South America boasts a large number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, its sheer size makes it difficult to see everything the continent has to offer unless you can take a year or so off work to go explore. If you're pressed for time, a great idea is to go on an organized Galapagos and Machu Picchu tour. This way you get to see several heritage sites in one trip and you don't have to deal with the headache of travel arrangements from site to site.
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.
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.
Another heritage city you'll visit is the former Inca capital of Cuzco. This city in the Andes Mountains is the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. There are several heritage sites in the area and for living heritage, you can tour some of the indigenous villages near here. Another option is to go for adventure sports, especially whitewater rafting.
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.
When you start packing for your journey, remember that especially at the high altitudes of Quito and the Inca sites of Peru, it can be very cold at night. Take comfortable shoes and enough warm clothing but also plenty of sunblock. If you're planning on water sports in the Galapagos Islands or Lima, you may want to pack a wetsuit. The Humboldt Current means that the water along the west coast of South America is cold. A Spanish phrase book or pocket dictionary will come in handy too, although your tour guide will be able to help you with any language difficulties.
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.
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.
Another heritage city you'll visit is the former Inca capital of Cuzco. This city in the Andes Mountains is the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. There are several heritage sites in the area and for living heritage, you can tour some of the indigenous villages near here. Another option is to go for adventure sports, especially whitewater rafting.
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.
When you start packing for your journey, remember that especially at the high altitudes of Quito and the Inca sites of Peru, it can be very cold at night. Take comfortable shoes and enough warm clothing but also plenty of sunblock. If you're planning on water sports in the Galapagos Islands or Lima, you may want to pack a wetsuit. The Humboldt Current means that the water along the west coast of South America is cold. A Spanish phrase book or pocket dictionary will come in handy too, although your tour guide will be able to help you with any language difficulties.
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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