I’ve organized over 200 combined Peru & Galápagos trips, and every time a client completes this circuit, I get the same email: “It was the trip of our lives.” No exaggeration. Combining Machu Picchu, a luxury cruise on the Peruvian Amazon, and the Galápagos Islands in a single journey means experiencing the very best South America has to offer.

Why This Combo Is Perfect

At first glance, combining Peru and Ecuador can sound complicated. In reality, these destinations complement each other almost perfectly for luxury travelers seeking diversity and unforgettable experiences.

• Machu Picchu delivers deep history and ancient culture—the archaeological wonder worth crossing the world for.
• The Peruvian Amazon immerses you in the planet’s most biodiverse rainforest—navigating rivers surrounded by wildlife and native communities.
• Galápagos is evolution’s living lab, where animals don’t fear humans and each island is its own distinct world.

Together, these three destinations create an itinerary that fuses Inca archaeology, Amazon biodiversity, and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife. It’s culture + nature + curated adventure, all with the comfort you deserve.

The Logistics Are Easier Than You Think

Typical route:
Lima → Cusco/Machu Picchu (3–4 days) → Iquitos/Puerto Maldonado for the Amazon (3–4 days on a cruise) → Guayaquil/Quito → Galápagos (4–7 days on a cruise) → Return
Total: 12–16 days, depending on pace.

Flight connectivity is excellent:

• Lima → Cusco: multiple daily flights (~1.5 hrs)
• Cusco/Lima → Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado: daily direct flights
• Lima → Guayaquil or Quito: ~2 hrs
• Quito/Guayaquil → Galápagos:5–2 hrs

With a specialist agency like Luxe Andes Peru, all logistics are handled seamlessly—private transfers, coordinated flights, expert guides in every destination. You simply enjoy.

The Best Luxury Amazon Cruises in Peru

Peru offers two main Amazon gateways: Iquitos (lower Amazon) and Puerto Maldonado (southern jungle near Cusco). For luxury river cruises, Iquitos is the superior choice.

Aqua Nera – The Most Luxurious Ship on the Amazon

Aqua Nera is the newest and most luxurious ship on the Peruvian Amazon. Operated by Aqua Expeditions, this 20-suite vessel was designed by renowned Peruvian architect Jordi Puig in collaboration with Italy’s Noor Design.

Suites:
All 20 exterior suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows that convert into open balconies. Four categories:

• Design Suites (entry level) – 32 m² with king bed, rain shower, fully stocked minibar. Panoramic windows let you watch the forest from bed.
• Master Suites – 43 m² with larger sitting area and separate soaking tub.
• Aqua Suites – 56 m², the most spacious, with separate living room and double vanity bathroom.

Every suite includes:

• Whisper-quiet air conditioning (crucial in the jungle)
• Luxury bath amenities
• Peruvian cotton robes & slippers
• Water purifiers
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• iPad with voyage information

Onboard Experience:
A Michelin-trained executive chef leads a program of contemporary Amazonian cuisine using local ingredients: river fish like paiche and doncella, exotic fruits (camu camu, aguaje), and creative techniques that honor tradition.

Public spaces:

• Panoramic restaurant with retractable roof
• Lounge bar with Amazon-inspired cocktails
• Jacuzzi on the sun deck
• 360° observation area
• Massage room
• Outdoor cinema under the stars
• Compact gym

Excursions (twice daily):

• Skiff rides through narrow tributaries and oxbow lakes to spot pink dolphins, sloths, monkeys, exotic birds
• Jungle walks with expert naturalist guides (medicinal plants, animal tracking)
• Community visits with genuine riverine encounters
• Piranha fishing (your chef can cook the catch)
• Kayaking on calm flooded forests
• Night wildlife outings to look for caimans

Guides are outstanding—mostly biologists or certified naturalists with fluent English who know every sound, plant, and species.

Itineraries:
Operates in Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, Peru’s largest protected area, with 3, 4, or 7 nights departures from Iquitos.

• 3 nights: the minimum Amazon experience—perfect if you’re also doing Galápagos
• 4 nights: most popular—ideal balance of exploration and downtime
• 7 nights: for deep immersion

Pricing: from $5,500 pp (3 nights, entry suite, double occupancy). 7 nights from $11,000 pp. All-inclusive: dining, open bar, excursions, expert guides.

