With its ancient cultures, colonial history and varied landscapes, it's not surprise that South America boasts plenty of sites on UNESCO's World Heritage list. Seeing all of these is difficult because they're so far apart and because travel on the continent can be a challenge. However, with a Galapagos and Machu Picchu tour you get to see not only these two World Heritage Sites but also several in between, all within the space of about two weeks.
The Galapagos Islands are one of the world's most fascinating nature reserves. It was on a visit to these islands off the Ecuadorian coast that Charles Darwin came up with the ideas that would develop into his evolution theory. Many unique species have evolved to adapt to life here and wildlife viewing is one of the most popular activities for visitors. However, the archipelago is a paradise for anyone who wants outdoor sports such as hiking, kayaking, diving and snorkeling. Your tour will allow you to cruise around the islands with plenty of time to explore.
After Galapagos, your itinerary will take you to Quito. Ecuador's capital was one of the first two cities to be declared heritage sites. Its historic center is notable for the colonial architecture and the large number of heritage buildings, churches and plazas and fascinating museums. The best way to appreciate the view is with the second highest of its kind in the world, the cable car known as the Teleferico.
From Quito your tour will take you to Lima, the capital of Peru. Explore the historic center, which is world heritage-listed, and the huge selection of museums. Try the ceviche, a Peruvian specialty, and wash it down with Pisco Sour. Lima also has great beaches and excellent surfing.
Next up is Cuzco, once the capital of the Incas. This heritage site high up in the Andes is the gateway to several other heritage sites in the area, including those in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Your tour may include outings to indigenous villages in the vicinity or if you're looking for some serious action, you may try adventure sports such as whitewater rafting.
The highlight of any trip into the Sacred Valley is undoubtedly the magnificent Machu Picchu. This mysterious sacred city is a marvel of engineering and the views are breathtaking. While many people arrive here by walking the Inca Trail, most organized tours include a scenic train journey instead.
To prepare or your trip, pack for different kinds of weather. It's important to bring enough warm clothes because even in summer, the high-altitude destinations can be very cold at night. You'll need sunscreen too and, naturally, good shoes for the cobbled streets in the cities. Tour guides normally speak English but a pocket dictionary or phrase book to help you communicate in Spanish is always a good idea. Also bear in mind that the water along the coast is cold and you won't really be able to dive, snorkel or surf unless you're wearing a wetsuit.
There are several operators who have devised tour packages for visiting the Galapagos Islands as well as Machu Picchu. Some start of with the Ecuadorian sites while others start in Peru. To find a package that appeals to you, simply do an online search.
The Galapagos Islands are one of the world's most fascinating nature reserves. It was on a visit to these islands off the Ecuadorian coast that Charles Darwin came up with the ideas that would develop into his evolution theory. Many unique species have evolved to adapt to life here and wildlife viewing is one of the most popular activities for visitors. However, the archipelago is a paradise for anyone who wants outdoor sports such as hiking, kayaking, diving and snorkeling. Your tour will allow you to cruise around the islands with plenty of time to explore.
After Galapagos, your itinerary will take you to Quito. Ecuador's capital was one of the first two cities to be declared heritage sites. Its historic center is notable for the colonial architecture and the large number of heritage buildings, churches and plazas and fascinating museums. The best way to appreciate the view is with the second highest of its kind in the world, the cable car known as the Teleferico.
From Quito your tour will take you to Lima, the capital of Peru. Explore the historic center, which is world heritage-listed, and the huge selection of museums. Try the ceviche, a Peruvian specialty, and wash it down with Pisco Sour. Lima also has great beaches and excellent surfing.
Next up is Cuzco, once the capital of the Incas. This heritage site high up in the Andes is the gateway to several other heritage sites in the area, including those in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Your tour may include outings to indigenous villages in the vicinity or if you're looking for some serious action, you may try adventure sports such as whitewater rafting.
The highlight of any trip into the Sacred Valley is undoubtedly the magnificent Machu Picchu. This mysterious sacred city is a marvel of engineering and the views are breathtaking. While many people arrive here by walking the Inca Trail, most organized tours include a scenic train journey instead.
To prepare or your trip, pack for different kinds of weather. It's important to bring enough warm clothes because even in summer, the high-altitude destinations can be very cold at night. You'll need sunscreen too and, naturally, good shoes for the cobbled streets in the cities. Tour guides normally speak English but a pocket dictionary or phrase book to help you communicate in Spanish is always a good idea. Also bear in mind that the water along the coast is cold and you won't really be able to dive, snorkel or surf unless you're wearing a wetsuit.
There are several operators who have devised tour packages for visiting the Galapagos Islands as well as Machu Picchu. Some start of with the Ecuadorian sites while others start in Peru. To find a package that appeals to you, simply do an online search.
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