Our Trade Missions connect members from across the globe to promote cultural exchange, identify areas of significant interest, build capacity in the local region, create partnerships, and identify international business opportunities. Since 1991, the AEE staff, members, and industry representatives have traveled together on curated adventures around the World.
2026 Sustainable Exploration Journey
Trade Mission to Ecuador & Peru
February 7-21, 2026
Embark on an unforgettable Trade Mission with fellow AEE Members, adventuring through nature's wonders and engineering sustainable solutions. Discover the breathtaking landscapes and biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands, the Amazon Rainforest, and the engineering marvels of Machu Picchu.
Experience the thrill of adventure as you delve into sustainable practices and climate action initiatives. Engage in conservation efforts and service projects that protect unique ecosystems and promote sustainability. Discover the intricate balance between nature and engineering and learn how innovative solutions can drive positive change.
Schedule of Events
Day 1: February 7, 2026 | Quito, Ecuador
- Welcome Dinner
- Arrival Transfer
Day 2: February 8, 2026 | San Cristobal Island
- San Cristobal - Interpretation Center
- Tijeretas - Snorkeling
- Group Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: February 9, 2026 | San Cristobal Island
- Snorkeling at Kicker Rock
- Group Dinner
Day 4: February 10, 2026 | Santa Cruz Island
- Santa Cruz - Highlands
- Tortuga Bay
- Group Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: February 11, 2026 | Santa Cruz Island
- Charles Darwin research station
- Santa Cruz - Bay tour
- Snorkeling
- Group Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: February 12, 2026 | Santa Cruz - Quito - Lima
- Group Transfer out in Puerto Ayora
- Transfer from Lima Airport to hotel
- Welcome Dinner at Huaca Pucllana restaurant
Day 7: February 13, 2026 | Lima
- Independent travel around Lima
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Lima City tour including San Francisco Catacombs and snacks at Chabuca Granda, with English speaking local guide
Day 8: February 14, 2026 | Lima - Puerto Maldonado
- Transfer to Lima Airport
- Travel from Lima - Puerto Maldonado
- Amazon program 3D/2N with activities in shared basis (with other travelers) and English speaking local guide
Day 9: February 15, 2026 | Puerto Maldonado
- Lake Sandoval
- Boat ride across the Madre de Dios River
- Amazon program 3D/2N with activities in shared basis (with other travelers) and English speaking local guide
Day 10: February 16, 2026 | Puerto Maldonado - Cusco
- Amazon program 3D/2N with activities in shared basis (with other travelers) and English speaking local guide
- Flight from Puerto Maldonado - Cusco
- Visit to Cusco Cathedral and Koricancha temple
- Dinner at Nuna Raymi restaurant
Day 11: February 17, 2026 | Cusco
- Possible Engineering Visit or 6 hours for individual activities
- Dinner at Artisano Regocijo
Day 12: February 18, 2026 | Cusco - Sacred Valley - Ollantaytambo
- Full day visit to the Sacred Valley including a weaving workshop and a traditional pachamanca at local Community of Willoq and Ollantaytambo archaeological site
Day 13: February 19, 2026 | Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
- Train ticket Inca Rail "The 360" from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Visit to Machu Picchu
- Buffet lunch at Toto's house
Day 14: February 20, 2026 | Aquas Calientes - Sacred Valley - Cusco
- Second visit to Machu Picchu (unguided visit)
- Lunch at Indio Feliz restaurant
- Train ticket Inca Rail "The Voyager" from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Farewell dinner at Calle del Medio restaurant
Day 15: February 21, 2026 | Cusco -Lima - Departure
- Departure transfer from hotel to Cusco Airport
- Flight from Cusco - Lima