In the Footsteps of Explorers: Darwin, Bingham and Heyerdahl | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

- , ,

In the Footsteps of Explorers: Darwin, Bingham and Heyerdahl

,

PRIVATE TOUR - 20 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 14741

Private Tour Highlights

  • Straddling the middle of the world during a visit to the equatorial line while in Quito.
  • Encountering all manner of endemic wildlife in the Galapagos, from Blue-footed Boobies and Frigate Birds to Marine Iguanas and Sea Lions.
  • Visiting the spectacle of Genovesa, or “bird island”, so called due to the many thousands of tropical birds who call it home.
  • Glimpsing historic Lima and relishing lip-smacking Peruvian cuisine.
  • Delighting in the colonial and pre-colonial architecture of Cusco on a private walking tour, with visits to the bustling markets.
  • Setting foot in the magical Incan citadel, Machu Picchu; a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  • Meandering through the winding streets and staircases of Valparaiso, marveling at the colorful architecture along the way.
  • Exploring Easter Island on a guided group trek or bike ride, and learning from the knowledgeable guides about the unique history and culture of the island.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Travel in the footsteps of explorers: Darwin, Bingham and Heyerdahl! This tour is sure to be the experience of a lifetime visiting some of the highlights of South America including the Galapagos, Machu Picchu and Easter Island. Beginning in Ecuador, your tour will visit the city of Quito and the Equator before traveling to the Galapagos for a five day cruise of the islands. From Ecuador you will fly to Peru and visit Lima, Cusco and explore the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu. Your final stop will be to Chile where you will visit Santiago and remote Easter Island. Located 600-miles from Chile’s coast Easter Island offers a unique culture that is both Latin and Polynesian.

Included in the itinerary is a First Class cruise. Due to current Galapagos Islands regulations each cruise can only visit an island every 14 days. This sample 5 day itinerary runs every two weeks. However we are able to offer a variety of other Galapagos cruises. Depending on your dates of travel, we are able to customize your itinerary to match the Galapagos Cruise departures.

Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

Inclusions
Prices include round-trip airfare from Quito to Galapagos, airfare from Quito to Lima, round-trip airfare from Lima to Cusco, airfare from Lima to Santiago, round-trip airfare from Santiago to Easter Island, all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling; hotel accommodation in Quito, Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Santiago and Easter Island including breakfast; four nights Main Deck cabin aboard a Galapagos First Class Catamaran including all meals; all meals as specified; and guided tours led by naturalist guides including all entrance fees. Price also includes the $100 entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park and $20 Transit Control Card both payable as a contribution to the preservation of the islands.

Note:
*Cost includes Vistadome train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Vistadome is ideal for travelers who want a personalized immersion of Andean culture with traditional dances and music along the way. This train features panoramic windows, leather seats, new table design as well as heating and air conditioning.

*Deluxe service Hiram Bingham train features an observation wagon with a bar and two dining cars. In addition, this train includes a gourmet brunch on board, exclusive bus return to Machu Picchu, entrance to Machu Picchu as well as a guided tour. Afternoon tea in the Sanctuary Lodge, pre-dinner cocktails and a 4-course, a la carte dinner is also included. The train does not operate on Sundays. Upgrades available from Vistadome to Hiram Bingham Deluxe; please ask your Yampu Tour Consultant for the cost of the upgrade.

*All Easter Island services are provided on private basis, please consult with your Yampu Travel Consultant about group tours at a reduced cost.

*Single rates include single cabin accommodations aboard the Galapagos cruise. Reduced pricing may be available for single travelers willing to share. Please note 5 Star and Deluxe clients have a suite cabin built into their package price.

*All Galapagos itineraries are subject to change.

*By traveling to the Galapagos with Yampu Tours, you will be making the choice to travel responsibly. As members of IGTOA (International Galapagos Tour Operators Association), Yampu donates $7 for every traveler that travels to the Galapagos with us. We are dedicated to helping preserve the islands while supporting sustainable ecotourism. As an IGTOA member, we are informed, involved, and concerned. There will also be an optional Galapagos Conservation contribution of $50 per passenger added to your final proposal.

The contribution will go towards:
-Creating benefits and educational opportunities for local people.
-Strengthening responsible tourism management.
-Building strong financial support for conservation among the travel industry and travelers.
-Promoting high professional standards for the tourist industry.
Exclusions

Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included.

