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 a fascinating natural heritage site off the coast of Ecuador. It was here that Charles Darwin found the inspiration for his theory of evolution. The archipelago is a national park that is home to many unique species and most tours will let you explore by cruising from island to island. Apart from wildlife viewing, you can go hiking, diving, kayaking or try a range of other outdoor activities.
After the islands, you'll return to Quito, the Ecuadorian capital. It was one of the first cities to make the heritage list and the Old Town is a treasure trove of colonial architecture. Explore the museums, the parks and the markets and for spectacular views, take a ride in the Teleferico, the second highest cable car in the world.
The next city you'll visit is Peru's capital, Lima. The historic center here is on the world heritage list as well and Lima has an excellent selection of museums. You may also opt for a day at the beach and a bit of surfing. One thing not to miss is ceviche, the seafood dish that is regarded as the national dish of Peru.
From Lima you travel to Cuzco, another city on the heritage list. It used to be the Inca Empire's capital. From this Andean city you get to explore more heritage sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas but you'll also visit indigenous villages and can try out a range of adventure sports.
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.
To find your dream tour, simply look online. Many operators offer trips that specifically include the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. Some tours start in Ecuador while others begin with the Peruvian sites instead.
The Galapagos Islands are a fascinating natural heritage site off the coast of Ecuador. It was here that Charles Darwin found the inspiration for his theory of evolution. The archipelago is a national park that is home to many unique species and most tours will let you explore by cruising from island to island. Apart from wildlife viewing, you can go hiking, diving, kayaking or try a range of other outdoor activities.
After the islands, you'll return to Quito, the Ecuadorian capital. It was one of the first cities to make the heritage list and the Old Town is a treasure trove of colonial architecture. Explore the museums, the parks and the markets and for spectacular views, take a ride in the Teleferico, the second highest cable car in the world.
The next city you'll visit is Peru's capital, Lima. The historic center here is on the world heritage list as well and Lima has an excellent selection of museums. You may also opt for a day at the beach and a bit of surfing. One thing not to miss is ceviche, the seafood dish that is regarded as the national dish of Peru.
From Lima you travel to Cuzco, another city on the heritage list. It used to be the Inca Empire's capital. From this Andean city you get to explore more heritage sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas but you'll also visit indigenous villages and can try out a range of adventure sports.
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.
To find your dream tour, simply look online. Many operators offer trips that specifically include the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. Some tours start in Ecuador while others begin with the Peruvian sites instead.
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Get an overview of the benefits of booking a Galapagos and Machu Picchu tour and more information about a reputable tour operator at http://www.idealsouthamerica.com now.
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