Best for: Couples seeking absolute luxury, travelers who prioritize comfort without sacrificing adventure, photographers (light in Pacaya Samiria is magic).

Aria Amazon – The Elegant Classic

Aria Amazon—Aqua Nera’s “sister ship” (same operator). With 16 suites, it feels more intimate.

Launched in 2011 and renovated in 2019, Aria’s style is more classic than Aqua Nera’s ultra-contemporary vibe—but make no mistake: it’s still top-tier luxury.

Suites:
All 16 suites are 23 m² (smaller than Aqua Nera’s) yet beautifully designed with panoramic windows and private balconies. Four Master Suites reach 30 m² with soaking tubs.

Why Aria stands out:
Scale. With a maximum of 32 guests vs. Aqua Nera’s ~40, Aria feels more exclusive. Smaller excursion groups = more personalized experiences. The culinary program mirrors Aqua Nera’s. Aria also runs 3, 4, and 7 nights in Pacaya Samiria.

Pricing: from $4,800 pp for 3 nights (standard suite), slightly below Aqua Nera.

Best for: Travelers who prefer smaller ships and intimacy over expansive spaces; private groups looking to charter the entire vessel (easier with Aria).

Delfin I, II & III – Boutique Peruvian Elegance

The three Delfin vessels (often booked via Rainforest Cruises; Delfin is its own Peruvian operator) deliver boutique style with Peruvian elegance.

• Delfin III: largest & most upscale of the trio—22 suites (23–37 m²), contemporary Peruvian woods, panoramic windows, sun-deck jacuzzi, up to 44 guests.
• Delfin II: 14 suites (23–31 m²), intimate, colonial-modern feel, up to 28 guests.
• Delfin I: just 4 suites (~12 m² each), max 8 guests—ultra-exclusive; perfect for families or small groups seeking total privacy.

What’s different:
Delfin operates in Pacaya Samiria and also ventures into the Ucayali River (wilder, less visited). Excursions resemble Aqua’s, but guides tend to be deeply local—less academic, more “jungle native savvy.” Service feels personal—more like a hosted home on the river than a floating resort.

Pricing (3–4 nights):

• Delfin III: $4,200–$7,500 pp
• Delfin II: $3,800–$6,800 pp
• Delfin I: $3,500–$6,200 pp

Best for: Boutique-minded travelers, families with teens, guests who prefer a less formal ambiance.

Zafiro – Luxury With a Sustainability Focus

Zafiro (by Jungle Experiences) is a luxury ship with a strong eco-conscience. It has 19 cabins (max ~36 guests) with elegant yet simpler design than Aqua.

Why it’s special:
They work closely with local communities; a portion of profits directly funds community projects. Community visits are deeper and more meaningful. Pricing is more accessible without cutting comfort: from $2,800 pp for 4 nights.

Best for: Conscious travelers wanting luxury + positive impact, and those seeking best-value luxury without dropping too far in category.

The Best Luxury Cruises in the Galápagos

Galápagos is a completely different world. You’re in the Pacific Ocean, visiting volcanic islands, each with unique ecosystems and endemic species found nowhere else.

Strict park regulations: The Galápagos National Park regulates everything—limited vessels, assigned sites on set days, and strict passenger caps per landing. Book well in advance (3–6 months for top ships in peak season).

Aqua Mare – The New Benchmark in Galápagos Luxury

Launched in 2022, Aqua Mare (same company as Aqua Nera) is the most luxurious yacht to sail Galápagos. With just 7 suites for 16 guests, it’s ultra-exclusive.

Suites:
All have private balconies, marble bathrooms, rain showers, and the hallmark Aqua attention to detail.

• Design Suites: 32 m²
• Master Suites: 38 m²
• Owner’s Suite: 60 m² with a freestanding tub facing panoramic windows

Experience:
Passenger-to-guide ratio approaches 1:1. Access to certain sites that larger ships can’t reach. Panga (inflatable) outings in groups of max 8. Michelin-grade culinary program akin to Aqua Nera, a curated bar with sommelier, and snorkel/kayak gear included.

