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Carolina Alumni Travel

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From: travel@unc.edu
To:
Machu Picchu to Galapagos
Feb. 22 - March 10, 2027
Explore Full Trip Details: Itinerary and pricing
  • Overview
  • Physical Needs
  • Conditions
  • Resources

Machu Picchu’s enigmatic ruins and the fascinating Galapagos Islands rank among South America’s greatest treasures, and a small group tour is the ideal way to experience both. This outstanding 17-day adventure begins with Lima’s highlights. Traverse the magnificent Sacred Valley, visiting impressive Incan sites and indigenous villages during a two-night stay. After taking a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, tour and absorb this astounding site on two separate days, overnighting at the foot of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu near the beautiful Vilcanota River.

You overnight in Lima before encountering the history and beauty of Quito, a UNESCO site. Spend the next four nights on the Galapagos’ beautiful Santa Cruz Island; the relaxed stay here includes cruising on a private yacht to two nearby islands to learn about Darwin’s incredible “living laboratory” from an expert naturalist guide. After this unique experience, return to Quito for a final day of touring. Discover the Amazon’s amazing flora, fauna, and villages with an exceptional 4-day/4-night pre-tour option.

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Below are physical expectations required to fully enjoy the journey. We, and the tour operator, are happy to discuss the physical needs of this trip to ensure the best fit. Should you reserve space, be sure to share with the tour operator physical accommodations you may need i.e. cpap machine, hearing aid for listening device, special medicine, etc.

  • Each excursion on the tour has an activity level assigned to it. Please reference the brochure for each excursion's activity level
  • Mild: Walk under 1 mile on mainly flat etrrain; navigate under 50 stairs; stand under 1 hour
  • Moderate: Walk 1-3 miles on mainly flat/uneven terrain; navigate 50-100 stairs; stand 1-2 hours
  • Active: Walk 2+ miles on flat/uneven terrain including up and down inclines; navigate 100+stairs; stand 3+ hours
  • Tar Heel Travel is a member exclusive perk.
  • There must be one Carolina Alumni member in a room.  Membership is open to anyone.  Learn more.
  • By reserving on this tour, you agree to the terms and conditions specific to this tour which are set by the tour operator. This information can be found in the tour brochure.
  • The Carolina Alumni Travel Office and tour operator reserve the right to to decline or accept a reservation should a person's health, mental condition, physical infirmity or attitude jeopardize the operation of the tour or the rights, welfare, or enjoyment of other participants.  Refunds will be made in accordance with the cancellation policy listed in the tour brochure.