Luxury Galapagos and Peru Vacations: 10 Insider Tips to a Successful Trip

As two of the world’s most remarkable and adventurous travel destinations, it’s hard to know where to begin when planning a trip to the Galapagos and Peru. However, a trip as special as this deserves to be done right. Having traveled far and wide throughout these two destinations, discover our luxury Galapagos tours and luxury Peru tours handpicked by our very own travel experts, while giving all of the top tips to make it a successful trip, and we can’t wait to share them with you. From what time of year to travel to what to include in your itinerary, these tips are guaranteed to optimize your Galapagos and Peru experience.

Plan to travel for 13 days minimum

From swimming with seals, turtles, and hammerhead sharks in the Galapagos to flying above the Nazca Lines and trekking through the jungles in Peru, there are so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences to be had on your trip. To see and do everything these incredible places have to offer would take months if done properly which is why we recommend traveling for at least 13 days or more. The longer you stay, the more you will be able to see and experience, but 13 days will give you enough time to tick off a few of your bucket list items without rushing. The Galapagos and Peru are so special that they deserve to be given your full attention so you may treasure your memories of them forever.

Remember to schedule some downtime

In their essence, Galapagos and Peru are adventure travel destinations. Adventure is exciting and adrenaline-fueling, but it can also be tiring. Between the new experiences you will encounter on your trip and the travel that’s involved in between, you may feel the need to put your feet up now and then. By scheduling a few days to rest and indulge in some self-care at your hotel spa or simply lie by the pool, you will be able to appreciate the adventurous days that much more. Besides, the hotel brands we work with are so luxurious that it would be rude not to take the time to enjoy their facilities. We recommend carving some time out of your itinerary to spend a few days in the serene Sacred Valley of Peru surrounded by nature.

Travel during the warmer months when the seas are calmer

The Galapagos experiences two seasons; the warm season between December and May and the cool season between June and November. During the warmer months, the seas tend to be much more calm and predictable which makes it the best time to sail around the archipelago. Not only does it benefit those who don’t have a sailor’s stomach, but it benefits anyone who wants to immerse in the Galapagos’ marine life. Snorkeling, diving, and wildlife spotting are all much easier and more rewarding when the seas are calmer and clearer. Don’t be put off by the sound of the warmer months though, for temperatures average at 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit (or 21-25 degrees Celsius). For the best of both the weather and sea clarity, we recommend sailing between November and December. If you suffer from seasickness, avoid touring the islands in September when the water is most choppy.

Opt for a catamaran for a smooth sailing Galapagos cruise

A smooth and easy-going sailing experience can make all the difference to your trip around the Galapagos which is why we recommend opting for a catamaran. Stabilized by two hulls, a catamaran allows much less room for swaying and listing than monohull boats which are good for those (particularly children and older folk) who are less steady on their feet. Of course, it’s also much better for the stomach too! Without the sea’s movements affecting your wellbeing, you can give all of your attention to enjoying the cruise experience. What’s more, catamarans tend to have a shallower draft (bottom) which allows them to sail in shallower waters and get closer to the coast than most monohulls, giving you better views of the Galapagos’ coastal wildlife.

Choose the best cruise that your budget will allow

Simply put, if you’re going to do the Galapagos, do it right. It’s not the kind of place you take on a cheap date; you wine and dine it and treat it like the rare and precious gem that it is. So, whilst it is possible to do the Galapagos on somewhat of a budget, it will be far more rewarding to go for the best cruise that your budget will allow. Not only does a better cruise mean better food and onboard facilities, but it also means better excursions and more experienced guides. Since it’s only possible to explore the islands with a guide, finding ones with real knowledge, skill, and passion for the Galapagos will greatly enrich your trip. At the end of it, you’ll leave with greater knowledge and more valuable memories than you would on a budget cruise.

If you want to stay dry in Peru, then avoid the wet season

Most of Peru experiences two seasons, the wet season between November and April, and the dry season between May and October. Since Peru is all about adventurous outdoor pursuits and beautiful remote archeological ruins, it’s much more comfortable to visit during the dry season. This is especially relevant for those who are brave enough to explore the Amazon where it doesn’t just rain, its pours. The ground swells with mud and the mosquitos come out in force which makes jungle life a little more challenging and uncomfortable than it needs to be. Meanwhile, it’s the cloud cover rather than the rain that most greatly affects excursions to Machu Picchu which rely on clear skies to appreciate the spender of this mountain top citadel.

Book your Galapagos cruise well in advance

One of the Galapagos’ most insightful facets is the strict laws in place that limit visitor numbers for the sustainability and conservation of its highly unique and fragile natural environment. Without these laws, the archipelago wouldn’t be able to show off such extraordinary endemic plants and animals. Yet, with high demand and limited cruise availability, it can be hard to secure your spot on a Galapagos adventure. Therefore, we recommend planning your trip 6-12 months in advance to have the best pick of cruises, especially if you’re hoping to travel over the holiday period. When it comes to a destination like this, it will be worth the wait.

Complete your South America sojourn with an Amazon extension

Perhaps you might cross paths with a scorpio, be stalked by a cayman, or eyed up by an ill-intentioned iguana, but there’s one thing you can always be sure of when visiting the Amazon — you won’t regret going. The jungle is one of Earth’s most extraordinary ecosystems and living within it, even if only for a few days, is a true privilege. Explore your wild surroundings from the comfort of your luxury cabana at Inkaterra Reserva Amazon selected by National Geographic Traveler magazine among the world’s 25 best eco-lodges. Or glide gracefully along the Amazon River on the luxury Amazon River cruise – Aqua Nera to spot exotic birds, sloths, monkeys, and more from the comfort of your top deck sun lounger.

Sprinkle a few alternative experiences into your itinerary

Whilst a trip to the Galapagos and Peru is not complete without seeing their most famous sights like the white sands of Tortuga Bay and the dizzying heights of Machu Picchu, often the smaller activities are just as rewarding. So, rather than concentrating your trip on top guidebook destinations, break it up with unique day tours and experiences. Perhaps delve into Peru’s most delectable dishes with a gastronomic tour of Lima or hike along the Colca Canyon spotting the menacing yet majestic condors flying above as you do. Often, these kinds of activities are what bring you closest to the history, culture, and energy of the place you are visiting.

Spend as long as you can in the Galapagos

Situated around 600 miles from the shores of its homeland of Ecuador, the Galapagos is a pretty remote destination to visit, so once you’re there why rush off? Typically, Galapagos cruises are 3, 4 or 7 nights long and we recommend booking the longest one your time and budget will allow. Likely, you’ll only visit this mysterious far-off land once in your life, so you must make the most of it and soak up every moment you have there. The Galapagos is split into two regions, east and west, and shorter cruises focus on just one. By extending your cruise, you will be opening up opportunities to see more of this magical place.

Contact the Galapagos and Peru Vacation Experts Today

With these top 10 insider tips for successful Luxury Galapagos and Peru Vacations, you now have the power to create a truly rewarding itinerary. The next step is to speak to our experts about what exactly you want from your vacation, whether it be a luxury cruise in the Amazon or a spa in the Sacred Valley. You can count on us to bring your dream trip to life.