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 14741

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International flight to Quito

Flight to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito transfer to the hotel.

Flight to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito transfer to the hotel.

Day
2

Full Day Colonial Quito Tour & The Equator

The tour begins today with a visit to Independence Square where the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral and El Sagrario Church are located. Then visit the Church of La Compania (1605), and enjoy a brief visit to the church and monastery of San Francisco (1535), the oldest Ecuadorian church. The collection of artwork here includes paintings, sculpture and furniture dating back to the 16th century. Leaving the churches, head to the recently restored 24 De Mayo Boulevard, named after the battle which sealed Ecuador´s independence. Then visit La Ronda Street in Old Quito. Lined with colonial houses and inspired by painters, poets, musicians and historians, this visit will give guests a taste of traditional Quito. The tour will then continue 30-minutes outside of Quito, towards the Middle of the World. Guests will visit the main Monument honoring the correct location of the equator and visit the Ethnographic Museum, located inside the Equator Monument, or even visit the Inti nan Museum, a scientific and cultural Museum located in the exact place where the Equator Line crosses. ...read less

Quito-Panoramic-View-Ecuador
Day
3

Quito – Baltra

Transfer to the airport for the morning flight from Quito to Baltra in the Galapagos. Upon arrival guests will be greeted at the airport and transferred to the Galapagos cruise.

This afternoon, visit Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island. Play de las Bachas is located on the northern coastline of Santa Cruz. Here, guests will be able to see the brightly colored flamingo lagoon, encounter marine iguanas, various sea birds, and sea turtles. This is a good location to swim and snorkel.

Transfer to the airport for the morning flight from Quito to Baltra in the Galapagos. Upon arrival guests will be greeted at the airport and transferred to the Galapagos cruise.

This afternoon, visit Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island. Play de las Bachas is located on the northern coastline of Santa Cruz. Here, guests will be able to see the brightly colored flamingo lagoon, encounter marine iguanas, various sea birds, and sea turtles. This is a good location to swim and snorkel.

Quito_Monastery_of_San_Francisco_Ecuador
Day
4

Genovesa Island

This morning guests will visit Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island. Genovesa is a collapsed volcano that ships are able to sail into through its large breached caldera and anchor at the foot of the steep crater walls. Genovesa is commonly referred to as ‘bird island’ because it is home to thousands of great frigate birds, red-footed boobies, noddy terns, lava gulls, tropic birds, doves, storm petrels, and Darwin’s finches.

This afternoon, guests will visit Prince Philip’s Steps on Genovesa Island.
El Barranco, also known as Prince Philip’s Steps, has a trail through a Palo Santo forest to an open area full of nesting birds that include masked boobies, frigates, and red-footed boobies. At the end of this trail are thousands of band-rumbed storm petrels nesting in the crevices at the cliff’s edge. Guests will also be able to see the short-eared owls as they hunt the storm petrels during the daylight hours.
...read less

Darwin_Center_Bird_Ecuador
Day
5

Plazas Island

Plaza Sur was originally formed by uplifted lava and the terrain includes an impressive cactus forest. On land guests will see land iguanas, sea lions and several species of tropical birds.

This afternoon, visit Santa Fe Island.
Santa Fe is home to a cactus forest and a colony of land iguanas that are native to the island. Here guests can also see the Galapagos mockingbird, magnificent frigate, brown pelican, and several species of Darwin’s finches.

Plaza Sur was originally formed by uplifted lava and the terrain includes an impressive cactus forest. On land guests will see land iguanas, sea lions and several species of tropical birds.

This afternoon, visit Santa Fe Island.
Santa Fe is home to a cactus forest and a colony of land iguanas that are native to the island. Here guests can also see the Galapagos mockingbird, magnificent frigate, brown pelican, and several species of Darwin’s finches.

Ecuador-Cactus
Day
6

Punta Pitt; San Cristobal Island

This morning guests will visit Punta Pitt on San Cristobal Island. This unusual volcanic formation is located in the northeast of San Cristobal Island. Here guests are likely to see tiny lava lizards scurrying around the rocks as well as all three species of the Galapagos booby; Nazca, masked, and blue or red-footed boobies.

