catacombs and Central Market.
  • Islas Ballestas - Guided tour.
  • Nazca Lines - Viewing tower.
  • Nazca - Pachamanca dinner.
  • Arequipa - Walking tour.
  • Arequipa - San Ignacio Chapel.
  • Arequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery admission fee.
  • Arequipa - Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa.
  • Puno - Sillustani archaeological site.
  • Puno - Lake Titicaca day tour.
  • Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk.
  • Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included).
  • Sacred Valley - Community visit.
  • Sacred Valley - Coffee & cake.
  • Machu Picchu - Entrance and guided tour.
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Punta Carrion - Snorkelling (1 hour).
  • Isla Isabela - Las Tintoreras visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing.
  • Isla Isabela - Arnolda Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center including Flamingo Lagoon (2 hours) - Dry Landing.
  • Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing.
  • Isla Floreana - Punta Cormorant walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing.
  • Isla Floreana - Devil's Crown snorkelling (1 hour).
  • Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay snorkelling (45 mins).
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) - Dry Landing.
Already with RACV?
Tell us your Member details to unlock discounts.
Unlock
Learn more about membership
Itinerary
Expand all Collapse all
Day 1: Lima
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru. Kick off your adventure in the coastal capital of Lima with a welcome meeting at 2 pm, where you'll meet your leader and fellow travellers. After, join your trip leader on a walking tour of the upscale Miraflores area. Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace, then perhaps regroup for dinner. Whether you dine together or sample the city's renowned food scene on your own, don't miss the chance to try Peru's national dish, ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice, often served with hot peppers). If you're not a fan of seafood, there are plenty of other excellent options – just ask your leader for tips on the best local eats.
Day 2: Paracas
Start the day with a walking tour of Lima's historic centre. Stroll atmospheric streets lined with ornate mansions, palaces and Spanish churches, taking in Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral of Lima, the San Francisco Monastery and the central market. Your leader will guide you through the market, where you'll find vendors selling fresh produce and regional specialties like cuy (better known as guinea pig) – a Peruvian delicacy. Then, head away from the tourist trail and visit Alameda de Chabuca Granda – a pedestrian strip where Limenos (locals from Lima) go for street food and entertainment. Later, travel to the port town of Paracas. The rest of the evening is free to relax or explore.
Day 3: Nazca
Take a 2-hour boat tour to Islas Ballestas – home to diverse wildlife, including pelicans, red-footed boobies, flamingos, sea lions and penguins. Then, hop in a private van to one of the world's most mysterious archaeological sites, the Nazca Lines, stopping at the oasis town of Huacachina for lunch. Nazca dates back to the 2nd century BC, and thanks to dry desert conditions, mummies, textiles, ceramics and other relics have been remarkably well-preserved, providing archaeologists with insights into the pre-Inca civilisation. Head to the viewing tower or take an optional flight for even better views! At sunset, drive south through the desert to meet a local in their traditional mud house where you’ll share a pachamanca dinner – a classic dish of potatoes, meat and herbs baked with hot stones (in the Quechua language, ‘pacha’ means earth and ‘manka’ means pot). Before digging in, you’ll experience a brief ceremony thanking Pachamama with chicha (corn beer).
Day 4: Arequipa
Leave Nazca behind this morning and travel to Arequipa in a private vehicle. Standing at the foot of El Misti Volcano and filled with baroque buildings, Arequipa vies with Cusco for the title of Peru's most attractive city. Built out of a pale volcanic rock called sillar, the old buildings dazzle in the sun, giving the city its nickname – the 'White City.’ When you arrive, maybe take a stroll to stretch your legs after a long driving day – the main plaza, with its cafes and nearby cathedral, is perfect for wandering solo.
Day 5: Arequipa
Today, get to know Arequipa with the help of a local guide. Visit the main plaza, Santa Catalina Monastery and San Ignacio Chapel on a walking tour. After, head for lunch with your group at a picanteria for some Arequipa favourites like rocoto, relleno, solterito and queso helado. Have a go at practising your Spanish with the locals, then you're free to explore at your own pace. Maybe return to the main square to take a closer look at the cathedral, cafes and eateries or explore the Yanahuara neighbourhood. You may also like to visit the Juanita Museum, which houses Peru’s famous ‘Ice Maiden’ – the Inca mummy of a girl who died in the 1440s. Your leader will happily share tips to make the most of your free afternoon.
Day 6: Puno
This morning you’ll travel to Puno – a town on the shores of Lake Titicaca. It's a long drive, but the views of the high plateau of the Andean Altiplano make it an exceptionally scenic one. As you approach Puno, stop to visit the ruins of Sillustani. Tucked between small villages on a scenic peninsula near Lake Umaya, the pre-Inca ruins comprise circular towers called chullpas that served as burial sites for noblemen. Continue to Puno, a melting pot of Aymara and Quechuan Indigenous culture. Traditional Andean customs are still strongly represented here, earning the town the title of Folklore Capital of Peru.
