TRAVELER REVIEWS

There's no better way to learn what a trip is like than from the firsthand experiences of your fellow travelers, and our Traveler Reviews are the real deal—unbiased and unedited—giving you an honest appraisal of the experiences that await you on this trip.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

We scheduled this trip so that we would be with a specific tour guide whom we had traveled with last year... we were not disappointed. Enrique has such a love for his country and all the areas where we traveled and it comes through as he guided us along. Additionally, his knowledge of the places we visited is unbelievable. We went on the pre-trip to see the Nazca lines and feel sorry for those people who chose not to go. Starting with a fantastic lunch at an archaeological site in Lima then the hotel accommodations and the flight over the Nazca lines itself, we could not have enjoyed ourselves more. Just part of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that we had on this trip. Macchu Picchu, Cusco, and Galapagos all lived up to our expectations. I highly recommend this trip and are so glad we were able to again have Enrique as a guide.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

Leylys, our native Peruvian Tour Director, made this trip more than ever imagined due to his extensive knowledge of history, sharing his ancestry, his knowledge of ancient and current religion, his local friends and creating advantages that one receives from sharing an experience with a true local! Leylys handled everything from the many "Surprises" and "Vantage Advantages" to helping those with sickness, to suggesting great, safe places to dine! This trip with our grandsons was truly a lifelong memory maker! We were so excited to ride in the TukTuks, feed the llamas, visit with the native healer, go to the local food market, etc. Leylys provided so many once-in-a-lifetime additions to this trip! It was outstanding!!

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

This was truly a trip of a lifetime! Magnificent wonders, man made and natural, in two exciting, vibrant, welcoming countries. From booking to return home, Vantage provided a superb experience that was truly an "advantage" when compared with other tour options. The biggest contribution to the success of this trip was our program director, Leyles, who tirelessly worked to ensure our fabulous experience for us all while conveying his deep love of Peru and Ecuador. Don't put this vacation off - it is a physical one but worth every muscle!

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

Only do this trip if Enrique Virto is the program manager. He is the best we have seen in the 9 Vantage trips we have gone on. Very simply he cares . So knowledgeable. Pays attention to detail. So organized. Simply the best. Vantage is lucky to have him.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

A great adventure exploring the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco with it's rich Inca and colonial history. Then on to the beautiful city of Quito and the totally unique Galapagos Islands. The accommodations were very good and our trip director - Jesus Galimberti Valencia was truly outstanding. Highly Recommended!

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

We really enjoyed our travel director Enrique he was very knowledgeable and FUN, we also had a great group of travel companions and some good weather. All of the places we visited were incredible, really beyond that and Enrique helped us appreciate the history and the beauty. Our experience in the Galápagos with the Santa Cruz 2 was incredible, our expedition guide David was wonderful, lots of knowledge and fun

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

This was a very good trip. A very workable South America 101. I won't rhapsodize about the venues, all were terrific. But i will express my extraordinary appreciation for our guide. Leylys Gutierrez. He is a gem. His love of his country, his engaging personality, his organization, and his concern for his "explorers" is supreme. I say all this as a person who has been to SA before, and is at 72 on the Century List (11 trips with Vantage). If you have any sense of adventure and fun, you should love this trip. I hope Leylys is your guide.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

Leylys Gutierrez was an excellent, excellent, group leader for this amazing trip to Peru and Ecuador, Machu Picchu & The Galapagos. This was our sixth trip with Vantage, the group leaders just keep getting better, and that is hard to do. We also did the pre-trip to the Amazon, well worth the add on, the trip just kept getting better. Five star, everything was more than we expected and far excellent our desires.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

This was an amazing trip. So much more than we anticipated. Well planned and executed. If we thought there was a problem, in reality there was no problem. That's because our tour director was that good. He made sure that everything was done to perfection. Excellent, excellent, excellent!