Itineraries: 4, 5, or 8 nights covering marquee islands: Isabela, Fernandina, Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Española, Floreana, Bartolomé.

Daily rhythm typically includes:

• Morning island landing (guided naturalist walk)
• Snorkeling or kayaking afterward
• Lunch onboard
• Second afternoon excursion (different site)
• Dinner while sailing to the next island

Wildlife: Giant tortoises, marine & land iguanas, playful sea lions, Galápagos penguins, blue- and red-footed boobies, frigates, waved albatross (in season), hammerhead sharks (snorkel), rays, sea turtles, dolphins.

Pricing: from $11,000 pp for 4 nights; 8 nights from $20,000 pp. All-inclusive except airfare to Galápagos.

Best for: The ultimate experience, high-end honeymoons, serious wildlife photographers, small private groups.

Natural Paradise – Boutique & Elegant

Natural Paradise is a 10-cabin (20-guest) yacht offering boutique luxury at a more accessible price than Aqua Mare.

Launched in 2019, it features contemporary design with Ecuadorian woods, generous decks with jacuzzi, and kayaks/paddleboards included.

Cabins:
Eight standard cabins (~15 m²) and two suites (~20 m²). All have panoramic windows, A/C, and private bathrooms. More compact than Aqua Mare but smartly laid out.

Experience:
Certified naturalist guides (bilingual), excellent cuisine (not Aqua level, but very good), and itineraries that hit the key islands. The mood is relaxed and social—swap stories at the bar after excursions.

Pricing: $5,500–$8,500 pp for 5–8 nights, depending on season/cabin.

Best for: Couples seeking great value luxury, travelers who enjoy the social vibe of small-ship cruising, guests wanting a top experience without ultra-premium pricing.

Galapagos Legend – Accessible Luxury on a Larger Ship

Galapagos Legend is a larger vessel: 53 cabins for ~100 guests, very different from boutique yachts.

Advantages of a larger ship:

• More stability in open ocean (less seasickness)
• More public spaces: multiple bars, conference room, library
• Larger pool & jacuzzi
• More accessible pricing: $3,500–$6,000 pp for 4–8 nights

Tradeoffs:

• On-land groups of 16 (the park maximum)
• Less intimate
• Some landing sites are off-limits to bigger ships

Best for: Families with kids (strong kids’ program), travelers needing value with comfort, anyone prone to seasickness who benefits from a bigger, more stable platform.

Celebrity Flora – The Mega-Yacht

Celebrity Flora is the largest purpose-built luxury ship for Galápagos: 50 suites for ~100 guests, designed as a mega-yacht.

Launched in 2019 by Celebrity Cruises, Flora features:

• Marina suites (lower-deck suites opening to the sea)
• A world-class restaurant
• Multiple jacuzzis and observation lounges
• On-deck glamping (sleep under the stars)
• Science center onboard with resident experts

Pricing: $6,000–$12,000 pp for 7 nights, depending on season & suite.

Best for: Travelers wanting the best of both worlds (big-ship stability + genuine luxury), families needing space, guests with a generous budget short of ultra-premium.

How to Combine All Three: Real Itineraries

14-Day Itinerary: The Complete Classic

Days 1–2: Lima

• International arrival
• Night at Belmond Miraflores Park or similar
• Lima city tour (UNESCO Historic Center + bohemian Barranco)
• Dinner at a top restaurant (Central, Maido, or Rafael)

Days 3–6: Cusco & Machu Picchu

• Flight Lima → Cusco
• Direct transfer to the Sacred Valley (Tambo del Inka or Río Sagrado)
• Day exploring the Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras/Moray)
• Luxury train to Machu Picchu
• Night in Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel or Sumaq
• Sunrise private tour of Machu Picchu
• Return to the Valley, final night

Days 7–10: Peruvian Amazon

• Flight Cusco → Lima → Iquitos (or nonstop if available)
• Transfer to port, embark Aqua Nera or Aria Amazon
• 3 nights / 4 days exploring Pacaya Samiria
• Disembark, flight Iquitos → Lima

Day 11: Lima → Guayaquil/Quito

• Flight to Guayaquil or Quito (per cruise start)
• Night at Hotel del Parque (Guayaquil) or Casa Gangotena (Quito)

