18-to-Thirtysomethings: Colombia, Andes & Galapagos (SMCG)

Countries Visited: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
Trip Style: Information Not available
Service Level: Basic
  • Excellent value, amazing prices, quality experiences
  • Simple and clean hotels, guesthouses and hostels chosen for location and character
  • Affordable public and private transport for maximum cultural interaction
  • Plenty of optional activities tailored to your interests and budget
    Physical Demands Rating: 4 - You might encounter a few high-altitude hikes or other more strenuous activities. Pro tip: Put down that pastry, buster.
    Group Size: Max 18, avg 14
    Meals Included: 40 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 18 dinners
    Accommodations: Simple hotels (35 nts, some multi-share), camping (9 nts), hammock or rustic bunks (5 nts), overnight buses (5 nts), homestays (5 nt).

    Highlights
    Trek to the Lost City of Teyuna, snorkel with sea lions in the Galapagos, experience local life in Ecuadorian and Peruvian homestays, conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

    Description
    Got two monthss Want to make the most of thems There can be no better way to do so than one of the most sprawling of all our South American trips. Imagine 60 solid days spent exploring Colombia's Lost City, ambling around Machu Picchu after conquering the Inca Trail in Peru, enjoying a homestay deep in the Amazon jungle, and snorkeling with sea lions in the Galapagos Islands. With a week of camping in the Galapagos included, there's no possible way you'll go home feeling like you missed out on anything in South America.
  • Call (800) 468-2359 for more information or to book today! Mention code 12344223

