Weather & Best Times to Visit
Galápagos, Ecuador – The Galápagos Islands are ideal year-round, with generally warm and sunny weather. December through May is the sunniest time of the year, with warmer air and water temperatures. As a tropical region, there is also a greater chance of rain at this time of year. Most clients find this to the ideal time to visit the Galapagos Islands, since the pleasant temperatures make it ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. The weather is a bit cooler and drier from June through November, the “garua” season, with colder water temperatures and often a light mist settled around the islands. This time of year features some extra special wildlife encounters, including playful sea lion pups and mating season for the blue-footed boobies.
Peru – May through October is the best time to visit Peru, especially if you plan on trekking. Sunny days and bright blue skies await during this peak season. For a combination trip with the Galápagos, you could also consider November and December. The wet season from January through April is not recommended.
Flights – The international gateway cities are Guayaquil or Quito (Ecuador) and Lima (Peru). There are non-stop flight options available from several major US international airports to those gateway cities. Internal flights are required for travel between countries, to/from the Galápagos, and within Peru. Our Travel Designers are experts on international and local flights and can coordinate all logistics.
Ground Transfers & Taxis – We will schedule private transfers between airports and hotels, and all touring will include pick-up and drop-off service. When taking a taxi in a city, is best to have a hotel or restaurant summon one for you to ensure that you get an official, metered taxi.
Trains (Peru) – Travel between Cusco or Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu by train is a highlight that we typically include in custom Peru itineraries. For the ultimate in luxury, we suggest the Belmond Hiram Bingham train with gourmet dining, cocktails, entertainment and touring.
Galápagos, Ecuador – This magnificent archipelago is all about wildlife! On a boutique cruise around the islands, you’ll have an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna from an expert naturalist. Highlights include the giant tortoises, iguanas, sea lions, Sally light-foot crabs, finches, various boobies, albatross, penguins and more. While hiking is part of every itinerary, select ships offer activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding and even cold-water scuba diving. If any of these activities are a priority, your Travel Designer will help you select the best itinerary.
Peru – The destination is most known for the architectural marvel of Machu Picchu, offering a glimpse into Incan history in a stunning landscape. Whether you opt to visit this World Heritage site by train or by trekking the Inca Trail, it’s a must as part of your visit to Peru. Culture is alive and well, and history is evident in the many ruins and archaeological sites. Nature, adventure, and gastronomy can also be highlights of your trip.
Galápagos, Ecuador – We work primarily with small, luxury vessels for the ultimate in comfort, service, and immersive experience. The quality of guides is key in this unique destination, and the boutique vessels emphasize small group touring experiences for the maximum level of engagement and experiential value.
Peru – A variety of accommodation is available, from larger city-center chain hotels to boutique inns that exude culture and charm. Our style of traveler generally prefers the more unique and local experiences in order to truly engage with the destination.
Your Travel Designer will talk with you about your priorities and amenities you wish to have available at your accommodation.
Passports & Visas
We suggest your passport be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Visas are not mandatory for US Citizens staying 90 days or less (Ecuador) or 30 days or less (Peru). When arriving into Peru, be sure that Immigration (Migraciones) records your entry by stamping your passport, as an entry record is required to exit the country.
For more information on entry/exit requirements and the most current visa information, visit the US State Department (International Travel).
Language
Spanish is the official language of both Ecuador and Peru. In Ecuador, there are also 10 Indian languages spoken. In Peru, 47 indigenous languages are also spoken in the country.
Tipping
Galápagos, Ecuador – Tipping on a Galápagos cruise is appreciated as a reward for a high level of service, and gratuities are shared amongst the entire crew and naturalist guides. A suggested amount is around USD$300-$350 per person per week on a luxury vessel, and around USD$250-$300 for a first-class vessel.
Peru – Tipping is customary for great service. While there isn’t a set amount, a good guideline is approximately $15-20 per day for a guide and approximately $5 per person per day for a driver. Small gifts from home are also a nice gesture.
