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20 Day Avalon Waterways River Cruise from Lima to Quito 2026(WAMY)
From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon with the Nazca Lines & Galápagos Cruise
Starting from $15,899
Ship(s): Delfin III, MS Infinity
River Cruise Description
Experience the fascinating Nazca Lines, archaeological treasures, and gastronomic delights of Peru, with the untamed rainforest of the Amazon, on this thrilling river cruise adventure that offers a little something for everyone!Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Lima with a guided sightseeing tour, a visit to the Larco Herrera Museum, and a special welcome dinner in an ornate family-owned mansion. Fly to Cusco and descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas for guided tours of the ceremonial site of Kenko, where ancient rituals were performed, and the Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Of course, no vacation to Peru is complete without visiting astonishing Machu Picchu, built around 1450, and sitting majestically above the Sacred Valley. Stand in awe as you witness one of the most majestic images in South America, if not the entire world! Next, you'll embark on a journey to one of the world's vastly unexplored regions where biodiversity is at its greatest-the mighty Amazon. Board one of the world's most luxurious small ships, the Delfin III, and enjoy fine wine, famous Peruvian cuisine, and all-inclusive comfort while venturing deep into the Amazon jungle in search of elusive wildlife. Take naturalist-guided panga rides through the river tributaries, swim with pink dolphins, and visit native communities-all while returning to your plush five-star yacht.Your unforgettable trip to Peru is not complete without seeing the Nazca Lines. When seen from the air, the lines form precise geometric shapes that number in the hundreds, as well as 70 figures, which include a monkey, whale, hummingbird, shark, spiders, and plants. Archaeologists remain puzzled about why the ancient Nazca people, who thrived here from 200 BC to 500 AD, created illustrations that could only be seen from far above the earth.Before this cruise adventure is complete, you'll get a chance to explore the beautiful Galápagos Islands onboard the 20-passenger MS Infinity yacht! Have your camera ready as your Naturalist points out colonies of sea lions, pelicans, albatross, marine iguanas, flamingos, blue-footed boobies, short-eared owls, and other birds. You'll also have a chance to snorkel in the tropical waters and perhaps get a look at sea turtles, sharks, and rays. A perfect ending to this trip of a lifetime!Thanks for your interest!
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I'm sorry, but an error has occurred. Try Again| Departure Date | Ship | Priced From (per person) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 2, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $16,099 | Call Us! |
| Apr 10, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $15,949 | Call Us! |
| May 8, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $15,949 | Call Us! |
| May 22, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $15,949 | Call Us! |
| Jun 5, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $15,899 | Call Us! |
| Oct 9, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $15,949 | Call Us! |
| Oct 23, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $15,949 | Call Us! |
| Nov 6, 2026 | Delfin III, MS Infinity | $15,899 | Call Us! |
Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. There are 3 types of included shore excursion on every Europe cruise:
Classic
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You'll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
Discovery
We've found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests — from cooking classes, to painting workshops — to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
Active
Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go — from a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam, to biking, paddling, and hiking your way through scenic locales.
- Plus independent exploration options and use of Avalon's exclusive AvalonGO APP.
River Cruise Itinerary
Day 1 ARRIVE IN LIMA, PERU
Welcome to Peru! Meet your Local Guide.Day 2 LIMA–PISCO–PARACAS & NAZCA LINES
Mysterious Signs
Drive south along the scenic Pan-American Highway to Pisco, the wine capital of Peru, and take a guided two-hour flight over the Nazca Lines—a series of drawings of animals and geometric figures etched into the parched soil—some up to 1,000 feet long—believed by some to be the astronomical calendar of the ancient Peruvians. (B,D)
Day 3 PARACAS–BALLESTAS ISLAND CRUISE–LIMA
Exotic Life
This morning, head to the Bay of Paracas and take a cruise to the Ballestas Islands—home to a wide variety of sea mammals and exotic birds. See the huge Candelabro, a candelabra-shaped etching on the Paracas cliffside. Later, return to Lima where you will have free time to explore the fascinating Peruvian capital – where high-rises tower above ancient temples and colorful colonial architecture. (B)
Day 4 LIMA
Peruvian Treasures, Presidential Palaces, and Pizarro’s Conquests
Classic
Take a Guided Walking Tour of Lima to see the colonial Old Quarter, Plaza de Armas, the presidential Government Palace, and the Lima Cathedral. Visit San Francisco Monastery to see the famous catacombs followed by the Larco Herrera Museum—with the world’s largest private collection of pre-Columbian Peruvian art.
