HX Expeditions

Galápagos Islands cruise | In Darwin’s Footsteps Plus Machu Picchu

Visit magnificent Machu Picchu and the UNESCO-protected Galápagos Islands, discovering their unique wildlife, flora and fauna on this land and sea adventure combination.

Join us on a journey of ecological discovery as we travel in Charles Darwin's footsteps, seeing the natural wonders that so inspired him.

Explore the islands of San Cristóbal Sante Fe, Santa Cruz and Española, and spend two nights in Quito, one of South America's most charming cities.

South American land adventure

The first part of our adventure takes place on land. Setting off from Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, we’ll fly to Cusco, the ancient center of the Inca empire, and travel up the Sacred Valley on a luxury train to the fabled mountain citadel of Machu Picchu. Visit a traditional Andean community where ancestral traditions live on before heading back to Cusco and discovering its many cultural and architectural wonders. We then fly to charming Quito in Ecuador – the ‘City of Eternal Spring’.

Awe inspiring Galápagos Islands

After exploring Quito´s historic center and visiting the Equator, we’ll head to the Galápagos Islands for an unforgettable sea adventure. We’ll be on the lookout for iconic animals such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Blue-footed Boobies. On this active cruise, and with an onboard Expedition Team of local guides, you'll get closer to the many natural wonders in our small panga boats, kayaks and glass-bottom boat.  

Join us on an unforgettable journey from Vancouver to Seward through Alaska’s wild fjords. Sail the Inside Passage and Prince William Sound, where towering mountains, icy glaciers, and deep fjords frame encounters with whales, orcas, bears, and moose. Along the way, explore vibrant coastal communities shaped by Łingít, Haida, and Chugach heritage, as well as Russian and Nordic influences, with time to walk, sail, and kayak through Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness.

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Epic natural beauty

You will sail north from Nuuk through the cold blue waters of west Greenland. You’ll witness phenomenal scenery as we sail past icy mountains, into deep fjords and past jaw-dropping glaciers. As you reach Disko Bay, you’ll gaze at the immense icebergs and seemingly endless stretches of wilderness. The icing on the cake is the Ilulissat Icefjord, a natural wonder of aching beauty.  

Active adventure in Greenland  

Discover a blend of the modern and traditional as you visit communities living on the edge of a frozen world and learn about the history and culture of Kalaallit Nunaat. Join the Expedition Team as they deliver a series of fascinating lectures and take you small boat cruising and on nature walks. The expedition element means you can be flexible and seek out the best places for wildlife and landings.  

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Setting out from beautiful Quito

Quito is one of South America’s most alluring capitals and a World Heritage City of graceful Spanish-era architecture, packed with cosy restaurants and artisanal shops. With two overnights here, you’ll have time to taste delicious Ecuadorian specialties and stroll through colorful markets brimming with local handicrafts. On the second day, you’ll visit Quito´s historic centre on a guided tour.  

Awe inspiring Galápagos Islands

After exploring Quito´s historic centre and visiting the Equator, we’ll head to the Galápagos Islands for an unforgettable sea adventure. We’ll be on the lookout for iconic animals such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Blue-footed Boobies. On this active cruise, and with an onboard Expedition Team of local guides, you'll get closer to the many natural wonders in our small expedition boats, kayaks and glass-bottom boat.

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