Power Adapter
Galápagos, Ecuador – Most yachts have the same voltage and plugs as mainland Ecuador, which is 110 volt, 60Hz, with two flat prongs like in the US. Yacht plugs may vary, depending on where the ship was built, so your Travel Designer will provide you with information prior to your trip.
Peru – The electrical current in Peru is 220 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are typically either two small round prongs (Type C plug), or two flat prongs like in the US. If your appliances or devices are 110V and do not have a voltage range capacity, you will also need a voltage converter.
Currency
Ecuador – The country adopted the US dollar as its official currency in 1999, although you may still find local coins circulating. When traveling to the Galápagos, it is best to bring some cash with you for local purchases, tips, etc. Many Galápagos shops do not accept credit cards, and ATMs in the main towns aren’t always working. Credit cards (MasterCard and Visa) are typically accepted on board the vessels.
Peru – The Peruvian unit of currency is the Sol (S/), with bills (soles) and coins. US dollars are also widely accepted at tourist-oriented businesses, and it’s best to carry smaller denominations in good condition. Cash can be exchanged at authorized exchange houses, hotels and banks. We suggest not using the street “cambistas” to exchange currencies. ATMs are available in the main cities for withdrawing Soles and US Dollars.
Small bills are suggested for smaller purchases. Larger bills can be used for gratuities. Make sure you notify your bank of your travel plans, and understand the fees that your bank charges for withdrawals from a non-network ATM.
For more in-depth details on travel to the Galápagos and Peru and, you may want to visit the tourism websites for each country: Ecuador Information and Peru Information.
Peru – Due to the high altitude in the Peruvian Andes (over 11,000 feet in Cusco), travelers should check with a physician for advice and recommendations. Acclimatization and rest time are suggested on arrival. A yellow fever vaccination is typically recommended only for visitors to the Amazon jungle (at least 10 days prior to arrival). Bottled water is suggested.
For more information on health and medical recommendations for travelers, visit the US State Department (Health Abroad) and the CDC (Travelers’ Health).
Galápagos, Ecuador – The Galápagos Islands are ideal year-round, with generally warm and sunny weather. December through May is the sunniest time of the year, with warmer air and water temperatures. As a tropical region, there is also a greater chance of rain at this time of year. Most clients find this to the ideal time to visit the Galapagos Islands, since the pleasant temperatures make it ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. The weather is a bit cooler and drier from June through November, the “garua” season, with colder water temperatures and often a light mist settled around the islands. This time of year features some extra special wildlife encounters, including playful sea lion pups and mating season for the blue-footed boobies.
Peru – May through October is the best time to visit Peru, especially if you plan on trekking. Sunny days and bright blue skies await during this peak season. For a combination trip with the Galápagos, you could also consider November and December. The wet season from January through April is not recommended.
Flights – The international gateway cities are Guayaquil or Quito (Ecuador) and Lima (Peru). There are non-stop flight options available from several major US international airports to those gateway cities. Internal flights are required for travel between countries, to/from the Galápagos, and within Peru. Our Travel Designers are experts on international and local flights and can coordinate all logistics.
Ground Transfers & Taxis – We will schedule private transfers between airports and hotels, and all touring will include pick-up and drop-off service. When taking a taxi in a city, is best to have a hotel or restaurant summon one for you to ensure that you get an official, metered taxi.
Trains (Peru) – Travel between Cusco or Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu by train is a highlight that we typically include in custom Peru itineraries. For the ultimate in luxury, we suggest the Belmond Hiram Bingham train with gourmet dining, cocktails, entertainment and touring.
Galápagos, Ecuador – This magnificent archipelago is all about wildlife! On a boutique cruise around the islands, you’ll have an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna from an expert naturalist. Highlights include the giant tortoises, iguanas, sea lions, Sally light-foot crabs, finches, various boobies, albatross, penguins and more. While hiking is part of every itinerary, select ships offer activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding and even cold-water scuba diving. If any of these activities are a priority, your Travel Designer will help you select the best itinerary.