    Tour Operator
    G Adventures
    Duration
    60 Days
    Escorted
    Escorted - Yes
    DayDestinationDescription
    Day 1CartagenaDay 1 Cartagena
    Arrive at any time. Included Activities: Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
    Day 2CartagenaDay 2 Cartagena (1B)
    Free day to explore this coastal colonial city. Wander the historic old town, check out the San Felipe fortress, or get dirty with a mud bath and massage at Totumo Volcano.
    Day 3Santa MartaDay 3 Cartagena/Santa Marta (1B)
    Travel by public bus to this coastal port town. Free time to visit the Gold Museum with its collection of Lost City artifacts, chill out on the beach and pick up any last minute necessities for the upcoming trek. Additional Notes: Please note hot water is uncommon in the Caribbean region of Colombia. Showers are likely to only have cold water while visiting this area. Transport: Local bus (4.00 hour(s))
    Day 4Adan CampDay 4 Santa Marta/Adan Camp (1L, 1D)
    Transfer to Machete Pelao, where the trek to the Lost City of Teyuna begins. Trek for 4-5 hrs each day through farmland, steamy jungle, and rural Kogi communities. Get a glimpse into the local way of life in the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Included Activities: Lost City Trek Day 1 Transport: 4x4
    Day 5Wiwa CampDay 5 Adan Camp/ Wiwa Camp (1B, 1L, 1D)
    The route starts along the Buritaca River, taking you further into the vivid green jungle past small villages en route to the camp for the evening. After a long day of trekking, enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the natural swimming pools. Included Activities: Lost City Trek Day 2
    Day 6Teyuna Paraiso CampDay 6 Wiwa Camp /Teyuna Paraiso Camp (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Continue trekking along the route to the Ciudad Perdida. Today is a tough portion of the trek with a lot of steep inclines, make sure to rest and take in the beautiful views. Included Activities: Lost City Trek Day 3
    Day 7Wiwa CampDay 7 Teyuna Paraiso Camp/ Wiwa Camp (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Get started early to climb the 1,200 steps up to the Lost City. The view of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains makes it well worth the hike. Explore the Lost City and learn what is known of its origins from the indigenous guide, before making the descent back to Wiwa Camp for the night. Included Activities: Lost City Trek Day 4
    Day 8TagangaDay 8 Ciudad Perdida/Taganga (1B, 1L)
    After a final morning trek back to Machete Pelao, transfer to the fishing village of Taganga for an afternoon of rest and relaxation. Included Activities: Lost City Trek Day 5 Transport: 4x4
    Day 9Parque Nacional Natural TayronaDay 9 Taganga/Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona (1B, 1D)
    Enjoy an overnight excursion to beautiful Tayrona NP. Explore the parks lush greenery, extended beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters. Additional Notes: Please note that Tayrona National Park is usually closed during the month of February. The indigenous groups in the area believe that mother nature needs a month of rest, and maintenance to the park is done during this time. If your trip falls in February, you will visit the laid-back town of Minca. Enjoy a visit to a coffee plantation, a hike to a waterfall and learn about local cacao production. Transport: Private Vehicle (0.75 hour(s))
    Day 10TagangaDay 10 Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona/Taganga (1B)
    Enjoy a half-day in the park, then return to Taganga for one more night on the Caribbean. Transport: Private Vehicle
    Day 11MedellinDay 11 Taganga/Medellin (1B)
    Fly inland to infamous Medellin, now one of Latin Americas safest cities. Enjoy an orientation walk upon arrival and an optional night out with the group. Included Activities: Orientation Walk Transport: Plane (1.50 hour(s))
    Day 12BogotaDay 12 Medellin/Bogota
    Opt to go paragliding over the city or catch a ride on the cable car. Board a night bus to Bogota. Transport: Overnight bus (9.00-10.00 hours)
    Day 13BogotaDay 13 Bogota
    Orientation walk around the vibrant La Candelaria area. Free time to explore Colombias capital city; check out the riches at the Gold Museum, take a funicular car up Monserrate Hill for sweeping views of the city, or catch a fUtbol (soccer) match if its game day. Included Activities: Orientation Walk
    Day 14BogotaDay 14 Bogota (1B)
    Enjoy a second day to explore Colombias capital.
    Day 15OtavaloDay 15 Bogota/Otavalo (1B, 1D)
    Fly to Quito and transfer to Otavalo and spend one night at an indigenous community. Interact with the locals and learn about their traditional ways during a homestay. Opt to enjoy a cultural evening and show with typical food. Included Activities: Indigenous Community Homestay Transport: Plane (4.00 hour(s)) Private Vehicle (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 16CotopaxiDay 16 Otavalo/Cotopaxi
    Visit the famous Otavalo artisan market for a morning perusing colourful textiles, art, carvings and jewelry made by people from nearby communities. Afternoon bus to Cotopaxi to enjoy a couple of nights in Andean beauty. Included Activities: Otavalo Handicrafts Market Visit Transport: Local bus (2.00 hour(s)) Private Vehicle (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 17CotopaxiDay 17 Cotopaxi (1B)
    Opt to visit a lagoon at elevation, hike national park trails or go down Cotopaxi Volcano by mountain bike. Included Activities: Cotopaxi National Park Visit
    Day 18QuitoDay 18 Cotopaxi/Quito (1B)
    Enjoy the morning in Cotopaxi before travelling back to Quito for an orientation walk and optional night out. Included Activities: Orientation Walk Transport: Private Vehicle (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 19Santa Cruz IslandDay 19 Quito/Santa Cruz Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Fly to the Galapagos Islands and transfer to the campsite located in highlands of Santa Cruz. Explore the highlands to see giant tortoises in the wild and hike to the lava tunnels. Additional Notes: The National Park charges a visitor fee of USD100, payable on arrival, which funds park maintenance and supervision in the Galapagos, as well as ecological study, conservation, and infrastructure development in Ecuadors other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage. The flight from Quito to Baltra is unaccompanied. You will have G Adventures representatives assisting on both sides to ensure everything goes smoothly. Flights from Quito to Baltra depart between 6:40am and 9:40am depending on the day of the week. These flights will arrive into the Galapagos between 9:30am and 12:30pm with a short refuelling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane). Included Activities: Lava Tunnels Visit Highlands Giant Tortoises Visit Santa Cruz Highlands Camping Transport: Plane (3.00 hour(s))
