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.
Ecuador's capital Quito is on the itinerary too. The first time that UNESCO declared two entire cities as heritage sites, Quito was one of these. Most of the magic happens in the Old Town with its colonial architecture. There are museums, markets, plazas and parks to explore and the Teleferico is one of the world's highest cable cars.
Next up is another city with a historic center that is a heritage site. Lima is the capital of Peru and boasts a wide range of museums, as well as stunning beaches and surf culture. It's a good place to try Peruvian cuisine too, such as the national dish, ceviche.
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 most famous Sacred Valley site is a collection of ruins known as Machu Picchu. Its history is a bit of a mystery but the site is sacred to people of Inca descent. While you can walk here via the Inca Trail, your tour operator will probably include the breathtaking train trip 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.
Ecuador's capital Quito is on the itinerary too. The first time that UNESCO declared two entire cities as heritage sites, Quito was one of these. Most of the magic happens in the Old Town with its colonial architecture. There are museums, markets, plazas and parks to explore and the Teleferico is one of the world's highest cable cars.
Next up is another city with a historic center that is a heritage site. Lima is the capital of Peru and boasts a wide range of museums, as well as stunning beaches and surf culture. It's a good place to try Peruvian cuisine too, such as the national dish, ceviche.
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 most famous Sacred Valley site is a collection of ruins known as Machu Picchu. Its history is a bit of a mystery but the site is sacred to people of Inca descent. While you can walk here via the Inca Trail, your tour operator will probably include the breathtaking train trip 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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