Days 12–15: Galápagos

• Flight to Galápagos (Baltra or San Cristóbal)
• Embark Natural Paradise (or similar)
• 4 days / 3 nights exploring the islands
• Disembark, flight back to Guayaquil/Quito
• Same-day international connection or overnight and depart next day

Total: 14–15 days

17-Day Itinerary: The Deep-Dive Experience

Start with the 14-day plan, then:

• Add 1 extra day in Lima (food tour, museums)
• Sacred Valley: 3 nights instead of 2
• Amazon: 4 nights instead of 3 (more complete itinerary)
• Galápagos: 5–7 nights (longer cruise to visit more islands)

Total: 17–18 days
This is my recommendation when time and budget allow—no rush, true depth at each destination.

10-Day Itinerary: The Luxury Express

If you only have 10 days:

Days 1–4: Lima + Machu Picchu

• 1 night in Lima
• Fly to Cusco, transfer straight to the Sacred Valley
• 1 night in the Valley
• Machu Picchu day trip (from the Valley, no overnight in Aguas Calientes)
• Final night in the Valley or fly back to Lima

Days 5–7: Amazon

• 3-night Amazon cruise (minimum viable)

Days 8–10: Galápagos

• 3-night short Galápagos cruise

Tight but feasible. You trade depth for breadth.

Best Time of Year for the Combined Journey

There’s no single “perfect” season for all three, but there are better windows.

Ideal Season: June–August

Peru (Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley):

• Dry season, excellent weather
• Clear skies for photography
• More visitors (luxury hotels help buffer the crowds)

Peruvian Amazon:

• Lower water levels = better wildlife viewing on riverbanks
• Fewer mosquitoes
• Hotter (86–95°F / 30–35°C) but manageable

Galápagos:

• Dry & cool (66–79°F / 19–26°C)
• Best for hiking
• Cooler water (64–73°F / 18–23°C) but great visibility for snorkeling
• Waved albatross breeding on Española (Apr–Dec; peak Jun–Aug)

Note: This is peak season across the board. Expect 20–30% higher prices and book 6+ months ahead.

Excellent Alternatives: April–May or September–October

Pros:

• Fewer visitors at Machu Picchu
• 15–20% lower prices
• Still-good weather in Peru (start/end of dry season)
• Transitional but generally good weather in Galápagos

Cons:

• Some rain risk in Peru (especially April)
• River levels rising in the Amazon (Apr–May)

Time to Avoid: February

• Peru: Peak rains. Inca Trail closed. Machu Picchu open but rainy almost daily.
• Amazon: Very high water; some trails inaccessible. More mosquitoes.
• Galápagos: Rainy & hot season (Dec–May); February is particularly humid.

Budget Considerations (Transparent & Realistic)

Let’s be honest: this isn’t a budget trip. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many.

Per-person budget (double occupancy, luxury category):

Premium Version (14 days):

• International flights: $1,500–$2,500 (varies by origin)
• Intra-South America flights: $800–$1,200
• Peru hotels (4–5 nights): $2,500–$4,000
• Amazon cruise (3 nights): $5,500–$7,000
• Ecuador hotel (1 night): $300–$500
• Galápagos cruise (4 nights): $6,000–$11,000
• Meals off-ship: $500–$800
• Tours, guides, entry fees: $1,200–$1,800
  Total: $18,000–$29,000 pp

Ultra-Luxury (17 days):

• Business class flights
• Top-tier hotels (Belmond properties)
• Aqua Nera (4 nights): $7,000–$9,000
• Aqua Mare (5 nights): $13,000–$17,000
  Total: $30,000–$45,000 pp

“Accessible Luxury” Express (10 days):

• 5-star hotels
• High mid-tier cruises
  Total: $12,000–$18,000 pp

What’s Included vs. Not Included

Typically INCLUDED on cruises:

• All meals onboard
• Open bar (wine, beer, cocktails, spirits)
• All excursions with expert naturalist guides
• Snorkel gear, kayaks, wetsuits (Galápagos)
• Gratuities (on some ships)

NOT included:

• Flights to/from embarkation points
• Galápagos National Park fee ($100)
• Transit Control Card (TCT) ($20)
• Tips (on ships where not included: $100–$200 pp total for crew)
• Spa treatments
• Premium/champagne (varies by ship)

Combined Cruise FAQ

Is it hard to coordinate three countries and multiple cruises?