    Day 20Floreana IslandDay 20 Santa Cruz Island/Floreana Island (1B, 1D)
    In the morning, visit the Charles Darwin Station to see Galapagos giant tortoises. After, transfer by speedboat to Floreana Island. Get settled at the G Adventures-supported community guesthouse and opt to explore the small town or catch the sunset at Playa Negra beach. Additional Notes: Please note that travel between islands is done by speedboat. The ride can be quite rough, especially from July to December. Make sure to bring sea sickness medication if you are prone to sea sickness. Included Activities: Charles Darwin Research Station Visit Floreana Community Restaurants Floreana Community Guesthouse Transport: Speedboat (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 21Floreana IslandDay 21 Floreana Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Enjoy an included snorkelling excursion to Loberia, and visit the highlands of Floreana. Included Activities: Loberia Snorkelling Excursion Floreana Highlands Excursion Floreana Community Restaurants Floreana Community Guesthouse
    Day 22Isabela IslandDay 22 Floreana Island/Isabela Island (1B, 1D)
    Take a speedboat over to Isabela Island and hike the Sierra Negra Volcano for spectacular views from above. Included Activities: Isabela Highlands Camping Sierra Negra Volcano Hike Transport: Boat (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 23Isabela IslandDay 23 Isabela Island (1B)
    Enjoy free time in the morning for optional activities, opt to go snorkelling, surfing or hit the beach. In the afternoon, visit the Flamingo Lagoon and the Tortoise Breeding Centre. Included Activities: Flamingo Lagoon Visit Isabela Highlands Camping Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre Visit
    Day 24Santa Cruz IslandDay 24 Isabela Island/Santa Cruz Island (1B)
    Transfer by speedboat back to Santa Cruz Island, and enjoy a night in the town of Puerto Ayora. Hike to beautiful Tortuga Bay, and opt to go kayaking or just lounge on the beach. Additional Notes: Please note, the accommodation for the night is multi-share in a hostel. Included Activities: Tortuga Bay Hike Transport: Boat (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 25QuitoDay 25 Santa Cruz Island/Quito (1B)
    Say goodbye to the Galapagos Islands, and take a morning flight back to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito, transfer to the hotel and enjoy a night in the city. Transport: Plane (4.00 hour(s))
    Day 26QuitoDay 26 Quito
    Enjoy a free day to explore Ecuadors capital. Stay in the city, take a day trip to the equator, or the nearby hot springs.
    Day 27TenaDay 27 Quito/Tena (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Travel overland to Tena, located on the edge of the Amazon. From there, transfer for 45 minutes by truck to the local community of Pimpilala that will be our home for three nights. Stay with a Quichua family, enjoy the hospitality of these wonderful people, and experience life in the jungle first-hand. Included Activities: Amazon Jungle Experience Transport: Local bus (6.00-7.00 hours)
    Days 28-29TenaDays 28-29 Tena
    Head out on nature walks and learn about local traditions at an overnight homestay. Included Activities: Amazon Jungle Experience
    Day 30BanosDay 30 Tena/Banos (1B)
    Banos is the perfect setting for outdoor pursuits, including horseback riding, canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and rafting in the surrounding mountains and on the River Patate. Transport: Pickup truck (0.75 hour(s)) Local bus (3.00-4.00 hours)
    Day 31BanosDay 31 Banos
    Opt to soak in the nearby hot springs or get active by hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking.
    Day 32CuencaDay 32 Banos/Cuenca
    Ecuadors third largest town, Cuenca, retains a pleasant provincial air with its colonial architecture, art galleries, and museums. The surrounding countryside is an outdoor playground. Visit national parks, take walks in the beautiful countryside, and see Ecuador's only Inca ruin site. Explore the city's sights including cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs, art galleries, flower markets, shady plazas, and museums. Transport: Local bus (2.00 hour(s)) Local bus (6.00 hour(s))
    Day 33CuencaDay 33 Cuenca
    Enjoy a free day to visit Cajas NP or the Inca ruins of Ingapirca.
    Day 34MancoraDay 34 Cuenca/Mancora
    The adventure continues as we travel from Cuenca through the busy border town of Huaquillas and across the Peruvian border into Mancora. We follow the Pan-American Highway south to the seaside town of Mancora, a village populated by fishermen and surfers from around Peru and the world. Enjoy the relaxing beach atmosphere. Included Activities: Border Crossing (Ecuador - Peru) Transport: Local bus (5.00-6.00 hours) Local bus (4.00-5.00 hours)
    Day 35MancoraDay 35 Mancora
    Opt to relax on the beach, discover Mancora, go horseback riding, or take a surf lesson.
    Day 36HuanchacoDay 36 Mancora/Huanchaco
    Free time in Mancora. Overnight bus to Huanchaco. Transport: Overnight bus
    Day 37HuanchacoDay 37 Huanchaco
    We continue heading south along the coast to Trujillo, the largest city in northern Peru. It is known for its beautiful colonial structures and nearby attractions of Chan-Chan ruins and the resort town of Huanchaco, where we spend the night.
    Day 38LimaDay 38 Huanchaco/Lima
    Full day in Huanchaco before boarding a night bus to Lima. Transport: Overnight bus (8.00 hour(s))
    Day 39LimaDay 39 Lima (1B)
    To get a feel for colonial Lima, take a cab to the Plaza de Armas and watch the changing of the Palace Guard in the afternoon. Walk around the streets surrounding the JirOn de la UniOn for great examples of Spanish-colonial architecture and to experience life in a large South American city. There are many fine museums in and around the city, including the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera. An optional city tour visits many of the cities highlights.
    Day 40LimaDay 40 Lima
    Enjoy the day exploring the city.
    Day 41ParacasDay 41 Lima/Paracas (1B)
