Take Me to Machu Picchu

You’re invited to this Purdue-exclusive tour of Peru and Ecuador, which includes an exploration of two of South America’s greatest treasures—the enigmatic ruins at Machu Picchu and the fascinating Galápagos Islands.

Start Your Journey

CITY OF KINGS

Stroll through the Peruvian capital of Lima and enjoy one-of-a-kind cuisine, gorgeous coastal views, and outstanding museums, including the MALI art museum, which houses more than 1,200 pieces of art spanning 3,000 years.

THE LOST CITY
OF THE INCAS

The mysterious Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, with its massive agricultural terraces, intricate stone constructions, and incredible hilltop views, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Experience Peruvian culture and gastronomy at your leisure and absorb the beauty of this impressive site.

SACRED VALLEY

Step back in time and journey through the Sacred Valley, a region of Incan sites and Indigenous villages. Visit the colorful Indian market of Pisac, explore Ollantaytambo—both a living town and site of massive Incan ruins—and stop by the Incan farming town of Chinchero, where residents live much as their ancestors did.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL HUB

Known for its Incan and Spanish colonial heritage, Cuzco is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Stop at the important site of Koricancha, dedicated to the Inca sun god—Inti—and visit the ruins of Sacsayhuamán fortress, a masterpiece of Incan architecture.

MIDDLE OF THE WORLD

Nestled in the Andes foothills, Quito, the capital of Ecuador, boasts a well-preserved historic center ready to explore. Stand at the equatorial line at the Middle of the World Monument, visit Quito Botanical Gardens—featuring an orchidarium with more than 1,200 species of orchids—and shop at Iñaquito Market, a colorful riot of fresh produce and spices.

WONDROUS WILDLIFE

Immerse yourself in nature at Galápagos National Park. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see and learn about the giant Galápagos tortoises, then board our private chartered yacht for excursions to islands with colorful flora and abundant wildlife, including marine iguanas, bright orange Sally Lightfoot crabs, red-billed tropic birds, Nazca and blue-footed boobies, and a male colony of sea lions.