It looks intimidating, but with a specialist like Luxe Andes Peru, everything is choreographed:

• All flights (international & regional)
• Private transfers at each point
• Cruise–hotel coordination
• Guides in every destination
• A 24/7 contact if anything goes sideways

You’ll receive a day-by-day itinerary with every confirmation, contact, and detail. Just show up.

Do I need visas for Peru and Ecuador?

Most nationalities (USA, Canada, Europe, Australia) do not need visas for tourism stays under 90 days in Peru or Ecuador.

You’ll need:

• Passport valid for 6+ months beyond entry
• Proof of onward travel
• Proof of sufficient funds (rarely asked in luxury tourism)

Always verify with your consulate before travel, as regulations can change.

What vaccinations do I need?

Peru (especially the Amazon):

• Yellow fever: Highly recommended for the Amazon (mandatory if arriving from a YF country)
• Hepatitis A & B: Recommended
• Td/Tdap: Up to date
• Typhoid: Recommended
• Malaria prophylaxis: Discuss with your doctor (risk is low on luxury cruises but exists)

Galápagos:

• No specific vaccines required
• Malaria-free

Important: See a travel-medicine doctor 6–8 weeks before departure for a personalized plan.

Will I get seasick on the cruises?

Amazon: Almost impossible—calm river waters. It’s like gliding on glass.
Galápagos: It depends. Overnights are in open ocean and can be choppy, especially in the cool season (Jun–Nov).

If you’re sensitive:

• Choose mid-deck cabins (avoid very high/low decks)
• Bring Dramamine, scopolamine patches, or acupressure bands
• Larger ships (Celebrity Flora, Galapagos Legend) are more stable
• Avoid reading/screens while underway
• Spend time on deck watching the horizon

Good news: most travelers adjust after the first night.

What level of fitness do I need?

Amazon: Minimal. Short, mostly flat walks (30–90 min). You’ll board skiffs multiple times daily (need reasonable mobility). It’s hot & humid, which can tire you.

Galápagos: Moderate. Wet landings (step into shallow water) and dry landings (onto rocks). Walks 30–120 min on sometimes uneven volcanic terrain. Snorkeling in open water with currents.

Rule of thumb: If you can walk an hour at an easy pace and handle stairs, you’ll be fine. Guides adapt to the group.

Can I do this trip with kids?

Machu Picchu: Great for kids 8+ who enjoy adventure & history.
Amazon: Most luxury cruises accept kids 5+, but consider attention span, heat/humidity, and activity style. Some ships skew adult/romantic.
Galápagos: Fantastic for kids! Close wildlife encounters awe them. Minimum age on most ships: 5–6. Bigger ships (Flora, Legend) are more family-friendly.

Recommendation: Ideal for kids 10+ who can appreciate how unique this is.

Is there Wi-Fi on the cruises?

Amazon: Limited or none. Top ships (Aqua Nera/Aria) have satellite Wi-Fi but it’s slow & intermittent (basic email only). Many guests choose to disconnect.
Galápagos: Similar—limited satellite Wi-Fi, sometimes extra cost.

Tip: Tell work/family you’ll be largely offline. Download books, movies, and music beforehand.

When should I book?

Minimum: 3–4 months in advance
Ideal: 6–9 months, especially for peak season (Jun–Aug) or specific ships/dates.

Why so early?
The best cruises (Aqua Nera, Aqua Mare, Aria) fill fast; internal flights price better early; top Sacred Valley hotels (Tambo del Inka, Río Sagrado) sell out in peak; Galápagos has strict capacity limits.

What if I get sick during the trip?

All luxury ships have:

• Comprehensive first-aid kits
• Crew trained in first aid
• Radio/satellite contact with medical services

Luxury hotels can call physicians quickly.
However, get travel insurance that covers:

• Medical emergencies
• Medical evacuation (crucial for remote regions)
• Trip cancellation
• Delays/baggage loss

Don’t skimp—choose premium coverage for a trip of this caliber (e.g., Allianz, World Nomads Premium).

