Carolina Alumni Travel
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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.
.This trip exposes you to the beauty and amazing cultures of Peru and Ecuador. You'll learn so much about the Incan culture and how their amazing skills are still on display in so many places as well as enjoy incredibly fresh and tasty food. No pressure to try the guinea pig : ) I was surprised at the variety of landscapes and terrains and the overall beauty of the countryside in both Peru and Ecuador.
Each day brings new adventures and you keep thinking it can't get any better but it does. Due to the small group size, you'll quickly make friends and enjoy sharing each new experience. From museums, to blessings by shamans to dancers on horseback to train rides through the Sacred Valley, to giant tortoises, this is a once in a lifetime trip. You can view photos from our trip here.
Catherine Nichols '89
- 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.