19-Night From The Inca Empire To The Peruvian Amazon With The Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise Cruise from Lima

LIMA–PISCO–PARACAS & NAZCA LINES Mysterious SignsDISCOVERY Drive south along the scenic Pan-American Highway to Pisco, the wine capital of Peru, and take a guided two-hour flight over the Nazca Lines—a series of drawings of animals and geometric figures etched into the parched soil—some up to 1,000 feet long—believed by some to be the astronomical calendar of the ancient Peruvians. (B,D)

PARACAS–BALLESTAS ISLAND CRUISE–LIMA Exotic Life DISCOVERY This morning, head to the Bay of Paracas and take a cruise to the Ballestas Islands—home to a wide variety of sea mammals and exotic birds. See the huge Candelabro, a candelabra-shaped etching on the Paracas cliffside. Later, return to Lima where you will have free time to explore the fascinating Peruvian capital – where high-rises tower above ancient temples and colorful colonial architecture. (B)

CUSCO–LIMA–IQUITOS–NAUTA–PERUVIAN AMAZON RIVER (EMBARKATION) Your Amazon Adventure BeginsCLASSIC Today, you’ll travel by air to Lima and then on to Iquitos to begin your Amazon journey.Travel to Nauta and embark the luxurious vessel, the Delfin III, to cruise the Peruvian Amazon in comfort and convenience. Settle into your spacious suite before meeting your onboard Naturalist and Cruise Director.DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Welcome Reception to gain an overview of your upcoming Amazon experience. Your Naturalist Guide will offer information about the animal species of the Amazon ecosystem, the native villagers you’ll meet, and the spectacular plant life that thrives in this astonishing environment. See the two powerful Amazon tributaries—the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers—which converge to create the mighty Peruvian Amazon.Later, on board, enjoy an unforgettable dinner featuring Peruvian cuisine with the freshest local ingredients. (B,L,D)

LIMA–QUITO Adios, Lima!Fly from Lima to Quito. Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galápagos adventure, or walk through the historic city to sample ceviche or helado (Latin-American ice cream). Dine out tonight or ask about the best clubs for music and dancing. (B)

BALTRA–GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (EMBARKATION)–SANTA CRUZ ISLAND The Theory of Evolution—and Giant BabiesThis morning, take a flight to the Galápagos Island of Baltra where you’ll embark on your five-day cruise aboard the luxurious MS Infinity yacht.DISCOVERY Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion on Santa Cruz Island to visit the El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve, a unique natural reserve where you can observe the giant turtles and dozens of bird species. Later, join an onboard briefing of the next day’s adventures followed by dinner.NOTE: The ship is expedition-style designed for open water cruising, however, the itinerary is subject to changes based on open-water conditions, weather, seasonal currents and Galápagos National Park policies and regulations. (B,L,D)

ESPAÑOLA ISLAND Diverse Life In and Out of the WaterACTIVE This morning, your Naturalist Guide takes you to the sheer cliffs of Punta Suárez to witness the spectacular spray from an ocean blowhole. Watch for the blue-footed and Nazca boobies, and other remarkable bird species, including the waved albatross. The island is the breeding site of nearly all of the world’s waved albatrosses! Be on the lookout for the male Christmas iguana that turns red and green during mating season.CLASSIC Take a Guided Excursion with your expert Naturalist to explore the southeastern part of the archipelago. Visit the glistening white coral beaches of Gardner Bay to see Galápagos sea lions, marine iguanas, seabirds, and hawks. Watch for three species of Darwin finches—a hallmark of his research. DISCOVERY Enjoy a prime snorkeling and swimming spot in Gardner Bay’s pristine waters. Spot a kaleidoscope of multi-colored reef fish, reef sharks, playful sea lions, and the amazing Green Sea Turtles.(B,L,D)

GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (DISEMBARKATION)–SAN CRISTOBAL–QUITO The Geological Genesis of a Magical Archipelago DISCOVERY This morning, cruise to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a Naturalist Guided Tour of the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. You’ll learn about the Galápagos’ fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, climate, and the arrival of diverse species that inspire both imagination and science.This afternoon, you’ll say farewell to the magical islands of Galápagos and fly to Quito. This evening, spend free time relaxing or enjoy one of Quito’s many fine restaurants. (B)