Can I extend the trip with other destinations?

Absolutely.

In Peru:

• Lake Titicaca (Puno/floating islands): +2–3 days
• Arequipa & Colca Canyon: +2–3 days
• Nazca Lines: 1 day from Lima
• Northern beaches (Máncora, Tumbes): +3–4 days to unwind

In Ecuador:

• Quito’s colonial center: +2 days
• Otavalo market: +1–2 days from Quito
• Baños (adventure & hot springs): +2 days
• Cuenca (colonial city): +2–3 days

In the region:

• Bolivia: Uyuni Salt Flats (+3–4 days) pairs nicely with a Cusco–La Paz route
• Colombia: Cartagena (+3–4 days) on the way home
• Chile: Patagonia or Atacama (+5+ days)

What should I pack for a three-climate trip?

You’ll face three distinct climates—packing is an art.

For Machu Picchu / Sacred Valley:

• Layers (cold mornings, warm middays, cold nights)
• Waterproof shell
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses

For the Amazon:

• Lightweight long sleeves (sun & bug protection)
• Long pants (breathable)
• Quick-dry shirts
• Strong repellent (DEET 30%+)
• Hiking shoes that can get wet
• Sandals for onboard
• Rain jacket/poncho
• Headlamp (night outings)

For Galápagos:

• Swimsuits (you’ll snorkel a lot)
• Wetsuit (bring or rent onboard)
• Casual light clothing
• Water shoes or trekking sandals (rocky beaches)
• Plenty of reef-safe sunscreen (equatorial sun is intense)
• Binoculars (if you’re into birding/photography)
• Waterproof camera or housing

General:

• Daypack
• Power bank
• Adapters (Peru & Ecuador: Type A/B, 110V)
• Medications + basic first-aid kit
• Copies of passport/insurance

Pro tip: Use a large suitcase you can leave in Lima (most hotels store it free) and carry just a cabin-size for cruises. Ships offer laundry service, so you don’t need two weeks of clothes.

Are the cruises formal? Do I need elegant attire?

Amazon: Smart casual. Daytime: expedition wear. Dinners: elevated casual (no flip-flops/shorts, but no suit either).
Galápagos: Similar. Relaxed by day, smart casual at dinner. Some ships host a Captain’s Dinner on the last night—think casual dress for women, button-down for men; nothing formal.

Rule: Comfortable but polished. These are luxury adventure cruises, not Mediterranean gala voyages.

Can I change my itinerary after booking?

It depends on timing:

• 90+ days out: Usually flexible (date/cabin/extension changes) with minimal or no penalties.
• 60–90 days: Possible with fees (often 10–25%).
• <60 days: Changes are hard and costly; cancellations can mean significant loss of deposit or full cost.

Action items:

1. Read terms before confirming
2. Buy trip-cancellation insurance
3. Work with an agency that knows policies and can negotiate for you

Is a private charter worth it (full ship buy-out)?

For large families, friend groups, or corporate trips, chartering can make sense.

Pros:

• Fully customized itinerary
• Total privacy
• Option to bring your own chef/sommelier/experts
• Flexible dates

Costs (indicative):

• Amazon: Aria Amazon (16 suites) $75,000–$95,000 for 4 nights (total ship)
• Galápagos: Wide range—$150,000 (small yacht, 4 nights) to $500,000+ (mega-yacht, 8 nights)

When it’s worth it: With 20–30 people, per-person cost can match (or beat) individual cabin pricing—with the benefit of complete privacy.

Combining Machu Picchu, the Peruvian Amazon, and the Galápagos Islands in one journey isn’t just checking three boxes. It’s diving into Inca history, entering the most biodiverse rainforest, and witnessing evolution in action on the very islands that inspired Darwin.

It’s the trip you’ll talk about for the rest of your life—the experience you wouldn’t trade for anything.

Ready to live South America’s ultimate luxury adventure?
At Luxe Andes Peru, we design fully customized combined itineraries—coordinating every flight, every transfer, every cruise, and every guide—so all you have to do is absorb the magic of these one-of-a-kind places.