Planning a Romantic Two-Week Trip to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands

Combine these two destinations by flying into Lima, spending 4 days in the Cusco/Machu Picchu region, and then flying to the Galapagos via Quito or Guayaquil for a 7-day cruise. You must book your Galapagos boat and Machu Picchu train tickets at least 6 months in advance to ensure you have a private cabin and preferred time slots.

1. Book the Galapagos Cruise first. Do not piece this together independently. Book a 7-day small-ship expedition cruise. This covers your transport between islands, food, and expert guides, which is essential for a stress-free romantic trip.
2. Secure Machu Picchu entry and train tickets. Purchase your 'Circuito 2' entry tickets for Machu Picchu and your Vistadome train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes at least 4 months early. These sell out fast.
3. Align your international flights. Book a multi-city ticket: Home to Lima (LIM), then Lima to Cusco (CUZ), then Cusco to Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE), and finally back home. Allow at least one full day of transition in Lima or Quito to account for potential flight delays.
4. Manage altitude acclimation. Plan to stay in the Sacred Valley (lower elevation than Cusco) for your first two nights in Peru to prevent altitude sickness from ruining your romantic itinerary.

Should I book a cruise or island-hop?

For a romantic trip, a cruise is vastly superior. It saves you from the stress of daily logistics, luggage hauling, and unpredictable ferry schedules.

Is the altitude in Cusco dangerous?

Most people handle it fine with one or two days of rest. If you have concerns, consult your doctor about Diamox before you leave.