This afternoon, guests will visit Kicker Rock and Isla Lobos. Isla Lobos is a tiny rock island to see a colony of sea lions and a colony of blue-footed boobies.
Kicker Rock is a magnificent rock that jets out 500 feet high from the middle of the ocean and is shaped similar to a sleeping lion. The rock is split with towering vertical walls on either side that forms a narrow channel through which small vessels can investigate. There is no landing site here but the view from the boat will make a lasting impression.
...read less

Galapagos_Kicker_Rock_San_Cristobal_Ecuador
Day
7

El Junco Lagoon, San Cristobal - Lima

This morning, guests will visit El Junco Lagoon, San Cristobal. This site is reached by road and is about a half hour drive from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The road goes through the small farming settlement of El Progreso. The lake itself is the caldera (collapsed cone) of an extinct volcano and is about 300 meters wide. The name El Junco is Spanish for sedge, which is present along the banks of the lake.

This afternoon, guests will be transferred to the San Cristobal airport for a flight to Quito or Guayaquil and connect with a flight to Lima. Upon arrival guests will be greeted for airport reception and transferred to the hotel.
...read less

Lima_Peru
Day
8

Exploring Lima

In the afternoon, enjoy a private city tour of Lima, one of the most important cities in South America since its founding in 1535. While journeying the historic center of the city, admire the beauty of San Martín and Major squares, the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and visit San Francisco Convent, a religious building from the late 16th century, and its catacombs. This tour also includes a drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Please note the Cathedral is open daily except on Sundays.
During the tour, guests will also visit the Museo Larco. Founded in 1926 the Museo Larco chronologically showcases the past 3,000 years of Peruvian history and culture including its pre-Colombian history. The museum is located in a beautiful 18th century vice-royal mansion built atop a 7th century pre-Colombian tomb. After exploring the Museo Larco enjoy a complimentary cocktail and appetizer at the onsite Larco Café overlooking the beautiful, surrounding gardens.
...read less

Museo_Larco_Lima_Peru
Day
9

Lima – Cusco

This morning, return to the airport for a flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, transfer to the hotel. This afternoon is at leisure to acclimate. Cusco’s elevation is approximately 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), so it is highly recommended to rest as soon as possible for a few hours and taking in some coca tea.

Note: Check-in is normally after 2 pm. Early check-in may be granted subject to availability (not confirmed).

This morning, return to the airport for a flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, transfer to the hotel. This afternoon is at leisure to acclimate. Cusco’s elevation is approximately 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), so it is highly recommended to rest as soon as possible for a few hours and taking in some coca tea.

Note: Check-in is normally after 2 pm. Early check-in may be granted subject to availability (not confirmed).

Cusco_Peru
Day
10

Walking Tour of Cusco

This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco with stops at the Korikancha Temple, or Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral and its Art Museum. During the private tour today there will be an option to visit the Casa Concha museum or the San Pedro Market.

The Casa Concha museum was recently renovated and houses over 360 archaeological pieces from Machu Picchu, recently returned by Yale University.
San Pedro Market is a lively, local market where guests will be briefed about the local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to purchase them. This market visit is a great opportunity to interact with the locals either selling or purchasing items from the market.

This afternoon there will be time for lunch before continuing to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko and finally the Sacsahuaman Fortress. This afternoon, return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour through the Sacsahuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
...read less

Peru_bg_Cusco_Main_Square_Night-1
Day
11

Sacred Valley of the Incas

Early morning transfer to the train station. The train goes through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, board a bus to Machu Picchu and then have a guided tour of the ruins. Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial and agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca Empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family and priests. Enjoy lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, at the entrance of the ruins, before returning to the hotel at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner at the hotel or in the town of Aguas Calientes.

Note: Government regulations limit the number of visitors to Machu Picchu daily. Entrance is subject to availability. Please book with plenty of notice so Yampu may confirm entrance to the ruins. Machu Picchu entrance tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
...read less

Sacred Valley_Pisac_Peru
Day
12

Exploring the Machu Picchu Area

Today is at leisure. Choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival transfer from the train station to the hotel.

Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant if any of these options are of interest.

Today is at leisure. Choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival transfer from the train station to the hotel.

Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant if any of these options are of interest.

Machu_Picchu_Peru
Day
13

Cusco – Santiago

Today transfer to the airport to take the flight back to Lima and connect with a flight to Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago transfer to the hotel.

Today transfer to the airport to take the flight back to Lima and connect with a flight to Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago transfer to the hotel.