Discovery
Later, enjoy a Culinary Experience with an authentic Peruvian welcome dinner in the exquisite, historic mansion—Casa Garcia Alvarado.
(B,D)
Day 5 SACRED VALLEY
Alpacas, Llamas, and Ancient Rituals of the Andes
Classic
Fly to Cusco, the ancient Andean city and former capital of the Inca Empire. A Guided Excursion into the Sacred Valley reveals the hillside Temple of Sacsayhuaman. Marvel at the remarkable Inca stonework of this 15th-century fortress that was once the site of the largest battle between the Incas and the Spanish. The Spanish were ultimately victorious in 1536, disassembling part of the site to build homes in Cusco and leaving behind the ruins we find today. You will also see the Inca military post of Puca Pucara and visit the ceremonial site of Kenko where ancient Peruvian rituals and sacrifices were performed.
Discovery
Enjoy an encounter with llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos and learn about their vital role in Peruvian culture. Continue to the old mountain village of Pisaq. Take time to shop in the large indigenous Quechua community market for treasures such as alpaca sweaters, woven blankets, and handmade jewelry.
(B,L,D)
Day 6 SACRED VALLEY
Stone Temples and Formidable Fortresses
Classic
Join a Guided Tour of the adobe village of Ollantaytambo this morning to visit the ruins of an Inca fortress. See the massive stones and amazing engineering design, including the Sun Temple and Princess Baths fountain.
Discovery
Join an Escorted Visit to a native Incan home to experience the way of life that has endured since the 13th century.
MACHU PICCHU
Andean Heights and Hidden Secrets of the Inca’s Lost City
Classic
Join a Guided Excursion aboard the 360° Machu Picchu Train boasting spectacular panoramic views of the lush countryside of Urubamba Valley from its panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage. Travel by rail to Aguas Calientes to take the winding road to legendary Machu Picchu.
Active
Take a Guided Walk to explore the “Lost City of the Incas” high atop the Andes once overlaid with dense forest. Learn about the lives and mysteries still hidden in this ancient citadel and the amazing structures built by the pre-Columbian masters of this sacred land.
Discovery
Enjoy your overnight stay at the foot of the mountain where Machu Picchu is found with a gourmet Peruvian dinner.
(B,D)
Day 7 MACHU PICCHU
A Miraculous Sanctuary in a Tropical Mountain Cloud Forest
Classic
Take a second included Guided Excursion to Machu Picchu. Set out early to see the sunrise over the ruins, explore the terraces or perhaps venture up to see the Sun Gate, once used as the ancient entrance to the Sanctuary.
(B,L)
Day 8 CUSCO
Conquistadors, Churches, and the Colorful Culture of Peru
Classic
Take a Guided Walking Tour of Cusco and learn about the Inca culture and the Spanish invasion that threatened their way of life and very existence. Visit Santo Domingo Monastery, originally called Koricancha and built by the Incas as a Temple of the Sun with extraordinary engineering and masonry design. Continue to the Plaza de Armas to visit the Cusco Cathedral.
Discovery
Tonight, an elegant dinner includes wine and a menu inspired by Peru’s eclectic mix of cultures.
(B,D)
Day 9 CUSCO–LIMA–IQUITOS–NAUTA–PERUVIAN AMAZON RIVER (EMBARKATION)
Your Amazon Adventure Begins
Classic
Today, you’ll travel by air to Lima and then on to Iquitos to begin your Amazon journey.