Day 7: Puno
Start the day with a tour of Lake Titicaca. At 3820 m (12,533 ft) above sea level, this is the world’s highest navigable lake. Cruise the waters in a motorboat and learn about the lake’s spiritual significance for the Quechua. Then, stop off at Uros Titinos – floating islands made from totora reeds. Reeds are used to make everything on the island, including the boats to get to the mainland, which can last up to 12 months. Continue to Taquile Island, where the locals make a living from textiles. Here, knitting is strictly men's domain, while women do the spinning. To reach the main part of the island, there’s an uphill walk on a paved path with great views of the lake. Sit down to an optional set lunch of quinoa soup, washed down with a cup of muna tea (Andean mint tea), then descend about 500 steps and jump back on the boat to Puno.
Day 8: Cusco
Take a scenic bus ride across the Altiplano to Cusco today – the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. You’ll travel by public tourist bus, and while there’s a rest stop along the way, it’s best to stock up on snacks before the journey. Set out to discover some of the city's lesser-known sites on a guided walking tour – visiting the facade of Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. For dinner tonight, why not try adobo cusqueno (pork stew) or alpaca steak. If you need recommendations, just ask your leader.
Day 9: Cusco
Today, you’ll join your group for a guided tour of Sacsayhuaman – an imposing Inca fortress built from massive stone blocks, and the ultimate example of the Incas' military strength. Then, you may like to visit the city’s many museums and archaeological sites with your included boleto turistico (tourism ticket). This includes the Contemporary Art Museum, Regional History Museum, Qosqo Native Art Museum, and the Inca ruins of Q'enqo, Pica Pakara, and Pisac. The most easily accessible among these sites is Qoricancha, which was once the Inca empire's richest temple until the Spanish built a Dominican church on top of it.
Day 10: Sacred Valley
Take a bus through the Sacred Valley today. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, it has been a source of livelihood for the locals for hundreds of years, with maize crops covering the terraced valley walls. Make a stop at the AMA Restaurant in Urubamba – a cafe that provides employment opportunities for single mothers. Enjoy a snack and learn how this inclusive enterprise supports economic growth and gender equality, then continue onto the Huilloq community – tourists are an uncommon sight here! Be welcomed with an offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth), learn about ancestral textile techniques and tuck into a guinea-pig lunch (vegetarian option available upon request). Then, drive to the day’s final stop – Ollantaytambo. You'll take a guided tour of the town’s archaeological site, then have free time to relax.
Day 11: Aguas Calientes
This morning, catch a train through the winding Urubamba Valley, climbing to Aguas Calientes – this seriously scenic journey will surely give your camera a good workout! If you’d like to give your legs a workout, too, your leader can recommend some great walks around Aguas Calientes. The city is in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu, so it’s the perfect place to kick back and take in your surroundings. You can choose to trek the One Day Inca Trail today (11 km/7 miles) with a local guide. Keep in mind that you must pre-book this option at least 30 days before departure. The day begins bright and early with a 6:30 am train ride to the starting point. The trail is a mix of up and downhill, passing a few archaeological sites, including Chachabamba and Winay Wayna (2680 m/8793 ft altitude) – also known as 'Forever Young.’ Considered the most impressive site on the whole Inca Trail, it’s made up of a terraced agricultural centre, religious sector and urban sector. From here, it's about a 1.5-hour trek to Intipunku (the Sun Gate), where you'll enjoy unforgettable views (weather permitting) over the Lost City of the Incas. Depending on how long the trek takes, you'll have time to snap some pics and look around before taking a short bus ride down to Aguas Calientes to rejoin the group and go to your hotel.
Day 12: Cusco
Take an early bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu at 5:30 am. The city was built around AD1440 as a country retreat for the Inca nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Inca site for much longer. Another school of thought is that this was an astronomical observatory. Take a guided tour around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters and decide for yourself. After, catch the bus back to Aguas Calientes, followed by a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo and a drive to Cusco where you’ll spend the night.
Day 13: Cusco
Enjoy free time today to delve deeper into all Cusco has to offer. You might like to use your boleto turistico to check out any sites you missed the last time you were here or just grab a coffee from a cafe at Plaza de Armas and do some people-watching. For those seeking an active adventure, the hills surrounding Cusco are well-suited for mountain biking. Ask your leader about optional activities and how to make the most of your day.
Day 14: Lima
Take a short flight from Cusco to Lima today. You’ll be unescorted on your flight today, and when you arrive in Lima, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and met by a new local leader who can assist with any optional activities or final arrangements. The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish. Visit some of the sites you missed at the beginning of the trip or maybe do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Tonight, why not gather the group for one final night out on the town? Your leader will be happy to give you pointers to make the most of your last day in Peru.