Santiago_Main_Square
Day
14

Exploring Santiago

The tour starts from the Funicular de Santiago (Gondola), which provides a stunning and panoramic view over the city from the top of San Cristobal Hill. Then travel to the heart of the city and Plaza de Armas the spot from where the city has grown throughout the centuries. Each Latin city has a plaza de Armas as when cities were founded the center was also where the armory and military base was established - hence the name Plaza de Armas (Plaza of Arms). Visit some of the more important buildings such as the Cathedral, the City Council, the Central Post Office and the National Historical Museum.

Continue to the Presidential Palace "La Moneda"; the current seat of the government. Wander the streets that were once elegant at the beginning of the 19th century and now are a commercial center.
Visit some the original colonial neighborhoods such as Concha y Toro Square. Characterized by its cobbled streets and old mansions that reflect the elegance and richness of the early twentieth century the neighborhood grew to prominence between 1870 and 1876 with the influx of wealth as a result of mining and the discovery of Silver. Many Chileans achieved great wealth, including Enrique Concha y Toro founder of the famed winery.
...read less

Santiago_skyline
Day
15

Casablanca Valley with Valparaiso and Vina del Mar

This morning, meet at the hotel and transfer to the Casablanca Valley, approximately 50-miles (80-kilometers) from Santiago. The Casablanca Valley is one of Chile’s most important regions for cultivating the grapes that produce crisp white wines, most notably Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Here guests will enjoy a tour, tasting and lunch at one of the local wineries situated along this thriving wine route.

After lunch, leaving the Casablanca Valley, guests will visit Valparaiso, the oldest and most important port in Chile. Here, take the opportunity to walk along the city’s winding streets and enjoy the scenery and culture of this charming port-city. We continue to Vina del Mar, a resort city that was founded in 1874, famous for its beautiful gardens and flower clock. Late in the afternoon return to the hotel in Santiago. Lunch is included today.
...read less

Valparaiso_Colorful_Houses
Day
16

Santiago – Easter Island

Today, transfer to the airport for a flight to Easter Island. Upon arrival guests will be greeted for airport reception and transferred to the hotel.

Note: All services are provided on private basis, please consult with a Yampu Travel Consultant about group tours at a reduced cost.

Today, transfer to the airport for a flight to Easter Island. Upon arrival guests will be greeted for airport reception and transferred to the hotel.

Note: All services are provided on private basis, please consult with a Yampu Travel Consultant about group tours at a reduced cost.

Easter_Island_Petroglyphs
Day
17

Exploring Rano Raraku

Full-day read more...

Full-day private tour of Rano Raraku: Vahiu, Anakena and Ahu Tongariki
Today the excursion starts in Hanga Roa. Taking the road along the coast guests will visit the ruins of the temple of Vahiu, which has remained unchanged over centuries. From here the red hats of the Moais, which were thrown into the sea, can clearly be seen. The tour will continue to the site of Akahanga, where several of the statues are face down, abandoned while being transported. Guests will also visit the volcano of Rano Raraku and the “factories” where the Moais were carved from the rock. There are more than 300 statues in different stages of production. A walk around the crater will reveal a small lagoon and more Moais in the center. Continue to Ahu Tongariki (destroyed by a large tidal wave in 1960), which has been recently restored and houses the largest number of Moais. Finally visit the beautiful Anakena beach with two temple platforms or Ahus. Following a picnic lunch (included), there will be time to swim in the Pacific Ocean or explore the surrounding countryside. This afternoon, return to Hanga Roa and transfer back to the selected hotel.
...read less

easter-island-rano-raraku-chile
Day
18

Journey to Orongo

Half-day read more...

Half-day private excursion to Orongo: Rano Kau and Vinapu

Depart for a visit to Ahu Vinapu, made up of two ruined Ahus, one with stonework remarkably similar to that found in Inca sites. Studies have backed up the theory that the first inhabitants of the island came from the South American continent. The journey continues along the coastal road toward the Rano Kau volcano and then to the crater, the ancient ceremonial site of Orongo. From the edge of the crater the three small islands of Motu Iti, Motu Nui and Moto Kao Kao can be seen, which play an important part in the “bird man” legends.