Peru – The destination is most known for the architectural marvel of Machu Picchu, offering a glimpse into Incan history in a stunning landscape. Whether you opt to visit this World Heritage site by train or by trekking the Inca Trail, it’s a must as part of your visit to Peru. Culture is alive and well, and history is evident in the many ruins and archaeological sites. Nature, adventure, and gastronomy can also be highlights of your trip.
Galápagos, Ecuador – We work primarily with small, luxury vessels for the ultimate in comfort, service, and immersive experience. The quality of guides is key in this unique destination, and the boutique vessels emphasize small group touring experiences for the maximum level of engagement and experiential value.
Peru – A variety of accommodation is available, from larger city-center chain hotels to boutique inns that exude culture and charm. Our style of traveler generally prefers the more unique and local experiences in order to truly engage with the destination.
Your Travel Designer will talk with you about your priorities and amenities you wish to have available at your accommodation.
Passports & Visas
We suggest your passport be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Visas are not mandatory for US Citizens staying 90 days or less (Ecuador) or 30 days or less (Peru). When arriving into Peru, be sure that Immigration (Migraciones) records your entry by stamping your passport, as an entry record is required to exit the country.
For more information on entry/exit requirements and the most current visa information, visit the US State Department (International Travel).
Language
Spanish is the official language of both Ecuador and Peru. In Ecuador, there are also 10 Indian languages spoken. In Peru, 47 indigenous languages are also spoken in the country.
Tipping
Galápagos, Ecuador – Tipping on a Galápagos cruise is appreciated as a reward for a high level of service, and gratuities are shared amongst the entire crew and naturalist guides. A suggested amount is around USD$300-$350 per person per week on a luxury vessel, and around USD$250-$300 for a first-class vessel.
Peru – Tipping is customary for great service. While there isn’t a set amount, a good guideline is approximately $15-20 per day for a guide and approximately $5 per person per day for a driver. Small gifts from home are also a nice gesture.
Power Adapter
Galápagos, Ecuador – Most yachts have the same voltage and plugs as mainland Ecuador, which is 110 volt, 60Hz, with two flat prongs like in the US. Yacht plugs may vary, depending on where the ship was built, so your Travel Designer will provide you with information prior to your trip.
Peru – The electrical current in Peru is 220 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are typically either two small round prongs (Type C plug), or two flat prongs like in the US. If your appliances or devices are 110V and do not have a voltage range capacity, you will also need a voltage converter.
Currency
Ecuador – The country adopted the US dollar as its official currency in 1999, although you may still find local coins circulating. When traveling to the Galápagos, it is best to bring some cash with you for local purchases, tips, etc. Many Galápagos shops do not accept credit cards, and ATMs in the main towns aren’t always working. Credit cards (MasterCard and Visa) are typically accepted on board the vessels.
Peru – The Peruvian unit of currency is the Sol (S/), with bills (soles) and coins. US dollars are also widely accepted at tourist-oriented businesses, and it’s best to carry smaller denominations in good condition. Cash can be exchanged at authorized exchange houses, hotels and banks. We suggest not using the street “cambistas” to exchange currencies. ATMs are available in the main cities for withdrawing Soles and US Dollars.
Small bills are suggested for smaller purchases. Larger bills can be used for gratuities. Make sure you notify your bank of your travel plans, and understand the fees that your bank charges for withdrawals from a non-network ATM.
For more in-depth details on travel to the Galápagos and Peru and, you may want to visit the tourism websites for each country: Ecuador Information and Peru Information.
Peru – Due to the high altitude in the Peruvian Andes (over 11,000 feet in Cusco), travelers should check with a physician for advice and recommendations. Acclimatization and rest time are suggested on arrival. A yellow fever vaccination is typically recommended only for visitors to the Amazon jungle (at least 10 days prior to arrival). Bottled water is suggested.
For more information on health and medical recommendations for travelers, visit the US State Department (Health Abroad) and the CDC (Travelers’ Health).
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