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

Enrique is an excellent guide and made us love Peru. Most memorable were the special local examples of enduring culture: the shaman ceremony, the visit to the very old Cusco home with the guinea pigs scurrying around the floor and the corn beer brewery. We were happy to get to see Lima and the Largo museum and think that would have been a great first day or 2 stop. WHen the national museum in Quito opens again you might consider this instead of the national park expedition which was so high people were having trouble with the altitude-more so than with Macchi Picchu.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

Enrique Virto is a pro. He made our trip excellent.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

excellent trip, well planned, all employees were gracious and helpful. Jesus Galimberti was knowledgable, caring, considerate, and funny, absolutely the best guide ever

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

This is a trip that my wife and I would do again. Because of the quality of this trip we booked our third Vantage trip. The group was small and everyone celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary. On the actual day we,were standing in Machu Pichu. Wonderful. We made more cultural connections than we ever have because of the excellent planning by our trip advisor.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

This is a trip that my wife and I would do again. Because of the quality of this trip we booked our third Vantage trip. The group was small and everyone celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary. On the actual day we,were standing in Machu Pichu. Wonderful. We made more cultural connections than we ever have because of the excellent planning by our trip advisor.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

Great trip, well organized. Felt like you got to see the country in depth including the culture.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

Excellent trip. Expect to be active. The tour director and the local guides were all excellent. Well organized tour. We also did the pre trip to Iquitos and it was excellent. Tour guide was excellent also. Food through out the trip was good, accommodations - good. Looking forward to more trips with Vantage.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

The highlights, Machu Picchu & the Galapogos, were splendid. But the people of Peru left footprints on my heart forever. Definitely a trip that you want to add to our bucket list.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

This adventure trip was absolutely fantastic, though not for the faint hearted. Some of the walks in both Machu Picchu and the Galápagos were hard going, especially in M P where there were many uneven steps and few railings. A walking stick is essential for even mild strength or balance problems. The tour manager, Enrique Virto is also fantastic and will insure that you get the most from the trip.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

We have just returned from a pretty wonderful tour of Peru & Ecuador which included Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands We completed the post trip survey but wanted to call your attention to several aspects of this trip which were outstanding.

First, the bookings at all three of the Casa Andina properties exceeded every expectation. Each property was attractive, well cared for, clean, comfortable and both the house and dining room staffs at each location were expertly trained. Each of the three properties were distinctive by design and fabulously located. Congratulations on their inclusion in this trip — we loved them.

Secondly, our local guide while in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, Aurelio, was beyond marvelous. His gentle way and sensitivity to his culture and people represents the very best in a travel professional. We understood this was the first time he has worked with our tour director, Roberto Rocafort, and we have to let you know that he enhanced every moment of every day that he was with us. I would return to Cusco and Peru just to be on a tour with him again, he was that good.

Finally, we cannot say enough about our tour directory, Roberto Rocafort. As you must know, Roberto is a knowledgeable, seasoned and consummate travel professional. But his kindness and caring about the people of our group, as well as the quiet and assured way he handled every detail, and with soft humor, makes him stand above the excellent professionals that choose to associate with your company. We cannot say enough good things about him. In fact, we have booked at 2017 trip to Cuba, on his recommendation, in order to travel specifically with him again. And we will be looking at other tours which he might lead in the year following. We enjoyed his stewardship immensely.

As mentioned in the survey, we appreciate the attention to detail that your team puts into the itineraries and pacing of Vantage tours. We traveled to China several years ago, and were sheparded by Jonathan Geng (an unforgettable and delightful trip, again mostly because Jonathan was an amazing tour leader), and really didn't think that trip could be topped. Machu Picchu and the Galapagos was an amazing and delightful trip all the way around. Our pre-trip to the Amazon was the perfect way to begin the adventure, getting to know some of our travelers, and again being led by local director, Ari, whose deep love of his job and home were obvious. We loved Cieba Tops Lodge.

We were happy to submit a glowing survey of all aspects of our trip. And we are very much looking forward to traveling to Cuba with Roberto this time next year. Please pass our sincere thanks to everyone at the home office who work so hard to see to all the flight, lodging, meals, cultural connections, and countless other details. We travelers notice the hard work and count on you all of the VERY BEST in travel experiences. Congratulations on a job well done!!