    Savour a pisco sour while staying in Piscos neighbouring town of Paracas. Transport: Local bus (4.00 hour(s), 250km) Minibus (0.50 hour(s))
    Day 42NazcaDay 42 Paracas/Nazca (1D)
    There is time in the morning for an optional excursion to the popular Ballestas Islands, which provide an excellent chance to view a lively sea lion colony, pelicans, penguins, and other varieties of birdlife. Back on land, catch a bus south to Nazca. On the way, pass by the pleasant colonial town of Ica. Ica enjoys a dry, sunny climate year-round and is known for its huge sand dunes. Located around the nearby oasis of Huacachina, the dunes are perfect as subjects for photographs and for a favourite local past time: sandboarding. Apart from the dunes, Ica is famous for its wines and there are several wineries and distilleries in the area. Included Activities: Huacachina Winery Visit Transport: Private Vehicle (4.00 hour(s), 175km)
    Day 43ArequipaDay 43 Nazca/Arequipa
    Opt for a flight over the Nazca Lines. Overnight bus to Arequipa. Transport: Overnight bus (8.00-9.00 hours, 570km)
    Day 44ArequipaDay 44 Arequipa
    Those with an interest in history and architecture may opt to visit the Convent of Santa Catalina, which offers a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a bygone way of life. Other optional excursions include rafting and mountaineering. For spicy food lovers, checking out one of the "PicanterIas" is a must. Arequipa has a variety of regional food: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.
    Day 45Colca CanyonDay 45 Arequipa/Colca Canyon (1B)
    Enjoy an overnight excursion to the impressive Colca Canyon - one of the deepest canyons in the world. Stop in fascinating villages and at "miradors" (scenic lookouts), where, with a little luck, visitors can see Andean condors soaring over the majestic Andes. Other unusual animals that can be spotted in the Andean landscape include three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama and vicuNa. Included Activities: Colca Canyon Guided Tour Transport: Private Vehicle (4.50-5.00 hours, 165km)
    Day 46ArequipaDay 46 Colca Canyon/Arequipa (1B)
    Get an early start to go on the lookout for flying condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to admire these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop by some local villages and viewpoints to see old terraces and sections of Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. Included Activities: Colca Canyon Guided Tour
    Day 47CuscoDay 47 Arequipa/Cusco (1B)
    In the morning head back to Arequipa and enjoy a free day. Overnight bus to Cusco. Transport: Private Van with Wi-fi (4.50-5.00 hours, 165km) Overnight bus (10.00 hour(s))
    Day 48CuscoDay 48 Cusco
    Free time to explore Cusco. Opt for a city tour or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking.
    Day 49CuscoDay 49 Cusco (1B)
    Enjoy another free day in Cusco.
    Day 50OllantaytamboDay 50 Cusco/Ollantaytambo (1B)
    Ollantaytambo is a major Inca ruin site and a first taste of what lies ahead. For those craving more before they head out on the Trail, opt to take a Sacred Valley tour which includes not only Ollantaytambo and the ruin site of Pisac, but also a visit to a G Adventures-supported womens weaving co-op. Transport: Private Vehicle (2.50 hour(s), 95km)
    Day 51Inca TrailDay 51 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Trek through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons, passing several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata. Additional Notes: A crew of local porters, cooks, and guides will take care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear so you'll only need to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Transport: Private Vehicle (0.75 hour(s))
    Day 52Inca TrailDay 52 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Start early to climb the long steep path to WarmiwaNusca, better known as Dead Woman's Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 53Inca TrailDay 53 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the WiNay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft). Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 54CuscoDay 54 Machu Picchu/Cusco (1B)
    The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Wake up around 03:30 and walk to the checkpoint. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site and free time to explore. Opt to visit the Inca Bridge, if time allows. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes to meet any non-hiking members of your group. Eat and relax before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Machu Picchu Guided Tour Big Night Out Transport: Train (1.50 hour(s), 118km) Private Vehicle (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 55CuscoDay 55 Cusco (1B)
    Free day to explore more of Cusco or just relax.
    Day 56PunoDay 56 Cusco/Puno (1B)
    Travel through the high Altiplano region to travel to Puno on Lake Titicaca. Transport: Local bus (7.50 hour(s), 390km)
    Day 57Lago TiticacaDay 57 Puno/Lago Titicaca (1B, 1D)
    Head out by boat across Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on Taquile Island and enjoy a local lunch with spectacular views. After, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake (the homestay location can vary based on community availability). This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quecha and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 1 Lake Titicaca Homestay
    Day 58PunoDay 58 Lago Titicaca/Puno (1B, 1L)
    Leave the homestay families late morning, and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 2
    Day 59La PazDay 59 Puno/La Paz (1B)
    Enjoy a full-day drive around the lake and through the Altiplano to La Paz. Bolivia is filled with spectacular views of the countryside. La Paz sits nearly 4,000m (13,120 ft) above sea level, so be prepared for cool evenings and mornings. Included Activities: Border Crossing (Peru - Bolivia) Transport: Local bus (2.50 hour(s), 300km) Local bus (3.00 hour(s))
    Day 60La PazDay 60 La Paz
    Depart at any time. Included Activities: Departure Day
    Disclaimer

    Local Flights: All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.

    Dossier Disclaimer:The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

    VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

    Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

    Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
      
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