This afternoon is at leisure. Yampu recommends a visit to the Museum of Sebastian Englert or the local church with its extraordinary wood carvings.
...read less

Rano-Kau-Volcano-Easter-Island
Day
19

Exploring Ahu Akivi

This morning, enjoy a private excursion to Ahu Akivi, the archeological center of the Roihi sector, the first area to be restored in the 1960s. It is a ceremonial area, of particular interest not only for its location (at the center of the island) but also for the legends which surround the seven Moais found here. According to legend, the seven Moais at this location are the sons of Maori Sorcerer sent to look for the hoe of King Hotu Matua. Continue onward to visit Puna Pau, a site to the east of Hanga Roa in a small crater. This is where the “pukao” or hats which crowned the Moais were carved from soft volcanic Scoria. Return to the hotel; enjoy this afternoon at leisure.

This evening, enjoy a farewell Polynesian Dinner and Show! This unique event will allow for an opportunity to savor the most typical Rapa Nui and Polynesian food, prepared in an earth-oven, locally called “Umu” or “curanto”. Tonight’s dinner will consist of chicken, meat or fish cooked in the Umus, and a glass of beer, juice or soft drink. After dinner, enjoy a typical Polynesian show with dance performed by a local folk-group with body-paint.
...read less

fifteen-moais-easter-island-Chile
Day
20

International flight home via Santiago

This morning transfer to the airport for a return flight to Santiago and connect with an international flight home.

This morning transfer to the airport for a return flight to Santiago and connect with an international flight home.

Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador

Lima, Peru

Cusco, Peru

Machupicchu, Cusco, Peru

Santiago, Chile

Easter Island, Chile

Places You'll See

  • Quito-Ecuador-Hillside

    Quito

    The magnificent city of Quito is bursting with cultural, historical, and artistic character. Along with its scenic parks such as Parque La Carolina, visit its enchanting museums like the Museo del Banco Central. Take a trip to the Mitad del Mundo, or the “Middle of the World”, where the first measurements to prove the earth was round, were taken.

  • Peru_Lima_city

    Lima

    Bursting with architectural history and culture, Lima has an eclectic array of attractions. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and artistic staple of the city’s historic center. Take a walk along the cliffs of the Miraflores district, showcasing the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and after, enjoy some shopping at the Larcomar Mall.

  • Peru_Cusco_city

    Cusco

    Once a powerful Incan city, Cusco is filled to the brim with relics of its grand history. Visit the ruins of the ancient Incan Koricancha Temple, where the Church of Santo Domingo now stands atop. Behold the many beautiful, colonial buildings in the Main Square, including the Cathedral and Church of La Compania de Jesus (Society of Christ).

  • Machu Picchu

    Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

  • santiago_chile

    Santiago

    As the political and cultural center of Chile, Santiago has much to offer. Relax at one of the many jazz clubs scattered throughout the city, or go for a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Take a guided city trek to learn about the Chilean culture and their traditional meals. Or visit the summit of Cerro Santa Lucia for beautiful views.

  • easter-island-mystical-moai-chile

    Easter Island

    Become enchanted by the mystery of Easter Island. Witness the remarkable volcanic rock sculptures, known as the Maoi. View the natural attractions of the volcanic craters of Rano Kau and Rano Raraku. Sunbathe on the white, sandy beaches of Anakena and Ovahe. Explore the extensive cave system running deep throughout the island.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Quito : Stuble Suites

Quito : Vieja Cuba Boutique

Quito : NU House

Lima : El Tambo 2

Lima : Hotel Jose Antonio

Lima : Allpa Hotel & Suites

Lima : Casa Andina Standard Miraflores Centro, Lima

Machu Picchu : La Cabana

Machu Picchu : Casa Andina Standard, Machu Picchu

Santiago : Orly (Providencia)

Santiago : Hotel Plaza San Francisco (Downtown)

Santiago : Torremayor Lyon (Providencia)

Easter Island : Hotel O Tai

Easter Island : Puku Vai

Easter Island : Hotel Gomero

4 Star Properties

Quito : La Casona de la Ronda

Quito : Casa Aliso

Lima : Dazzler Lima

Lima : Hotel Atton (San Isidro)

Lima : Doubletree El Pardo, Lima

Lima : Airport Lima Hotel: Wyndham Costa del Sol

Machu Picchu : El MaPi

Machu Picchu : Tierra Viva

Machu Picchu : Casa del Sol

Santiago : Hotel Magnolia

Santiago : Carménère ecoHotel

Santiago : Noi Victoria

Santiago : Le Reve (Providencia)