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

Exceptional trip for 8 of us! Great guides. Every day was action packed, but well planned. As 40 somethings we were pleased that the activities were not just for the retired folks. Our guide "Jesus" & "Percy" made sure each person was happy. They left no one behind. The Rosadex Rose Plantation tour was a highlight. Loved Machu Picchu and the history. The animals in the Galapagos were just amazing. We will do this trip again! FYI- the ship is not an American Cruise ship.... its a large ship not an all night dance club and or casino. UNESCO trip that we will never forget!

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

Really one of the most unique two ares in the world!!! Both Machu Picchu &other Galapagos are once in a lifetime experience. Very well done also by Vantage.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

This tour should be on the top of every adventure seeking tourists bucket list. The Amazon pre-extension was excellent and not to be missed. WARNING! This is not a relaxing vacation but an expedition.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

This tour should be on the top of every adventure seeking tourists bucket list. The Amazon pre-extension was excellent and not to be missed. WARNING! This is not a relaxing vacation but an expedition.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

A wonderful itinerary that hit all the major attractions we wanted to explore plus several very special & unique experiences provided by our wonderful guide, Leylys. We enjoyed great fun and fellowship with our diverse and interesting group of fellow travelers.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

A wonderful itinerary that hit all the major attractions we wanted to explore plus several very special & unique experiences provided by our wonderful guide, Leylys. We enjoyed great fun and fellowship with our diverse and interesting group of fellow travelers.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

This tour was way above our expectations as usual. We did the Amazon River pre tour and met 2 other couples . The 6 of us became very good friends and would travel together again. We were so fortunate to have Leylys Guitierrez as our program manager. We can't say enough about him -he was fabulous. Every day he gave us something special about where we were. Everything we did was an adventure - exciting and full of wonderful history. The added bonus was the perfect weather in mid November - early December. The hotels we stayed out were a delightful surprise and our daily visits were outstanding. Everything was a wonderful learning experience. The colorful markets were fascinating and items were affordable. Sometimes the local people were a little aggressive - but we are all used to that in many places. We were very happy that many meals of local foods were included - it made it much easier when you don't speak the language. I wish I read some history before I went. There was so much to absorb and remember. We loved it all. PS: I did send Vantage the photo of the 6 of us at Machu Picchu - which you printed and sent to Mark Dearborn in an email.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

This tour was way above our expectations as usual. We did the Amazon River pre tour and met 2 other couples . The 6 of us became very good friends and would travel together again. We were so fortunate to have Leylys Guitierrez as our program manager. We can't say enough about him -he was fabulous. Every day he gave us something special about where we were. Everything we did was an adventure - exciting and full of wonderful history. The added bonus was the perfect weather in mid November - early December. The hotels we stayed out were a delightful surprise and our daily visits were outstanding. Everything was a wonderful learning experience. The colorful markets were fascinating and items were affordable. Sometimes the local people were a little aggressive - but we are all used to that in many places. We were very happy that many meals of local foods were included - it made it much easier when you don't speak the language. I wish I read some history before I went. There was so much to absorb and remember. We loved it all. PS: I did send Vantage the photo of the 6 of us at Machu Picchu - which you printed and sent to Mark Dearborn in an email.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

We decided to take this trip for the two obvious reasons, Machu Picchu & the Galapagos. Both turned out to be "once-in-a-lifetime" experiences; however, everything in between was just as amazing. Our Program Manager (Ronnie) was a wonderful young man who literally "made" our trip. The local guides were also great, very informative and friendly, they felt like old friends! The hotel accommodations were excellent, the food was great, the cultural outings were very good. It is an amazing adventure that I would recommend to anyone.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