Discovery
Attend an onboard Welcome Reception to gain an overview of your upcoming Amazon experience. Your Naturalist Guide will offer information about the animal species of the Amazon ecosystem, the native villagers you’ll meet, and the spectacular plant life that thrives in this astonishing environment. See the two powerful Amazon tributaries—the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers—which converge to create the mighty Peruvian Amazon.
(B,L,D)
Day 10 PERUVIAN AMAZON
Spider Monkeys, Pink Dolphins, and Peru’s Favorite Cocktail
Classic
Rise early this morning for your first glimpse of the majestic Amazon at sunrise to experience the sights and sounds. After breakfast, take a Guided Panga Ride down one of the Amazon’s tributaries in search of the incredible wildlife. Your Naturalist Guide helps to spot capuchin, howler, tamarin, and spider monkeys, as well as iguanas, sloths, freshwater pink dolphins, and a stunning array of birdlife. Watch for the extraordinary giant Amazonian water lily.
Classic
This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve allows you to witness the activity of exotic birds, including trogons, macaws, parrots, falcons, and jacamars.
Active
Take a refreshing Swim in this unique area of the Amazon—with the chance to encounter the Amazon’s amazing pink dolphins.
Discovery
Join in an onboard Cooking Class to learn about native fruits, vegetables, and fish. You’ll learn about local ingredients for delicious recipes. In the evening, enjoy a Mixology Lesson to create Peru’s famous cocktail, the Pisco Sour.
(B,L,D)
Day 11 PERUVIAN AMAZON
Exotic Birds, Night Creatures, and Natural Remedies
Active
Join a morning Naturalist Guided Walk to explore tropical flora, including epiphytes, orchids, and indigenous jungle vegetation below the rainforest’s canopy.
Discovery
Attend an onboard Nature Presentation about indigenous and medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetation used in the Amazonian culture for centuries.
Classic
This afternoon, a Guided Excursion to the Amazon community of San Francisco introduces you to local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations.
Active
Join a Night Safari Excursion to spot nocturnal creatures, including caiman, frogs, bats, and boa constrictors.
Discovery
Later tonight, enjoy Live Entertainment by the Delfin III crew of local performers to celebrate your Amazon adventure with music and dance.
(B,L,D)
Day 12 IQUITOS (DISEMBARKATION)
A Manatee Introduction and an Amazon Farewell
Discovery
This morning, disembark and bid your ship’s crew farewell. On the way to Iquitos, join an Escorted Visit to the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Center to learn about these endangered Amazon species and the conservation efforts to save the gentle giants before flying to Lima.
(B)
Day 13 LIMA–QUITO
Adios, Lima!Fly from Lima to Quito. Take free time today to relax and prepare for your upcoming Galápagos adventure, or walk through the historic city to sample ceviche or helado (Latin-American ice cream). Dine out tonight or ask about the best clubs for music and dancing.(B)
Day 14 QUITO
A Gold Altar, Artistic Avenues, and Two Hemispheres in One Day
Discovery
Travel through the Tandayapa Valley to the Andean Chocó cloud forest and nature reserve. The Alambi Reserve, renowned for bird watching, is home to more than 250 species of birds, including 30 different hummingbirds. While here, visit the hummingbird garden to observe these characteristic birds in their natural habitat.
Classic
Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Quito that showcases the colonial city’s historic sites, including the impressive Legislative Palace with its enormous, sculpted mural of Ecuadorean history. You’ll also see Independence Plaza and visit the 16th-century San Francisco Monastery, and La Compañía Church—the exquisite Jesuit cathedral with its spectacular Spanish baroque architecture—more than 160 years in the making.
Discovery
Take a Guided Walk down Calle La Ronda—one of Quito’s oldest streets—with a wealth of artist’s workshops and galleries where you’ll meet local artists and learn about their original works. Later, visit a local chocolate factory for a tour and a tasting to discover why Ecuador is one of the world’s finest chocolate producers.