Day 15: Quito
This morning, you’ll take a transfer to the Lima Airport for your flight to Quito – sitting at a high altitude under the towering Pichincha volcano, this is a beautiful city, stretching along the valley and surrounded by the Andes. When you arrive, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free until your next welcome meeting at 5 pm. After, head out with your new leader and fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional flavours and get to know your group.
Day 16: Isla Santa Cruz
You have a very early start this morning (maybe as early as 4 am, depending on flight times) as you head into the Galapagos. Transfer to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito Airport), with a boxed breakfast on the way. When you arrive, you’ll meet your naturalist guide in the arrival hall. Transfer a short distance away to Isla Baltra, where you’ll board your home for the adventure – M/Y Queen Beatriz. Once on board, settle in and then have lunch with your group. After, you’ll sail to Punta Carrion – on the eastern side of the Itabaca Channel that separates the islands of Baltra and Santa Cruz. This is a shallow and protected cove, ideal for your first snorkel and swim in the Galapagos! From the vantage point of your boat, wildlife is plentiful, so keep your eyes peeled for occasional sights of blue-footed boobies, Galapagos herons and great blue herons, while under the surface swim rays and white-tipped reef sharks. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome cocktail during the crew’s onboard presentation.
Day 17: Isla Isabela
Wake up on the south Coast of Isla Isabela – the largest island of the Galapagos archipelago. Isabela was formed by five giant volcanic craters, all still considered active. The island is located in one of the youngest geological areas in the world, having been formed less than 1 million years ago and the southern coast has the largest area of beaches in the Galapagos. You’ll visit Las Tintoreras, heading to a viewing walkway where you can see a colony of white-tipped reef sharks swimming and sleeping. Take a long walk through lava flows and see the resident blue-footed boobies, penguins, marine iguanas and crabs. In the afternoon, take another walk through a coastal lagoon, where you might see some flamingos. This mangrove-lined path leads to Isabela’s Giant Tortoise Breeding Center (Arnoldo Tupiza) where you'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development. You’ll then have the choice to go swimming at the beach or head out for some shopping in Puerto Villamil.
Day 18: Isla Floreana
Isla Floreana is a highlight of any Galapagos cruise, rich in natural wonders and wildlife. Today you’ll take a panga ride around the bay to see marine iguanas, sea lions and crabs before taking a leisurely walk to Post Office Bay, where 18th century whalers used a barrel as an unofficial mail drop. This custom continues today with visitors to the Galapagos – post one of your own or see if there are any you could deliver back home! You’ll also have the chance to go snorkelling with sea turtles. Today you might also be lucky enough to see pink flamingos and other water birds wading in the lagoons, including pintails and stilts. Just offshore, the Devil’s Crown is an old eroded volcanic cone and a popular roosting site for seabirds like boobies, pelicans and frigates. Go snorkelling in the cone, full of sea lions and colourful fish, for maybe the best underwater experience of the adventure! Later, you’ll head to Punta Cormorant, where the sand is made up of olivine crystals (a glassy volcanic mineral), giving the beach an olive-green colour.
Day 19: Galapagos Islands
Flights to the mainland depart mid-morning, so an early start is necessary today to make the most of your last day on the islands. You’ll wake up in Isla Santa Cruz and heads to the small town of Puerto Ayora – the economic centre of the archipelago and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. As well as undertaking vital conservation work, the station also makes for interesting exploration and offers an opportunity to see giant tortoises. You may also be able to observe the baby tortoises and land iguanas! After your visit, head to the airport for your flight back to Quito. Tonight, you may like to head out with your group for a farewell dinner and toast to an excellent adventure.
Day 20: Quito
There are no activities planned for today, and your adventure finishes after breakfast this morning. Of course, that doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! Why not stay on in Quito for a few days and discover the charms of the city. If you need help booking extra accommodation, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
Dates

Select a date or submit general enquiry

Enquire now

Travellers

Operator
Intrepid Travel

Intrepid is a small group tour travel company with humble beginnings that now sends over 100,000 travellers a year on grassroots and responsible travel tours.

Important Information
expand all
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
Book now
Need help?
Price from
$13,062 $12,670 *
Member price from
$12,670*
per person twin share
19 nights
Check departures
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Get in touch with our friendly Travel Consultants.
Enquire now
Call 1800 850 888
Speak to one of our friendly consultants, available during business hours.
Mon to Fri · 9am - 5pm AEST
Speak to an expert in-store
Prefer to plan in person? Make an appointment at our Travel Store to speak with one of our experts
Make appointment
You might also like
c84ba1cd32e3aabde7bcc6121862cf62
138391
Tour