We decided to take this trip for the two obvious reasons, Machu Picchu & the Galapagos. Both turned out to be "once-in-a-lifetime" experiences; however, everything in between was just as amazing. Our Program Manager (Ronnie) was a wonderful young man who literally "made" our trip. The local guides were also great, very informative and friendly, they felt like old friends! The hotel accommodations were excellent, the food was great, the cultural outings were very good. It is an amazing adventure that I would recommend to anyone.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

This was a wonderful trip from start to finish. We were so impressed that there were Vantage representatives at every leg of our journey. There was even a gentlemen who met us at our gate at the Miami Airport to make sure we all were there! Then when we had to connect in Lima for a flight to Cuzco, there was a Vantage rep there to make sure we all made our connection. Our program manager, Leylys Guittierez, was the BEST. He was very organized and always kept our group heading in the right direction throughout the trip. The Casa Andina Hotel in the Sacred Valley was very nice. The food in the restaurant there was excellent. We drank the coca tea and did not have any altitude problems. Machu Picchu was a great experience. The town of Aguas Calientes was fun, and the included lunch there was at Indio Feliz, a restaurant we had hoped to try. Touring kept us busy in the cities all day, so we were very happy to have a light dinner at our hotel and call it a night. The Hilton in Quito was a large, very modern hotel. Very nice. The Galapagos portion of the trip was fantastic. The ship, the Galapagos Legend, was very comfortable. We got to see a lot of wildlife and some absolutely beautiful sunsets and rainbows.

Machu Picchu & the Galapagos: Lost City of the Inca, Living Wonder of Nature

This was a wonderful trip from start to finish. We were so impressed that there were Vantage representatives at every leg of our journey. There was even a gentlemen who met us at our gate at the Miami Airport to make sure we all were there! Then when we had to connect in Lima for a flight to Cuzco, there was a Vantage rep there to make sure we all made our connection. Our program manager, Leylys Guittierez, was the BEST. He was very organized and always kept our group heading in the right direction throughout the trip. The Casa Andina Hotel in the Sacred Valley was very nice. The food in the restaurant there was excellent. We drank the coca tea and did not have any altitude problems. Machu Picchu was a great experience. The town of Aguas Calientes was fun, and the included lunch there was at Indio Feliz, a restaurant we had hoped to try. Touring kept us busy in the cities all day, so we were very happy to have a light dinner at our hotel and call it a night. The Hilton in Quito was a large, very modern hotel. Very nice. The Galapagos portion of the trip was fantastic. The ship, the Galapagos Legend, was very comfortable. We got to see a lot of wildlife and some absolutely beautiful sunsets and rainbows.

Legendary Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands

As longtime members of the Presidents Club, my wife Judy and I just completed our 13th trip with Vantage and already have numbers 14 and 15 scheduled. To say that we are huge fans of, and experienced travelers with, Vantage Travel is an understatement.

Our most recent trip to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos was WONDERFUL! We were so happy that we had an opportunity to see these fantastic destinations up close and personal while enjoying all the special features we have come to expect in any Vantage trip…from first class hotels, meals, transportation, and intriguing Cultural Connections, to great information before and during the trip, to the outstanding services o a skilled Vantage Program Manager. In all of our previous trips we have had many excellent Program Managers, but I am writing to tell you that Judy and I feel that Roberto Rocafort has vaulted to the very top of our list. Our trip was immeasurably more meaningful and more enjoyable in so many ways because of Roberto. Vantage should take pride in the fact that he represents your organization in such an outstanding fashion.

To cite but a few of the reasons why we hold Roberto in such high esteem:

• He is extremely knowledgeable and experienced;
• He was the best organized and prepared of all the PM’s we have ever had;
• He has a great personality with an equally great sense of humor;
• Every participant was given personal and caring attention no matter how small the request;
• The numerous handouts he provided throughout the trip were right on the mark;
• He was always available to answer any questions;
• His command of the English language is impeccable;
• He constantly went out of his way to make sure that our every need was promptly and professionally handled;
• He was a master at anticipating problems before they could develop as well as immediately solving any that did occur;
• He consistently came up with unique surprises and personal touches.