Classic
Your day in Quito ends with a Guided Excursion to the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo—a monument to the Equator—the “middle of the world.” Stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time at the exact location of the Earth’s Equator. Observe the equatorial effects of the dual-spiraling directions of water and balancing eggs on end.
(B,D)
Day 15 BALTRA–GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (EMBARKATION)–SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
The Theory of Evolution—and Giant Babies
This morning, take a flight to the Galápagos Island of Baltra where you’ll embark on your five-day cruise aboard the luxurious MS Infinity yacht.Discovery
Join your naturalist on a Guided Excursion on Santa Cruz Island to visit the El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve, a unique natural reserve where you can observe the giant turtles and dozens of bird species.
The ship is expedition-style designed for open water cruising, however, the itinerary is subject to changes based on open-water conditions, weather, seasonal currents and Galápagos National Park policies and regulations.
(B,L,D)
Day 16 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Marine Life, and Lunar Landscapes
Active
This morning, visit one of the newest visitor sites accessible to tourists in the Galápagos Islands, Dragon Hill. Walk along the beach and trails to a lagoon where bright flamingos, pintail ducks, and land iguanas can be spotted. This afternoon, travel to the north shore of Santa Cruz for Bachas Beach.
Discovery
Explore Bachas Beach, named for some wrecked World War II barges whose ribs are still visible in the sand. This site offers great swimming, a lovely walk along the shore, and a visit to a lagoon with wading birds, marine iguanas, and sometimes flamingos. The area is also a frequent nesting site for sea turtles.
(B,L,D)
Day 17 FLOREANA ISLAND
Pink Flamingos, Gliding Rays, and a Message in a Barrel
Classic
Visit Floreana Island, home to the first “post office” in the islands. Visit the spot where 18th century whalers placed a wooden barrel used as an unofficial mailbox. The custom continues to this day with Galápagos visitors, so, don’t forget your postcards, and don’t be surprised if the post card arrives to its destination before you even get home!
Active
Enjoy free time at the sandy beach of Post Office Bay for swimming and snorkeling. See Green Sea Turtles, reef fish, and rays gliding in the shallow shoreline waters.
Discovery
Take a Guided Walk on Green Beach, so called due to its green color, which comes from a high percentage of olivine crystals in the sand, and the Flour Sand Beach is composed of white coral. See flamingos, flycatchers, finches, and more!
(B,L,D)
Day 18 ESPAÑOLA ISLAND
Diverse Life In and Out of the Water
Active
This morning, your Naturalist Guide takes you to the sheer cliffs of Punta Suárez to witness the spectacular spray from an ocean blowhole. Watch for the blue-footed and Nazca boobies, and other remarkable bird species, including the waved albatross. The island is the breeding site of nearly all of the world’s waved albatrosses! Be on the lookout for the male Christmas iguana that turns red and green during mating season.
Classic
Take a Guided Excursion with your expert Naturalist to explore the southeastern part of the archipelago. Visit the glistening white coral beaches of Gardner Bay to see Galápagos sea lions, marine iguanas, seabirds, and hawks. Watch for three species of Darwin finches—a hallmark of his research.
Discovery
Enjoy a prime snorkeling and swimming spot in Gardner Bay’s pristine waters. Spot a kaleidoscope of multi-colored reef fish, reef sharks, playful sea lions, and the amazing Green Sea Turtles.
(B,L,D)
Day 19 GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS (DISEMBARKATION)–SAN CRISTOBAL–QUITO
The Geological Genesis of a Magical Archipelago
Discovery
This morning, cruise to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for a Naturalist Guided Tour of the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. You’ll learn about the Galápagos’ fascinating volcanic origins, remote location, climate, and the arrival of diverse species that inspire both imagination and science.
(B)
Day 20 QUITO
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.(B)
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