Easter Island : Hotel Altiplanico Rapa Nui

5 Star Properties

Quito : Swissotel

Quito : Le Parc Hotel

Quito : JW Marriott in Quito

Lima : Country Club Hotel (San Isidro)

Lima : The Westin Lima Hotel (San Isidro)

Machu Picchu : Sumaq Hotel

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Santiago : W Santiago (Las Condes)

Easter Island : Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa

Luxury Properties

Quito : Plaza Grande

Quito : Casa Gangotena

Lima : JW Marriott, Lima

Lima : Miraflores Park Plaza

Lima : Hotel B

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo (Suite Room)

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)

Santiago : Ritz Carlton Santiago

Santiago : Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel (formerly known as Lastarria Boutique Hotel)

Santiago : The Singular Santiago

Testimonials

Repeat Client

Traveled November, 2012

We know who we will call when we are ready to go again

Our first trip with Yampu Tours was in 2003 when it was Kon-Tiki Tours and Travel. We contacted Jose Irauzqui and his team to create a special trip for us to Chile. (We travel by ourselves on a customized tour with a driver and an English speaking guide). We told Jose what we wanted to do and where we wanted to go, our time limits and anything else he needed to know and he and his staff went from there creating a wonderful trip with lots of memories for us. We were so impressed by the service we got that when we were ready to return to south-america to visit Peru in 2006, we immediately contacted Jose, who again came through for us. Most of our trips are ecological in nature. My daughter is an exotic animal veterinarian and we travel to see animals in the wild. All of our trips through Yampu have comprised an ecological component, which we have built our vacations around. Many of the ecological lodges we stayed in were small in size, so we start making our plans at the beginning of the year for a trip in the fall because of availability. We traveled with Yampu to southern Brazil in 2004, Peru in 2006, Argentina in 2007 and again to Peru in 2012. Some parts of our trips were done with groups, but on the most part, we had private customized tours. Yampu has a terrific network system of tour providers in all these countries and through five trips we have only had one complaint, which Yampu took care of when we returned. The problem was with a tour guide and therefore was beyond Yampu’s control until we got back as we did not complain at the time to the local agency. Next time we will handle it locally as Yampu provides you with a list of people to contact along the way. The number of fabulous, well-informed tour guides far outweighed that one incident. The above trips are just the ones my husband and I have gone on with our daughter through Yampu. My daughter has used Yampu for many trips throughout Central and south-america with her friends. We just returned from our second trip to Peru in November and she is off to Ecuador in January. We still have places in south-america we wish to visit, it is a big continent and very diverse. We know who we will call when we are ready to go again. We were very fortunate to find Yampu. And now Yampu has expanded to other parts of the world!

John and Patty J.

Traveled October, 2014

John and I had a fabulous time on the trip you planned for us in Peru and Ecuador.

John and I had a fabulous time on the trip you planned for us in Peru and Ecuador.You planned every part of our trip down to the last detail, and we are happy to report that all went as planned! We were met at every flight by the guides who did an excellent job of teaching us about the areas we were visiting.They made each day interesting and fun. All of our accommodations were excellent, we especially appreciated the splash pool in our cabana at Inkaterra Amazonica. The weather there was very hot and humid, so being able to cool off in our private pool was a luxury! The one day hike into Machu Picchu was perfect. It gave us a taste of what hiking the Inka Trail was like. For us, it was a great alternative to hiking 4 or more days. We were able to see so many other places to add to our experience, without adding too many more days to our trip.

Traveled To


Sue

Traveled March, 2008

We really enjoyed all the hotels and the tours you recommended!

Thanks for checking in. We had an excellent time in Chile and Argentina. Everything worked out perfectly. It was very comforting to have someone meet us in each city and facilitate our tours, while allowing us plenty of time on our own. All of the transfers and pick-ups were perfectly on time and were with very kind and helpful guides and drivers. Our only problem was in Chicago on our way home when our flight was cancelled, but there was really nothing anyone could do at that point. Otherwise everything was great! We really enjoyed all the hotels and the tours you recommended and look forward to working with you again in the future. Thanks again!

Traveled To


Let Us Customize This Trip For You

Our World Experts offer full support and dedication to customizing this tour to fit your wishlist - We can mix and match experiences, hotels and highlights to fit your budget and taste.

Similar Tours